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Portnoy Doubts Ohio State's Toughness Ahead of Washington Clash

9/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Dave Portnoy criticized Ohio State's mental toughness before the Washington game, saying they fold under pressure.
He predicted Washington could upset the Buckeyes, citing Ohio State's history of late-game failures.
Portnoy ranked Indiana as the Big Ten's top team after their Illinois win, despite a lower national ranking, citing Indiana's offense as second and defense as third.

History

Historical Context

Ohio State's football struggles against Michigan in 1998 underscored a pattern of late-game failures, as noted by analyst Dave Portnoy. This trend reflects a broader issue in college football, where mental toughness is crucial for success. As programs like Indiana rise in prominence, the competitive landscape of the Big Ten Conference continues to evolve, impacting team morale and recruitment strategies.

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Story summary

Dave Portnoy criticized Ohio State's mental toughness before the Washington game, saying they fold under pressure.
He predicted Washington could upset the Buckeyes, citing Ohio State's history of late-game failures.
Portnoy ranked Indiana as the Big Ten's top team after their Illinois win, despite a lower national ranking, citing Indiana's offense as second and defense as third.

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