Ohio State’s 41-28 home loss to Oregon sparked public criticism from former Buckeyes, who faulted the team’s effort, defensive problems and culture. The defeat dealt a major blow to the Buckeyes’ playoff hopes and put renewed pressure on coach Ryan Day.

By the Numbers
  • Oregon scored 38 unanswered points after falling behind 14-0.
  • Ohio State has lost consecutive games for the first time since 2011.
  • Day has lost 5 of his last 11 games, dating to last season.
  • The Buckeyes were No. 12 in the first CFP rankings and No. 20 in Sunday’s coaches poll.
Yes, But

Ohio State still has one of college football’s most talented rosters, and Day led the program to a national championship two years ago. But former running back Beanie Wells argued that defensive weaknesses had shown up earlier and were masked by wins before Oregon exposed them.

State of Play
  • Former players Tommy Schutt and Curtis Samuel criticized the program’s performance, with Schutt calling for a housecleaning.
  • Day said Ohio State started as expected but failed to regain momentum once it shifted.
  • The Buckeyes’ playoff position is in serious jeopardy after the loss.
What’s Next

Ohio State is expected to fall in the next College Football Playoff rankings. The team’s response in its remaining games will shape its postseason chances and intensify scrutiny of Day and the defense.

Bottom Line

Oregon turned Ohio State’s early lead into a revealing collapse, giving former players fresh reason to question whether the Buckeyes can withstand pressure—and putting Day’s team at a pivotal point in its season.