ESPN Analyst Criticizes Ohio State’s Schedule for Lacking Tough Competition Beyond Texas
ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit recently scrutinized Ohio State’s football schedule, particularly their No. 1 ranking. His comments surfaced during an episode of SportsCenter before the team’s game against Michigan, highlighting concerns regarding the quality of opponents Ohio State has faced.
Kirk Herbstreit’s Critique of Ohio State’s Schedule
Herbstreit specifically pointed out that the Buckeyes’ significant victory came against Texas in a close 14-7 game. He questioned what other matches demonstrated Ohio State’s true strength, stating, “What other game did they play that really let us know how good they are?”
The Case for Ohio State’s Strength
Since their matchup with Texas, Ohio State has convincingly defeated their opponents. However, Herbstreit suggested that such performances could be viewed as a result of a manageable schedule rather than sheer dominance.
- Ohio State has not faced a ranked opponent since their game against Texas.
- The Buckeyes have avoided road games against top-tier defenses, potentially weakening their playoff case.
Herbstreit implied that skepticism about Ohio State’s capabilities might also resonate internally within the team itself. The upcoming clash with Michigan serves as a critical test that could clarify their standing.
Michigan’s Defense and Upcoming Challenges
The Wolverines, currently 9-2, boast a defense ranked in the top five nationally for yards allowed per play. They are expected to challenge Ohio State effectively, especially in controlling the game’s physical aspects, which have caused problems for the Buckeyes in past November matchups.
Indiana’s Impressive Season
In the backdrop of Ohio State’s rankings, undefeated Indiana (12-0) recently secured their bowl eligibility with a dominant 56-3 victory over Purdue. Herbstreit commended the Hoosiers for consistently establishing their identity on the field.
“I think Indiana has proven who they are,” he noted, emphasizing their solid performance this season.
Implications for the Playoff Race
While the Buckeyes remain at the forefront, the outcome against Michigan could significantly affect playoff selections. If Ohio State triumphs decisively, it may quell doubts surrounding their ranking. Conversely, any uncertainty could complicate the playoff committee’s seeding decisions.
This year’s college football landscape appears wide open, with teams like Georgia also gaining momentum late in the season. The race for the playoff spots is heating up, and the Buckeyes’ next game will be crucial in determining their fate.
