The Ohio State football team clinched the national championship last week with a 56-yard pass from Will Howard to Jeremiah Smith on third-and-11, securing a win over Notre Dame. The Buckeyes dominated the game until the fourth quarter, but it was this play that sealed their victory and solidified their place in history.
What makes the play even more remarkable is what happened on the sideline before it. In a video released after the game, wide receiver Emeka Egbuka revealed that he had called for that exact play earlier in the game. He noticed that Notre Dame cornerback Shuler was playing inside leverage during a similar situation and suggested that they run the same play later. The coaches agreed, and when the moment arrived, the play unfolded perfectly Howard made a great throw, Smith made an impressive catch, and Jayden Fielding field goal put the game out of reach.
The play was not only a testament to Ohio State execution but also to their trust in their players. Howard, the senior leader, was trusted with the game on the line, while Smith, the team top player, was given the chance to make the game-changing play. Egbuka ability to predict the play and the coaches trust in his instincts highlights the preparation and cohesion that led to Ohio State championship victory.
It moments like these that will make this national title memorable for years to come.
