Ohio State’s journey to the national championship was fueled by years of frustration. After losing to Michigan four times in a row, the Buckeyes faced heavy pressure heading into the 2024 College Football Playoff. Many doubted if the team could handle it, and head coach Ryan Day felt the pressure more than anyone.
However, instead of breaking under the pressure, they turned doubts into drive and proved every critic wrong. Their hard work and focus led them straight to the national title. Mike Vrabel, a former Buckeyes star, later shared that the negative talk around the team actually became their biggest motivation. It pushed them to reach the top and claim ultimate success.
Mike Vrabel Reveals Why His Heart Still Belongs to Ohio State
Former Buckeyes star and NFL coach Mike Vrabel knows Ohio State football better than most. He played for the program from 1993 to 1996, earning Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year twice. His strong performance at Ohio State helped launch a successful NFL career, during which he won three Super Bowls with the New England Patriots before moving into coaching.
Recently, Vrabel joined Urban Meyer on “The Triple Option” podcast, where he spoke with clear pride and deep love for the team. He didn’t hold back when talking about Ohio State’s past struggles to reach the playoff stage.
But now, everyone knows Ryan Day and the Buckeyes are national champions. Vrabel didn’t hold back when asked what motivated their championship run. He said, “They just pissed them off, I think. At least, they used them to piss them off and end the tournament.”
He was, of course, talking about the Buckeyes’ journey under Coach Ryan Day. After losing to Michigan for the fourth year in a row, many doubted Ohio State’s playoff chances. The pressure was so high that some people thought Coach Day might lose his job. But against all odds, they conquered the national title.
Even now, with a title in hand, the pressure hasn’t disappeared. However, during that conversation, it was inspiring to see Vrabel share the Buckeye spirit with his NFL staff. He showed just how special Ohio State is to him. For example, during Pro Day in Columbus, he gave New England Patriots offensive line coach Doug Marrone a tour of Buckeye Grove and other famous campus landmarks.
What the 49-year-old said suggests that the Patriots are well-prepared for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, with no more expected transfers, Ohio State’s roster is also set for the season ahead.
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It remains to be seen whether Coach Ryan Day can replicate last year’s magic or if the Buckeyes will face new challenges.
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