Of the three goals set out for this season, only one remains in sight for Ohio State this season: the CFP National Championship.
The Buckeyes could be seeded anywhere between seven and nine, depending on the outcomes of this weekend’s conference championships. Buckeyes fans should root for Oregon and Texas, as losses for Penn State and Georgia would likely drop them below Ohio State. Despite Penn State reaching the Big Ten Championship Game, Ohio State holds the head-to-head advantage from their earlier matchup. Let’s explore the potential seeding scenarios for the Buckeyes:
7th seed
If Ohio State is seeded 7th, they will host the 10th seed in Columbus. Possible opponents include Indiana, Alabama, or South Carolina. The Buckeyes are expected to be favorites against any of these teams, although South Carolina has been on a hot streak. A victory would set up a neutral field game against the 2nd seed, projected to be Texas Longhorns. Texas, led by former Buckeye Quinn Ewers, boasts an explosive offense with talents like Jayden Blue, Isaiah Bond, Ryan Wingo, and Gunner Helm. While Ohio State might be underdogs against Texas, they’ve shown the ability to rise to the occasion in past playoffs. A win could make them favorites in the semifinals and potentially in the National Championship game in Atlanta.
8th seed
As the 8th seed, the Buckeyes would host the 9th seed in Columbus. Likely opponents are Georgia or Tennessee. Ohio State might be slight favorites against Tennessee but underdogs against Georgia. If they lose at home, expect loud calls for coach Ryan Day’s dismissal. A win could lead to a rematch with either Oregon or Penn State. Ohio State would be highly motivated to avenge their one-point loss to Oregon from mid-October. Defeating the #1 seed in the second round would be a significant confidence boost heading into the semifinals.
9th seed
In the worst-case scenario, Ohio State would be the 9th seed and play the 8th seed, likely Georgia or Tennessee, on the road. They may be slight favorites against Tennessee but underdogs against Georgia. A loss would be disappointing and prompt a program evaluation by Athletic Director Ross Bjork. A victory would mean a rematch with either Oregon or Penn State. Having already played both teams, the Buckeyes would have both film and motivation on their side. Winning against the #1 seed in the second round would provide a considerable confidence boost for the semifinals.
The Buckeyes have the talent to make a championship run. Regardless of their seeding, coach Ryan Day faces high expectations. Winning the National Championship could soothe fans’ frustrations, but early losses might cost him his job. We’ll soon know where Ohio State is seeded and their path to Atlanta.
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