Ohio State ends Indiana's undefeated campaign convincingly, putting damper on Hoosiers' playoff hopes

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It's been a fun ride for the fifth-ranked Indiana Hoosiers, but their first test with the big boys this year may just be their last.

Indiana traveled Saturday to Columbus to take on No. 2 Ohio State, and the Buckeyes walloped them, 38-15.

The Hoosiers got on the board first, immediately after forcing a three-and-out to start the game. On Ohio State's next possession, the Buckeyes had a 15-play drive that ended in a turnover on downs, giving all the momentum to Indiana, which had something to prove.

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Will Howard (18) of the Ohio State Buckeyes runs with the ball in the first quarter against the Indiana Hoosiers at Ohio Stadium Nov. 23, 2024, in Columbus, Ohio.  (Jason Mowry/Getty Images)

But they could not take advantage. They punted, then allowed a touchdown. Both teams then exchanged turnovers. After a snap went through the Indiana punter's hands, the Buckeyes needed just three plays and seven yards to take a 14-7 lead into the locker room.

The Hoosiers went three-and-out to open the third quarter, but their punt was taken to the house by Caleb Downs, giving OSU a 21-7 lead. Indiana again went three-and-out, and the Buckeyes responded with another trip to the end zone. The Buckeyes then kicked a field goal in the fourth quarter to make it a four-possession game as the Hoosier offense continued to sputter.

After its touchdown, Indiana failed to score on its next eight drives, finding the end zone again in garbage time. Kurtis Rourke was just 8-for-18 passing for 68 yards, while Ty Son Lawton and Justice Ellison combined to rush for 141 yards on 32 carries. Lawton scored both Hoosiers