COLUMBUS, Ohio (January 10, 2025) — After a difficult loss to Michigan that derailed Ohio State’s bid for a Big Ten Championship, Ryan Day’s Buckeyes have regrouped and are now on the verge of competing for the National Championship. With days to go until the College Football Playoff Championship game in Atlanta, the team’s path to victory seems clearer than ever, and a title win would be a fitting redemption after their earlier setbacks.
Ohio State enters every season with three key goals: to win the National Championship, to claim the Big Ten title, and to beat Michigan. Following the loss to Michigan in the regular season finale, the Buckeyes were denied a Big Ten Championship appearance, leaving them 0-for-2 on their initial objectives. The pressure was on Coach Day to deliver a National Championship to salvage the season—and possibly his job.
However, the Buckeyes have delivered when it mattered most, bouncing back with a dominant performance against Tennessee. Ohio State’s aggressive offensive game plan, with an emphasis on deep passes and pushing the tempo, overwhelmed the Volunteers, leaving little chance for a Tennessee comeback. The team’s momentum continued in the Rose Bowl, where they triumphed 41-21 over Oregon, showcasing standout freshman receiver Jeremiah Smith, whose explosive playmaking helped secure the victory.
Now, with the College Football Playoff Championship game just ahead, Ohio State looks poised to seize its opportunity to become the first-ever 12-team College Football Playoff champion. If they stick to their high-powered offense and disciplined strategy, the Buckeyes are in prime position to claim the crown.
Meanwhile, the Orange Bowl between Penn State and Notre Dame showcased a more lackluster performance. Penn State struggled offensively, failing to complete a pass to a wide receiver, while Notre Dame’s narrow victory highlighted their own limitations. Neither team appears to be in the same league as Ohio State, which remains the clear favorite as long as they continue to execute their game plan.
For the Buckeyes, it’s simple: Forget about the loss to Michigan and focus on what’s working—especially the chemistry between quarterback Will Howard and Smith. With the right adjustments and their current momentum, Ohio State is not just a contender, but the team to beat.
The National Championship is now within reach, and for Ohio State, it’s truly theirs to lose.
