Ohio State's defense, under the leadership of Matt Patricia, secures a defining victory against Texas, the top-ranked team in their matchup.
In a thrilling turn of events, the third-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes pulled off a stunning victory over the top-ranked Texas Longhorns, thanks in large part to a stellar performance by the Buckeyes' defense.
Matt Patricia, the Buckeyes' defensive coordinator, held Texas's highly touted quarterback, Arch Manning, in check for three quarters. Manning, who had been tearing apart defenses all season, didn't have a completion over 15 yards until the fourth quarter.
The Buckeyes' defense came up big on three of the four defining plays in the game. Jermaine Mathews, an Ohio State cornerback, had a third-quarter interception that set up Ohio State's second touchdown. Davison Igbinosun broke up a pass in the end zone on fourth-and-3, resulting in another turnover on downs. Caden Curry and Lorenzo Styles Jr. stopped Manning at the 1-yard line on fourth-and-goal, preserving Ohio State's lead.
Despite the losses, the Ohio State defense had players who saw plenty of snaps the past two or three seasons, along with All-American safety Caleb Downs, considered by many to be the top prospect on defense in next year's NFL draft class. Downs secured Ohio State's victory by stopping Texas tight end Jack Endries short of a first down.
Patricia, who previously served as Defensive Coordinator for the Detroit Lions, disguised coverages and changed fronts throughout the game, making it difficult for opposing quarterbacks to read. He inherited a defense that lost eight starters from last season's national championship team, including the entire defensive line.
Coach Ryan Day praised the buy-in from the players as the most important factor in the success of the game plan. Mathews mentioned that the defense's complexity made it difficult for opposing quarterbacks to read.
Texas coach Steve Sarkisian noted that Ohio State's defense minimized explosive plays, a testament to the Buckeyes' defensive prowess.
The Ohio State victory over the top-ranked Texas was a significant statement for Matt Patricia, who was second-guessed upon his hiring as the defensive coordinator. With this win, Patricia has proven his worth and silenced his critics.
