Ohio State football opened as greater than 50-point favorites in its Week 1 clash with the Akron Zips. While the Buckeyes failed to cover the spread, they did end with an impressive 52-6 victory.
With two defensive touchdowns as well, there were a plethora of players to choose from for player of the game. The Buckeyes released a Special Teams, Offensive, and Defensive Player of the Game.
The Special Teams Player of the Game was Brandon Inniss, a four-star recruit from the Class of 2023.
Inniss was the fifth-best receiver in his class but has more frequently served as the punt returner. He had four returns for 60 yards with a 36-yard long Saturday. Inniss being given his honor isn’t surprising, even though Jayden Fielding did go 7-for-7 on extra points and 1-for-1 on field goals.
As for Defensive Player of the Game, that goes to Lathan Ransom. Again, this isn’t the most surprising announcement, especially considering Ransom took a scoop-and-score to the house. Ransom ended with a game-high nine tackles, two of which went for a loss.
As for the Offensive Player of the Game, that’s really the lone surprise. Will Howard, the Kansas State transfer quarterback, was given the honor over freshman Jeremiah Smith.
Howard ended with three touchdowns and 228 yards. Smith was his primary receiver, ending with two touchdowns of his own and 92 of those yards.
𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐚𝐦𝐞, @whoward_ 🎯 pic.twitter.com/W0wF0BUTiT
— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) September 1, 2024
Regardless of who received these awards, the most important takeaway is the 46-point victory the Buckeyes opened the season to Saturday. They’ll draw Western Michigan at home in Week 2 and again be a heavy favorite to come out on top.
