Getty ImagesThere was no Big Ten championship or bowl berth on the line for Ohio State or Penn State, two teams banned from postseason play because of separate NCAA punishments, but that didn’t mean the stakes for tonight’s game in Happy Valley between the Buckeyes and Nittany Lions weren’t high.
In fact, Beaver Stadium was packed as though it was the biggest game of the year for the Nittany Lions — because it was. Unfortunately for the Penn State faithful, No. 9 Ohio State spoiled the occasion and came out with a 35-23 win. Braxton Miller was once again the X-factor and ran for nearly as many yards (134) as he had passing (143), accounting for three total touchdowns in the process.
The Buckeyes continue their undefeated season with Illinois, Wisconsin and Michigan left on the schedule. Though playing the Wolverines might as well be a toss-up, it’s very possible OSU could finish the regular season undefeated and have no postseason appearance to show for it — but Urban Meyer‘s team could have a Leaders Division championship wrapped up next week against Illinois even though it looks like Wisconsin will back its way into the Big Ten title game.
Remember, Ohio State and Penn State can earn a divisional championship without playing in the conference championship.
As for Penn State, the Nittany Lions still have an opportunity to finish the season strong to cap off what would be a remarkable run considering all the circumstances. Outside of PSU, I can’t think of too many people — myself included — who thought this team would accomplish half of what it has already. Continued kudos to Bill O’Brien and that program.
Kudos to OSU. Urban shines in big games. Seems the road team has the advantage in this matchup. Some seemingly bad officiating though.
Nicely done Buckeyes!!! Way to walk into HV and get the win. Braxton had the sickest 1 yard TD run I’ve ever seen… just plain jaw dropping
Big Ten football this year…yawn.
“Big Ten football this year…yawn.”
Yeah. But I had to stop watching that A&M/Auburn game because it was embarrassing.
I add my congrats to OSU. After what appeard to be a shaky win over Purdue I thought OSU was vulnerable but they rose to the challenge, as quality teams do.
Bill O is coach of the year.
I have great respect for Urban Meyer. But, Bill OBrien has really shined bringing this Penn State team this far in a year filled with tragedy and departure of top players. I think Obrien is going to be one great coach and State will do very well under his leadership.
Kudos to Bill Obrien!!
I am very impressed with O’brien and what he is doing, PSU has every right not to play well, but their HC keeps em moving along. I wish the B1G was better, but if PSU can just hold on til their sanctions end, I think things can pick back up…
So far, so good for Urban Meyer…
Go Buckeyes!
Penn state has beaten nobody so far this year and their coach deserves no credit. Any decent team on their schedule they have lost to. Thanks to OSU for beating state penn and reminding the idiots out there that state penn is going nowhere anytime soon
Off topic, but when OSU beats M-Go Blue again this year, M-Blow may not get another win against the Bucks this decade!
To reiterate what I said, last week; I really hope Gene Smith enjoyed his trip to the Gator Bowl last year because it may well have cost the Buckeyes a chance in the NCG this year.
Message to all AD’s; when in doubt always self impose a bowl ban if you are only going to a mediocre game anyways and have a shot at a BCS game next season.
@dirtyharry1971 – There isn’t anything someone could actually write to respond to your moronic comment.
dirty harry-= I’m sorry you were abused as a kid but Penn State didn’t do it and if you had turned in your abuser instead of “suffering silently” maybe you wouldn’t be the sick sob you are.
That run by Braxton Miller was sick! The OSU “D” needs to learn how to tackle. Wrap someone up for gods sake!
Miller is the next Pryor..totally overrated!
PSU missed at least 3 td’s! McGolin underthrew Robinosn who was WIDE OPEN, LB dropped a pick 6 and the punter threw pass to a cover wr instead on the opened guy! OSU is NOT THAT GOOD!
The run by Miller could have been accomplished by this old fart; #77 tackled the defender (which Spielman pointed out 3 times). #77 and #71 held and tackled the defensive front all day long as pointed out by the TV crew. That said, PSU is average with the only impressive win coming against a good, not great Northwestern team. OSU won this game, but against a good team (none left on their schedule) and without being allowed to hold blatantly, they will not win them all.
Glad the Bucks weren’t caught with their pants down at HIV I mean HV.