The Ohio State Buckeyes entered their rivalry game against Michigan with a formidable reputation, boasting a 10-1 record and one of college football’s most potent offenses. Yet, their 13-10 loss to Michigan wasn’t just a setback—it was a deeply embarrassing moment for the program. Now, as the No. 8 seed in the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff, Ohio State faces a grueling road to redemption. Their path begins with a challenging Round 1 matchup against the Tennessee Volunteers. If successful, the Buckeyes will face the No. 1 ranked Oregon Ducks, led by head coach Dan Lanning. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and for Ohio State, this playoff is an opportunity to rewrite their season narrative.
Former All-American tight end and current analyst, Adam Breneman, recently shared a bold prediction, calling Ohio State the “sleeper contender” of the playoffs. Breneman backed up his claim with impressive statistics, noting that the Buckeyes boast the No. 1 scoring offense, the No. 1 total defense, and are ranked in the top 10 across numerous key categories. He emphasized their ability to dominate games, arguing that their recent losses should not define their potential. “Ohio State can get hot at any moment on offense,” he remarked, underscoring that the Buckeyes’ talent and resilience make them a threat to any opponent.
Why Ohio State Can Win the National Championship ⬇️
Ohio State is a true contender in the CFP.
While they haven’t been the center of many conversations, there’s a reason the Buckeyes have the fourth-best odds to win it all. Their path isn’t easy — they face Tennessee in Round 1… pic.twitter.com/7682tP3LRG
— Adam Breneman (@AdamBreneman81) December 11, 2024
Ohio State’s offensive unit has shown its ability to dismantle defenses on a national stage, and Breneman dismissed their earlier loss to Oregon as a minor setback. That defeat, a razor-thin 32-31 margin, came down to a last-minute field goal. Breneman argued that it was more a fluke than a reflection of Ohio State’s abilities. He also noted the mental challenges the team faced in their loss to Michigan, attributing it to self-imposed pressure on head coach Ryan Day and quarterback Will Howard.
Despite the obstacles, Breneman praised Ohio State’s adaptability, even after losing key players like lineman Seth McLaughlin late in the season. He described these challenges as opportunities for growth, suggesting that the team’s ability to plug gaps and regroup might actually strengthen them in the long run.
The Buckeyes’ first playoff test comes against Tennessee, a 10-2 team under head coach Josh Heupel. The game, set to take place in Columbus on December 21, gives Ohio State a significant home-field advantage, especially in the frigid conditions. Breneman confidently predicted a Buckeyes win, an opinion shared by oddsmakers who have made Ohio State 7.5-point favorites. Historically, Ohio State has excelled in cold-weather matchups, further tilting the odds in their favor.
If Ohio State advances, they will face Oregon, a team that narrowly defeated them earlier in the season. Oregon, led by standout quarterback Dillon Gabriel, boasts a high-powered offense with star running back Jordan Jordan and wide receiver Tez Johnson. While Oregon has been dominant, Ohio State holds the historical edge, having beaten the Ducks in every previous Rose Bowl meeting. Breneman pointed out that Ohio State’s past success against Oregon, coupled with their current form, gives them a legitimate chance to avenge their earlier loss.
However, this playoff run is about more than just matchups and statistics. The Buckeyes’ loss to Michigan was a crushing blow that raised questions about Ryan Day’s ability to win big games. The coach himself acknowledged the high stakes, describing the playoffs as a rare opportunity to achieve something extraordinary. With four games separating them from a national title, the Buckeyes must overcome not just their opponents, but also the lingering doubts about their mental toughness.
Ohio State’s journey through the playoffs offers them a chance at redemption. Breneman’s belief in their potential may seem optimistic, but if the Buckeyes can capitalize on their strengths and exorcise their past demons, they could transform disappointment into triumph. The question remains: can Ohio State rise to the occasion and deliver when it matters most? The nation will soon find out.