What happened to Tyleik Williams? Exploring Ohio State DT’s visit to Medical Tent against Penn State

The No. 4-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes were able to leave Week 10 with a win over the No. 3-ranked Penn State Buckeyes, but they also suffered a setback with the injury of defensive tackle Tyleik Williams. With 8:30 left to play, Williams was tackled by Penn State's Kaytron Allen and remained on the ground.

Williams received medical attention and went straight to the medical tent while the Buckeyes fought and kept their 20-13 lead, forcing the Nittany Lions into a turnover on downs. Williams did not return to the game, raising questions about his availability for the team's Week 11 game at home against the Purdue Boilermakers.

Senior defensive tackle Williams has been banged up this season but has still played well despite the injuries. He has recorded 20 total tackles (six solo, 14 assisted) with 2.5 sacks so far. Earlier this season, he missed two games as he dealt with an undisclosed injury.

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Tyleik Williams' impact on Ohio State Buckeyes' defensive line

The Ohio State Buckeyes have been able to do well and essentially turn themselves into a defensive-first program. Entering Week 10, the Buckeyes ranked fourth in all of college football with only 11.9 points per game. A massive part of that is the production that Tyleik Williams is able to have in the middle of the defensive line.

This 4-3 defense has stars throughout the defensive line with Jack Sawyer, Ty Hamilton, Tyleik Williams and JT Tuimoloau. Adding Williams back to the defensive line just bolstered it and had a superstar return.

Williams had 54 total tackles, three sacks and five pass deflections, in the 2023 season, showcasing how he can thrive in defensive coordinator Jim Knowles' system.

While we do not know the extent of Tyleik Williams' injury from today's game, the Buckeyes cannot afford to have him miss games once again.