Instant Reaction: Ohio State Survives Indiana's Upset Bid, Wins 42-27

Ohio State looked like they were going to blow Indiana out of the water at the start of this game, scoring two touchdowns on their first two drives. However, the Hoosiers responded with 20 unanswered points to take the 20-14 lead late into the third quarter.

The Buckeyes got back on track from that point on and closed the game on a 21-0 run, keeping their College Football Playoff hopes alive.

Turning Point:

Ohio State desperately needed a spark late in this game, and they got it from wide receiver Jalin Marshall. He returned a punt 54 yards for a touchdown, putting the Buckeyes back on top 21-20 with 2:20 left in the third quarter. Indiana never led again.

Key Stat:

Indiana was limited to only 114 yards passing in the game, and their lack of effectiveness allowed Ohio State's defense to focus solely on the running game and limit the Hoosiers offense.

Ohio State MVP:

Wide receiver Jalin Marshall gave the Buckeyes a spark in this game, returning the punt for a touchdown in the third quarter and then caught three touchdown passes from quarterback J.T. Barrett in the fourth quarter alone. He finished with five catches for 95 yards, but his four touchdowns late in the game proved to be the difference.

Indiana MVP:

Running back Tevin Coleman was the reason this game was close. He ran for 228 yards and three touchdowns on just 27 carries.

What’s Next?

Ohio State will face rival Michigan at home to close the regular season before playing in the Big Ten Championship Game, while Indiana will face Purdue in their last game of the year.

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