Ohio State Dominates Iowa with a 35-7 Victory in NCAA Football
In a highly anticipated NCAA football clash, Ohio State continued their dominant run with a convincing 35-7 victory over the Iowa Hawkeyes.
Fans at Ohio Stadium were treated to an impressive performance from the Buckeyes, who not only extended their winning streak but also solidified their position as one of the top teams in college football this season.
The Hawkeyes, despite their best efforts, couldn’t keep up with Ohio State’s relentless offense and suffocating defense.
First Quarter: Ohio State Sets the Tone Early
Ohio State wasted no time in setting the pace for the game. With just over four minutes into the first quarter, wide receiver Emeka Egbuka made a spectacular touchdown reception, capping off a well-executed drive.
The 11:19 mark saw Egbuka sprint into the end zone, leaving Iowa’s defense scrambling. This early success gave Ohio State a crucial lead. Kicker Jayden Fielding added the extra point to make it 7-0.
This opening touchdown was a clear indicator of Ohio State’s offensive firepower. Quarterback Kyle McCord orchestrated the drive with precision, utilizing the Buckeyes’ dynamic receiving corps and forcing Iowa’s defense on their heels.
Second Quarter: Defensive Battle
The second quarter was a defensive showdown, with both teams failing to put any points on the board. Iowa’s defense tightened up, limiting Ohio State’s usually potent offense to minimal gains, while Ohio State’s defense completely stifled the Hawkeyes’ attack. Iowa struggled to find any rhythm offensively, unable to capitalize on a few promising drives that ultimately fizzled out.
Although no points were scored, Ohio State’s defense, led by linebacker Tommy Eichenberg, consistently applied pressure on Iowa quarterback Deacon Hill, forcing hurried throws and incomplete passes. The Buckeyes’ defense looked impenetrable as they maintained their 7-0 lead heading into halftime.
Third Quarter: Ohio State Unleashes Its Offense
The third quarter was when Ohio State took full control of the game. At the 5:26 mark, wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba caught a beautifully placed pass from McCord, diving into the end zone for a 21-yard touchdown. This marked the start of a Buckeye offensive onslaught, with Fielding once again converting the extra point, bringing the score to 14-0.
Less than two minutes later, wide receiver Will Howard joined the action with a touchdown reception of his own, extending Ohio State’s lead to 21-0. Iowa’s defense had no answer for McCord’s pinpoint passes and the Buckeyes’ well-coordinated offense. Fielding remained flawless in his kicking duties, putting Ohio State ahead 28-0.
Egbuka, who was having an outstanding game, added another touchdown just before the end of the third quarter. McCord found him wide open down the field, and Egbuka cruised into the end zone to cap off a dominant quarter for Ohio State. With Fielding’s extra point, the Buckeyes extended their lead to 35-0.
Fourth Quarter: Iowa Avoids a Shutout
The fourth quarter saw Iowa finally getting on the scoreboard. At the 4:02 mark, running back Kaleb Johnson broke through Ohio State’s defense for a 15-yard rushing touchdown, giving the Hawkeyes their first points of the game. Drew Stevens converted the extra point to bring the score to 35-7.
Despite this late touchdown, Iowa’s offense struggled to generate momentum. Ohio State’s defense remained strong, preventing any further scoring opportunities for the Hawkeyes. The game ended with Ohio State comfortably ahead, securing yet another victory in their 2024 campaign.
Key Moments and Man of the Match: Emeka Egbuka Shines
Without question, Emeka Egbuka was the standout player of the game and earned the Man of the Match honor. His three-touchdown performance was the highlight of Ohio State’s dominant offensive showing. Egbuka’s ability to find open space and make big plays was critical to the Buckeyes’ success, especially in the third quarter when the game was blown wide open.
His connection with Kyle McCord was on full display, and it seemed like every time Ohio State needed a big play, Egbuka was there to deliver.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Will Howard also made key contributions, but it was Egbuka’s consistent performance that stood out the most. His 3-touchdown haul not only helped Ohio State secure the win but also showcased why he’s one of the most exciting players in college football right now.
Ohio State’s Dominance Continues
This victory is the latest in a series of dominant performances for Ohio State this season. Coming into this game, the Buckeyes had already notched big wins against Michigan State, Marshall, and Western Michigan. With this win against Iowa, they move to 5-0 on the season, reinforcing their position near the top of the NCAA football rankings.
Ohio State’s defense, which has been a key component of their success, was once again impressive. Iowa’s offense was held in check for most of the game, unable to break through the Buckeyes’ formidable front. Linebacker Tommy Eichenberg and defensive end JT Tuimoloau were instrumental in shutting down Iowa’s rushing and passing attack.
Iowa’s Struggles
On the flip side, Iowa’s offense never really found its footing. Despite flashes of brilliance in their previous games, the Hawkeyes were unable to mount any consistent offensive drives against Ohio State. Quarterback Deacon Hill struggled with accuracy, and the team’s running game couldn’t get going, with Ohio State’s defense plugging every gap.
Kaleb Johnson’s fourth-quarter touchdown was the only bright spot for the Hawkeyes, but it was too little, too late. Iowa will need to regroup and work on their offensive consistency if they hope to bounce back in the coming weeks.
Looking Ahead: Ohio State’s Path to the Playoffs
With another convincing win under their belt, Ohio State looks poised to make a deep run in the college football playoffs. Their offense, led by Kyle McCord, is firing on all cylinders, and their defense continues to stifle opposing teams. As the Buckeyes move forward, fans will be eager to see how they fare in tougher matchups on the horizon.
Ohio State’s next few games will be crucial as they look to solidify their spot in the NCAA football rankings and secure a place in the playoffs. With Emeka Egbuka, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Kyle McCord leading the way, Ohio State has all the tools they need to make a serious championship push.
For Iowa, this loss serves as a wake-up call. Despite their impressive win against Minnesota in their previous game, the Hawkeyes were unable to match Ohio State’s level of play. They’ll need to regroup quickly as they prepare for their next challenge in the NCAA football schedule.
Final Thoughts
Ohio State’s 35-7 victory over Iowa was a statement win. The Buckeyes are clearly one of the most complete teams in college football this season, with a balanced offense and a suffocating defense.
As they continue their march through the NCAA football schedule, it’s clear that Ohio State will be a team to watch in the race for the national championship. Emeka Egbuka’s standout performance will be remembered as one of the highlights of the season, and fans can’t wait to see what the Buckeyes have in store for their next game.
With this result, Ohio State fans have plenty to celebrate, while Iowa will need to find answers quickly as they look to rebound from this tough defeat.
