Penn State Overpowers Ohio State 36-5 in Top Teams Showdown
Penn State asserted its dominance in college wrestling by overpowering Ohio State 36-5 in a highly anticipated dual meet. This match took place at Penn State’s Bryce Jordan Center and marked the first loss of the season for Ohio State, which had previously achieved a program record by starting with 17 consecutive wins.
Penn State’s Dominant Performance
The Nittany Lions showcased their wrestling prowess by winning nine out of the ten matches contested. Ohio State’s only victory came from two-time national champion Jesse Mendez, who scored an impressive 18-2 technical fall against Braeden Davis at 141 pounds. Despite this win, Penn State’s overall performance overwhelmed the Buckeyes.
Key Match Details
- 125 lbs: Luke Lilledahl (PSU) defeated Nic Bouzakis (OSU), SV-1, 4-1
- 133 lbs: Marcus Blaze (PSU) defeated Ben Davino (OSU), TB, 3-2
- 141 lbs: Jesse Mendez (OSU) defeated Braeden Davis (PSU), TF, 18-2
- 149 lbs: Shayne Van Ness (PSU) defeated Brogan Fielding (OSU), TF, 20-5
- 157 lbs: PJ Duke (PSU) defeated Daxton Chase (OSU), F, 3:28
- 165 lbs: Mitchell Messenbrink (PSU) defeated Paddy Gallagher (OSU), MD, 12-2
- 174 lbs: Levi Haines (PSU) defeated T.J. Schierl (OSU), TF, 16-1
- 184 lbs: Rocco Welsh (PSU) defeated Dylan Fishback (OSU), D, 7-6
- 197 lbs: Josh Barr (PSU) defeated Luke Geog (OSU), MD, 11-2
- HWT: Cole Mirasola (PSU) defeated Nick Feldman (OSU), SV-1, 4-1
Championship Implications
Penn State’s remarkable victory secured their sixth consecutive Big Ten dual meet championship. The Nittany Lions have not suffered a dual meet loss since 2020 and are poised to contend for their fifth consecutive NCAA championship, which would mark the 13th title in 15 seasons.
Ohio State’s Future
Despite the setback, Ohio State remains a strong contender for the NCAA championships, having recently defeated several top-ranked teams. The Buckeyes are currently expected to hold the No. 2 ranking in the country, which could be crucial as they prepare for the final stretch of the season.
Ohio State will aim to rebound quickly, facing Maryland in a regular season finale. This match is scheduled for Sunday at 2 p.m. and will be streamed on B1G+.
