#2 Ohio State guts out 43-30 win at pesky Maryland to go to 11-0; looks ahead to next week’s arch-rival showdown against 11-0 Michigan Wolverines

Dallan Hayden showing he can be the “Bell Cow” running back with key runs and touchdowns (photo courtesy OSU Athletic Communications)

COLUMBUS, Ohio — No. 2 Ohio State (11-0, 8-0) started slow but finished strong at Maryland (6-5, 3-5) Saturday to come away with a 43-30 win at SECU Stadium in College Park.

In a breakout performance, freshman Dallan Hayden was Ohio State’s top ground gainer with 146 yards on 27 carries and three scores.

C.J. Stroud finished 18-of-30 passing for 241 yards and a touchdown. Emeka Egbuka and Marvin Harrison Jr. were the top receiving targets with six and five catches, respectively. Egbuka led with 82 yards receiving.

Defensively, Tommy Eichenberg led with 12 tackles with nine solos. Lathan Ransom added seven tackles and six solos. He also blocked a punt that led to an Ohio State score.

The Buckeyes return to Columbus to begin preparation for the final regular-season contest of the year against Michigan at noon Saturday in Ohio Stadium. Fox Sports will televise The Game.

COURTESY OSU ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS