by Although the Ohio State Buckeyes easily handled the Kent State Golden Flashes on Saturday, by a final score of 59-3, head coach Mark Carney’s defense didn’t make it easy.
The Flashes stifled the Bucks on two separate fourth-down attempts, including a sack on Redshirt Junior Julian Sayin by redshirt sophomore Aiden Burgess. The fourth-down stops were not the only impressive plays made by the defense; redshirt senior Norey Johnson picked off freshman Luke Fahey in the second half, marking the second game Kent’s defense forced a turnover.
All in all, Ohio State dominated the game. Junior Jeremiah Smith officially became the all-time leader in OSU receiving yards against the Flashes, and the running attack of Bo and Ja’Kobi Jackson was too much for the Bucks to handle.
But still- Kent’s defense made some very strong plays. They brought waves of pressure throughout the first half, making Saying uncomfortable on a handful of snaps.
Late in the fourth quarter, freshman linebacker and Akron native Tanner Mintz picked off redshirt sophomore Tavien St. Clair. Mintz’ first career interception ultimately led to Kent’s only points, a field goal right after the two minute timeout.
After opening at 1-2 against great opponents, the Flashes will head back home for a two-game home stand against Ball State and Ohio.
