ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit delivered a sharp critique of Ohio State’s resume Saturday, questioning the legitimacy of the Buckeyes’ No. 1 ranking by taking aim at their lack of quality opponents outside of a season-opening 14-7 win over Texas.
On SportsCenter in the hours leading up to “The Game” against Michigan, Herbstreit said the country still lacks clarity on exactly how strong Ohio State (11-1) is entering one of the most hostile environments in the sport.
“I don’t think we know yet, I really don’t think we know yet how good Ohio State is,” Herbstreit said via On3. “They played Texas. What other game did they play that really let us know how good they are?”
Herbstreit noted the Buckeyes “have pounded everybody they played” since Week 2, which is an outcome that can be interpreted as either as dominance or going through a manageable schedule.
Ohio State hasn’t faced a ranked opponent since Texas, avoiding road matchups against top-tier league defenses that could have strengthened its playoff case. Herbstreit implied that even within the OSU, internal curiosity may mirror national skepticism.
The Michigan test provides an overdue litmus test. The Wolverines (9-2) enter with a defense ranked top 5 nationally in yards allowed per play and a clear intent to control the trenches, where rivals have ambushed Ohio State in previous Novembers.
Behind the Buckeyes sits undefeated Indiana (12-0), which dismantled Purdue 56-3 Friday to clinch bowl eligibility. Herbstreit praised the Hoosiers for defining their identity through repeated proof points.
“I think Indiana has proven who they are,” Herbstreit said. “Georgia seems to be catching fire late. This year, it’s wide open.”
If Ohio State overwhelms Michigan in Ann Arbor, the doubts dissolve. If they present any questions, the playoff committee could face a tougher seeding decision than expected.
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