Fansided

5 reasons Ohio State still makes the College Football Playoff

By Ronnie Hampston

Oct 1, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes tight end Marcus Baugh (85) running back Curtis Samuel (4) and wide receiver Noah Brown (80) celebrate after Baugh
Oct 1, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes tight end Marcus Baugh (85) running back Curtis Samuel (4) and wide receiver Noah Brown (80) celebrate after Baugh /
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Oct 22, 2016; University Park, PA, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback J.T. Barrett (16) drops back to pass against the Penn State Nittany Lions during the first quarter at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Ohio State 24-21. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 22, 2016; University Park, PA, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback J.T. Barrett (16) drops back to pass against the Penn State Nittany Lions during the first quarter at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Ohio State 24-21. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /

2. The experience of J.T. Barrett

Joe Thomas Barrett, IV looked like a shell of himself against Penn State. In his defense, the coaching staff didn’t put him in the best place to succeed and the offensive line was harassed as they gave up six sacks.

In the two previous losses in Barrett’s career, he’s bounced back and played some of his best football in his career. During his red shirt freshman season after losing to Virginia Tech early, Barrett responded with a six-touchdown performance in the next game.

Last season, Barrett led OSU to victories against Michigan and Notre Dame after losing a heartbreaker to Michigan State. This is an example of how Barrett responds well after facing adversity.

With a few games left, he can regain his confidence, and play like the quarterback who beleaguered defenses before last Saturday in Happy Valley. Having a quarterback with Barrett’s set of skills plays into the Buckeyes favor. It’s no secret he’s dynamic when operating Ohio State’s up-tempo spread offense, and with the weapons, at his disposal, there is no need to hit the panic button.

Unlike many quarterbacks that are leading teams in the top ten, Barrett is one of the most experienced signal-callers. During this time of year, it’s imperative to have a quarterback that knows how to handle pressure, and Barrett provides that for the Buckeyes.

Although his Heisman chances plummeted, he’s one of the best quarterbacks in the nation, and when he’s clicking, he is capable of leading the Buckeyes to a National Championship.

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