Ohio State's crushing disappointment was similar to a semifinal loss to Clemson three years ago. Again the game turned on several plays that went against the Buckeyes.
"We lost Cade early in the game, which really sent us really in a tailspin in a couple groupings," Day said."I thought that Xavier, Mitch and even Joe stepping in, did a nice job. It's something we had to work through all season.
"I just tried to leave it all on the line," Stroud said."Games like this, you're at a loss for words, coming down to one play. But honestly it doesn't come down to one play. It's so many things that line up. ... I feel like I left my heart on that field." The Buckeyes led 35-24 when Stroud heaved a third-down ball to the back of the end zone. As the ball arrived, Georgia's Javon Bullard appeared to hit Harrison with his helmet, jarring the ball free. Bullard was called for targeting, which would have given the Buckeyes first-and-goal and the possibility of taking a three-possession lead.
"Ohio State probably deserved to win this game, but we didn't quit it," said Georgia coach Kirby SmartThe offensive fireworks in the first half started after each team had to punt on its first possession. Ohio State then went 71 yards in four plays with a 24-yard catch by Harrison starting the drive and a 31-yard catch ending it.
Stroud made it 21-7 when he avoided the Bulldogs' rush and found Harrison in the corner of the end zone for a 16-yard touchdown.