Ohio (6-3 overall, 4-1 Mid-American Conference) defeated rivals Miami (5-4 overall, 4-1 MAC) in a crucial Battle of the Bricks matchup.
With the win, Ohio claims the tiebreaker over Miami in the race to Detroit for the MAC title game. It also marks another home victory on Frank Solich Field at Peden Stadium, the team’s 12th straight home win.
The game was a defensive battle for the majority of the first three quarters, as Ohio scored just 10 points to Miami’s six heading into the final frame. That final frame was action-packed as it included 28 total points, a kickoff return touchdown from running back Sieh Bangura and a game-clinching interception from junior safety Jalen Thomeson.
The game-winning touchdown was crucial for Ohio as graduate student quarterback Parker Navarro escaped pressure from Miami and found junior wide receiver Rodney Harris II for a 49-yard touchdown. That score gave Ohio the lead with just a little over two minutes remaining, turning it over to the defense for the game-sealing interception.
Navarro finished with 201 yards and a touchdown through the air and 28 yards on the ground. Harris II had five catches for 92 yards and touchdown. Bangura had a massive game as well, going for 102 yards and a touchdown in addition to the kickoff return.
Ohio will face another big test next week, this time on the road against Western Michigan next Tuesday at 8:00 p.m.
