Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has dubbed Jack Sawyer an instant Buckeyes legend after the defensive lineman delivered a game-changing strip-sack in their victory over the Texas Longhorns, securing Ohio State’s spot in the College Football Playoff National Championship.
The defining play came in the fourth quarter with the game tied, as Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers appeared ready to lead his team to a potential game-winning drive. However, Sawyer, who had been disruptive all game, made a key move. Coming off the edge, Sawyer blindsided Ewers, knocking the ball loose just as he was about to throw. Ohio State recovered the fumble, sending the crowd into a frenzy and leaving Texas with no chance to mount a comeback.
After the game, Ryan Day praised Sawyer’s clutch performance, calling it “one of the defining moments in Ohio State history.” Day also acknowledged the personal stakes for Sawyer, who had been a former roommate of Ewers, adding an emotional layer to the game-changing play. Sawyer’s familiarity with Ewers, who was a close friend in college, made the strip-sack even more impactful, as it marked the perfect culmination of his relentless preparation and competitive drive.
Sawyer’s timely heroics capped off an exceptional defensive performance by the Buckeyes, who had been under constant pressure from Texas’s high-powered offense. With the victory, Ohio State not only secured a trip to the national championship game but also reaffirmed their status as one of the top teams in college football.
As Sawyer walked off the field, he was greeted by jubilant cheers from the Ohio State faithful, who now regard him as an all-time great. His unforgettable strip-sack will be remembered as one of the key plays in Ohio State’s quest for a national title.
