Ohio State defeated Illinois 42–19, but the final score hides some serious defensive problems.

The Buckeyes allowed 462 total yards, 199 rushing yards and 15 plays of at least 10 yards. Illinois averaged six yards per carry and produced eight plays covering at least 20 yards—numbers that will not hold up against the best teams remaining on Ohio State's schedule.

Joe breaks down the defensive film, PFF grades and snap counts, including:

• Why the run defense earned a failing grade
• Ohio State's season-high three sacks
• Matt Patricia's decision to bring more pressure
• The explosive plays created when the blitz did not reach Katin Houser
• Whether Ohio State is rotating too many defenders
• The communication problems Payton Pierce acknowledged
• Jaylen McClain's eight tackles and four pass breakups
• Riley Pettijohn's case for an expanded role
• Strong situational defense despite the troubling yardage
• The two fourth-down stops that prevented another late collapse

Ohio State recorded 12 pass breakups and allowed only two touchdowns in nine Illinois possessions. But after surrendering the most yardage it has allowed since the 2024 Oregon game, this defense remains a long way from championship form.

Can Patricia find a dependable core and generate pressure without constantly blitzing before the Buckeyes travel to Iowa?

Tuesday, September 29, 2026

Join Kalshi and Get $10

Subscribe to the Podcast

📺 Watch On YouTube https://www.youtube.com/thebuckeyecast

LIKE 👍 and SUBSCRIBE to the YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@TheBuckeyeCast?sub_confirmation=1

Questions or Comments?
Call or text at 614-414-2274
Email at joe@thebuckeyecast.com

⭐️ Find Us Here https://linktr.ee/thebuckeyecast