Jack Sawyer argues Ohio State’s National Championship ‘sort of erases’ their loss to Michigan.
In the aftermath of Ohio State’s triumphant victory over Notre Dame in the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship, defensive end Jack Sawyer shared his perspective on the season’s journey, particularly the team’s response to a challenging loss to Michigan. Sawyer’s reflections shed light on the resilience and determination that propelled the Buckeyes to their first national title since 2014.
Ohio State entered the 2024 season with high expectations, aiming to overcome previous disappointments and secure a victory over their archrivals, Michigan. However, the Buckeyes faced a heartbreaking 13–10 loss to the Wolverines in the regular-season finale. For many, including Sawyer, this defeat was particularly painful, as it marked the fourth consecutive year Ohio State had fallen to Michigan. Sawyer expressed the emotional weight of the loss, stating, “I won’t ever get over that loss.” He described the experience as “the type of loss most teams don’t get up from.”
The aftermath of the game saw heightened tensions, with Michigan players engaging in a flag-planting celebration on Ohio State’s field, leading to confrontations and further intensifying the rivalry.
Despite the setback, Sawyer highlighted a pivotal moment for the team. Following the loss, the Buckeyes held a players-only meeting, joined by head coach Ryan Day, to address the situation candidly. Sawyer emphasized the importance of this gathering, noting that it allowed the team to confront their frustrations and refocus their efforts. He remarked, “We could quit, like we knew everyone wanted us to… or be the best team in the country, like we know we are. We chose Option B.”
This renewed sense of purpose and unity became the foundation for the Buckeyes’ subsequent success. Sawyer’s leadership, combined with the collective determination of the team, set the stage for a remarkable postseason run.
Ohio State’s path to the national title was anything but easy. The Buckeyes entered the newly expanded 12-team College Football Playoff as the No. 4 seed and faced formidable opponents in each round. In the quarterfinals, they overcame Tennessee, followed by victories over Oregon and Texas. These wins showcased the team’s resilience and adaptability, culminating in a decisive 34–23 triumph over Notre Dame in the championship game.
Sawyer’s performance in the playoff was instrumental. His leadership on and off the field, combined with his relentless drive, played a crucial role in Ohio State’s success. The team’s ability to rebound from adversity and perform at the highest level underscored the effectiveness of their collective response to the Michigan loss.
For Jack Sawyer, the national championship represents more than just a title; it signifies redemption and the fulfillment of a long-held aspiration. Having returned for his senior season to achieve this goal, Sawyer’s journey reflects the power of perseverance and the impact of strong leadership.
As he prepares for the next chapter in his football career, Sawyer’s experiences serve as a testament to the importance of resilience, unity, and leadership in overcoming challenges. His story will undoubtedly inspire future generations of athletes facing adversity.
