It’s Time to Get Over Michigan’s Defeat as Ohio State Concentrates on Establishing the Tone in CFP

The 2023 college football season has been a rollercoaster ride for the Ohio State Buckeyes, with the season’s most anticipated game — the rivalry clash against Michigan — ending in yet another defeat. However, as the dust settles on that bitter loss, the Buckeyes must shift their focus to the bigger picture: the College Football Playoff (CFP). For Ohio State, the goal is not just to recover from the sting of the Michigan loss but to use this moment as a springboard to assert their dominance on the national stage.

While the rivalry loss stings, Ohio State’s aspirations for a national championship remain very much alive. The upcoming weeks are critical as the Buckeyes navigate the road to the CFP, and it’s time to turn the page. Their attention must now pivot from Michigan to making a statement in the playoffs, proving that they are a team capable of competing for the ultimate prize in college football.

The Michigan Defeat: A Bitter Pill to Swallow

Ohio State’s defeat to Michigan in 2023, though painful, is not an insurmountable setback. Losing to a rival like Michigan carries weight, especially when it comes to Big Ten title hopes and playoff positioning. The Buckeyes’ quest for a spot in the CFP was certainly affected by the loss, and their aspirations for a perfect season were dashed. However, for all the agony it caused, the Michigan loss is ultimately a singular game in a much larger season.

For Ohio State, the first step in moving past the Michigan game is acceptance. The Buckeyes had their opportunities but were undone by crucial mistakes, missed opportunities, and Michigan’s strong all-around performance. Ohio State fans and players alike can reflect on the game, learn from it, but must avoid dwelling on it as they prepare for what’s next.

As heartbreaking as it may be to face the harsh reality of a loss to their archrival, Ohio State is still a playoff-caliber team. The defense is elite, the offense is potent, and the coaching staff is experienced in preparing for high-pressure games. With a spot in the CFP within reach, the Buckeyes can’t afford to let Michigan’s victory define their season. They must learn from the defeat, but also acknowledge that the best is yet to come.

Shifting Focus to the College Football Playoff

The ultimate goal for Ohio State is clear: the College Football Playoff. With the regular season behind them, the Buckeyes must quickly recalibrate and focus on what lies ahead. The CFP selection committee evaluates teams based on their overall body of work, and Ohio State still has a strong case for a playoff spot, despite the loss to Michigan.

This is a time for Ohio State to regroup, refocus, and reassert their identity as a national contender. While Michigan may have secured bragging rights for now, the Buckeyes’ ultimate goal of a national championship is still attainable. The team’s coaching staff will need to ensure that the players are mentally prepared for the challenges ahead, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the task at hand and not getting bogged down by past failures.

Establishing Tone in the CFP

For Ohio State, the first order of business is establishing the right tone in the College Football Playoff. A team’s mentality heading into the playoff is crucial, as the intensity of the games rises to unprecedented levels. Every play, every series, every game carries immense stakes, and Ohio State must step up to the challenge.

One of the most important aspects of Ohio State’s preparation will be to come out firing on all cylinders in their CFP semifinal game. The Buckeyes must set the tone early, showing the nation that they are capable of executing at the highest level. Whether it’s through an explosive offense or a suffocating defense, Ohio State must assert their dominance from the opening kickoff. Their ability to control the tempo of the game will go a long way toward ensuring success.

Offensively, Ohio State must be dynamic. The Buckeyes boast one of the nation’s most talented quarterbacks in Kyle McCord and one of the best wide receiver corps in college football, led by Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka. If Ohio State’s offense is firing on all cylinders, it will be difficult for any defense to stop them. The key will be maintaining consistency and executing in crucial moments.

However, defense will also play a huge role in Ohio State’s success. The Buckeyes’ defense has been one of the best in the country, and it must continue to be a focal point in the postseason. Led by defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau and linebacker Tommy Eichenberg, Ohio State’s defense has the potential to stifle any offense in the country. Whether it’s pressuring the quarterback or shutting down the run game, Ohio State’s defense will need to be at its best in the CFP to give the offense the opportunity to shine.

Leadership and Experience Will Be Key

When it comes to playoff football, experience matters. Ohio State has a veteran-laden roster with players who have seen big games before. Many of the Buckeyes’ key contributors were part of the team that made the 2022 CFP, and while they fell short of a championship, that experience will be invaluable in 2023. The pressure of the playoff stage can be overwhelming for young players, but Ohio State’s upperclassmen know how to handle the spotlight.

The leadership of head coach Ryan Day will be crucial as well. Day has proven himself as one of the top coaches in college football, leading Ohio State to multiple Big Ten titles and playoff appearances. His ability to keep his team focused, motivated, and prepared for the biggest games of the year will be put to the test in the CFP.

The Road to Redemption

The road to redemption for Ohio State begins now. The team must find a way to leave the Michigan game behind and focus solely on the next challenge ahead. This may not be an easy task, but it is an essential one. The College Football Playoff provides the perfect opportunity for the Buckeyes to prove that they are still a national championship contender. The road to the national title is never easy, but Ohio State has the tools and the talent to go all the way.

Ohio State’s mindset moving forward must be one of resilience and determination. While Michigan may have won the rivalry game, the playoff provides a new and exciting opportunity to write a different chapter in the 2023 season. Ohio State has proven time and time again that they are capable of bouncing back from adversity, and this is no different.