The Buckeyes' defensive prowess shines through as Jermaine Mathews Jr. and Kayden McDonald make significant plays, while Penn State and Michigan falter in Week 7. Ohio State's defense remains the best in college football, but the offense needs to improve its ground game. Jermaine Mathews Jr. and Kayden McDonald stand out for their disruptive plays, with Mathews showcasing his playmaking abilities and McDonald's calculus-like interception of Illinois' Ca'Lil Valentine. Tywone Malone Jr. and Arvell Reese also contribute significantly to the defense's success. However, the Buckeyes lean too heavily on the run game, with 34 runs compared to 28 passes against Illinois, and their punter, Joe McGuire, needs improvement. Michigan's struggles continue, losing to USC, and Penn State faces a challenging decision with coach James Franklin's departure. The article concludes with a critical look at Indiana's rise and Texas' upset victory, highlighting the dynamic nature of college football and the importance of consistent performance.
