At times, it was scary for Ohio State. The No. 4 Buckeyes found themselves in a back-and-forth fight with Minnesota on Thursday night top start their 2021 campaign.

Explosive plays on offense and a huge defensive touchdown in the second half proved to be the difference, though. Despite the sluggish start, Ohio State prevailed to a 45-31 victory to start the year 1-0.

It marked the 22nd straight game Ohio State has won against B1G opponents.

C.J. Stroud played well in his first collegiate start, completing 13-of-22 passes for 294 yards and 4 touchdowns with 1 interceptions. Chris Olave had 117 yards on 4 catches and Garrett Wilson added 80 yards and a touchdown.

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Miyan Williams was the team’s leading rusher with 125 yards and a touchdown on 9 carries.

Day understood that his team didn’t play great for the entire 60 minutes, but Ohio State did rally in the second half. Here’s everything the Buckeyes head coach said after the victory:

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