Ohio State Football: 3 takeaways from dominant win over Clemson

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Jan 1, 2021; New Orleans, LA, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback Justin Fields (1) attempts a pass against the Clemson Tigers during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Justin Fields silenced his doubters

There has been much talk as of late regarding Justin Fields and the NFL draft. Many have been putting out the idea of Zach Wilson being the second-best quarterback in this draft.

While that is not a crazy statement, it was a shift in public opinion. Some began to doubt that Fields is the right guy to go after Lawrence. Those doubters may have a change of heart, as Fields put out the best quarterback performance of the year at the Sugar Bowl.

Fields displayed everything you want from a franchise quarterback. Great arm? Check. Mobility? Check. Toughness and heart? Check.

The shot he took from Skalski looked about as brutal as it gets. Fields did not let it hamper his night, he came back and gave the Clemson defense a shot of his own on his next play.

His deep touchdowns in the second half were the daggers that took away any momentum Clemson thought they were gaining.

He finished the night with 385 yards and six touchdowns when the lights were at their brightest. Fields outplayed Trevor Lawrence by a wide margin, and while that may not leap him over Lawrence in the 2021 draft. It will give him the respect he deserves after a fantastic college career.

Starting as a backup to Jake Fromm at Georgia, Fields did not wait for his time. Instead he took a leap to join the Buckeyes and lead them to back-to-back playoff appearances.

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