Team Revival

After enduring a challenging stretch of 12 consecutive losses, the Ohio State Buckeyes (5-17, 2-12) showcased resilience by securing two hard-fought five-set wins over the weekend. Victories against Maryland (8-16, 1-13 Big Ten) and Rutgers (11-15, 2-12 Big Ten) marked a much-needed turnaround for the team.

Victory Against Maryland

On Friday, the Buckeyes triumphed 3-2 over the Terrapins in College Park, with set scores of 23-25, 25-16, 25-21, 11-25, and 15-12. The team displayed depth and determination, as five players recorded at least eight kills and the collective effort resulted in 10 blocks.

Despite a rough fourth set where Ohio State logged four attacking errors, the team regrouped. They made a strong comeback in the final set, establishing an early lead that they maintained to clinch the match.

Olivia Hasbrook, a defensive specialist, contributed significantly with 20 digs and three service aces, surpassing the 700-dig milestone for her career.

Second Win Against Rutgers

In their second match, Ohio State defeated Rutgers 3-2, with set scores of 25-23, 18-25, 25-23, 18-25, and 15-12. This encounter was equally competitive, featuring standout performances from multiple players. Notably, Ashley Carr and Na’Vea Gauthier set personal bests with 12 and 15 kills, respectively.

After alternating set victories, the match culminated in a dramatic final set, where Carr’s timely serves and decisive kills helped secure the win and complete the weekend sweep.

Upcoming Challenges

The Buckeyes now shift their focus to upcoming road matches, beginning with a clash against rival Michigan (17-8, 7-7 Big Ten) on Friday at 7 p.m. They will also face No. 25 Penn State (14-10, 8-6 Big Ten) on Sunday at 2 p.m., presenting further challenges for the rejuvenated squad.

Wrestling Dominance at Chattanooga

In other sporting news, the No. 4 ranked Ohio State wrestling team (1-0) displayed dominance in their season opener against Chattanooga, winning 42-4. The Buckeyes claimed nine out of ten matches at McKenzie Arena.

• No. 17 Brendan McCrone won 4-2 at 125 pounds by decision.
• No. 9 Ben Davino and No. 1 Jesse Mendez achieved technical falls at 133 and 141 pounds, with scores of 19-4 and 21-6, respectively.
• Redshirt freshman Landon Desselle won by fall in the 157-pound division.
• Technical falls were also earned by No. 12 Paddy Gallagher, No. 10 Carson Kharchla, and No. 7 Dylan Fishback.

Ohio State’s only loss occurred in the 149-pound weight class, where Daxton Chase fell 10-1 by major decision. The team is now looking ahead to the upcoming 2025 National Duals on November 15-16 in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Men’s Soccer Season Finale

The Ohio State men’s soccer team finished their season on a disappointing note, falling 2-1 to Northwestern (8-6-3, 3-5-2 Big Ten). The Buckeyes (6-10-0, 3-7-0 Big Ten) initially took the lead with a goal from Nick McHenry but were unable to maintain it as Northwestern made a comeback in the second half.

Six seniors, including key players like Max Trejo, who surpassed 4,000 career minutes, played their final games, marking the end of a challenging season where the team ranked 9th in the Big Ten and did not qualify for the conference tournament.