Why Paul Finebaum Criticized Ohio State Football

This week, the No. 2 ranked Ohio State football team is set to visit Lansing, Michigan, to compete against the Michigan State Spartans. This will be the Buckeyes’ first game within their conference, the Big Ten, and their first matchup against a Power Four team. They’ve predominantly filled their schedule with lesser opponents, having already dominated Akron (52-6), Western Michigan (56-0), and Marshall (49-14), all at home. Paul Finebaum of the SEC Network expressed his disapproval during The Matt Barie Show.

“I’ve always had great respect for their administration, but what we’ve seen from Ohio State this year is hard to comprehend,” Finebaum stated. “Their non-conference schedule is the weakest I’ve ever seen. Georgia had a valid reason for their schedule last year because of their game with Oklahoma. What justification does Ohio State have this year?”

Finebaum was referencing the SEC’s request for Georgia to cancel their matchup with Oklahoma in 2023, which led to a less challenging schedule for the Bulldogs.

“I spoke with LSU football coach Brian Kelly on Saturday; he faced UCLA, which may not be a top-tier team, but it’s still a better challenge than what Ohio State has faced. Other teams like Florida and Miami, and Georgia against Clemson, have had tougher games, while Ohio State’s schedule is simply laughable,” Finebaum remarked. “What Ohio State has done is truly disgraceful. They may finish the season with either no losses or just one, and probably won’t face any consequences, but it’s still embarrassing.”

After Georgia’s narrow victory over Kentucky, they dropped to No. 3 in the AP Top 25, while Ohio State climbed to No. 2 without having faced a strong opponent. With an easier schedule, the Buckeyes’ top players, like Jeremiah Smith, are gaining attention on a national level, along with the benefits from NIL opportunities.

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