Ohio State Football 2024: Game-by-Game

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Post on Oct 27, 2024

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Ohio State Football 2024: Game-by-Game Predictions and Analysis

Buckeye Nation, get ready! The 2024 season is on the horizon, and with a roster brimming with talent, Ohio State is poised for another electrifying season. We'll break down the entire 2024 schedule, game by game, analyzing key matchups and offering our predictions for what promises to be a thrilling ride.

Non-Conference Battles: Proving the Buckeyes' Might

Week 1: vs. Indiana (Home)

The season kicks off with a familiar foe: Indiana. While the Hoosiers have shown flashes of competitiveness in recent years, Ohio State should start with a resounding victory. The Buckeyes have a clear advantage in talent and experience, making this a comfortable opening win.

Week 2: vs. Youngstown State (Home)

Another non-conference game, but one with a different feel. This matchup provides an opportunity for the Buckeyes' depth to shine and get younger players valuable experience. Expect a dominant performance and a chance to see some breakout stars.

Week 3: at Notre Dame (Away)

The biggest non-conference test of the season arrives early. The rivalry between Ohio State and Notre Dame is legendary, and this game in South Bend holds immense significance. Notre Dame, under their new head coach, will be hungry for an upset. This game could be a nail-biter, with the Buckeyes needing to be at their best to prevail.

Week 4: vs. Bowling Green (Home)

A chance for Ohio State to regroup after a potential slugfest against Notre Dame. Bowling Green won't pose a serious challenge, allowing the Buckeyes to build momentum and refine their game plan before conference play.

Big Ten Conference Battles: Navigating a Competitive Landscape

Week 5: at Rutgers (Away)

Rutgers has shown signs of improvement in recent years, but they're still a long way from challenging Ohio State. The Buckeyes should roll in this one, but a focused effort will be key.

Week 6: vs. Penn State (Home)

The first major Big Ten clash arrives in the form of the white-hot Penn State Nittany Lions. This game is always a nail-biter, and 2024 could see another close contest. The Buckeyes' offensive firepower will be tested against a tough Penn State defense, and the outcome could hinge on a few key plays.

Week 7: vs. Michigan State (Home)

The Spartans have been a thorn in the Buckeyes' side in recent years. This game will be a tough test of Ohio State's resilience and defense. The atmosphere at the Horseshoe will be electric, and a close game is likely.

Week 8: at Iowa (Away)

Iowa is known for its defense, and they'll present a difficult challenge for Ohio State's offense. The Hawkeyes will try to slow down the pace and turn the game into a grind. This game could be a low-scoring affair, with the Buckeyes' ability to adapt being crucial.

Week 9: vs. Maryland (Home)

Maryland has become a more competitive opponent in recent years, but Ohio State should have the upper hand in this matchup. The Terrapins are a team that could pull off a surprise if the Buckeyes aren't prepared.

Week 10: BYE

A well-deserved break before the final stretch of the season. The Buckeyes will use this time to re-evaluate, heal, and prepare for the final four games.

Week 11: at Wisconsin (Away)

A trip to Madison is always a daunting task. Wisconsin is known for its physicality and tough defense. The Buckeyes will need to establish their running game and control the clock to emerge victorious.

Week 12: vs. Northwestern (Home)

Northwestern hasn't been a competitive opponent for Ohio State in recent years. Expect a comfortable victory for the Buckeyes, providing an opportunity to rest key players.

Week 13: at Michigan (Away)

The game everyone's been waiting for: The Ohio State-Michigan rivalry. This game is always a heavyweight showdown with enormous implications. The winner of this game will likely have the inside track to the Big Ten title. Expect a high-scoring, intense battle that could go down to the wire.

The Road to the Playoffs

Week 14: Big Ten Championship Game

The top two teams from the Big Ten East and West divisions will clash in the Big Ten Championship. Ohio State's path to the playoffs likely hinges on winning this game. A loss here would severely hurt their chances of making the College Football Playoff.

Week 15: College Football Playoff (if qualified)

A potential CFP berth awaits the Buckeyes. This game is a dream scenario, but reaching the playoffs requires a dominant regular season and a win in the Big Ten Championship.

Conclusion: A Season of High Expectations

The 2024 Ohio State Football season is shaping up to be another thrilling ride. With a talented roster and a challenging schedule, the Buckeyes have the potential to achieve great things. Will they conquer the Big Ten and reach the College Football Playoff? Only time will tell, but Buckeye fans are eagerly anticipating the journey.