How Many CFP National Championships Have the Ohio State Buckeyes Won? Here’s the Team’s History in College Football
The Ohio State Buckeyes, one of the most prestigious programs in college football history, have built a legacy that spans decades. With a rich tradition of excellence, numerous conference championships, and a roster filled with Hall of Fame players, Ohio State has cemented its place among the elite in college football. However, one of the most important aspects of the Buckeyes’ history is their success in the College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship.
Since the introduction of the CFP in 2014, the Ohio State Buckeyes have consistently been a contender for the title, but how many CFP national championships have they won? In this article, we’ll explore the Buckeyes’ performance in the CFP era, dive into their overall college football history, and examine the milestones that have defined Ohio State as a powerhouse in the sport.
Ohio State’s CFP National Championship Success
The College Football Playoff (CFP) system, which replaced the previous BCS (Bowl Championship Series) format, was introduced in 2014 as a way to create a more competitive and comprehensive method of determining the national champion. Unlike the BCS, the CFP involves four teams selected by a committee to compete in semifinals, with the winners advancing to the National Championship Game.
Ohio State’s first taste of success in the new system came in the 2014 season, which marked the inaugural CFP. Under the leadership of head coach Urban Meyer, the Buckeyes had a memorable and historic run to the national title. Here’s a breakdown of their CFP National Championship appearances:
2014 CFP National Championship – Ohio State Buckeyes Win
Ohio State’s first-ever appearance in the College Football Playoff came during the 2014 season, and the Buckeyes made the most of it. After finishing the regular season with a 12-1 record and winning the Big Ten Championship, Ohio State was selected as the fourth seed in the inaugural CFP.
The Buckeyes’ journey to the national title was nothing short of remarkable. They faced a number of challenges, including the loss of their starting quarterback Braxton Miller early in the season to a shoulder injury. Despite that setback, the Buckeyes rallied behind backup quarterback J.T. Barrett, who led them to an undefeated regular season before suffering an injury of his own. This led to third-string quarterback Cardale Jones stepping into the role and guiding Ohio State to victory in the Big Ten Championship Game.
In the semifinals, Ohio State faced Alabama, the top-seeded team in the playoff. In what was considered a major upset, Ohio State dominated the Crimson Tide 42-35 in the Sugar Bowl. This victory sent the Buckeyes to the National Championship Game, where they would face the Oregon Ducks, the second seed in the playoff.
In the National Championship Game, Ohio State showcased its incredible resilience and depth, as the team dominated Oregon 42-20. Cardale Jones threw for 242 yards and a touchdown, while running back Ezekiel Elliott rushed for 246 yards and four touchdowns, earning him the game’s Most Outstanding Player award. With the win, Ohio State secured its eighth national championship in school history and its first under the CFP format.
This 2014 championship was a landmark achievement for the Buckeyes. It was not only the first time Ohio State won the CFP National Championship, but it also showcased the depth of talent on the team and the resilience of head coach Urban Meyer, who had already built a national powerhouse at Ohio State. The victory was especially significant because it came in the inaugural CFP season, marking Ohio State’s place in history as one of the program’s most storied teams.
2016 CFP National Championship – Ohio State Buckeyes Fall Short
After winning the title in 2014, Ohio State’s next opportunity to compete for the national championship came in 2016. The Buckeyes had a strong season, finishing 11-1 in the regular season and winning the Big Ten Championship. However, they were upset in the semifinals of the 2016 College Football Playoff, as they fell to Clemson 31-0 in the Fiesta Bowl.
Despite having an impressive roster and a solid regular season, Ohio State was unable to keep up with Clemson’s explosive offense. Quarterback J.T. Barrett struggled in the game, throwing for only 127 yards and one interception, while the Buckeyes’ defense was unable to contain Clemson’s Deshaun Watson, who led the Tigers to a dominant victory.
The 31-point loss in the Fiesta Bowl was a disappointing outcome for Ohio State, and it underscored the difficulty of competing at the highest level of college football. Though the Buckeyes were one of the top teams in the country, they fell short of securing a second CFP title under Urban Meyer in 2016.
2020 CFP National Championship – Ohio State Buckeyes Fall Short Again
Ohio State’s most recent appearance in the CFP National Championship came during the 2020 season. After a season heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Buckeyes finished the regular season with a 7-0 record and were selected as the second seed in the College Football Playoff.
Ohio State’s journey to the 2020 National Championship was a thrilling one. They faced off against Clemson in the CFP semifinals in a game that would go down as one of the most iconic in the program’s history. Led by quarterback Justin Fields, Ohio State pulled off a stunning 49-28 victory over Clemson, avenging their 2016 playoff loss and earning a spot in the National Championship Game.
In the National Championship, Ohio State faced Alabama, a team that had been nearly unstoppable all season long. Despite a valiant effort, Ohio State was unable to overcome the Crimson Tide. Alabama, led by Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Mac Jones and star wide receiver DeVonta Smith, dominated the game from start to finish, winning 52-24.
Justin Fields threw for 194 yards and a touchdown in the loss, while Alabama’s offense proved to be too powerful. Ohio State’s defense, which had been strong throughout the season, struggled to contain Alabama’s potent attack. The loss was a tough pill to swallow for the Buckeyes, as they were unable to secure their second CFP National Championship.
Ohio State’s CFP Legacy
Though the Ohio State Buckeyes have only won one CFP National Championship, they have consistently been one of the top teams in the playoff era. With multiple playoff appearances and strong performances year after year, Ohio State has cemented itself as a college football powerhouse in the 21st century.
In addition to their 2014 national title, Ohio State has appeared in the CFP National Championship Game once more (2020) and has made the playoffs on several occasions. Their ability to consistently recruit top-tier talent, develop players, and compete at the highest level has kept them relevant as one of college football’s premier programs.
The Buckeyes’ overall college football history, dating back to their first national championship in 1942, spans decades of excellence, and their CFP successes only further enhance their legacy. Ohio State has won a total of eight national championships in the program’s history (1942, 1954, 1957, 1968, 2002, 2014). Their lone victory in the College Football Playoff era came in 2014, but they have consistently been one of the top contenders for the national title.
Ohio State’s Historic College Football Program
Ohio State is one of the most successful programs in college football history. The Buckeyes’ legacy is built on their success in both the Big Ten and on the national stage. Here’s a look at some of the key highlights from Ohio State’s storied football program:
- Eight National Championships: Ohio State has won eight national championships (1942, 1954, 1957, 1968, 2002, 2014, 1957, 1968) in their history, with the most recent being in 2014 when they triumphed in the first College Football Playoff National Championship.
- Big Ten Dominance: Ohio State has won over 30 Big Ten championships, showcasing their dominance in one of college football’s most competitive conferences.
- Legendary Coaches and Players: Over the years, Ohio State has had some of the most influential figures in college football, including coaches Woody Hayes, Jim Tressel, and Urban Meyer. Legendary players like Archie Griffin, Eddie George, and Chris Spielman have become synonymous with the program’s success.
- Consistent Playoff Contenders: Ohio State has become a regular fixture in the College Football Playoff, regularly competing for national championships and finishing among the top teams in the country.
- Producing NFL Talent: Ohio State is known for producing top-tier NFL talent, with a long list of former Buckeyes excelling at the professional level. The program has produced countless NFL stars, including Pro Football Hall of Famers and Heisman Trophy winners.
Conclusion
While the Ohio State Buckeyes have only won one College Football Playoff National Championship (in 2014), their overall success in the CFP era and in the broader history of college football has cemented their place as one of the sport’s most prestigious and successful programs. With a storied history, multiple Big Ten championships, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Ohio State will undoubtedly remain a force in college football for years to come. The program’s future looks bright, with more playoff appearances and potential championships on the horizon, adding to the Buckeyes’ already legendary legacy.
