Following its 14-7 victory over No. 1 Texas, Ohio State recognized its standout player of the game on defense and special teams.
Ohio State named cornerback Jermaine Mathews Jr. its defensive player of the game and defensive end C.J. Hicks the special teams player of the game for their standout performances in the Buckeyes’ victory over the Longhorns.
Mathews finished his day with three solo tackles and played strong coverage, but most notably had the game’s lone turnover.
With just over three minutes remaining in the third quarter, Texas quarterback Arch Manning had the Longhorns in Buckeye territory before the Cincinnati native intercepted a pass intended for wideout Ryan Wingo, taking the pick back 5 yards.
Hicks, like Mathews, had three tackles on the day, and played a key role in the Buckeyes’ steady special teams unit Saturday.
He also had the rush and near-takedown Manning on Texas’ final play, forcing a throw short of the sticks that ultimately sealed Ohio State’s victory.
Ohio State has yet to name an offensive player of the game.
