The Ohio State Buckeyes, currently ranked No. 6 nationally, have a clear but challenging path to the College Football Playoff. Here's what needs to happen:

Remaining Schedule Challenges:

• Three games against current top-10 opponents: Penn State (#7), Michigan State (#10), and Michigan (#8)
• Must win Big Ten East by defeating Michigan and Michigan State
• Potential Big Ten Championship matchup with likely opponent Iowa

Keys to Making the Playoff:

1. Win remaining games, especially against ranked opponents
2. Secure decisive victories (blowouts preferred) in at least two of the three top-10 matchups
3. Win the Big Ten Championship game

Why It's Possible:

• Strong wins could diminish the impact of their Oregon loss
• Oregon has no remaining AP Top 25 teams on their schedule
• Victory against Iowa in the Big Ten Championship could vault Ohio State into the top 4
• Potential for two Big Ten teams to make the playoff for the first time

The path requires Ohio State to run the table and secure convincing victories against their ranked opponents. A win-and-in scenario would likely emerge in the Big Ten Championship game, potentially setting up a historic moment for both Ohio State and the conference.

Related Articles

Previous Articles