The Associated Press

COLUMBUS - Mike Doss probably will leave Ohio State as the only three-time All-American in the football program's tradition-rich history.

Yet if there is a play that has defined him as a strong safety with the Buckeyes, it might be Drew Brees' late bomb at Purdue two seasons ago.

The resulting 64-yard catch and run by Seth Morales with 1:55 left gave the Boilermakers a 31-27 victory, propelled Purdue to its first Rose Bowl in 34 years and effectively squelched the 12th-ranked Buckeyes' dreams of a Big Ten or even a national title.

As No.3 Ohio State prepares to return to West Lafayette on Saturday, Doss swears he isn't haunted by memories of Brees' pass wafting over his head.

"That was kind of a split decision, for me to have two interceptions and a kind of coming-out for me personally - and then at the end it's a learning experience," Doss said.

Brees has moved on to the NFL and is a star for the San Diego Chargers. Morales is a backup wide receiver and punt returner for the Boilermakers (4-5, 2-3 Big Ten). Doss leads one of the nation's best defenses as the Buckeyes (10-0, 5-0) keep rolling along.

"I think these guys, because of their intelligence and awareness and maturity level, certainly rank up there with as good a defense as I've ever seen," Ohio State head coach Jim Tressel said.

One of the biggest reasons is Doss, a big hitter who considered jumping to the NFL a year ago but reconsidered at the last second.

"I'm glad I did stay, to work hard and to do something you've been dreaming about doing since you got to college and to try to have an undefeated season and lead your team and be a senior," Doss said. "It's been a lot of fun and I'm just enjoying it."