Ohio State's offense delivered its best performance of the season in a 42–19 victory over Illinois.

Jeremiah Smith produced a historic afternoon with 12 catches for 217 yards and four touchdowns, while Julian Sayin completed 27 of 36 passes for 367 yards, accounted for five total touchdowns and finally used his mobility as an offensive weapon.

We break down the film, statistics, PFF grades and snap counts from Ohio State's Big Ten opener, including:

• Six touchdowns on eight meaningful possessions
• Five touchdown drives covering at least 75 yards
• Ohio State's improved offensive-line combination
• Gabe VanSickle and Austin Siereveld on the right side
• Sayin's growth as a passer and runner
• Bo Jackson and Ja'Kobi Jackson answering Ryan Day's challenge
• An eight-for-12 performance on third down
• A perfect four-for-four day in the red zone
• The search for a second receiving option beside Jeremiah Smith
• Why the scoreless third quarter wasn't as concerning as it appeared
• Two fourth-quarter touchdown drives that finished the game properly

The Buckeyes showed meaningful offensive progress, but questions remain about the lack of explosive runs and how heavily the passing game depends on Smith.

Was this the beginning of Ohio State's offensive breakthrough—or can the Buckeyes only sustain this level when Jeremiah Smith takes over?

Monday, September 28, 2026

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