Ohio State’s five-star defensive ends from the 2021 recruiting class, JT Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer, solidified their status as two of college football’s elite defenders during the Buckeyes’ remarkable College Football Playoff (CFP) run. Though it took four years for them to reach their peak, the duo’s dominance in the 2024 postseason cemented their legacy.
Both players had already shown flashes of greatness throughout their collegiate careers. Tuimoloau delivered one of the most memorable defensive performances in team history at Penn State in 2022. Meanwhile, Sawyer closed out the 2023 season with an impressive stretch, recording 7.5 tackles for loss and three sacks in the final three games. However, their combined dominance during the CFP set them apart. Over four playoff games, the pair amassed a staggering 36 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss, 11 sacks, 10 pass breakups, two forced fumbles, and a game-sealing fumble recovery for a touchdown.
Defensive line coach Larry Johnson attributed their success to their bond. “Their love for each other and the brotherhood in the room is what makes them play so hard for one another,” Johnson said ahead of the national championship game.
Sawyer, a Central Ohio native and lifelong Buckeye fan, experienced the heartbreak of multiple rivalry losses to Michigan but refused to let those defeats define his legacy. Determined to lead the Buckeyes to glory, he spearheaded the return of key seniors for the 2024 season. His leadership inspired Tuimoloau to delay his NFL aspirations for one more season with his close friend.
“I felt there was unfinished business,” Tuimoloau said. “There were things I wanted to refine, both physically and in my game, before heading to the league.”
Their determination paid off as the Buckeyes defeated Notre Dame 34-23 in the national championship game. The pair were instrumental throughout the playoffs, with Tuimoloau tallying eight tackles, two sacks, and a pass breakup in the opening round against Tennessee, while Sawyer added 1.5 sacks and two pass breakups.
Their chemistry was unmatched, with each player feeding off the other’s energy. “Whenever he makes a play, I want to make a play,” Tuimoloau said. “It’s a blessing to play alongside someone like him.”
The duo’s standout moment came in the CFP semifinals against Texas. With Ohio State leading late, Sawyer delivered a game-changing strip sack of former roommate Quinn Ewers, returning the fumble 83 yards for a touchdown to secure a 28-14 victory. Ryan Day praised Sawyer’s passion for the program, calling him “family” and celebrating his commitment to the Buckeyes.
Despite battling an ankle injury, Tuimoloau delivered clutch performances in the semifinals and championship game, recording 23 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks over the playoff stretch. Sawyer contributed 13 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and seven pass breakups, showcasing his versatility.
The pair celebrated their journey as confetti rained down, reflecting on their hard work and the bond that propelled them to victory. “It’s all worth it—the blood, sweat, tears, and injuries,” Tuimoloau said. “Celebrating with my brothers, the ones I went to war with, that’s what makes it special.”
Standing side-by-side, Tuimoloau and Sawyer lifted the CFP trophy, marking the pinnacle of their Ohio State careers and a fitting end to their journey together.
