it was a bit difficult to pick individual players this week, as I felt most of the team played very well but not necessarily jump off the screen.
so, I do this after every win this season, where I recapped who I personally thought were the best OSU performers. just initial reactions right after the game finished, not looking at highlights or any sort of replay. whomever jumped off the screen for me.
week 2: https://www.elevenwarriors.com/forum/ohio-state-football/2023/09/140688/...
week 3: https://www.elevenwarriors.com/forum/ohio-state-football/2023/09/140888/...
week 4: https://www.elevenwarriors.com/forum/ohio-state-football/2023/09/141102/...
week 5: https://www.elevenwarriors.com/forum/ohio-state-football/2023/10/141456/...
October 14th (Purdue)
1. Dallan Hayden: I thought he was excellent considering the perception of the run game this season. He added some weight but still looked fast and showed great vision. Moving the chains, making big plays. 11 carries for 76 yards and 1 tuddy. He stepped up after losing the top 3 RBs, and he deserves so much credit for being ready on a swivel.
2. JT Tuimoloau: Seemed like he was the catalyst for defensive domination in the first half. Creating a lot of pressure, set the edge well, and finished off some TFLs and 1.5 sacks. He does a lot of the dirty work and im happy to see him get rewarded with the stats.
3. Tyleik Williams: Another guy who played a lot in the first half, he was disruptive in the middle. Seems like every time Purdue's RB ran, Tyleik was there to tackle him near the LOS. Got his hands up to bat down some balls as well. Just kept collapsing their pocket. Helluva game for Tyleik
4. Kyle McCord: I understand many of yall were critical of his accuracy and completion percentage, but I felt he did a good job most of the day being clean with the ball and making some timely throws. Admittedly, his WRs were not catching the ball much of the day. Can't do too much complaining on 16/28, 276 YDs and 3 TDs.
5. Cody Simon: Maybe a little outside the box, but I liked how Cody came in and solidified the other LB spot after Steele struggled a bit in the first quarter. He was making strong tackles for most of the game while also getting in the backfield a couple of times. Ended up being the leading tackler on the day.
