Amidst transition and goodbyes, Ohio State celebrates its run to the national title.

As one of the most successful football programs in college sports history, Ohio State University has consistently demonstrated an ability to compete at the highest levels of the game. The Buckeyes have been a mainstay in the College Football Playoff (CFP) conversation, producing some of the sport’s greatest players, coaches, and moments. In 2024, Ohio State’s football team found themselves in the national title conversation once again, as they made a dramatic and thrilling run to the national championship game. However, this title run came amidst a period of transition—on and off the field—where key players, coaches, and program staff were on the move, creating a sense of both excitement and bittersweetness within the Ohio State community.

This article will explore the journey that led Ohio State to the national championship, the emotional goodbyes and transitions surrounding the team, and how Buckeye Nation celebrated this momentous achievement despite the inevitable changes that were taking place.

The Road to the National Championship Game

The 2024 season for Ohio State football was one of intense competition, resilience, and unforgettable moments. From the start of the season, it was clear that the Buckeyes had the talent and leadership necessary to make a deep playoff run. Head coach Ryan Day, who has steadily led the program since taking over in 2019, had assembled a squad that was loaded with both veteran players and young talent, each contributing to a powerhouse team that stormed through the season.

Ohio State’s journey to the national title game wasn’t without its challenges. The Big Ten conference proved to be as competitive as ever, with rivals like Michigan, Penn State, and Wisconsin putting up formidable resistance. The Buckeyes opened the season with high expectations but faced adversity in key matchups that tested their resolve. A mid-season loss to Michigan left the team reeling but also galvanized the Buckeyes, pushing them to overcome their struggles and rally toward an even greater goal: the national championship.

The Buckeyes’ offense was led by C.J. Stroud, who entered the 2024 season as one of the top quarterbacks in college football. Stroud’s ability to command the field, read defenses, and deliver clutch performances in critical moments was one of the key factors in Ohio State’s success. He was surrounded by a talented group of wide receivers, including Marvin Harrison Jr., who continued to solidify his place as one of the best wideouts in college football, and running back Miyan Williams, who added a balanced rushing attack to the offense. The dynamic playmakers gave Ohio State a multi-dimensional offensive unit that was capable of overcoming any challenge.

Defensively, the Buckeyes were just as formidable, led by players like Zach Harrison and Jahmyr Johnson on the defensive line. Ohio State’s defense had some early-season hiccups but managed to improve as the year progressed, becoming one of the most physical and well-coached units in the nation. The team’s ability to create turnovers and stifle opposing offenses was a huge factor in their success down the stretch, particularly during the CFP games, where they faced high-powered offenses in Georgia and Alabama.

Transition and Goodbyes

While the team was in the midst of their national title run, the 2024 season also marked a period of transition for Ohio State football. As is often the case for top-tier programs, success brings both the spotlight and inevitable changes, including players declaring for the NFL Draft, assistant coaches leaving for head coaching opportunities, and administrators moving on to new challenges. This created a mix of excitement and uncertainty for Buckeye Nation as the season wore on.

The Departure of Key Players

Ohio State’s success in 2024 was built on the shoulders of standout players, many of whom had been with the program for several years. As the team approached the national title game, several of these key players made the difficult decision to leave the program and declare for the NFL Draft.

C.J. Stroud, who had been the face of Ohio State’s offense for multiple seasons, was one of the most prominent players making the jump to the NFL. Stroud’s decision was met with a mixture of pride and sadness from Buckeye fans, who knew his departure marked the end of an era for Ohio State football. Stroud had been a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2024 and was seen as one of the top quarterback prospects heading into the NFL Draft. His leadership, poise, and football IQ had made him one of the most respected quarterbacks in the country, and his presence on the field would surely be missed.

Marvin Harrison Jr., arguably the best wide receiver in the nation, also made the decision to declare for the NFL Draft after an unforgettable 2024 campaign. Harrison’s departure was another gut-punch to Buckeye Nation, as fans had grown accustomed to watching him make jaw-dropping catches week after week. As the son of NFL Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison, Jr. had established his own legacy at Ohio State and was expected to be a top pick in the NFL Draft. His ability to dominate on the field, paired with his professionalism and work ethic off the field, made him a fan favorite and an irreplaceable part of Ohio State’s success.

Additionally, key contributors like Miyan Williams, Zach Harrison, and Jahmyr Johnson were all poised to move on to the NFL, further marking the transition away from the group that had propelled Ohio State to the national championship game.

Coaching Changes

While the on-field talent was undergoing significant changes, Ohio State’s coaching staff was also experiencing some turnover. Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, who had made a significant impact on the team’s defense since arriving in 2022, received interest from several programs seeking a head coach, and there were rumors that he might leave the Buckeyes after the season.

While no official departure had been confirmed by the time the team made its national championship run, the potential loss of a key member of the coaching staff added a layer of uncertainty to the mix. Ryan Day had already lost several assistant coaches to other programs in the past, and knowing that Ohio State would likely lose more key contributors in the offseason was a sobering reality for the program. Despite this, Day’s leadership remained steady as the team pushed toward their championship goal.

The Celebration: Ohio State’s National Title Win

After a roller-coaster season filled with ups and downs, Ohio State found themselves in the national championship game against Georgia. It was a game that lived up to its billing as two powerhouse programs with rich traditions clashed for college football supremacy. The stakes couldn’t have been higher, and for many Buckeyes fans, this was the culmination of years of hard work and expectation.

The game itself was a hard-fought battle. Both teams brought their A-game, with Georgia’s high-powered offense and stout defense clashing against Ohio State’s dynamic attack and physical defense. C.J. Stroud, in his final game as a Buckeye, showcased his abilities to the fullest, leading Ohio State to a thrilling victory with clutch throws and timely plays. The Buckeyes’ defense stepped up in key moments, stopping Georgia’s offense when it mattered most. The win secured Ohio State’s place at the top of college football, and Buckeye Nation erupted in celebration as their team captured the national championship.

For Ohio State fans, this victory was bittersweet. While the championship was a moment of unparalleled joy, it was also a reminder of the departures that would follow. Many players and coaches would soon leave to pursue their professional dreams, and there was a sense of closure in winning the title amidst so many transitions. The championship was the final piece to an unforgettable journey, but it also symbolized the beginning of a new chapter for Ohio State football.

The Celebration in Columbus

After Ohio State’s victory, celebrations erupted throughout Columbus and beyond. Buckeye fans, who had waited years for another national championship, poured into the streets, showing their pride and joy for the team’s remarkable achievement. Ohio Stadium, known as “The Horseshoe,” hosted an emotional victory rally where players and coaches addressed the fans one last time.

Coach Ryan Day gave a heartfelt speech to the crowd, acknowledging the contributions of the players who had declared for the NFL Draft and thanking the fans for their unwavering support. He spoke about the future of the program and how the title win would serve as a foundation for the next era of Ohio State football. It was a moment of reflection and gratitude, but also one of optimism and excitement for the future.

While the players who were moving on to the next level were honored for their contributions to the team’s success, there was a palpable sense of pride throughout the Ohio State community. The national championship was not only a triumph for the players and coaches but also for the fans who had supported the team through thick and thin.

Looking Forward: The Next Chapter for Ohio State Football

As Ohio State celebrated their national title, the program faced the inevitable transition to a new era. With key players like C.J. Stroud, Marvin Harrison Jr., and others moving on, the Buckeyes would need to rebuild and retool for the future. However, the championship victory provided a sense of confidence that Ohio State football would continue to thrive, despite the inevitable changes that came with success.

Ryan Day’s ability to recruit and develop talent would be key in maintaining Ohio State’s position as one of the elite programs in college football. The Buckeyes’ future was bright, and the national championship victory would be a powerful tool in recruiting new talent and inspiring the next generation of players.