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Published on 11/23/2025
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Buckeyes Dominate Scarlet Knights 42-9 in Final Home Game of 2025 Season
Buckeyes Dominate Scarlet Knights 42-9 in Final Home Game of 2025 Season :
In a highly anticipated Big Ten matchup, the No. 1 ranked Ohio State Buckeyes decisively defeated the Rutgers Scarlet Knights with a final score of 42-9 on Saturday, November 22, 2025. This victory marked Ohio State's eleventh straight win, maintaining their perfect 11-0 overall record and 8-0 in conference play. The game, played at Ohio Stadium on Senior Day, saw the Buckeyes overcome a somewhat slow start to assert their dominance, much to the delight of the 100,023 fans in attendance.
For Rutgers, the loss moved their season record to 5-6 overall and 2-6 in the Big Ten, leaving them just one win shy of bowl eligibility with one game remaining. Despite the lopsided final score, the Scarlet Knights showed flashes of resilience, particularly on defense in the first half. However, Ohio State's talent and depth ultimately proved too much to handle over four quarters.
First Half Scuffles and Second Half Surges: A Tale of Two Halves :
The contest began with a defensive slugfest, with Rutgers' defense making an early statement by forcing a fumble at the goal line on Ohio State's opening drive, recovered by linebacker Dariel Djabome. This impressive play prevented an early Buckeye score and invigorated the Scarlet Knights. Rutgers even managed to get on the scoreboard with a 44-yard field goal from PK Jai Patel in the second quarter, making it a respectable 14-3 at halftime.
However, the second half painted a different picture entirely, as Ohio State's offense exploded, scoring on four consecutive drives to pull away decisively. The Buckeyes demonstrated why they are the nation's top-ranked team, showcasing their ability to adjust and execute under pressure. This offensive surge turned a competitive game into a commanding victory, highlighting their championship aspirations.
Buckeye Stars Shine Bright Despite Key Absences :
Ohio State's offensive firepower was on full display, even with the notable absence of star wide receivers Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate due to injuries. Freshman running back Bo Jackson stepped up admirably, rushing for an impressive 110 yards and two crucial touchdowns.
Sophomore quarterback Julian Sayin continued his stellar season, throwing for two touchdowns and navigating the offense efficiently, completing 13 of 19 passes for 157 yards. Tight end Max Klare also had a significant impact, leading the team with seven catches for 105 yards and a score, proving invaluable in the passing game. These performances underscored the Buckeyes' deep roster and ability to adapt when faced with challenges.
Rutgers' Valiant Efforts and Areas for Improvement :
Despite the loss, several Rutgers players delivered strong individual performances. Running back Antwan Raymond continued his productive season, rushing for 52 yards and adding his 12th touchdown of the year. Raymond also surpassed the 1,500-yard career rushing mark and achieved his 20th career rushing touchdown, a testament to his consistent impact.
On the defensive side, linebacker Dariel Djabome contributed nine tackles, a tackle-for-loss, and the early fumble recovery that energized the team. Defensive back Bo Mascoe also tallied nine tackles and forced a fumble. However, costly penalties, including a roughing the passer call that negated a turnover on downs, proved detrimental to the Scarlet Knights' efforts to sustain momentum against the top-ranked Buckeyes.
The Undefeated Path to 'The Game': Ohio State Looks Ahead :
With their dominant performance against Rutgers, the Ohio State Buckeyes cemented their undefeated record and their position as the No. 1 team in the nation heading into the final week of the regular season. Their attention now squarely turns to their most anticipated rivalry game: 'The Game' against Michigan. This annual showdown carries immense weight, with conference championship implications and potentially a spot in the College Football Playoff on the line.
Coach Ryan Day expressed confidence in his team's focus and business-like approach, especially in overcoming injuries to key players. The Buckeyes will undoubtedly be preparing intensely for their upcoming clash, looking to maintain their perfect season and secure bragging rights against their fierce rivals. The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to their regular season.
Looking Beyond Columbus: Rutgers' Final Stand for Bowl Eligibility :
For the Rutgers Scarlet Knights, while the loss to Ohio State was tough, their season is not yet over. They still have an opportunity to achieve bowl eligibility in their final regular-season game. The Scarlet Knights will host Penn State on November 29 at SHI Stadium for Senior Day and Fan Appreciation Day.
This upcoming game against Penn State presents a crucial chance for Rutgers to secure that sixth win and extend their season into a bowl game. The team will need to rally, learn from their experiences against the top-ranked Buckeyes, and bring a strong performance to their home crowd. The prospect of playing in a bowl game offers significant motivation for Coach Greg Schiano's squad.
A Historical Perspective: The Dominance Continues :
The recent matchup against Rutgers only adds to Ohio State's historically dominant record against the Scarlet Knights. The Buckeyes have consistently held the upper hand in this Big Ten series since Rutgers joined the conference.
Ohio State has now won all ten of their matchups against Rutgers since their first encounter in 2014, showcasing a clear trend of superiority. While Rutgers continues to build its program under Coach Schiano, the gap between the two teams remains significant, with Ohio State often winning by substantial margins.