It’s painful to bleed scarlet and gray as Ohio State finds itself on the wrong side of history, facing mounting pressure and bitter rivalry setbacks.
In the storied annals of college football, few rivalries evoke as much passion and history as the one between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Michigan Wolverines. For decades, this annual showdown has been a defining moment in both teams’ seasons. However, in recent years, Ohio State has found itself on the wrong side of history, facing mounting pressure and bitter rivalry setbacks that have left fans and players alike grappling with the weight of unmet expectations.
The Rise of Michigan and Ohio State’s Decline
The 2024 season marked a significant turning point in the rivalry. Michigan, despite entering the game with a 7-5 record and being unranked, managed to upset No. 2 Ohio State with a 13–10 victory in Columbus. This win not only secured their fourth consecutive victory over the Buckeyes but also ended Ohio State’s 54-game home winning streak against unranked opponents .
This defeat was particularly stinging for Ohio State, as it highlighted a troubling trend. Since 2021, the Buckeyes have been outplayed in each of their matchups against Michigan, with the Wolverines winning four straight games in the series . This marks the longest winning streak for Michigan in the rivalry since the early 1990s, signaling a shift in the balance of power.
The Fallout and Pressure on Ryan Day
The implications of these losses extend beyond the field. Ohio State head coach Ryan Day, once lauded for his offensive prowess and leadership, now faces increasing scrutiny. The 2024 loss to Michigan was particularly damaging, as it was the first time Ohio State had lost to an unranked opponent under Day’s tenure .
The mounting pressure has led to calls for change. Some fans and analysts have questioned Day’s ability to lead the program back to its former glory, especially given the team’s inability to secure a victory in the rivalry game. The constant comparisons to Michigan’s recent successes have only intensified the scrutiny.
Adversity and Resilience: Ohio State’s Playoff Journey
Despite the setbacks in the regular season, Ohio State showcased resilience by making a remarkable run through the expanded College Football Playoff. After their loss to Michigan, the Buckeyes defeated Tennessee, Oregon, Texas, and Notre Dame to reach the national title game .
This playoff journey highlighted the team’s potential and depth. Quarterback Will Howard, who transferred from Kansas State, played a pivotal role in leading the offense, while the defense, despite earlier struggles, stepped up in critical moments. The team’s ability to overcome adversity and reach the national championship game was a testament to their character and determination.
The Changing Landscape of College Football
The 2024 season also underscored the evolving dynamics of college football. The introduction of the 12-team playoff format has brought new challenges and opportunities. Teams like Michigan, which had previously been on the periphery of national contention, now find themselves in the spotlight.
For Ohio State, this changing landscape means that the margin for error is slimmer than ever. The increased competition and the pressure to perform in a more expansive playoff system have added layers of complexity to an already intense rivalry.
Looking Ahead: The Path to Redemption
As Ohio State enters the 2025 season, the path to redemption is clear but challenging. The team must address the issues that have plagued them in recent years, particularly in the rivalry game. This includes enhancing offensive consistency, improving defensive performance, and fostering a mindset that can withstand the pressures of high-stakes matchups.
The leadership of Ryan Day will be under the microscope. While he has led the team to multiple successful seasons, the inability to secure victories in the rivalry game has cast a shadow over his tenure. The upcoming season will be critical in determining his future with the program.
