Penn State’s red zone debacle diminished the Nittany Lions’ chances of defeating the Buckeyes, but did not end them. With five minutes left, they needed the defense to stop the Ohio State offense and get the ball back.

The defense couldn’t hold up its end of the bargain, however, as Howard, a Pennsylvania native, rushed for seven yards on third down with less than a minute remaining to secure Ohio’s 20-13 victory State over Penn State. He finished with 182 yards on 16 of 24 passing with two touchdowns and an interception, while the offensive back rushed for 146 yards.

WILL HOWARD FIRST THAT WILL DO IT @OhioStateFB pic.twitter.com/RGN19JW9si

– FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) November 2, 2024

It was the first time the Buckeyes beat a top-5 team on the road since 2006 and the 12th win over Penn State in the last 13 meetings.

The Nittany Lions struggled to find much offensive momentum throughout the game, scoring just three points after the first quarter. This was largely due to Ohio State’s defensive success in the red zone, intercepting Allar and forcing a turnover on downs in critical moments.

Although Penn State suffered its first loss of the season, the College Football Playoff is still within reach, especially with no AP Top 25 teams currently on its schedule.

The Buckeyes improve to 7-1, rebounding from a loss to Oregon on Oct. 12 and a 10-point deficit against PSU. The win helps lead OSU to the CFP and keeps them in contention for the Big Ten Championship Game. The Buckeyes will face No. 13 Indiana in a few weeks — the strongest remaining challenger on their regular season schedule.