Episode Details

Ohio State Buckeyes stunned by Texas after blowing a 20-point lead—has the team’s Achilles’ heel been exposed? Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick break down the Buckeyes’ gut-wrenching loss in Austin, spotlighting the electric first-half connection between Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith and a dominant offensive line performance that unraveled after halftime. The show examines suspect play-calling by Arthur Smith, missed opportunities from the receiving corps beyond Jeremiah, and critical fourth-down defensive breakdowns that shifted momentum in Texas’ favor.

Key discussion points include the impact of Connor Hawkins' missed field goal, Ohio State’s inability to finish drives in the second half, and the emotional toll as the pressure mounted. With the updated AP poll dropping the Buckeyes to No. 6, Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick ask: Can Ohio State rebound, fix its late-game strategy, and stay in College Football Playoff contention with key tests ahead against Indiana, USC, and Michigan?

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00: Texas Loss Reactions
  Initial reactions and emotional recap from Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick following Ohio State's shocking loss to Texas. Analysis of momentum swings, first-half positives, and game-changing moments.
• 07:39: Play Calling & Second Half Issues
  Breakdown of Ohio State's offensive stagnation in the second half. Discussion of Arthur Smith's play calling, failure to adapt, and the impact of conservative strategy on the defense and overall outcome.
• 15:54: Positives, Growth, and AP Poll
  Shift to positives from the Texas game, including standout performances and areas of promise. Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick discuss growth potential, the new AP Poll rankings, and Ohio State's outlook for the rest of the season

Follow the show on twitter: https://x.com/LOBuckeyes

Photo credit: Adam Cairns via Imagn Images

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