It was the usual cast of characters who were Ohio State’s highest-graded players in the team’s 34-10 win over Purdue on Nov. 8. Redshirt freshman quarterback Julian Sayin, junior defensive tackle Kayden McDonald Jr. and sophomore receiver Jeremiah Smith were all highly-graded by Pro Football Focus.
With an 89.2 grade, Sayin was the highest-graded player on the team for the fifth-straight week. The Heisman trophy candidate threw for 303 yards, a touchdown and an interception, while completing 27 of 33 passes.
McDonald followed closely behind with an 88.3 grade. The defensive tackle had four solo tackles, including one for loss. McDonald was the highest-graded defensive tackle in the country in Week 11, according to PFF. Smith, who had a career-high 10 catches for 137 yards and a touchdown, received an 87.2 grade.
Running back Bo Jackson also had a quality performance, according to PFF. The true freshman ran for 75 yards on 14 carries and received an 80.1 grade, making him the highest-graded freshman running back in the country in Week 11.
Junior linebacker Sonny Styles also graded out well. Styles received an 81.6 grade after logging five total tackles and a pass deflection in the win.
Senior defensive lineman Beau Atkinson (34.8 grade, 9 snaps), freshman linebacker TJ Alford (44.2, 5), and freshman tight end Nate Roberts (44.9, 18) were Ohio State’s lowest-graded players against Purdue.
