A second half shootout between the Ohio State Buckeyes and California Golden Bears almost ended in an upset for the No. 12 ranked Buckeyes, but a 72-yard touchdown pass from Braxton Miller to Devin Smith with just 4:14 to go in the game broke the tie and gave Ohio State its defining lead.
Ohio State defeated Cal, 35-28.
The Buckeyes had taken a 20-7 lead into halftime after scoring three touchdowns within a seven-minute span. But Ohio State went scoreless in the third quarter as the Bears began to turn it up.
Brendan Bigelow rushed for an 81-yard touchdown to bring Cal within six points, and an eight-play, 46-yard drive capped by a one-yard touchdown run from Zach Maynard gave the Bears the lead.
Ohio State came alive in the fourth quarter with touchdowns by Jake Stoneburner and Smith, though Cal had a pair of touchdowns as well in the final period. Bigelow ran for another big gain to find himself in the end zone, this time for 59 yards. But Smith's 72-yard reception gave Ohio State the win in the end.
Box Score Hero: Devin Smith recorded 145 receiving yards on five catches, which resulted in a pair of touchdowns, including the game winner.
Rankings Ramifications: Ohio State came into this game ranked No. 12, but struggling to win this game could do the Buckeyes some damage in the rankings.
But Did They Cover? The Buckeyes were 17 1/2 point favorites in this one. So, no.
For More On This Game: To read about the Ohio State Buckeyes, check out Land-Grant Holy Land. Head over to California Golden Blogs for more on the Golden Bears. For college football coverage from around the country check out SB Nation's college football hub.
Next Week's Schedule: Ohio State vs. University of Alabama at Birmingham/ California vs. University of Southern California
