Let's dive into a fascinating exploration of Ohio State's football history and the potential impact of expanded playoffs during the BCS and CFP eras. This article will take a deep dive into the what-ifs and the intriguing possibilities that could have changed the course of Buckeye football.
The Impact of Expanded Playoffs
With the ongoing discussions about expanding the College Football Playoff to a massive 24 teams, it's an opportune moment to reflect on Ohio State's past and imagine the 'what-ifs.' Which Buckeye teams, left out of the postseason tournament, could have made a remarkable run if given the chance?
A Look Back at the Buckeye Legacy
Since 1998, a total of 13 Ohio State teams missed out on the postseason tournament, but with an expanded playoff format, their stories could have been very different. Narrowing down this list to just a few teams is a challenging task, and it's worth noting that teams like 2017 and 2010 could easily have made the cut.
The Top Contenders
2005: A Heartbreaking Season
With a record of 9-2 and a final regular-season ranking of No. 4 in the BCS, the 2005 Ohio State team had a star-studded lineup. From Troy Smith to Santonio Holmes, this team had offensive firepower. Their only losses were close calls, including a heartbreaking home defeat to Texas. Imagine if they had access to an expanded playoff system; could they have pulled off an upset against USC, similar to their 2002 win over Miami?
2018: Urban Meyer's Final Season
The 2018 Buckeyes, led by Urban Meyer, had a remarkable season, but a shocking loss to Purdue derailed their national title hopes. With a record of 12-1 and a final ranking of No. 6 in the CFP, this team had the potential to go far. In an expanded playoff scenario, they could have faced off against Joe Burrow's LSU, and with the right strategy, they might have had a shot at the national championship.
2013: Urban Meyer's Winning Streak
Urban Meyer's second season in Columbus saw the Buckeyes on a 24-game winning streak. However, a loss to Michigan State in the Big Ten Championship game put an end to their dreams. In a 12-team CFP scenario, they could have faced Oregon and Auburn, and with their talent, they might have made it to the Rose Bowl. The question remains: could they have defeated Florida State and claimed the national title?
2015: A Talented Squad
The 2015 Buckeyes were arguably Urban Meyer's most talented team, with stars like Ezekiel Elliott and Braxton Miller. A loss to Michigan State kept them out of the four-team CFP, but in an expanded playoff, they could have hosted North Carolina and potentially faced Alabama in the quarterfinals. With their defensive prowess, they could have made a strong run for the championship.
1998: A Historic Season
The 1998 Buckeyes are often remembered as a dominant force, and their loss to Michigan State was a devastating blow. In an expanded playoff format, they could have faced Tennessee and potentially claimed the national championship. With their offensive and defensive prowess, they had the potential to go all the way.
The Broader Implications
The discussion around expanded playoffs raises interesting questions about the impact on college football as a whole. It could potentially level the playing field, giving more teams a chance to prove themselves. However, it also raises concerns about the quality of competition and the potential dilution of the postseason's prestige.
Final Thoughts
While we can only speculate about the outcomes, the potential impact of expanded playoffs on Ohio State's football history is undeniable. It's a fascinating 'what-if' scenario that showcases the talent and potential of these Buckeye teams. As we look to the future, the ongoing discussions about playoff expansion will undoubtedly shape the college football landscape, and it's an exciting time to be a fan.
