Ohio State handles Maryland in Ryan Day's 100th game as head coach

Kenyatta Jackson (2) throws a fist pump after a play against Maryland. (Photo: Ohio State Football)

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio State makes quick work of Maryland in their Big Ten matchup, 45-16 in the 100th coaching game for Ryan Day. 

Day won his 87th game by defeating Maryland on Saturday in Columbus and marked his 5th straight win against the Terrapins and had some highs in the game. "We scored at the end of the half for a sixth straight game in a row, and I don't know if that's ever been done before," said Day. 

Jeremiah Smith catches a one-handed pass from Julian Saying as Maryland defender Lavain Scruggs pursues. (Photo: Ohio State Football)

Offensively, they made some changes up front with Phillip Daniels out and Gabe VanSickle playing an unknown position. "I think we can get Phil back for a full week of practice; that's the plan. Talking to Tyler and seeing Gabe's demeanor, he handled it like a veteran."

That may have made a difference in protection, as Julian Sayin was sacked twice but was still able to throw four touchdowns and 242 yards for the game.  "They battled, and they did a good job upfront; they were fighting all day, and I have a lot of trust and confidence in them, and I think they played well," said Sayin.  

Legend Bey returns to the backfield 

The running game was still productive as Villa-Angela St. Joseph alum led the way with 107 yards on 23 carries and two touchdowns, and Ja'Kobi Jackson finished with 76 yards on 13 carries and zero touchdowns. 

Freshman phenom Legend Bey got some time with four carries for 13 yards after being absent since their game against Kent State on September 19. 

Jeremiah Smith continues to dominate 

Smith had four catches for 93 yards and two touchdowns, and he continues to add to his career reception record for Ohio State. 

JEREMIAH SMITH ONE HANDED LIKE IT'S NOTHING! 📺 Big Ten Network https://t.co/xu1qYNgpFY

— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) October 10, 2026

 Maryland not enough for Ohio State 

Maryland only managed ten first downs in the game and 146 yards of total offense. Their most yards on the ground by any ball carrier was DeJuan Williams with 48 yards on 16 carries. Quarterback Malik Washington was the only bright spot in the offense.

Buckeye players celebrate in the endzone. (Photo: Ohio State Football)

Washington threw for 64 yards total and scored the Terrapins' only touchdown of the game with a 5-yard run where he kept the ball himself.

What's next for Ohio State 

The No. 5 Ohio State (5-1, 3-0) will travel to Merchants Bank Field to face the No. 7-ranked Indiana Hoosiers for a much-anticipated Big Ten showdown. The game will be telecast live on FOX Sports.