Will Ohio State Return To The CFP? Joel Klatt's 2025-26 Analysis

David

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Post on Aug 21, 2025

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Will Ohio State Return to the CFP? Joel Klatt's 2025-26 Analysis

Ohio State's recent playoff drought has left Buckeye Nation yearning for a return to the College Football Playoff (CFP). The question on everyone's mind: Will the Buckeyes be back in the CFP conversation in the 2025-26 season? Renowned college football analyst Joel Klatt recently weighed in, offering a compelling perspective on Ohio State's chances. His analysis provides valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities facing the Buckeyes as they look to reclaim their spot among the nation's elite.

Klatt's Key Considerations for Ohio State's 2025-26 Season

Klatt's assessment isn't a simple yes or no. He acknowledges the inherent volatility of college football, emphasizing several crucial factors determining Ohio State's success. These include:

• Quarterback Play: The consistent excellence at quarterback is a cornerstone of Ohio State's success. Klatt highlights the importance of strong quarterback play, suggesting that the development (or recruitment) of a consistently high-performing quarterback is paramount for a CFP run. The 2025-26 season will depend heavily on who is under center.

• Offensive Line Development: Ohio State's offensive line is crucial for their potent rushing attack and protecting the quarterback. Klatt points out the need for continued development and recruiting within the offensive line unit. A strong offensive line provides the foundation for a successful season.

• Defensive Improvement: While the Buckeyes' offense often shines, consistent defensive performance is vital for championship contention. Klatt's analysis emphasizes the need for significant strides on defense to compete with the nation's top programs. This involves both player development and strategic adjustments.

• Recruitment and Roster Turnover: The cyclical nature of college football means roster turnover is inevitable. Klatt stresses the importance of successful recruiting classes to replenish talent and maintain competitiveness. The incoming talent in the 2025-26 season will significantly influence Ohio State's chances.

• The Big Ten Landscape: The Big Ten is increasingly competitive. Klatt’s analysis acknowledges the challenges posed by other Big Ten powerhouses like Michigan and Penn State. Securing wins against these rivals will be essential for CFP contention.

Klatt's Verdict: Cautious Optimism

While Klatt doesn't offer a definitive prediction, his analysis suggests a cautious optimism for Ohio State's 2025-26 season. He believes that with the right development, strong recruiting, and significant improvements on defense, Ohio State possesses the talent to contend for a CFP berth. However, he also underscores the need for consistency and the high level of competition within the Big Ten and nationally.

Looking Ahead: What Buckeye Fans Need to Watch

For Ohio State fans, the coming seasons are crucial. Closely monitoring the quarterback situation, the performance of the offensive and defensive lines, and the success of recruiting efforts will be key indicators of the team's potential for a CFP return in 2025-26. This requires consistent evaluation of the team's progress throughout the upcoming seasons.

Conclusion: The Road to the CFP is Never Easy

The road to the College Football Playoff is paved with challenges, and Ohio State is acutely aware of this. Joel Klatt's insightful analysis provides a realistic perspective on the Buckeyes' prospects, highlighting the critical areas requiring improvement and the potential for a successful return to the national stage. Ultimately, the 2025-26 season will be a testament to the team's ability to overcome obstacles and rise to the occasion. Only time will tell if the Buckeyes will return to the CFP, but the analysis provides a clear roadmap of what needs to happen.