The Ohio State Buckeyes have always been one of the powerhouse programs in college football. Over the last few years, they have continued that trend under the leadership of head coach Ryan Day.
During the 2024 season, Ohio State overcame a crushing late-season loss to Michigan and rallied to win a National Championship. Last season, the Buckeyes were one of the best teams in the nation entering the College Football Playoff, but ended up losing to Miami.
Looking into the foreseeable future, Ohio State should continue being a championship contender each and every season. However, the Big Ten is starting to improve around them.
Each of the last three National Championships have been won big Big Ten programs. Michigan, Ohio State, and Indiana have won the last three. That has led to some speculation about a few powerhouse programs choosing to leave the conference down the road.
Ohio State Buckeyes Listed Among Teams Who Could Leave Big Ten
ESPN’s Dan Wetzel spoke out on the “College Gameday Podcast” about a potential scenario that would see the Buckeyes, Wolverines, and Penn State leave the Big Ten to basically own their own NIL, TV rights, revenue, and scheduling.
“If you had this one game as independents or in a little group, and then we throw in the Ohio State-Penn State game and the Michigan-Penn State game, and maybe we add a couple of these others… and then you take all your others [and] you go play in the MAC for your other leagues or do whatever you want to schedule out,” Wetzel said.
Rece Davis was quick to jump in on the idea. He agrees with Wetzel’s sentiment.
“When are we going to get to the point when you’re trying to deal with the revenue of saying, ‘Why am I helping these guys?” Davis said. “They’re not bringing anything to the table.’ …I’ve got to believe it happens because… right now in a lot of ways they are giving up both [money and power]… to people who are not really helping them.”
It’s a Wild Idea for Ohio State and the Big Ten
Simply thinking about a world where Ohio State ditches the Big Ten is crazy to think about. Michigan and Penn State joining the Buckeyes would make it even more shocking.
That being said, in today’s landscape of college football, literally anything seems to be possible.
More than likely, Ohio State won’t be leaving the Big Ten anytime soon. It’s a wild idea that could make some sense, but actually making the move would be a surprise.
As the NCAA continues to change, the Buckeyes will continue changing with it. This kind of a move certainly can’t be ruled out, but it’s hard to see the Big Ten falling part and losing three of its most valued members.
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