Columbus, OH—Ohio State wrapped up spring practice with their kickoff game Saturday at Ohio Stadium making it the very first-ever live network broadcast of a college football spring game.
A crowd of 80,012 were in attendance ready to enjoy the matchup at hand on this brilliant sunny day.
The Scarlet offense held on for a 34-33 win over the Gray defense.
Coming off two consecutive losses to Michigan and Missouri to end the 2023 season, Ohio State were ready to hit the field with new additions, including five-star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, quarterback Will Howard from Kansas State, running back Quinshon Judkins from Mississippi, and safety Caleb Downs from Alabama.
Devin Brown orchestrated the first touchdown drive late in the first half, completing all three passes and connecting with Brennen Schramm for a quick touchdown.
Will Howard, the K-State transfer, completed 9 of 13 passes for 77 yards. Devin Brown, a third-year sophomore, showed promise with 5 completions on 7 attempts, including an 11-yard touchdown pass to Brennan Schramm.
True freshman Julian Sayin, who joined from Alabama in January, went 10 of 17 for 85 yards but had one interception.
Freshman running backs James Peoples and Sam Williams-Dixon both scored touchdowns in the second half, with Williams-Dixon rushing for 75 yards on 11 carries and Peoples gaining 36 yards on 10 carries.
Additionally, walk-on T.C. Caffey contributed a touchdown run in the fourth quarter. The defense showcased its skills with interceptions from Jaylen McClain, Inky Jones, Diante Griffin, and Calvin Simpson-Hunt.
Linebacker C.J. Hicks led the team in tackles with eight, while walk-on safety Jones had seven. Sacks were recorded by Eddrick Houston, Mitchell Melton, Jack Sawyer, Hero Kanu, Caden Curry, and Jason Moore.
Despite the success, coach Ryan Day still had some critiques of today’s spring game.
Concluding their 14 practices at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center, the Buckeyes will start off the 2024 fall season against Akron on August 31.
