UPDATE: Ohio State’s football team faced a shocking defeat against Indiana, losing 13-10 in the Big Ten Championship Game at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 6, 2025. The Buckeyes’ inability to capitalize on their offensive talent has raised urgent questions about their game strategy.
In a game where Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin entered ranked first nationally in completion percentage for deep throws, the Buckeyes only attempted a mere three passes over 15 yards against a defense that invited long shots. With an undefeated season on the line, experts and fans alike are left bewildered by the team’s conservative approach.
The Buckeyes struggled in pass protection, allowing five sacks, while their offense failed to exploit Indiana’s defensive vulnerabilities. Despite the Hoosiers’ single deep safety coverage, the Buckeyes were unable to connect with standout receivers Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate when it mattered most.
The loss marks a troubling trend for Ohio State under head coach Ryan Day. Since his tenure began in 2019, the team has ranked no higher than 21st in percentage of pass attempts over 20 yards, with this season dropping to an alarming 127th in the FBS.
As the game unfolded, it became clear that Ohio State’s reluctance to push the ball downfield was a critical misstep. On a pivotal third-and-6 late in the game, Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza connected with Charlie Becker for a critical 33-yard completion, sealing the Buckeyes’ fate and highlighting their missed opportunities.
Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti expressed surprise at the Buckeyes’ conservative play, stating, “They’re super explosive. Capable of scoring from anywhere on the field at any time.” However, Ohio State’s failure to utilize their offensive weapons effectively led to a frustrating conclusion for players and fans alike.
This loss raises significant questions for Ohio State as they look towards the future. Will Coach Day adapt his strategy to better leverage the talent on his roster? Fans are eager to see changes made to avoid repeating this performance.
As the dust settles on this disappointing championship game, Ohio State must reassess their approach if they hope to reclaim their status as a powerhouse in college football. The immediate focus must now shift to their upcoming games and how they can recover from this setback.
