The first quarter between No. 1 Ohio State and Washington concluded in a 0-0 stalemate marked by missed opportunities and dramatic shifts in momentum.
After Washington opened the game with a three-and-out, a short 17-yard punt gave Ohio State excellent field position at midfield. The Buckeyes mounted a methodical ground attack, led by running back C.J. Donaldson, driving deep into Huskies territory. The drive stalled inside the 15-yard line, and on a critical fourth-and-one from the Washington 5, Ohio State was stopped short, turning the ball over on downs.
Pinned deep in their own territory, the Huskies’ subsequent possession was crippled by penalties, forcing another punt. Ohio State’s Brandon Inniss returned the kick 32 yards but fumbled at the end of the play, giving the ball back to Washington at their own 21-yard line.
Washington capitalized on the turnover, with a 34-yard run by Jonah Coleman quickly flipping field position. Quarterback Demond Williams Jr. then connected on a series of passes, moving the Huskies to a first-and-goal at the Ohio State 2-yard line. However, a loss on a run play and a false start penalty pushed Washington back. The quarter ended as Coleman was tackled for a two-yard loss, leaving the Huskies at the Ohio State 10-yard line.
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