The 2002 Ohio State National Championship Run

The 2002 Ohio State Buckeyes’ national championship was one of the most remarkable and thrilling runs in college football history. Coached by Jim Tressel, the Buckeyes entered the 2002 season with modest expectations. While they were considered a solid team, they were not necessarily pegged as national championship contenders. Their season, however, would prove to be full of surprises, thrilling victories, and a defense that was one of the best in the country.

Ohio State’s success in 2002 was propelled by a number of key elements. First and foremost, the defense was simply dominant. Led by players such as linebacker Matt Wilhelm and cornerback Chris Gamble, Ohio State’s defense stifled opposing offenses throughout the season. The Buckeyes had a particularly stingy rush defense, which proved pivotal in some of their biggest games.

On offense, quarterback Craig Krenzel provided steady leadership, managing the game with poise and efficiency. He wasn’t necessarily the flashiest or most talented quarterback in the nation, but Krenzel was a winner. The offense, which was often conservative, benefited from the running back tandem of Lydell Ross and Maurice Clarett, with Clarett emerging as one of the most exciting freshman sensations of that season.

Notre Dame, similarly, has had a quarterback situation that has been under heavy scrutiny. In recent years, the Irish have fluctuated between different signal-callers, struggling to find consistency. However, the hiring of a new head coach, Marcus Freeman, in 2022, was seen as a turning point. Freeman was tasked with leading a program that had been searching for its true identity. In 2023, with a mix of fresh talent and experienced players, Notre Dame seemed poised to return to national prominence. Much like Ohio State in 2002, their expectations were not sky-high, but they had all the pieces to make a serious run at the College Football Playoff.

The Comparison: Leadership and Style

One of the key aspects of the 2002 Ohio State team that mirrored the 2023 Notre Dame squad is leadership. Jim Tressel, the coach who led Ohio State to its national title, was a calm, collected figure who emphasized discipline and execution. His approach was grounded in the basics of football — sound defense, running the ball, and making plays in the clutch. Similarly, Marcus Freeman has brought a sense of discipline and composure to Notre Dame, focusing on solid fundamentals and building a team culture that values hard work and perseverance.

On the field, both teams relied heavily on their defense. Ohio State’s defense in 2002 was suffocating, and it became the hallmark of the team’s success. While the offense didn’t light up the scoreboard, the defense kept them in every game, especially in high-pressure situations. Notre Dame’s defense in 2023 has followed a similar blueprint. While the Irish have had offensive talent, particularly in running backs and the wide receiver corps, it is their defense that has often been the standout unit. The defense, under Freeman, has demonstrated the ability to stifle high-powered offenses and put the team in a position to win.

Another important comparison between the two teams is the role of the quarterback. Craig Krenzel’s steady, composed play was crucial to Ohio State’s national championship. He didn’t necessarily light up the stat sheet, but he made key throws in critical moments. Similarly, Notre Dame has relied on quarterbacks such as Sam Hartman, who brings experience, leadership, and a high football IQ to the position. While Hartman’s play may not always be spectacular, his ability to manage the offense and make critical throws in pressure situations is reminiscent of Krenzel’s contributions to the Buckeyes’ success.

Resilience and Clutch Performances

A defining trait of Ohio State’s 2002 national championship was its ability to rise to the occasion in big games. The Buckeyes had a number of key moments that helped define their season, and these moments often came in high-pressure situations. Whether it was a late-game interception or a defensive stand in the national title game, Ohio State found ways to win when the odds were stacked against them.

Notre Dame, under Freeman, has embraced this same resilience. The 2023 season has seen the Irish face a number of tough challenges, but they have consistently answered the call in critical moments. This was evident in some of their biggest victories, where Notre Dame came from behind or made key plays when the game was on the line. Just as Ohio State’s defense often came through in the clutch in 2002, Notre Dame has relied on their defense to make stops in pivotal moments. Whether it’s forcing turnovers or creating pressure on the quarterback, the Irish have found ways to disrupt the flow of the opposing offense, just like Ohio State’s defense did in 2002.

The Big Games: Ohio State vs. Notre Dame’s Pivotal Moments

Ohio State’s path to the national championship in 2002 was not an easy one. In fact, many observers believed the Buckeyes were fortunate to reach the title game in the first place. They entered the BCS National Championship Game against Miami with a significant underdog status, facing one of the most talented teams in college football history. However, Ohio State’s resilience came through. In a game filled with controversial moments and high drama, the Buckeyes managed to outlast the Hurricanes in a double-overtime victory, clinching their first national title since 1968.

For Notre Dame, the 2023 season was filled with defining moments that will be remembered for years to come. Their marquee games, especially against traditional powerhouses, set the stage for their rise in college football. While they didn’t make it to the College Football Playoff, their close losses to elite teams, including a dramatic one against Ohio State, demonstrated that they were capable of competing at the highest level. Notre Dame’s ability to challenge top-tier programs in the national landscape mirrors Ohio State’s underdog role in 2002.

The Future of Notre Dame: Building Towards a Championship

Much like Ohio State in 2002, Notre Dame is a program on the rise. While they may not have won a national title in 2023, the foundation for future success is clearly being built. The Irish’s defense, offensive line, and ability to recruit at a high level position them for continued success. In the coming years, as Freeman continues to build his program and find stability at key positions, Notre Dame could very well be a national title contender.

Ohio State, after its 2002 national title, went on to continue its dominance in college football under Jim Tressel and later under Urban Meyer. The Buckeyes’ ability to build on their success and maintain a high level of play set the stage for sustained excellence. Notre Dame, with its rich tradition and passionate fan base, has the potential to do the same. While the 2023 season may not have ended with a national championship, the future looks bright for the Irish.