Ohio State Falls to Indiana in Big Ten Title Game, Eyes CFP as No. 2 Seed

The Ohio State Buckeyes saw their undefeated streak end in the Big Ten Championship, falling 13-10 to an inspired Indiana Hoosiers team. The defeat followed last week’s season-defining win over Michigan, which ended a four-game losing streak against their archrivals and solidified quarterback Julian Sayin and coach Ryan Day’s credibility.

While winning the Big Ten title would have been a significant achievement, Ohio State’s primary focus was defeating Michigan, a game that carried immense pressure for Day and his staff. Despite the loss, there is little lingering concern within the program; the Buckeyes are now preparing for the College Football Playoffs as the No. 2 seed, with Indiana claiming the top spot.

In the modern 12-team playoff era, a single conference loss does not derail national championship aspirations. College football has evolved from the days when an undefeated record was often necessary to claim a title. Teams now play a 16-game schedule, including playoffs, making occasional losses less damaging to postseason objectives.

Ohio State enters the CFP with issues to address from the Indiana game, but the program’s championship window remains open. Key areas of concern include coaching decisions, quarterback execution, and special teams performance.

1. Coaching Decisions and Offensive Line Issues

One of the most noticeable factors in the loss was the approach taken by Ryan Day with his offensive line. Day rotated his linemen rather than playing his best group on all crucial snaps. This strategy contributed to early struggles in sustaining drives and converting third downs. The Buckeyes failed to convert a single third-down opportunity until the third quarter, highlighting the impact of line rotations. Right guard Tegra Tshabola struggled with his assignments and was replaced by Gabe VanSickle, after which the team was able to mount a productive drive downfield. Day explained the rotation strategy, saying, “We wanted to split the work up in this game and take some pressure off of both of those guys… We will decide if that’s the right thing to do going forward.” While well-intentioned, the decision may have limited Ohio State’s offensive rhythm during critical moments. Balancing player fatigue with game-time execution remains a challenge for coaches in playoff-level matchups. For Ohio State, determining the optimal lineup for high-pressure situations will be crucial moving forward.

2. Julian Sayin’s Performance Under Pressure

Quarterback Julian Sayin entered the game with a Heisman Trophy conversation still alive, competing against Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza. Sayin delivered solid statistics, completing 21 of 29 passes for 258 yards, a touchdown to Carnell Tate, and an interception. However, when the Buckeyes needed a clutch play in the fourth quarter to extend the game, Sayin was unable to gain a crucial yard for a first down. Indiana’s defense held firm, forcing Ohio State to play catch-up football for the first time this season. Sayin had been reliable in high-pressure situations throughout the regular season, but Indiana’s defensive schemes prevented him from replicating that success in the title game. The Hoosiers’ defensive adjustments and execution proved decisive. The loss demonstrates that even elite quarterbacks face limits against well-prepared defenses, and Ohio State will need Sayin to return to peak form in the College Football Playoffs to advance toward a national championship.

3. Special Teams and Late-Game Execution

The game came down to the final moments, with Ohio State driving 81 yards in 15 plays late in the fourth quarter. The drive stalled at the Indiana 9-yard line with under three minutes remaining, setting up a 27-yard field goal attempt by Jayden Fielding. Fielding’s kick veered wide right, leaving the Buckeyes trailing 13-10 and giving Indiana possession. While a successful kick would not have guaranteed a win, it would have extended the game and provided an opportunity to force overtime. Special teams execution was a critical factor, highlighting the small margins that often decide championship-level games. Ohio State will need to address these details as they prepare for the postseason. The Buckeyes’ loss underscores the importance of situational execution across offense, defense, and special teams, all of which will be magnified in the College Football Playoffs.