Ohio State could receive unexpected boost against Penn State

Earlier Saturday, the Buckeyes ruled Henderson out in their injury report to the Big Ten.

In August, the conference announced the implementation of "a game-day player availability report" to promote transparency as sports betting has become more prominent.

Earlier this year, for example, Alabama baseball coach Brad Bohannon was fired following an investigation that revealed he provided injury information to another person in regard to a pitcher's availability while they were placing bets.

Nothing nefarious is happening in Ohio State's case. Per Big Ten rules, teams have until two hours before kickoff to submit their official injury report, and the team officially ruled Henderson a game-time decision in the proper amount of time.

If Henderson can play, he would spark a Buckeyes offense that faces their toughest test of the season against Penn State.

The Nittany Lions rank first in total defense (193.7 yards allowed per game) and second in scoring (eight points allowed per game). Quarterback Kyle McCord, making his first start against Penn State, would benefit significantly from Henderson's return. Wide receiver Emeka Egbuka (lower-body injury) is doubtful for the Buckeyes; adding Henderson would lessen the sting of losing Egbuka, and vice versa.

After a brilliant freshman campaign, injuries have thwarted Henderson the past two seasons. He played in 13 games in 2021 and finished the season with 210 touches, 1,560 yards from scrimmage and 19 total touchdowns. During the past two seasons, he's played in 12 games and has 158 touches, 939 yards and 12 touchdowns.

He broke his foot last year and has missed Ohio State's two previous games this season with an undisclosed injury.

Per Action Network, the Buckeyes are a four-point home favorite against the Nittany Lions.