CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (AP) — Julian Sayin passed for two touchdowns, C.J. Donaldson ran for two scores, and the Ohio State defense forced three turnovers that resulted in 21 points as the No. 1-ranked Buckeyes beat No. 17 Illinois 34-16 on Saturday.
Sayin completed 19 of 27 passes for 166 yards. Donaldson rushed for 44 yards. Jeremiah Smith had five catches for 42 yards and a TD for the Buckeyes (6-0, 3-0 Big Ten).
Illinois’ Luke Altmyer threw for 248 yards and a touchdown with an interception. Aidan Laughery ran for 50 yards and a TD. Collin Dixon had four catches for 46 yards and a TD.
Illinois (5-2, 2-2) scored two TDs in the second half, doubling the number of touchdowns given up by Ohio State this season.
Ohio State coach Ryan Day said he continues to learn about his team.
“They’re com