UPDATE: In a stunning upset, the Ohio State Buckeyes suffered a 13-10 loss to the Indiana Hoosiers during the Big Ten Championship game at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 6, 2025. This defeat raises urgent questions about the Buckeyes’ offensive strategy as they struggled to capitalize on their deep-threat capabilities.
Despite entering the game with one of the nation’s top quarterbacks, Julian Sayin, who ranked first in completion percentage on throws over 20 yards, Ohio State only attempted a mere three passes traveling 15 yards or more. The loss has left fans and analysts alike bewildered by the lack of offensive aggression, especially with an undefeated season on the line.
The Buckeyes’ offensive woes were compounded by poor pass protection, allowing Indiana to sack Sayin five times. As the game unfolded, it became evident that the Hoosiers had identified and exploited weaknesses in Ohio State’s offensive line. The refereeing also raised eyebrows, with missed holding calls that hampered the Buckeyes’ efforts to mount an effective comeback.
Ohio State’s pass-heavy roster, featuring elite talents like Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate, was stifled throughout the game. The Hoosiers’ defensive strategy, which often left corners in one-on-one coverage, should have presented opportunities for big plays. Yet, the Buckeyes opted for conservative play-calling, continually reverting to I-formation setups instead of leveraging their explosive talent.
Indiana’s quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, took full advantage of the Buckeyes’ hesitance, delivering a crucial 33-yard completion to Charlie Becker that sealed the game in the final minutes. This moment starkly contrasted Ohio State’s inability to execute similar deep throws, prompting fans to question the coaching decisions made by head coach Ryan Day.
“They’re super explosive,” Indiana coach Curt Cignetti remarked about Ohio State prior to the game. “Capable of scoring from anywhere on the field at any time.”
The Buckeyes have consistently ranked poorly in deep passing attempts during Day’s tenure, with their highest ranking being 21st in 2019. This season, they sit at a dismal 127th in the FBS for deep-ball attempts, igniting frustration among supporters who expect more from a team loaded with talent.
As fans digest this shocking result, the implications extend beyond just a single game. Ohio State’s playoff aspirations are now clouded with uncertainty. Questions swirl around Day’s strategic choices and whether his conservative approach can deliver results in high-stakes situations.
Looking forward, Ohio State must reassess its offensive tactics to regain momentum. With the season’s end approaching, every play counts, and fans are eager to see how the Buckeyes will respond to this setback. Will they finally unleash their explosive potential, or will this loss spark a deeper evaluation of their coaching strategies?
Stay tuned for further updates as Ohio State prepares for its next challenge in the aftermath of this disheartening defeat.
