Ohio State football is currently locked in a Big Ten battle with the Northwestern Wildcats and heads into halftime with a healthy 21-7 lead. After an alarming and scoreless first quarter, the Buckeyes appear to have found their groove, reaching the end zone three times in the second quarter.

A few players really stood out, including quarterback Will Howard, who entered the half completing nine of his fourteen passing attempts for 138 yards and a touchdown. TreVeyon Henderson is currently the leading rusher with seven carries for 35 yards, but Quinshon Judkins is the runner with two touchdowns.

As expected, Carnell Tate has made the most of his homecoming as the current leading receiver for OSU with three receptions for 44 yards and a highlight-worthy touchdown. Gee Scott Jr. has also played a role in the passing game with a lone reception for a much-needed 34 yards.

On the Wildcats side, their quarterback, Jack Lausch, has played much better than most expected. He completed 9 of 14 attempts for 105 yards and added another 25 yards on the ground, including a rushing touchdown. Below are the three most striking observations from the first half.

Welcome home Carnell Tate

x.com

Carnell Tate has been a bit of the forgotten man in this receiving room with the emergence of freshman phenom Jeremiah Smith, but today he seemed like the number one option. the Chicago product currently leads Ohio State with three receptions for 44 yards and a touchdown.

Wrigley Field is a scene

Ohio State vs Northwestern is underway at Wrigley Field! 🏈⚾️ pic.twitter.com/iBrdLyOIVt

— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) November 16, 2024

There was little doubt that the Buckeye faithful would take over Wrigley Field, but we finally have proof. Northwestern is a huge underdog these days, but regardless, this game is quite meaningful because of the historical significance of Wrigley Field.

Spreading the love

We already know that Ohio State’s receiver room is devastating, but Will Howard has done a great job spreading the rock and slowly taking this Wildcat defense apart. Howard had contact with five different players in the first half.

Contact/Follow us @BuckeyesWire on To follow Josh Keatley on X.

This article originally appeared on Buckeyes Wire: Ohio State football vs. Northwestern Wildcats: Halftime observations