Texas Isn’t the Only Thing That Can Prevent Ohio State Football from Taking Home a National Title
The Ohio State Buckeyes, one of the most storied programs in college football history, consistently find themselves in the hunt for the national title. With a proud tradition of success, including multiple national championships, conference titles, and producing countless NFL-caliber players, Ohio State has become synonymous with excellence on the football field. However, despite their sustained success, the road to a national title is never an easy one, and while the University of Texas might be a formidable force to reckon with, there are many other potential obstacles standing between Ohio State and another championship.
1. In-Conference Competition: The Big Ten’s Growing Powerhouses
The Ohio State Buckeyes have long dominated the Big Ten Conference, but in recent years, other teams in the conference have significantly improved, adding a layer of complexity to their path to the national title. Schools such as Michigan, Penn State, and even Wisconsin have developed into legitimate competitors, creating a more competitive landscape within the Big Ten.
Michigan: Historically, Michigan has been one of Ohio State’s most significant rivals, and while the Buckeyes have usually gotten the better of them in the Big Ten, recent seasons have shown the Wolverines turning the tide. Under head coach Jim Harbaugh, Michigan has become a formidable force, even managing to defeat Ohio State in the 2021 season, a defeat that cost Ohio State a spot in the College Football Playoff that year. In addition to a high level of talent, Michigan has shown resilience, and their continued improvement under Harbaugh’s leadership has made them a serious contender to dethrone Ohio State in the Big Ten.
Penn State: Penn State has consistently been a contender in the Big Ten since joining the conference, but over the past few years, they’ve been improving significantly, making them a legitimate threat to Ohio State’s dominance in the conference. With James Franklin at the helm, Penn State has produced top-tier recruits, especially on defense, and their strong play in the Big Ten has made them a team to watch.
Wisconsin: While not traditionally seen as a true contender for a national championship, Wisconsin’s strong and consistent play in the Big Ten, especially under head coach Paul Chryst (now gone, but succeeded by Luke Fickell), has kept them competitive. Their heavy run-oriented offense and stout defense often present problems for high-powered offenses, like Ohio State’s, and a tough game against Wisconsin could derail Ohio State’s national title hopes.
2. The Rise of Other National Powerhouses
While Ohio State has been a fixture in the College Football Playoff, they are not the only program consistently competing for a national championship. Teams like Alabama, Georgia, and Clemson have dominated the college football landscape in recent years, often creating a difficult path to the title.
Alabama: Under Nick Saban, Alabama has been one of the most dominant programs in college football. Known for their elite recruiting, unmatched talent, and relentless drive, the Crimson Tide are often the team to beat. Ohio State has faced Alabama in several high-profile games, including the 2015 Sugar Bowl in which they earned a stunning victory to advance to the national title game. Alabama’s ability to reload year after year, even after losing major players to the NFL, makes them a dangerous opponent, and their presence in the playoff is always a significant hurdle for Ohio State.
Georgia: After years of consistent yet often unfulfilled potential, Georgia broke through under head coach Kirby Smart to win the national championship in 2021. Their ability to recruit at an elite level, especially in the trenches, has made them one of the most dangerous teams in college football. Ohio State has had some epic battles with Georgia, including a heart-pounding semifinal game in the 2022 Peach Bowl, a contest that ended with Ohio State narrowly falling short. The Bulldogs are not going away, and their continued excellence in both recruiting and player development means Ohio State must be at its best if they hope to avoid being tripped up by Georgia in the playoff.
Clemson: Clemson, under Dabo Swinney, has been another formidable force in college football. While their recent championship years (2016, 2018) are behind them, they remain a dangerous program with top-tier recruits and a solid coaching staff. Although their impact on the national stage has waned a little recently, Clemson’s ability to cause problems in the College Football Playoff remains a significant factor in the equation for Ohio State.
3. Quarterback Play: The Most Crucial Position in College Football
The quarterback position is often viewed as the most important position on a football team, and for Ohio State, this is no different. While the Buckeyes have consistently produced top-tier quarterbacks, including the likes of Justin Fields, Dwayne Haskins, and Troy Smith, the position is always in a constant state of flux, and a lack of stability at quarterback can easily derail a national title run.
In 2022, Ohio State was fortunate to have a talented quarterback in C.J. Stroud, who led them to the College Football Playoff and nearly helped them win the national championship. However, Stroud’s departure left a significant hole in the offense, and the Buckeyes entered 2023 with an uncertain quarterback situation. Whether it’s a lack of experience or an injury that derails a starter’s performance, Ohio State’s title hopes can quickly fade if they don’t get consistent, elite-level play from the quarterback position.
4. Coaching Decisions and Strategy
While Ohio State boasts a talented roster, their coaching staff also plays a huge role in determining their success. Head coach Ryan Day has been successful in his tenure thus far, leading the Buckeyes to several playoff appearances. However, his decisions, particularly in high-pressure games, can be a difference-maker in determining whether Ohio State hoists another national championship.
In the past, there have been moments when Ohio State has struggled in big games, particularly in the postseason. Whether it’s an overly conservative playcalling approach or questionable game management decisions, Ohio State’s playoff runs can often be undermined by coaching missteps. Ryan Day must continue to evolve and ensure that his coaching staff is making the right decisions at crucial moments, especially when facing the toughest competition.
5. Injuries and Player Availability
Injuries can derail any team’s chances at a national title, and Ohio State is no exception. Over the years, injuries to key players have often been a factor in determining the success of a championship run. Whether it’s a starting quarterback, a star running back, or a key defensive player, losing talent at critical positions can have a huge impact on Ohio State’s ability to navigate through tough games.
The Buckeyes have been fortunate in some years, but injuries are an unpredictable variable that can throw a wrench into even the best-laid plans. As seen in previous seasons, a key injury can create a domino effect that disrupts team chemistry, momentum, and game planning.
6. The Playoff Format and Other Teams’ Motivations
Finally, Ohio State must contend with the unique format of the College Football Playoff and the increasing number of teams vying for a spot. With the expansion of the playoff field from four to twelve teams in the coming years, Ohio State will face more competition for a chance at the national title. A greater number of teams participating in the playoff means Ohio State will have to perform at an elite level every single game, knowing that there are several other elite programs also hungry for the championship.
Additionally, other teams in the playoff are not only playing for their own legacies but also to dethrone programs like Ohio State that have consistently been in the national championship conversation. These teams bring an added level of motivation and intensity to each contest, raising the stakes for the Buckeyes at every step of the playoff.
