Where does Ohio State go from here? Playoff hopes dim, QB questions mount after USC upset

With Julian Sayin injured and the defense suddenly reeling, Ryan Day has zero margin for error remaining to salvage the Buckeyes No. 2 Ohio State dropped a stunning performance against USC, a 30-18 loss that ranks among the worst of the Ryan Day era. The defeat dropped the Buckeyes to 6-2, marking the first time Ohio State has recorded two losses before November since 2011. The loss is only the second unranked loss of Day's career, joining 2024 Michigan. Of course, the injury to starting quarterback Julian Sayin stands above all other factors. Sayin was hurt in the second half of a win against No. 5 Indiana. But what else has gone wrong to drop the Buckeyes back towards the field?

With several quality opponents remaining on the schedule in the final month of the season, Ohio State's dreams of a national title are fading fast. Even after picking up a second loss, Ohio State is likely still in the College Football Playoff mix. The Buckeyes have impressive wins over No. 14 Iowa and No. 5 Indiana that should help their resume. There are also still quality winnable matchups remaining against Oregon and No. 20 Northwestern. After losing to USC, though, the Buckeyes are firmly on the bubble. A single regular-season loss from here on out would keep them out