With Jeremiah Smith, Carnell Tate, and running back CJ Donaldson limited, Ohio State still hung 45 points on UCLA thanks to tight ends Jelani Thurman and Bennett Christian combining for 162 receiving yards.
Ryan Day credited position coaches for “cross-training players since spring,” allowing backups to execute the full playbook. Defensive line depth shined too, as Kenyon Jackson and Jason Moore registered sacks against a veteran UCLA front.
As postseason play looms, the Buckeyes believe this depth lets them withstand injuries better than most contenders.