The Ohio State Buckeyes are set to make their sixth appearance in the College Football Playoff, this time as the No. 8 seed in the inaugural 12-team format. Following impressive victories over Tennessee and Oregon, the Buckeyes now face the Texas Longhorns in the Cotton Bowl on January 10th. A win would place them one step closer to a potential national championship showdown on January 20th at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Ohio State boasts a rich football history, with eight national titles and multiple playoff appearances, including their memorable 2014 championship run under Urban Meyer.
A Legacy of Triumphs and Challenges
The Buckeyes' journey through the College Football Playoff has been marked by both triumphs and setbacks. Since the inception of the four-team playoff in 2014, Ohio State has made five appearances, culminating in their historic victory that year. Despite facing early-season adversity with injuries to key players, the team rallied under the leadership of third-string quarterback Cardale Jones, ultimately defeating Alabama and Oregon to claim the title. This resilience has become a hallmark of the program, showcasing its ability to adapt and overcome obstacles.
In subsequent playoff appearances, Ohio State faced formidable opponents like Clemson and Alabama. The 2016 and 2019 encounters with Clemson ended in defeat, but each game highlighted the competitive spirit of the Buckeyes. In 2020, Ryan Day's squad managed to topple Clemson before falling short against Alabama in the championship. The 2022 semifinal against Georgia was another nail-biter, with C.J. Stroud's stellar performance nearly securing a win. These experiences have prepared the Buckeyes for the challenges ahead in the 2024 playoffs.
A New Era of Talent and Ambition
The current Buckeye roster is a blend of seasoned veterans and fresh talent, poised to make an impact in the playoffs. Key additions from the transfer portal, including quarterback Will Howard and running back Quinshod Judkins, have bolstered the offense. Alongside returning stars like TreVeyon Henderson and Jeremiah Smith, Ohio State fields one of the most potent offenses in college football. The wide receiver corps, led by Smith, Egbuka, and Tate, promises explosive plays that can change the course of games.
Defensively, Ohio State is equally formidable. Defensive ends JT Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer, who opted to return for another season, bring a combined 18 sacks to the table. Safety Caleb Downs, a transfer from Alabama, adds depth and experience to the secondary. With a defense that can pressure quarterbacks and limit big plays, the Buckeyes are well-equipped to handle the high-stakes environment of the playoffs. As they prepare to face Texas, the team's focus remains on executing their game plan and leveraging their collective talent to achieve their ultimate goal—a national championship.