Would you rather beat Michigan or win a national championship? For many Ohio State fans, the answer leans heavily towards “Beat Michigan.” This sentiment echoes through the streets of central Ohio, from bus stops to local restaurants. The Buckeyes haven’t triumphed over their bitter rivals since 2019, and the sting of a 13-10 defeat on November 30 lingers. It marks the fourth consecutive loss to the Wolverines, creating a palpable tension around the Woody Hayes Athletic Center.
The stakes are high for Ohio State
As the Buckeyes prepare to face No. 9 Tennessee (10-2) in the first round of the College Football Playoff, the stakes couldn’t be higher. This matchup is not just about pride; it’s about the future of the program. A victory would set up a rematch against No. 1 Oregon (13-0) in the quarterfinals, a chance to reclaim national glory. Ohio State is certainly equipped to win a national championship, which would solidify Ryan Day’s position as the long-term head coach.
But what if they lose? The echoes of the 1995 season loom large, when the Buckeyes entered the postseason with an 11-0 record only to fall to Michigan and then Tennessee in the Citrus Bowl. This season, the Buckeyes have a hefty $20 million investment in their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) program, raising the stakes even further.
Accountability and moving forward
Inside the Woody Hayes Athletic Center, the challenge is clear: it’s no longer just about beating Michigan. The focus has shifted to how many wins in the playoffs can help re-center the program. Ohio State quarterback Will Howard expressed the collective frustration of the team. “It hurts man,” he admitted about the loss to Michigan. “We all still feel it, but we moved on. We’re moved on now.”
Senior receiver Emeka Egbuka, who had four catches for 51 yards in that loss, is one of several players who opted to return for another shot at Michigan in 2024. “We’ve cultivated a really good culture here to where we’re able to have tough conversations and hold each other accountable,” Egbuka said. Those conversations revealed that the Buckeyes may have overestimated their ability to overpower the Wolverines. With a running game that managed just 41 yards on 17 carries, it was clear that the game plan fell short.
Ryan Day’s record against Michigan
Ryan Day’s record against Michigan stands at a disappointing 1-4. While he boasts an impressive 65-6 record against other teams, the stark contrast raises eyebrows. A loss to Tennessee could put Day’s job in jeopardy as the program heads into 2025. The math is simple: a 91.5% winning percentage against everyone else doesn’t hold up against a 20% success rate against Michigan.
“If we’re going to move forward, then there has to be accountability between the players and the coaches,” Day emphasized in a recent press conference. “There has been open dialogue there, both sides understanding that we’re all looking to do the same thing here.”
Changing the narrative
Ohio State athletic director Ross Bjork recently weighed in on the situation, suggesting a shift in mentality. In an appearance with 97.1 The Fan, Bjork noted, “If you get fixated on the end result and not have the process fully baked every time, you’re going to lose.” He called for a change in conversations, moving away from a “championship or bust” mentality to one focused on the process.
While Bjork’s perspective is logical, it may take time for the passionate Ohio State fan base to embrace this approach. The rivalry with Michigan is deeply ingrained, and not beating them for five years is a bitter pill to swallow. The memories of the 1995 season still haunt Buckeyes fans, as they recall the pain of losing to Michigan and then Tennessee.
A chance for redemption against Tennessee
As the Buckeyes gear up for their playoff game, the pressure is palpable. Day was asked about the mental preparation for these high-stakes matchups, and his response was telling. “Sometimes when we try to play out a game or pre-determine what’s going to happen, you can get yourself a little bit sideways,” he said. This pressure has become suffocating, but the game against Tennessee offers a chance for redemption.
What if Ohio State wins convincingly? That scenario seems less likely to many, but it’s certainly possible. The Buckeyes are currently favored by a touchdown, and they have the tools to succeed. With the nation’s best scoring defense (10.9 ppg.) and a talented receiving corps featuring Egbuka, Jeremiah Smith, and Carnell Tate, the potential for a strong performance is there.
However, Howard’s performance will be crucial. He struggled against Michigan, posting a season-low 57.6% completion percentage and throwing two interceptions. “I guess playing loose for me is kind of not thinking about things and letting it rip,” Howard said, emphasizing the need for a relaxed approach in the playoffs.
Looking ahead
Day has made adjustments to the offensive line due to injuries, but he remains confident in his team’s ability to execute. “We’re not going to swing and miss by not being aggressive,” he stated. “We’re going to be aggressive. We’re going to go after these guys and make sure we’re knocking back the line of scrimmage.”
As the Buckeyes prepare to face Tennessee, the narrative surrounding the program hangs in the balance. A victory could change everything, while a loss could deepen the wounds left by Michigan. The time for redemption is now, and Ohio State has the chance to rewrite their story in the College Football Playoff.
