Ohio State freshman defensive back Jay Timmons was named Big Ten Freshman of the Week following the Buckeyes’ 19-15 win over Indiana on October 17. Timmons recorded seven tackles (five solo), two pass breakups, and one forced fumble in the road victory that snapped the Hoosiers’ 22-game winning streak.
The forced fumble came early in the third quarter on a catch by Indiana receiver Davion Chandler. Timmons jarred the ball loose, and Ohio State recovered. The turnover set up a field goal that extended the Buckeyes’ lead to 13-7. He also broke up passes and made key tackles throughout the game as Ohio State held Indiana to 15 points. Timmons had missed the previous two games with an injury before returning against the Hoosiers.
Timmons, a cornerback from Gibsonia, Pennsylvania, has been a regular contributor in Ohio State’s secondary this season. Through the games he has played, he has 16 tackles, one tackle for loss, six pass breakups, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. He is listed at 5-foot-11 and 191 pounds and was a highly rated recruit in the 2026 class before flipping his commitment to Ohio State. He previously had commitments to Indiana and Florida State.
The award is the third Big Ten weekly honor for an Ohio State player this season. Jeremiah Smith previously earned Offensive Player of the Week recognition after performances against Illinois and Iowa. Timmons is the second Buckeye to receive a conference weekly award in 2026.
Ohio State improved to 6-1 overall and 4-0 in the Big Ten with the win. The Buckeyes have a bye week on October 24 before traveling to USC on October 31. Timmons’ performance against Indiana added to a defensive effort that limited a high-scoring offense and helped secure a top-five road victory. The recognition reflects his impact in a close game against a ranked opponent.
