Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin delivered a remarkable performance on November 25, 2023, leading his team to a decisive victory over Michigan. Despite battling undisclosed lower-body injuries, Sayin completed 19 of 26 passes for 233 yards and three touchdowns. His resilience and skill were instrumental in overcoming an early interception, showcasing his determination to succeed in one of college football’s most storied rivalries.
In the aftermath of the game, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day praised the tenacity of his wide receivers, Smith and Tate, both of whom played through injuries. Day expressed admiration for their commitment, stating that fans would recognize the bravery these players displayed by taking the field under such challenging circumstances. He acknowledged that Smith had been significantly limited in practice during the week leading up to the game.
Earlier in the week, Smith had voiced his eagerness to participate in the matchup, sharing on Caleb Downs’ podcast that he felt optimistic about his condition despite the injury. Smith’s determination paid off as he recorded three receptions for 40 yards, including a touchdown that was upheld after a video review confirmed no fumble occurred in the end zone.
Tate also made a notable impact by contributing five receptions for 82 yards, which included a long touchdown that helped secure Ohio State’s lead against Michigan. Their combined efforts were crucial in achieving this victory, especially considering that Michigan had previously dominated in their last four encounters with Ohio State under Day’s leadership.
Day highlighted Smith’s performance as a testament to his character and commitment to the team, especially given the limited practice time he had due to his injury. The head coach stated, “Smith’s contribution was extraordinary, particularly in light of the challenges he faced.”
Following this hard-fought victory, both Smith and Tate will focus on recovery as Ohio State prepares for the upcoming Big Ten Championship against Indiana. This matchup will be pivotal for Sayin, who aims to outperform Indiana’s quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, to bolster his candidacy for the prestigious Heisman Trophy. As the College Football Playoff approaches, maintaining the health of his talented receivers will be key for Sayin and the Buckeyes.
Ohio State’s victory over Michigan not only reflects the team’s resilience but also sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting championship game. With the stakes higher than ever, the Buckeyes are ready to take on the challenges ahead, driven by the momentum and confidence gained from their recent success.
