GLENDALE, Ariz. — For Ohio State, it wasn't just the opening offensive drive that told the story of its 44-28 knockout of Notre Dame in Friday's Fiesta Bowl, but rather the Buckeyes' first four plays.
Eight-yard pass to Michael Thomas.
Ezekiel Elliott's seven-yard rush.
Nine-yard pass to Braxton Miller, followed by the quarterback-turned-wideout's 27-yard rush.
Covering 80 yards in nine plays and three minutes and one second, Ohio State struck first, jumping out to a 7-0 lead after Elliott's two-yard touchdown.
Exhibition game? This was more like a NFL combine preview, with the Buckeyes showcasing their pro-ready potential from kickoff until the clock struck zeros.