Ohio State’s latest Cotton Bowl loss to Missouri marks another disappointing two-loss season for the Buckeyes, prompting head coach Ryan Day to acknowledge their subpar performance. Reflecting on the game, Day expressed his disappointment, emphasizing the team’s failure to support Lincoln Kienholz and their subsequent defeat. He stressed that concluding the season with two losses falls below Ohio State’s standards.
Throughout the game, Missouri dominated, securing a 14-3 victory, with Ohio State struggling notably on offense. Kienholz completed only 6 of 17 passes for 86 yards, while Devin Brown made a limited impact, connecting on four of six passes for 20 yards. Emeka Egbuka stood out with six receptions for 63 yards, and TreVeyon Henderson managed 72 rushing yards on 19 carries.
Under Day’s leadership, Ohio State has consistently reached an 11-2 record over the past three seasons but has faced consecutive bowl game losses. The team faced challenges in the Cotton Bowl, missing key players like quarterback Kyle McCord, who transferred to Syracuse, and star receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., who opted out to prepare for the 2024 NFL draft.
Looking ahead to 2024, Ohio State grapples with uncertainties at quarterback, considering options like Brown and Kienholz while anticipating the arrival of five-star recruit Air Noland. Additionally, if Henderson enters the NFL draft, Dallan Hayden could step in as the primary running back, supported by receivers Carnell Tate and Jeremiah Smith.
With Ohio State’s absence from the College Football Playoff since 2022 and the upcoming expansion to a 12-team format in 2024, the Buckeyes face immense pressure to secure a spot in the playoffs.
