COLUMBUS, Ohio — Maryland got off to a strong start and held its own against Ohio State for most of the game on Saturday, even taking a 10-point lead in the first half.
However, once Marvin Harrison Jr., the best college wide receiver in the country, got going, there was no stopping him.
Harrison Jr. caught eight passes for 163 yards and a touchdown, leading No. 4 Ohio State to score 27 unanswered points in the second half and secure a 37-17 victory over Maryland.
Maryland coach Mike Locksley acknowledged the team’s disappointment after the loss and emphasized the need to find a way to win in the future.
Ohio State quarterback Kyle McCord threw for 320 yards and two touchdowns, while running back Chip Trayanum led the Buckeyes in rushing with 61 yards on 20 carries.
Maryland quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa had a mixed performance, finishing with 196 passing yards, a passing touchdown, a rushing touchdown, and two interceptions.
The loss was Maryland’s first of the season, bringing their record to 5-1 overall and 2-1 in the Big Ten. It was also Maryland’s ninth consecutive loss to Ohio State.
Maryland started the game strong, scoring a touchdown on their opening drive to take a 7-0 lead. Their defense held Ohio State to a three-and-out on the Buckeyes’ first drive.
Throughout the first half, Maryland’s defense was able to stifle Ohio State’s offense, forcing several punts and limiting their scoring opportunities.
However, Ohio State rallied in the second quarter, and Harrison Jr. became a key factor in their offensive success.
Maryland had several missed opportunities to score in the first half, settling for field goals instead of touchdowns on multiple drives.
In the second half, Maryland’s offense struggled to generate points, and their defense let Ohio State score three touchdowns due to coverage breakdowns.
Despite the loss, Locksley expressed confidence in Tagovailoa and the team’s ability to bounce back.
Moving forward, Maryland will focus on improving their situational football and executing on scoring opportunities.
Ohio State’s win improved their record to 5-0 overall and 2-0 in the Big Ten.
