Jerron Cage Scores On 55-Yard Fumble Return Before Halftime

Ohio State's offense has struggled throughout the first quarter, especially on the ground. TreVeyon Henderson hasn't been able to move the ball on the ground behind an offensive line that hasn't dominated nearly the way they've tended to this year.

Thankfully, the defense has picked them up.

Jerron Cage lived every defensive tackles dream, after Zach Harrison and Tyreke Smith sandwiched Penn State quarterback Sean Clifford and forced the ball out. Cage picked it up on the Buckeyes' 45 yard line and ran 55 yards the other way into the end zone.

🚨 BIG MAN TOUCHDOWN 🚨 @CageJerron scoops it and scores to extend No. 5 @OhioStateFB's lead. pic.twitter.com/zpxf00wXtT
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) October 31, 2021

The score gave Ohio State it's first real breathing room in a game that has been as challenging as any they've played all season. Cage's touchdown marked the sixth defensive score of the year through the first 7.5 games Ohio State has played.

After the call was confirmed by replay, Cage's teammates had a little fun with him on the sideline.

🚨 BIG MAN TOUCHDOWN 🚨 @CageJerron scoops it and scores to extend No. 5 @OhioStateFB's lead. pic.twitter.com/zpxf00wXtT
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) October 31, 2021