Ohio State head coach Ryan Day was overflowing with pride on Friday after his star edge rusher, Jack Sawyer, delivered a game-defining performance against Texas.
In a high-stakes College Football Playoff semifinal at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, Sawyer made a play that will be remembered for years to come. With just over two minutes left in the game, and Ohio State holding onto a precarious lead, Sawyer forced a fumble and scooped it up, racing 83 yards for a touchdown. The electrifying play sealed Ohio State’s 28-14 victory and sent the Buckeyes to the CFP national championship game against Notre Dame.
Day, in his postgame interview, was effusive in his praise for the senior captain, highlighting Sawyer’s leadership, commitment, and love for the Buckeyes.
“I can’t say enough about Jack Sawyer,” Day said. “He’s a guy who loves being a Buckeye. He loves his teammates. He’s done everything we’ve asked him to do. He’s a captain. He’s everything that we could possibly ask for in a captain.”
Day then reflected on the magnitude of Sawyer’s game-changing moment, adding, “To make a play like that in that moment. We talked about it before the game. If you want to leave a legacy behind, you become a legend. He just became a legend at Ohio State.”
Sawyer’s performance was the culmination of years of dedication and leadership. On the night, he recorded three tackles, broke up a pass, and notched a crucial sack that swung momentum in Ohio State’s favor. But it was his fumble recovery and return that solidified his place in Buckeye lore, creating a moment that will forever be etched in the memories of Ohio State fans.
The emotional impact of the play extended beyond the field. Ohio State quarterback Will Howard, visibly energized by the dramatic finish, was captured sharing an impassioned celebration with Sawyer. The fiery exchange quickly went viral on social media, symbolizing the unity and passion of this Buckeye team.
RELATED: Riley Leonard’s Girlfriend Shares Two-Word Reaction to Notre Dame’s National Title Berth
For Sawyer, the accolades and admiration are well-deserved.
His heroics have not only punched Ohio State’s ticket to the championship game but have also cemented his legacy as one of the greats in the storied history of Ohio State football.
No matter the outcome of the national championship, Jack Sawyer’s name will be synonymous with one of the most iconic plays in Buckeye playoff history.
