WATCH: Nico Iamaleava too cold with LeBron James' iconic "silencer" against Ohio State in comeback drive
With his Tennessee Volunteers down 21-3, quarterback Nico Iamaleava orchestrated a 16-play, 79-yard drive that culminated in a two-yard rushing touchdown by Iamaleava himself with just 20 seconds remaining before halftime.
The moment was punctuated by Iamaleava hitting LeBron James' iconic "silencer" celebration. James first made the celebration famous a decade ago after sinking a game-winning 3-pointer against the Golden State Warriors. He has continued to use it throughout his later tenures with the Cleveland Cavaliers and the LA Lakers.
It was a strong response for the Vols after Ohio State jumped to an early 21-0 lead in the first quarter.
Buckeyes quarterback Will Howard connected with Jeremiah Smith for a 37-yard touchdown pass, followed by rushing touchdowns from Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson.
With a successful touchdown drive to close the first half, Iamaleava cut into Ohio State’s lead, sending the Vols into halftime trailing 21-10. However, the challenge remains steep for Tennessee, as they must not only stop the Buckeyes from scoring but also string together multiple touchdown drives on offense.
Nico Iamaleava shares team's mindset for CFB first round game against Ohio State
Being a lower seed and playing in a hostile environment, nerves could easily take over. However, quarterback Nico Iamaleava emphasized the importance of staying focused and executing the game plan devised by the coaching staff.
“I mean, we’re continuing to finish our prep out. And, yeah, once we get out there on the field, man, it’s go time. We got to go play football for four quarters and execute what our coaches got for us,” Iamaleava said.
Weather could also play a significant role in the game. With temperatures at -4°C in Columbus, Ohio, Iamaleava reflected on the last time he played in such frigid conditions.
“I played in snow one time when I was in Chicago, a couple years ago in my seven-on-seven team and that was probably the coldest I played in," Iamaleava said via On3. But it was it was pretty hard to play in the snow. It wasn’t too bad, but it’s just cold weather. And we’ll be ready.”