Ohio State Buckeyes safety Josh Proctor (41) breaks up a pass intended for Rutgers Scarlet Knights running back Kyle Monangai (5) as cornerback Jordan Hancock (7) intercepts the ball for a touchdown. Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

Josh Proctor Opens Up About Game-Changing Ohio State Pick Six

Originally posted on FanNation Buckeyes Now
By Matt Galatzan | Last updated 11/4/23

The No. 1 Ohio State Buckeyes were staring down the barrell of a major upset on Saturday afternoon, trailing the Rutgers Scarlet Knights 9-7 at halftime.

To make things even worse, on the opening drive of the third quarter, Rutgers was moving down the field with easy, and looked poised to go up by two scores.

However, that is when Ohio State defensive backs Josh Proctor and Jordan Hancock made the play of the game, with Proctor deflecting Rutgers QB Gavin Wimsatt's pass into the air, and Hancock intercepting it and taking it back 93 yards for a touchdown.

And after being hit hard during the deflection, Proctor wasn't even aware of the impact his deflection made on the game.

“At the time no I didn’t [know], until I sat up,” Proctor said.

In fact, following the hit, Proctor was sidelined for the rest of the game, with Ohio State electing to hold him out as a precaution.

Nevertheless, Proctor was able to make the play the Buckeyes needed before his exit - something that the other benefactor of that play, Hancock, was clear to point out.

“That’s all the props to Josh Proctor,” Hancock said. “Great player. He’s been through this program so many years (six). I’m just so proud of him, I’m thankful for him.”

Proctor, of course, was naturally dissapointed that he wasn't able to make his way back into the game - especially considering that the game was still very much in question at the time of his injury.

But with the win now in the Buckeyes pocket, and their undefeated record remaining intact at 9-0, Proctor will leave SHI Stadium in Piscattaway with a smile on his face.

“That feels good,” Proctor said. “I just want to do my job and help us walk off the field with a win. Any time. Whatever it takes, honestly.”