Ohio State film review confirms Quinshon Judkins, Caleb Downs, and Will Howard headline Week 2 most impressive players

The Ohio State Buckeyes got down to business in Week 2 of college football, picking apart Western Michigan with the first shutout for the program since 2019. At the heart of their dominant win, where they were favored by 38, was the star trio of Quinshon Judkins, Caleb Downs, and Will Howard.

These three players of the game weren't alone, but we'll look at the best of the rest in another post. Let's look at our three key players in the Buckeyes victory against the Broncos.

Ohio State Buckeyes Week 2 Key Players

Quinshon Judkins

It wasn't just that Quinshon Judkins totaled 108 yards on only nine carries or his two touchdown runs that were impressive. It was how Judkins ran against a porous defense. Ohio State fans got the full experience Judkins brings, where his agility, burst, and balance are jaw-dropping.

The funny part is that Judkins lost a huge third touchdown run on a bogus holding call on a receiver halfway down the field. This was almost a 150-yard game with only 10 touches.

Will Howard

After a decent but not the best debut, Will Howard was sharper and found explosive plays in Week 2. Completing 18 passes for 292 yards and a touchdown, Howard found the right balance of what the offense needed. Blending being a point guard and taking the occasional shot downfield, the offense thrived in every phase.

Howard effectively spread the ball around, with Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka catching five passes each. Brandon Inniss and Carnell Tate had three receptions. In total, 25 passes were caught by seven players, though not all came from the senior quarterback.

Most importantly, Howard settled into his role based on the situation. Ohio State won't always need a star at the position, but Howard showed off the running ability to execute when they do.

Caleb Downs

The stats through two games haven't shown a massive impact from Caleb Downs, but the Alabama transfer has been all over the field for Ohio State. With a team-leading four tackles, Downs was helping finish gang tackles effectively. Most importantly, Downs is thriving in coverage assignments.

It can be hard to tell from the broadcast, but the coaches' film left no doubt that Downs was swarming across the field to erase passing lanes. Even though the Buckeyes have an elite secondary, boasting top-end cornerbacks all over, Downs has been a necessary cherry on top to keep the unit revving with a high engine.