Freshman Tracker: Shutout Win of Rutgers Gives Ample Opportunity for Freshmen to Get More Playing Time

Ohio State shut out Rutgers, 56-0, in High Points Stadium tonight and several freshmen were important reasons why.

J.K. Dobbins did not have the kind of game we're accustomed to seeing of the true freshman tailback. He started the game but did not have an eventful first drive. Mike Weber got most of the glory on the ground, including three touchdowns, before the game was effectively decided and Dobbins' services were no longer required. Dobbins finished with 53 yards on just six carries.

Chase Young had an important moment on a TFL when he drove backup quarterback Johnathan Lewis to the turf for a two-yard loss. Lewis was shaken up on the play and would not finish the game. That decision to hold Lewis from the game after Chase Young's TFL seemed more precautionary as Lewis promises to be an important part of Rutgers' future and the game was already well from Rutgers' reach.

Elsewhere, freshmen made important contributions on defense and special teams. Pete Werner had two tackles. Baron Browning, who made his debut in the season-opener in Bloomington, had three tackles on the game.

Ohio State next plays Maryland at 4 p.m. next Saturday on FOX.