The Ohio State Buckeyes are making waves in college football, and not just for their on-field performances. Unlike some of their Big Ten counterparts who've recently snagged titles, Ohio State isn't shying away from tough non-conference matchups. They're stepping up to face elite SEC teams, a move that’s earning them respect across the board.
Bob Asmussen from the News-Gazette, a voice familiar to fans in Fighting Illini territory, praised the Buckeyes for their bold scheduling choices. He highlighted the upcoming Ohio State-Texas clash as potentially the most talked-about non-conference game in the country. A win there could certainly boost their standing in the AP poll.
But Ohio State's ambitions don't stop in Texas. They're set to host Alabama in 2027 and will head to Tuscaloosa in 2028.
After a brief pause in 2029, they’re slated to take on Georgia in 2030. This is how national powerhouses should schedule-challenging themselves against the best.
This approach contrasts with the schedules of teams like Illinois, which have faced less formidable non-conference opponents in recent years. Schools like Indiana are also opting for easier early-season games, and even some SEC teams are reconsidering their strategies now that the conference has expanded to nine games.
There’s buzz that Alabama might cancel its games against Ohio State, planned for 2027 and 2028. Paul Finebaum, a well-known figure in Alabama sports media, suggested that the Crimson Tide might back out due to internal uncertainties and the impact of the expanded SEC schedule. While Georgia might still be in the mix, Alabama’s potential withdrawal underscores the challenges of maintaining such high-profile matchups.
If Alabama does pull out, Ohio State's commitment to tough scheduling will stand out even more. The Buckeyes aren't backing down, and that's setting a standard for what it means to be a national contender.