Ohio State Displayed Positives in OT Loss vs. Maryland to Close Regular Season: Takeaways
The Ohio State Buckeyes wrapped up their regular season with a dramatic overtime loss to Maryland in a game that left fans with mixed emotions. On one hand, the outcome was far from ideal, especially with Ohio State’s championship aspirations hanging in the balance. On the other, the game was filled with positives that could prove crucial as the Buckeyes prepare for postseason play.
While the 2024 season finale saw the Buckeyes fall 34-31 in overtime to the Terrapins, the game showcased a number of encouraging signs, both from individuals and the team as a whole. Despite the loss, Ohio State demonstrated resilience, skill, and the ability to rise to the occasion in difficult circumstances. The following takeaways from the game serve as a reminder that Ohio State’s talent, leadership, and ability to bounce back will likely be a force to reckon with as they head into the postseason.
1. Quarterback Play: Will Howard Shows Leadership Under Pressure
One of the most significant positives for Ohio State in the loss to Maryland was the continued development of quarterback Will Howard. The Kansas State transfer had been under heavy scrutiny throughout the season, with fans and analysts alike debating his ability to lead the Buckeyes to a national title. However, in the overtime loss, Howard proved he is a leader who can handle adversity and step up in big moments.
Despite the Buckeyes falling short, Howard delivered a solid performance, throwing for over 300 yards and accounting for three total touchdowns—two through the air and one on the ground. His poise in the face of a tough game and his ability to execute in critical moments demonstrated why Ohio State brought him in from the transfer portal. He showed a much-improved connection with his receivers, especially in the second half, as the Buckeyes fought back from an early deficit to force overtime.
Howard’s leadership under pressure, particularly in driving Ohio State to tie the game late in regulation, is a crucial takeaway. With a veteran presence at quarterback, the Buckeyes will be able to rely on Howard’s experience and composure as they enter the postseason, where every moment counts.
2. Ohio State’s Resilience in the Face of Adversity
One of the defining traits of the 2024 Ohio State team has been their ability to bounce back from adversity. In the game against Maryland, the Buckeyes faced an early 14-0 deficit, and things appeared to be spiraling out of control. But instead of folding, Ohio State rallied behind Howard and their defense, slowly clawing their way back into the game.
The Buckeyes showed heart, not just in terms of their play on the field, but in their mentality. It’s easy for a team’s morale to dip after falling behind, especially in a game with so much on the line, but Ohio State refused to give up. The fact that they battled back to tie the game in regulation and force overtime speaks volumes about the team’s character. This resilience will undoubtedly serve them well in the postseason, where they’ll face even more high-pressure situations.
3. Defensive Improvements, Despite the Final Result
Ohio State’s defense has been a point of concern for much of the 2024 season, especially after they gave up big plays in crucial moments. However, the defense showed signs of improvement in the loss to Maryland, particularly in the second half. While the defense ultimately allowed Maryland to score a game-tying touchdown in the final minutes of regulation and another touchdown in overtime, the overall performance was more promising than it might appear at first glance.
The defensive line, led by Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau, put pressure on Maryland’s quarterback, leading to several hurries and key sacks. While the defense still allowed some big plays, particularly in the passing game, they forced Maryland into several critical third-down situations, giving Ohio State’s offense the chance to get back into the game. This marked improvement in the defensive front will be important as they face stiffer competition in the postseason, and a renewed commitment to tackling and coverage could be the key to getting the Buckeyes back on track defensively.
4. Wide Receivers Step Up, Even Without Marvin Harrison Jr.
Another positive takeaway from the Maryland loss was the performance of Ohio State’s wide receivers. With star receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. sidelined for the game due to injury, there were questions about who would step up in his absence. The answer came in the form of Emeka Egbuka, who had a standout game with over 120 yards receiving and a touchdown. Egbuka’s performance was crucial in keeping the Buckeyes competitive, as he provided a reliable target for Howard in critical situations.
In addition to Egbuka, several other wide receivers, including Julian Fleming and Xavier Johnson, showed flashes of potential. The depth at wide receiver, while often overshadowed by Harrison’s stardom, has proven to be a significant asset for Ohio State. With the postseason now upon them, having a versatile and deep receiving corps will be invaluable for the Buckeyes as they take on top-tier defenses in the College Football Playoff.
5. Coaching Adjustments Highlight Ryan Day’s Ability to Adapt
Despite the loss, Ryan Day’s coaching decisions were another positive takeaway. As the game wore on, Day made key adjustments to Ohio State’s offense and defense to give the team a better chance of success. In particular, the decision to establish a more balanced offensive attack—using both Howard’s arm and legs to move the ball—helped Ohio State keep the pressure on Maryland. The playcalling in the second half reflected a more patient, methodical approach, which kept Maryland on its heels and allowed the Buckeyes to close the gap.
Day’s ability to adapt and stay calm under pressure was on full display, and his strategic decisions—especially as Ohio State tried to hold off Maryland’s late-game surge—showed why he remains one of the best coaches in college football. In tight, high-stakes postseason games, having a coach who can adjust to different situations and put his players in positions to succeed is essential. Day has proven that he can make the right adjustments when it matters most.
6. Special Teams Play Remains a Bright Spot
Even in the loss, Ohio State’s special teams remained a consistent bright spot. Kicker Noah Ruggles made two critical field goals, including a clutch 47-yard attempt in the fourth quarter that helped tie the game. Punter Jesse Mirco also had a strong game, flipping field position and allowing Ohio State’s defense to regroup during key moments.
Special teams can often go overlooked, but in tight games like this one, they play a pivotal role in either gaining or losing momentum. Ruggles and Mirco’s performances will be crucial as the Buckeyes enter postseason play, where every aspect of the game—including special teams—can make the difference between victory and defeat.
7. Takeaways for the Postseason
Despite the tough loss to Maryland, Ohio State still has everything to play for in the postseason. The Buckeyes are likely to receive a spot in the College Football Playoff, and their performance in the regular season finale offers several important takeaways that they can build upon.
The improvement on defense, the leadership of Will Howard, the continued growth of the wide receivers, and the resilience displayed by the team are all positive signs heading into the postseason. Ohio State will need to clean up some areas, particularly in terms of avoiding big plays and staying disciplined in critical moments. However, the team has shown that they are capable of bouncing back from adversity, adjusting when necessary, and playing at a high level when it matters most.