The Buckeyes threw the ball in the air and played stifling defense, scoring 21 points in the first frame and taking a 21-0 lead in the second quarter. They outgained the Volunteers 201 yards to 16.

It’s the first time since the game against Western Michigan in Week 2 that Ohio State has scored 21 points in the opening quarter.

Ohio State received the first kickoff and ran 75 yards to the house, capped by a 37-yard touchdown strike to Jeremiah Smith after an incredible throw by Will Howard.

JEREMIAH SMITH OPENS THE GOAL IN COLUMBUS WITH AN UNREAL HANDLE

THE FRESHMAN SENSATION CONTINUES THIS SEASON pic.twitter.com/uoi6Jp1pxw

– ESPN (@espn) December 22, 2024

Howard fired another great ball deep over the middle to Emeka Egbuka for 40 yards on Ohio State’s next drive, setting up a goal-to-go situation for the Buckeyes, which Quinshon Judkins converted with a 1-yard score.

Ohio State’s defense forced its second three-pointer in as many possessions and the Buckeyes marched 58 yards in seven plays to score their third touchdown on a 29-yard dash by TreVeyon Henderson. That made it 21-0 with 3:27 minutes left in the first quarter.

TREVEYON HENDERSON MAKES OHIO STATE 21-0 IN THE FIRST QUARTER

The BUCKEYES offense is progressing in Columbus pic.twitter.com/7Jbpov9dL1

– ESPN (@espn) December 22, 2024

It’s the 59th time since 1900 that the Buckeyes have scored 21 points in the first quarter of a game. They are 58-0 in their last 58 contests.

Stay tuned Eleven warriors for more coverage of Ohio State’s first-round College Football Playoff game against Tennessee.