As the dust settles on the first expanded 12-team College Football Playoff, the excitement surrounding the season is palpable. With Ohio State emerging as the last team standing, it’s hard not to reflect on the journey that led them here. Notably, college football analyst Paul Finebaum believes this outcome solidifies that the best team truly prevailed.
Ohio State’s Rollercoaster Season
Ohio State’s path to the championship wasn’t without its challenges. The Buckeyes faced a tough schedule that tested their mettle. They stumbled against Oregon in Eugene, barely escaped a close contest with Nebraska, and suffered a heart-wrenching defeat to their arch-rivals, the Michigan Wolverines, in the regular season’s final week. These setbacks raised questions about their potential and ability to compete at the highest level. Fans and analysts alike were left wondering: would the Buckeyes ever find their rhythm?
Proving Their Worth in the Playoff
However, when the stakes were highest, Ohio State delivered. The College Football Playoff provided the Buckeyes with a platform to showcase their talent. They dismantled Tennessee in a decisive victory, avenged their earlier loss to the Ducks at the Rose Bowl, and sent the SEC home packing with a win over Texas. Each game was a testament to their resilience and skill, culminating in a nail-biting win against Notre Dame. Despite a shaky start in that game, the Buckeyes managed to hold on, proving their ability to withstand pressure when it mattered most.
Finebaum’s Take on Ohio State’s Dominance
Finebaum has been vocal about his belief that Ohio State started the season as the most talented team in the nation. “I’m ‘Paul-In’ on that, because they started the season as the best team and the most talented team,” he stated. His enthusiasm is infectious, as he highlights how the Buckeyes lost some focus after the Michigan game but regained their composure in the playoffs. “In the Playoff, they were money,” he added. This sentiment resonates with fans who have witnessed the team’s ups and downs throughout the season.
Overcoming Adversity
What truly sets Ohio State apart is their ability to overcome adversity. Finebaum noted that they faced challenges unlike any other team in the country. “This game should’ve been over at 31-7. People were yawning going, ‘Okay, is there anything else on TV?’ But hold on. Here comes Marcus Freeman at Notre Dame,” he remarked. This ability to rise above setbacks and perform under pressure is what makes a championship team.
The Importance of Coaching
Another critical factor in Ohio State’s success is the leadership of head coach Ryan Day. His ability to keep the team focused and motivated throughout the season was paramount. Despite the potential for the season to unravel after a few tough losses, Day managed to steer the Buckeyes back on track. Finebaum recognizes this achievement, emphasizing that Day deserves commendation for his role in guiding the team to victory. The combination of talent and effective coaching has positioned Ohio State as a perennial contender.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
As we look to the future, it’s clear that Ohio State is not just a one-season wonder. With their strong recruiting classes and the foundation they’ve built, the Buckeyes are set to contend for championships year after year. The 12-team playoff format has opened new doors for teams to showcase their abilities, and Ohio State has taken full advantage of this opportunity.
Final Thoughts
In the end, all that matters is what Ohio State accomplished in the CFP. They proved their worth against formidable opponents and emerged victorious when it counted the most. This season has been a rollercoaster ride for the Buckeyes, but they’ve shown they can handle the pressure and come out on top. As college football fans, we can only imagine what thrilling moments await us in the coming seasons. With a talented roster and a strong coaching staff, Ohio State is poised to remain a dominant force in college football for years to come.
— On3’s Nick Kosko contributed to this article.
