Matt Patricia had every reason to gloat or say something about those who second-guessed his hiring as Ohio State defensive coordinator after Saturday’s 14-7 victory over top-ranked Texas. Patricia saw no need to, though, after his players delivered their statement on the field. The third-ranked Buckeyes held the much-ballyhooed Arch Manning in check for three quarters, but also had three pivotal fourth-down stops in the second half.

Julian Sayin had a 40-yard touchdown pass to Carnell Tate early in the fourth quarter, Ohio State’s defense got a couple key stops in the red zone and the third-ranked Buckeyes opened the defense of their national championship with a 14-7 victory over top-ranked Texas. It was the fourth time the AP’s No. 1 team in the preseason poll has met the previous season’s national champion in the opener. The defending champ has won the last three. Arch Manning completed 17 of 30 passes for 170 yards and a touchdown and an interception for the Longhorns.