A week after Ezekiel Elliott unleashed criticism of the Ohio State coaching staff for giving him just 12 carries in a loss to Michigan State, the junior's concerns were apparently heard, noted and acted upon.
Elliott rushed for 214 yards on 30 carries to lead OSU to a 42-13 road win over rival Michigan, putting a damper on the Wolverines' resurgent season under first-year coach Jim Harbaugh. Thanks to dominant offensive line play, a conservative offensive approach was all the Buckeyes needed to win in a rout. Quarterback J.T. Barrett complemented Elliott's performance with 139 yards on the ground -- more than he passed for (113) -- and three rushing touchdowns.
"This workhorse (Elliott) and the offensive line did a great job," OSU coach Urban Meyer told ESPN. "He should be in New York too, for the Heisman (Trophy ceremony). That's a Heisman performance. I hope he gets to go."
Elliott said after last week's game that he will apply for early eligibility into the 2016 NFL Draft. Asked if he was happy with his role in the offense against Michigan, Elliot said: "Last week was definitely a mistake (to complain). I let my emotions get the best of me."
Michigan (9-3) found no rushing success of its own and quarterback Jake Rudock was knocked out of the game in the second half.
The Wolverines trailed just 14-10 at the half, but gave up a touchdown on the opening drive of the second half and never recovered. The Buckeyes (11-1) put themselves in a position to reach the Big Ten Championship Game if Penn State upsets Michigan State.
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