It came down to the final play this past Saturday with Maryland going for two to win the game in overtime. Thankfully, the defense was able to hold the line, preventing the conversion and winning the game for the Buckeyes 52-51.
How did Ohio State come out on top and how did Maryland keep things so close? Read on for the three key statistics that led to Saturday's outcome.
TERRAPINS RUN BY THE BUCKEYE DEFENSE FOR 339 RUSHING YARDS
Just when it seemed as if the Ohio State defense had turned a corner, this game happened.
Things started off poor, and never really improved. On just the second play from scrimmage, Maryland running back Anthony McFarland exploded for an 81-yard touchdown run. Five minutes later in the first quarter, McFarland struck again, this time for a 75-yard touchdown run. The Terrapin rushing attack was quite literally unstoppable in the first half, totaling 289 yards, and the Buckeyes were trailing at the half as a result.
The rushing attack slowed down in the second half with only 50 yards. However, the Maryland offense was still producing explosive, long yardage plays through the air. It seemed as if McFarland's big runs to start the game set the tone, and the Buckeye defense never recovered.
Ohio State's three turnovers cost them points, but not the game
While the Buckeye offense put up big numbers, those numbers had to potential to be even larger had Ohio State not committed its three turnovers.
The first turnover was very tough to watch. After driving 85 yards, the Buckeyes found themselves in a 1st & Goal situation with the chance to tie the game before halftime. Unfortunately, J.K. Dobbins would fumble the ball just short of the goal line, likely costing Ohio State six points.
The only thing worse than costing the Buckeyes six would be giving the Terrapins six, but thats exactly how the Buckeyes started the second half. After Dwayne Haskins pass was deflected, Maryland would intercept the ball returning it 37 yards for a touchdown.
The final turnover was simply frustrating. With just over five minutes left in the third quarter, Dwayne Haskins would run into his own lineman, fumbling the ball. The Buckeyes were only at midfield, and the Terrapins did not return it for a touchdown, but the fumble was still back-breaking. With such a poor turnover ratio, Ohio State should be extremely grateful that they still managed to come out on top on Saturday.
Despite turnovers, Dwayne Haskins is the MVP with 405 yards and six touchdowns
Yes, Dwayne Haskins was responsible for two Buckeye turnovers, one of which was a pick six. However, Haskins was also responsible for six touchdowns; three passing touchdowns and three rushing touchdowns. You read that right, Dwayne Haskins had three rushing touchdowns. He also broke the Ohio State single season records for passing yards and touchdowns. To put things simply, Haskins was a statistical beast on Saturday.
The numbers were impressive, but what those numbers can't show was the leadership displayed by Haskins on Saturday. The Buckeyes, for whatever reason, were flat against Maryland, but it seemed regardless of what happened, Haskins always had an answer for the Terrapins. With the Michigan Wolverines coming to town next week, Ohio State will need Haskins to display his ability once again, both as a player and as a leader.
