Many college football fans had Saturday circled on their calendars for the matchup of what certainly was going to be two of the nation’s top teams, Penn State and Ohio State. Last season’s game in State College ended in a Buckeye victory when the Nittany Lions failed to convert on fourth and goal.

As this season has developed, things have changed. Ohio State has stayed on script with an undefeated season bolstered by an efficient quarterback, world class wide receivers, and a stingy defense. Penn State, however, has struggled with key injuries, an unlikely losing streak, and a head coaching change.

The Nittany Lions started the contest at Ohio Stadium Saturday with a solid first half. They did something that no other team had done against the Buckeyes in the opening 30 minutes and that is score a touchdown. In fact, they scored two behind former Olentangy quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer to trail 17-14 at the break.

Ohio State then took control, scoring three touchdowns in the second half and keeping Penn State off the board for a 38-14. The Buckeyes went to 8-0 on the season, 5-0 in Big Ten play, while the Nittany Lions are now 3-5 overall, 0-5 in the Conference.

OSU quarterback Julian Sayin had another outstanding effort, going 20-23 for 316 yards and four touchdowns. Jeremiah Smith made six catches for 123 yards and two scores, while Carnell Tate nabbed five balls for 124 yards and a score. Tight end Bennett Christian also recorded a receiving touchdown.

Bo Jackson led all rushers with 105 yards on 13 carries. C.J. Donaldson ran for a touchdown early in the third quarter.

Arvell Reese once again paced the defense with 12 tackles, a sack, and 2.5 tackles for loss. Kenyatta Jackson, Jr. recorded four tackles, with two sacks and 2.5 tackles for loss. Caleb Downs picked off a Penn St. pass in the end zone to thwart a drive.

Ohio State travels to West Lafayette, Ind. next Saturday for a Big Ten tussle with the Purdue Boilermakers (2-7, 0-6). Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. Fans can see the action on the Big Ten Network.