Urban Meyer thinks Ohio State brand ‘probably’ helped playoff berth
Ohio State coach Urban Meyer recognizes the national attention his school receives, and the benefits that come with it
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When Ohio State drubbed Wisconsin 59 – 0, many people we’re outraged and upset over the fact Baylor and TCU had been left out in favor of the Buckeyes. Many arguments were made for both sides of the coin and the playoff process came under fire as did the selection committee.
Ohio State, who played in a conference title game, appeared to have swayed the vote in their favor along with the fact that the Big 12 did not have a conference title game and that appeared to have greatly diminished the chances of one of Baylor or TCU getting into the last playoff spot.
Going into the final week, TCU was ranked No. 3 and Baylor was just on the outside looking in at No. 6. As it shook out, Ohio State went from No. 5 into the top four and TCU who had won their final game against Iowa State 52-3 fell three spots to No. 6. Winning by 49 points and falling three spots left many angry at the decision.
Some could also construe it as a ratings play by the committee, as the brand and name of Ohio State football is vastly superior to that of Baylor or TCU although both are very respected schools in the realm of college football. Nevertheless it led many to ask questions and form theories about what really was going on.
The questions went as far as Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer being asked if the their brand helped get them into the first-ever playoffs.
Urban Meyer asked if brand name helped Ohio State get in playoff: "I don't know. Probably."
— Jon Solomon (@JonSolomonAspen) December 31, 2014
It sounds like the Ohio State coach does believe the mega-brand that is the Buckeyes helped get his team into the postseason. In what capacity is not known since the playoff committee would never admit to it. However, beating a good Wisconsin team 59-0 probably helps a great amount too, especially when you’re down to your third-string quarterback.
The country will find out Thursday, on New Year’s Day, if the Buckeyes are indeed worthy of that last playoff spot when they take on the No. 1 Crimson Tide of Alabama in the Sugar Bowl. Regardless of what happens, many will still feel slighted, and with probable cause and argument.
Perhaps one day there will be an eight team playoff that will eliminate any arguments by having all conference champions in it. Until that happens, this is what we have, and let’s be honest, despite what may have been a controversial selection of Ohio State, everyone is still incredibly excited that there is finally and thankfully a college football playoff.
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Urban Meyer: Ohio State brand ‘probably’ helped playoff berth