COLUMBUS — Jaylen McClain has given Ohio State a takeaway in each of its three games against ranked opponents this season. The junior safety intercepted passes against Texas and Iowa, then forced a fumble against Indiana, providing the Buckeyes with extra possessions in their toughest road games.
That production helped earn McClain a place among the 15 semifinalists for the Jim Thorpe Award, which recognizes college football’s top defensive back. Announced Tuesday, the selection made him one of three Big Ten players named semifinalists.
Production Against the Best
McClain recorded five tackles and an interception at then-No. 4 Texas. At then-No. 14 Iowa, he intercepted another pass late in the third quarter, giving Ohio State the possession that produced its final touchdown.
He contributed in several ways during the 19-15 win at then-No. 5 Indiana, finishing with four tackles, a sack, and a forced fumble. Those plays are huge in a game decided by four points, when taking away one possession can change everything.
His contributions have extended beyond those ranked matchups. Against Illinois, McClain established career highs with eight tackles and four pass breakups. He enters the USC game with 32 tackles, two interceptions, and six pass breakups, ranking third on the team in tackles.
Recognition That Fits the Performance
The Thorpe selection followed second-team midseason All-America recognition from The Athletic. Both honors reflect a safety contributing against the run, in coverage, and through takeaways.
Awards give fans a reason to notice McClain. His performances against Texas, Iowa, and Indiana give Ohio State a more practical reason to value him. As the schedule moves toward November, the Buckeyes need those contributions to continue.
