COLUMBUS, OH – No. 1 Ohio State delivered a dominant performance, routing Grambling State 70-0 on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at Ohio Stadium. The victory marked the Buckeyes‘ largest margin of victory since a 78-0 win over Cincinnati in 1995 and served as a resounding statement to begin their title defense.
The lopsided contest, while showcasing Ohio State’s offensive firepower and defensive prowess, also raised questions about the competitive balance in college football scheduling and the impact of such outcomes on programs like Grambling State. The game offered a platform for several Buckeyes to shine, but also highlighted areas for improvement as the team prepares for tougher Big Ten matchups. The result underscores the widening gap between college football’s elite programs and those in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).
Ohio State’s offence exploded for 565 total yards, with quarterback Will Howard completing 16 of 24 passes for 298 yards and three touchdowns.Running back Quinshon Judkins led the rushing attack with 86 yards and two touchdowns on 11 carries. Seven different Buckeyes scored touchdowns in the game, demonstrating the depth of the team’s offensive capabilities. The Buckeyes scored 35 points in the second quarter alone, effectively sealing the victory before halftime.
Defensively, Ohio State completely stifled Grambling State, holding them to just 136 total yards and forcing three turnovers.The Tigers struggled to establish any offensive rythm, consistently facing pressure from the Buckeyes’ defensive line. Ohio State recorded six sacks and limited Grambling State to 2-of-14 on third down conversions.
While the victory was thorough, Ohio State coach Ryan Day acknowledged the need for continued focus. “We’ve got a lot of work to do,” Day said postgame. “We need to continue to improve each week,and we’ll focus on the areas where we can get better.”
Grambling State, a historically black college and university (HBCU) and a member of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), received $450,000 for participating in the game. Though, the financial benefit does not fully offset the potential negative impact on player morale and program perception following such a decisive defeat.
The Buckeyes will next face western Illinois on September 14, 2024, while Grambling State will return home to face Southern University.
