The Ohio State Buckeyes, particularly the 2002 national title-winning team, have earned a reputation as one of the most despised squads in college football history. With success often breeding animosity, the Buckeyes, a perennial powerhouse, have faced resentment from opposing fan bases throughout their illustrious history.
This sentiment has only intensified, reaching a level where Ohio State is perceived as one of college football’s villains, a sentiment that extends beyond the confines of Columbus. Even amidst the recent scandal involving Michigan, the disdain for Ohio State remains palpable regardless of their playing location.
According to 247Sports, the 2002 national title-winning ‘Luckeyes’ rank as the seventh most hated team in the annals of college football. The controversy surrounding the championship game against Miami, where critical calls, including the infamous defensive holding penalty, contributed to Ohio State’s victory, still lingers in the memories of football enthusiasts.
The nickname “Luckeyes” stems from the team’s knack for dramatic moments during Jim Tressel’s sole national championship season. The squad, led by freshman star Maurice Clarett, often found themselves on the winning side through a series of fortunate events, notably the contentious calls in the championship game.
The Buckeyes’ luck extended beyond the championship game, with seven narrow victories during the season, including close calls against unranked teams like Cincinnati, Wisconsin, Purdue, and Illinois. These nail-biting wins, marked by late-game heroics and comebacks, fueled frustration among those hoping for the Buckeyes’ downfall.
Despite the widespread displeasure, Ohio State secured the national championship, reminding detractors that a win, regardless of the circumstances, is still a win. The full list of the ‘most-hated’ teams, featuring the Buckeyes at number seven, is provided below:
10. 1993 Notre Dame
9. 2011 Alabama
8. 2012 Texas A&M
6. 2017 Oklahoma
5. 1996 Florida
4. 2010 Auburn
3. 2014 Florida State
2. 2005 USC
1. 1986 Miami
