I agree 100% with your sentiment, although I'd say we're not unique. This is a consequence of the social media age where people demand to be heard and outlandish/negative voices tend to attract the most attention. People seek that attention, and for whatever reason feel better when they have a reason to bitch and moan. It's like people enjoy being right about their pessimistic take. Negativity breeds negativity.
For us, it's amplified by our long run of sustained greatness. Expectations are insane around this program, and the coaches/players are the first ones to demand greatness. But waaaaaay too many of our internet fans are out of control. We're 10-0 and #2 in the country with the Heisman frontrunner leading the show and a roster full of great kids making us proud. Nevermind the game threads -- the negativity even in other threads is just startling. And this board is the best Buckeye fan board, iMO.
People need to enjoy the ride, because what OSU football has done over the past 20 years and is doing is not normal. If this becomes a source of negativity, goodness......imagine being a fan of almost anybody else.
I’m not saying we should be Tennessee, where after one decent year we as a fanbase claim to be unbeatable. I’d just love to see some appreciation for the coaching staff and “next up” players that have kept us in contention.
This season would not be possible without the recruiting and development of depth over the last few years. Just look at last year what happened to Baltimore in the NFL when they were plagued with RB injuries, they were rendered completely irrelevant.
This team can scrap out a few tough wins come playoff season, because of the contributions that might get them there. I would just love to see the sentiment of that possibility echoed through buckeye nation.
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
Tension is high. So much on the line November 26th. Great season that could potentially be a magical season. We are all significantly emotionally invested in this team. Expressing concerns isn't always the same as being negative. I am still concerned about our running game, corners, and special teams.
It’s just that our fanbase seems to be unique. And maybe that’s why I do enjoy being an OSU fan so much, we do typically view our squad through an overly objective lens - rather than blindly believing we are the undisputed best team ever (like some SEC disciples). And I’m not saying I want to be like that.
That being said, with what this team has shown (flaws included) there is no reason for us to be any less confident, or any more dissatisfied with the staff and players. They have done exactly what we pay ticket, jersey and cable subscription prices to see.
Ryan Day has held up his end of the deal throughout his tenure, it’s up to us as fans to now uphold ours and support this team. Rather than hit send on everything we type that we’re “not satisfied with” as passive viewers.
Our CBs could be better, our short run game could be better, our first down run D could be better. But how many problems did eventual national champions have?
We have just as much say to claim the title as any team this year and years before. It’s just a matter of winning at this point, nothing else.
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
Hear hear!!! We sit around missing college football terribly eight months a year and then "wish the season away" with constant criticism instead of savoring each play. This team has my unconditional support. As long as they beat TTUN. Just kidding. I think.
I typically spend more time on this site during the offseason to stay in the loop, but then occasionally lurk during the season without contributing because of the vitriol.
The general feeling on this site recently has been the comparison through transitive property to TTUN using this super negative lens. Let’s just enjoy the damn season and appreciate the time we have watching Ransom, Hickman, the OTs, and Stroud in their last season as buckeyes. We will miss them next year. They will all be superstars in the NFL.
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
Never been on a TTUN board but I can only imagine the negativity spewing they've done for the last 20 years, comparing themselves to THE World Famous Ohio Sate Buckeyes!
We've got it good and have had it good for 3 coaching staffs now. I guess the 2020 puss job and all the shit talking We've heard since November 2021 has our fan base losing their minds. It gets fixed on the 26th
I visit there regularly and the place is schizophrenic. They can turn on a dime and go from "OSU is going to crush us" to "OSU is soft and we are going to wipe them out" in a short period of time and sometimes in the same OP. They seem to ride the highs and lows on the highway of life and can't seem to find the level ground in northwestern Ohio.
It's the way it is like Knowles says there are always things to work on and improve to get better. Nothing is perfect yes many would love to be in our shoes and we are still not satisfied it's just the way things are. Millionaires are not happy they find ways to make more. Players today one time was ecstatic to get a free ride now we pay them just a couple examples. Fan is short for fanatic and we not only want to win but get pissed when it's not a blowout. Recruiting classes not happy if it's not the best class it goes on and on. Truth be told some things are not all great at OSU but don't ever mention that you will be stoned to death along with when we don't agree on football issues.
It’s not necessarily that I disagree with the reasons stated why we can’t be as good as we potentially could be. The talent on this team is capable of winning it all if the coaches get everything in line.
My only grievance is that the routine contributors on this site dismiss entirely the efforts that have been put forth to have this team in the position to even have that conversation. Bama is out of the CFP despite having the “top recruiting class” year in and year out, and their fans still find every reason why they should be in the playoffs.
Our fans (of a team that is very much in control of their playoff destiny) seem to find every reason to be upset with the coaching staff in comparison.
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
Yeah man I agree with ya. I’m so tired of people crying about the possibility of snow against Michigan when we put up 500 yards in the snow last year. Like yes the day of the game I’ll be a nervous wreck but come on. And the whole toughness thing. Lol
I’m guilty of being super negative about the basketball team, but I think I also do a good job of recognizing the good too (even tho yes I’m not a huge Holtmann fan but I’m coming around a bit)
I mean if I were a recruit, it’d probably be a turnoff to me that a certain fan base in the north is so cognizant of the weather and how it cripples their pro style offense that supposedly prepares them for NFL games in the cold weather.
A narrative that is propagated by everyone but Ryan Day. I’m just ultimately worried that our fan base is undoing our own chance to recruit the best talent, showing resentment while being undefeated.
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
To be fair, I really doubt that Dylan Raiola or Jeremiah Smith really give a shit about what a howler in Gahanna or Blanchester thinks about their decision.
The site,imo, promotes/ignores a lot of passive aggressive negativity for the sake of negativity clicks.
The site owners are unwilling to give clear and unambiguous statements of support for the basic capabilities of tOSU assistant coaches as things stand at this specific moment. They are unwilling to speak against the howlers pov…..
Yes, Ramzy, Priestas and the rest of the site writers should either speak/write in defense of the abilities and performance of the staff OR specifically explain why they should be fired/OR what they should specifically do different on field or in the locker room. It’s not hard-the Enquirer sportswriter specifically said Zac Taylor should NOT run trick plays in the red zone, as a practical example.
Don’t throw passive aggressive shade…..
That seems trivial if that’s your strongest point.
The site is entitled to their opinions and criticisms if they deem them fair.
I think everyone is making their articles/comments/opinions in good faith with the teams best interest in mind.
I really don’t think the beef with the site is justified.
I can really only think of several positive articles about Knowles on the top of my head that have been written about the turnaround of the defense. But even in those, no shade is even thrown at Coombs, directly or indirectly.
Other than that, I know Hartline receives a ton of praise, as he should.
I really don’t see any other position coaches mentioned.
Was Walton ever mentioned when the CBs were struggling? I don’t think he was. Ever.
I'm older, but feel young enough to be excited about every game.
I'm passionate in my Buckeye fandom, but have garnered a perspective that growing up at the end of the Woody era through the dawn of the Cooper years has taught me.
I'm eager to share among others, but tired of irrational, unrealistic "fans".
Still love 11W, but commenting less these days (probably should be moderating more), and that's ok.
We're lucky to have Ohio State, lucky to have an opportunity to follow together here on-site, and not the other way around.
I have high hopes for the finish of this season, and beyond, but if things don't go as hoped I'll get through it...and be right here through the off-season and the promise of a new year.
"Character, like a photograph, develops in darkness." - Yousuf Karsh
Yep. It's like people have no memory of the 80s (9-3 seasons galore), the 90s (can't beat TTUN at all), or even the mid-2000s when Tressel lost 8 games in the 3 seasons after our 2002 natty. The expectations are insane and just not rational. We have multiple posters calling for Day to be fired in the Penn State and Utah game threads. We have people treating an 11-2 season like it's the end of the world. And we have people losing their minds over 14-point wins in the elements at Northwestern. Expectations do not align with the human reality of the game.
We are damn lucky to have the program we have, and have it performing at the level it is.
Hove, rather you recall or not, we had many conversations during the infancy of this site. Always recognized you as one of the more level headed contributors even before you were made a mod.
I just want so badly for this site to show the respectful belief without the arrogance. And most importantly to trust that the staff actually does know what they are doing. Popularity attracts dissenters, and maybe that’s what’s happening to 11w. I just remember going from being a regular contributor on hineygate to watching all of the BS transpire and ultimately canceling my subscription.
Had a few afternoon beers and felt like voicing my transgressions. I’m just tired of reading on this forum all the reasons we can’t win, when other fan bases (whose teams haven’t done what ours has) defend their subpar teams to the grave.
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
Can you imagine if we had the internet in late November 1961? The 11W servers would have all melted when the faculty voted to decline the Rose Bowl. I was in the 6th grade at the time and I remember the controversy quite well.
Here is a link to the article for those who may not know or remember.
I agree somewhat. But the standard is national championships and if it's not - whats the point? I think that is where the negativity may come into play. I just pulled up a page that shows our records and finishes. I started watching the Buckeyes in 1965. Since then we have won a national championship in 1968, 2002 and 2014, However, we squandered realistic opportunities 15 times over that period as well: 69, 70, 73, 75, 79, 93, 96, 98, 06, 07, 12, 15, 18, 19, 20.
So basically in the last 57 years, we have had 18 shots and made good 3 times.
Not a great record in my opinion, though some might argue that being in that position in the first place is a positive, which I would agree with. With that many shots, we should have more than 3.
UCLA hoops in the late Wooden era and Bama in the Saban era are the only programs that meet your standards. If you don’t realize the off field/court advantages both programs have enjoyed, you are just foolish.
But TTUN has 1/2 title since 1948. The last time they won an uncontested title, Berlin was being blockaded by the Soviets. We haven't won as many titles as we'd like, but we've been the most consistently competitive program in CFB for decades. That should bring us a lot of joy, and we should enjoy the titles we do have all the more.
So if we didn’t have so many opportunities to win a national championship, would you still be upset with only three titles in that time?
Your gripe kinda proves my point. The dissatisfaction in the amount of titles won only comes from consistent success and high expectations set by good coaching, proper administration, and a truck load of blue chip talent every year over every decade that cfb has existed.
There are teams that have achieved way less, sustained no success over the decades, yet still find every reason to support their team that year.
Our fan base is currently poking holes in a team that has won 10 games, a win count 125 teams would kill for any given year. While we do have a higher standard, I still struggle to see why we tear down our own team like they’ve eliminated themselves from playoff contention.
Could you imagine playing on this team right now while still feeling like you need to show your own fan base more?
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
I have thoroughly studied the Buckeyes rankings during the poll era (1936). OSU is the only program that has not had a down decade. Oklahoma is the only other school that is close with one down decade. Think about that - no down decades in over 80 years. Yes, Alabama has won more titles but they have been in the wilderness for several extended stretches.
Even during the Cooper years (1990s decade), they finished in the final AP poll 7 of 10 years with two #2 finishes and 5 ten win seasons at a time when the regular season was 11 games with no conference championship. And Cooper was fired for not beating Michigan and not winning bowls.
The record for the 1990s was 91-29-3. From 1995 through 1998, the records were 11-2, 11-1, 10-3, and 11-1 but lost to Michigan 3 of 4 and bowls 2 of 4. The only losses other than those were to PSU in 1997 and MSU in 1998.
I'm pretty certain we are the only program in the AP poll era (1936 to present) to never have a graduating class go without finishing at least one season ranked.
We are the model of consistency. By a large margin.
I agree we have been a model of consistency. We have won 3 national championships in the past 55 years. Many schools would kill to be us. I'm just saying as good as we have been, we also have had many missed opportunities. We are a little similar to the 1991-2005 Atlanta Braves. Fifteen playoff appearances - one World Championship.
I agree about the missed opportunities as I watched every one of them. At least the ones on TV. I am just happy to be in the conversation every year or almost every year.
I agree with your sentiment. I do think that this community is, by and large, mostly appreciative and supportive. I think there are a vocal few that are constantly complaining and making ridiculous comments about "Bench CJ and start McCord" or some such nonsense, but I think they represent 1% or less of the 11W commentariat. And those types of folks are going to be angry at anything less than a 15-0 national championship type season and they surely aren't self aware enough to see a post like yours and think "gee, I'm an asshole and I should probably tone it down a bit".
I think that we are in the Golden Age of Buckeye football and that we need to appreciate it while we have it. Hopefully we can add another trophy or two to the case before things change. I will always be grateful to people like Tressel, Urban, Ryan Day, Dwayne Haskins, JF1 and now CJ Stroud. They've all played huge roles in elevating our program into what we have today. Ohio State legends, all of them. Go Bucks!
I gotta say, as a Michigan fan, I agree with you 100%. OSU fans have it so good, and they still whine and complain.
This year, you guys bemoan your OL and your running game. Both of which are pretty good.
You are regularly in the top 5 in recruiting, and in the top 5 in rankings.
You have owned Michigan for the last 20 years, with just a few exceptions.
I don't follow you closely enough to know, but since the national championship playoff began, how many years has OSU been in it? I'm guessing more than any other team but Bama.
Y'all should appreciate the golden era you are in, and the sustained success you have had. Even should you lose to Michigan, you still have it extremely good.
Some of my PSU fans marvel at how ridiculous some of our fans can be, complaining when they'd sacrifice their first born to be where we are as a program. PSU fans are proud and active fans, and have a great and rich tradition. They haven't won a title since '86, and have won 12 games once since the Reagan administration.
Yep. Not all that long ago boards like this one would consist of osu fans defending osu against fans of other teams with the occasional depth chart debate. Now it’s osu fans defending osu against other osu fans.
I'm usually not one of the complaining fans (unless I'm shitposting drunk), but wanted to share my understanding. The frustration is in the fact that a 20 year golden era has earned only 2 national titles and has seen the rise of the Bama dynasty as well as the general rise of southeastern ownership of the trophy.
If you told me in the 90s that we'd have a 20+ year golden era beginning at the turn of the century that only has 2 titles, I'd be confused. To use a Harbaugh related example that you might understand as a Michigan Man: It's like we bought a prizes cow and have only gotten 2 glasses of milk out of her across her lifespan. Imagine the horror!
Priestas and Ramzy allow Tony Alford to be hung out to dry with zero editorial defense on this site. That’s not right. Either put the howlers on rhetorical blast, or concede that they share your view-which is perfectly honest.
So, you're saying that Priestas and Ramzy should not allow posters to have differing opinions? That sounds real fun. It isn't their intent to tell people how to think, I'm sure. Report, not make the news.
If you have two people that agree on everything, that only means one of them is not thinking at all.
People absolutely should be allowed to have different opinions-and to express them. I also think that the site leaders should confront/correct ridiculously dumb opinions from the commentariat. Put howlers on editorial blast. Get a grip on the realities of recruiting, injuries, team psychology-and put those out there to the Debbie Downers. Coach Alford has been made a constant whipping on here through no fault of his own for a long time. If 11W’s guidelines say “Don’t be a jerk”(whatever that nebulous turn of phrase means), maybe the 11W staff can extend that same courtesy to Coach Alford.
I’ve said it before-I don’t think the site should have DVs. Only UVs, with an identification as to which screen name handed them out. It’s far better to engage with fellow posters-as in reply to their post that you disagree with-than to say “I don’t like this. Let’s gray it out!”
I agree stx. During a week that osu doesn’t run dominantly you’ll see 3-4 different stories on it. During a week they do run well you’ll see a lot less coverage.
The privilege of winning is the expectation. We are fortunate. Who was that QB that we recruited that went to Arizona because he didn't want the pressure of winning that comes with playing at Ohio State? The lights shine bright and the pressure is intense on Saturday's in the fall in Columbus.
But if you committed to a literal sub-nation of people, wouldn’t their support motivate you? As opposed to reading every day how your brotherhood isn’t good enough?
It’s ok to talk about weaknesses, but I would want to feel like my fan base believes that my team can beat anyone and have faith in me.
Just tired of Georgia fans talking about the idea of beating the worst NFL team while we complain about only being a top 20 rushing team with injuries to every one of our scholarship RBs save a true freshman. This team should be applauded for being undefeated at this point, way more than what is happening.
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
If Ohio State loses next week, it's a failed season and there won't be any sugar coating it.
So while I agree we have to focus on the positives, all that matters at this point is getting revenge next week. Two failures in a row and we've got serious issues, regardless of injuries, player development, or anything else.
After the smack Michigan talked last year, if that's not enough to motivate everyone to redouble their efforts for the last 300 and some odd days, then there is a problem.
I just think that some have lost the perspective of how awesome it is to pull for a team that has such high aspirations. I probably speak for every OSU fan, on here or not, in understanding that our entire season lives or dies based on what happens November 26th.
It's still ok to appreciate what it took to get to this point though, and take pride in the fact that our season hopes are still in tact despite losing the best WR in the nation and our entire RB room to injury. Trey Sermon handoffs were a waste of a snap, until they weren’t. Let’s pull for this team to keep winning and see if we can’t get on a roll like we’ve done before in the postseason.
I will expect and pull for this team to win, until they don’t and it’s time to look to next season. Until then, I’ll keep on believing they are just as deserving of a Natty as any team that ever won it.
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
If the opponent is never worthy of winning, is it really a great win? It’s a great win because they are at times worthy of winning and that’s what makes it THE game.
This is EXACTLY right. We can call it a "cruel reality", but it is reality. The Dodgers and Yankees had tremendous regular seasons and failed when it mattered most. Their seasons were failures. The standard is the same at Ohio State. Nobody will care about beating Toledo if we lose The Game. The biggest homers will say they disagree, but they definitely agree.
Those are words taken from the mouths of Dave Roberts and Aaron Boone. As a Red Sox fan, I always hope both teams lose every game, but I respect the hell out of their "world championship or bust" mentality. Any football season at Ohio State that doesn't include a win over TTUN is unsuccessful. We owe it to Woody to acknowledge that.
I think this is the first time in a while where I've just been proud of the team for being successful this far and without any coaching/player scandals.
Obviously to lose to TTUN again and not win a B1G and a NC title this year would be a huge disappointment. But I think I've realized that making myself miserable over my favorite football team is a wasted effort (I'm like that fan whose lost it in the Dr. Pepper Fanville commercials), especially when they are winning.
This team should go to the NC title game. I just don't see us falling short this year.
Amen!!! If I had 1000 upvotes you would get them. It is hilarious reading the bullshit on this site. I truly believe there are morons here who think they could do a better job than Ryan Day. And the whole "soft" bullshit. LOL. You want soft, look at the game threads when we aren't ahead 75-0. Now that is some soft shit.
It's the beauty of the free market. Bad opinions get DV'ed and criticized to death.
We have had MANY opinions calling CJ Stroud weak, calling for Ryan Day's job, calling the team writ large soft, and so forth. I'm not talking about a single isolated post uttered in a moment of frustration, or a valid concern about our run game. The flak that Stroud has taken in various game threads especially is absolutely embarrassing. By posters who are undoubtedly soft, weak, and insignificant in life compared to CJ.
So yeah......I'm going to criticize those opinions, because those opinions are shit. And I'd rather our fan base not be defined by the idiots who spout that nonsense.
We have had MANY opinions calling CJ Stroud weak, calling for Ryan Day's job, calling the team writ large soft, and so forth.
I think thats a bit hyperbolic but I could be wrong. I remember in the beginning of 2021 when CJ was struggling pretty significantly with overthrows, so much so that the on-air commentators were talking about it, I saw people getting killed on 11W for merely mentioning it. I barely saw anyone calling for CJ to be benched. What I did see was a bunch of pseudo-CJ Stroud helicopter dads plugging their ears and screaming "LA LA LA LA LA" as if pretending not to acknowledge the issue made it untrue. Maybe I wasn't in the right threads but I do not see people calling for CJ or Ryans job. The team is awesome this year, but I just don't get why there is this tribal binary principle that you either have to think Ohio State is the absolute best at every facet of college football, or your'e a traitor/troll. Like there is definitely a middle ground where people can discuss Ohio State praises and critiques in the context of the national CFB landscape. I still love 11W but I've def spent more time in the college football Reddit threads because you can have realistic conversation about Ohio State without the super homers screaming at every single critique. Dont get me wrong, the "sky is falling" people are equally as annoying. There has to be a happy balance.
I feel like this is what has manifested from the game day threads. While I post comments on there, I never single disparage or call a player names or throw around insults. First off, if it were my kid playing I wouldn’t appreciate that at all and I’m sure nobody else would like that either, if it were their son playin. I post frustration at times, if I see an opportunity wasted. But I’m also very congratulatory. Those who only bash the negative plays without anything positive to contribute are more like trolls.
When telling the truth becomes a revolutionary concept, it’s wise to join the revolution
current system would have viewed our beloved 2002 team
They were one of 2 undefeated teams, even today they would be in the CFP. There were a lot dudes playingn through things in 2002. I think the same will be said with this team come TTUN/CFP time.
Agreed there are a lot negative of comments but its part of the world we live in. However, I think last year's TTUN outcome and some short comings this season has exasperated the comments. With that said there have been a lot positives this season that we should be focusing on. All signs point to Nov 26th. Win and for me it;s Sunshine and Rainbows, lose and its abject despair.
At 64, Buckeye football is one of my last true PASSIONS.
I almost always watch alone. I ask of family and friends 12 Saturdays a year for 4 hours to be left alone. I wont come to your wedding, your funeral, or any functions. So dont ask.
I believe I am a fair fan. I yell, I scream, but I dont knock personal performance.
I DO however, have expectations. The same as when I played. Effort is all I ask. A real effort.
Totally agree OP. Some of this has gotten insane. Personally, I've distanced myself from almost all of the media and TV in general over the last couple years. It's just too much. I don't even have ESPN in the house anymore. Life is better. I listen to radio broadcast games and that is it besides the roundtable. Good enough for me. I'm much happier with life this way.
Overall it can get frustrating but is what it is. A lot of people here have Michigan in their head rattling around non-stop it seems. Loss really got to them.
What stinks to see is there are several posters here who seem to relish in the team having an issue as though that proves their negativity correct. Really weird tribalism thing.
Misery loves company and validation. Some people were so hurt by last year they became guarded to not feel that again. Must not have grown up in the Cooper years… The beauty of sports makes us feel real emotions without any real consequences.
I’ve been critical of special teams. I’m not seeing or recalling any other negativity from me? I love this year’s team. I’m also never going to coach any 11W writer or poster away from having their own opinion about the team - we don’t do that here. If I or anyone else has a take that sucks, we own it. It’s ours.
So far OSU has stepped down every so slightly with Ryan, but I think the ceiling is higher as he doesn't show favortism (or nepotism) to his coaches. Here are some things to ponder:
Hard to knock on Tressel. He won a NC, was in the NC game 3 x.
His last 9 years, OSU finished #1, 4, 20, 4, 2, 5, 9, 5, and 5.
8-1 vs UM, 6-3 in bowl games, and 8 conference championships.
Urban won a NC game.
His 7 years, OSU finished 3rd, 12, 1, 4, 6, 5, and 3rd.
7-0 vs UM, 5-2 in bowl games, but only 3 conference championships.
For comparison:
Ryan has zero NC's. Was in the NC game 1x
His 3 years, OSU finished 3rd, 2, and 6.
2-1 vs UM, 2-2 in bowl games, and 2 conference championships.
Any time you give a man something he doesn't earn, you cheapen him. Our kids earn what they get, and that includes respect - Woody Hayes
I think that's the scary part. The Game seems like a "must win" for many of us. TTUN will probably be better next year and the game is in AA. If this blog wants to see negativity, try a 3 game losing streak to TTUN.
A lot of negative ninny's haven't been around long enough to understand what it was like 30-40-50 years ago. They have pushed aside the dominance of the program the last two decades. Day made the moves to improve the defensive side of the ball and knew what the "opportunity" was there to help this team. This team has played well all year while developing a new defensive system. Players are playing well together. Let the coaches coach. Just look at how it unfolded when Babb Caught the touchdown last week and how they rallied around their team mate.
The team will not be perfect every game, no team will and many won't even be contenders to play in the playoff. Be happy we have what we have, I remember the 70's, 80's and 90's as well. This team can be one of the great teams that have played at OSU.
I was thinking about posting something similar yesterday. Some posters here have gotten out of hand and the quality has really gone down. To read post how these coach's and players owe us anything is ridiculous. The amount of criticism alone is out of hand.Do people actually realize its week 10 and were 1 out of 4 teams that are undefeated and have beaten all of our opponents by double digits. Like a poster stated we haven't had our #1 wr for most of the season our #1, #2, #3,#5 and #6 RB have all been injured and missed time and our cb's have been all banged up. Yet were undefeated, won every game by double digits and have a top 5 offense and top 10 defense.Life is good! Yes, we have problems and things can be fixed but dear lord thats with everything in life.If we viewed our own life's like we viewed the football team, our life's would be miserable and downright unbearable. I'm not saying everything needs to be roses and honey but the negativity far outweighs the positive here and is making this board unreadable. This fanbase is starting to sound entitled and not realize how good we actually have it. All I'm asking for is some perspective on this team and this program and a little less negativity
Maybe 11W should have a separate category for those of us that want to keep our scarlet glasses on. I have stayed away from most posts for a long time because I do not like the negativity and name calling.
Maybe 11W should have a separate category for those of us that want to keep our scarlet glasses on. I have stayed away from most posts for a long time because I do not like the negativity and name calling.
Show All Comments
I agree 100% with your sentiment, although I'd say we're not unique. This is a consequence of the social media age where people demand to be heard and outlandish/negative voices tend to attract the most attention. People seek that attention, and for whatever reason feel better when they have a reason to bitch and moan. It's like people enjoy being right about their pessimistic take. Negativity breeds negativity.
For us, it's amplified by our long run of sustained greatness. Expectations are insane around this program, and the coaches/players are the first ones to demand greatness. But waaaaaay too many of our internet fans are out of control. We're 10-0 and #2 in the country with the Heisman frontrunner leading the show and a roster full of great kids making us proud. Nevermind the game threads -- the negativity even in other threads is just startling. And this board is the best Buckeye fan board, iMO.
People need to enjoy the ride, because what OSU football has done over the past 20 years and is doing is not normal. If this becomes a source of negativity, goodness......imagine being a fan of almost anybody else.
“Imagine being a fan of almost anybody else”
Exactly.
I’m not saying we should be Tennessee, where after one decent year we as a fanbase claim to be unbeatable. I’d just love to see some appreciation for the coaching staff and “next up” players that have kept us in contention.
This season would not be possible without the recruiting and development of depth over the last few years. Just look at last year what happened to Baltimore in the NFL when they were plagued with RB injuries, they were rendered completely irrelevant.
This team can scrap out a few tough wins come playoff season, because of the contributions that might get them there. I would just love to see the sentiment of that possibility echoed through buckeye nation.
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
Tired of the positivity.
Why you got to low-ball me like that?
I can feel it deep down in my plums
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
I only have one ball left. I can't lose the other one.
Tired of the irony.
"Character, like a photograph, develops in darkness." - Yousuf Karsh
Enough talk.
Ired of the tyranny.
Beat Michigan
When telling the truth becomes a revolutionary concept, it’s wise to join the revolution
Hey, we made it 2 whole comments before we couldn’t resist downvoting an obviously sarcastic comment.
Give us some credit, we do love to DV anything we don’t like or agree with.
The ‘19 team was our best ever.
It's okay, I talk to my psychiatrist about the downvotes that I get.
Can we do a couples appt?
I need some support too.
The ‘19 team was our best ever.
Yea, bring the whole family.
Tension is high. So much on the line November 26th. Great season that could potentially be a magical season. We are all significantly emotionally invested in this team. Expressing concerns isn't always the same as being negative. I am still concerned about our running game, corners, and special teams.
Robert M
Totally fine, right?
I have my doubts as well.
It’s just that our fanbase seems to be unique. And maybe that’s why I do enjoy being an OSU fan so much, we do typically view our squad through an overly objective lens - rather than blindly believing we are the undisputed best team ever (like some SEC disciples). And I’m not saying I want to be like that.
That being said, with what this team has shown (flaws included) there is no reason for us to be any less confident, or any more dissatisfied with the staff and players. They have done exactly what we pay ticket, jersey and cable subscription prices to see.
Ryan Day has held up his end of the deal throughout his tenure, it’s up to us as fans to now uphold ours and support this team. Rather than hit send on everything we type that we’re “not satisfied with” as passive viewers.
Our CBs could be better, our short run game could be better, our first down run D could be better. But how many problems did eventual national champions have?
We have just as much say to claim the title as any team this year and years before. It’s just a matter of winning at this point, nothing else.
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
Concern=neurotic paranoia
Own your psychology.
Hear hear!!! We sit around missing college football terribly eight months a year and then "wish the season away" with constant criticism instead of savoring each play. This team has my unconditional support. As long as they beat TTUN. Just kidding. I think.
Right???
I typically spend more time on this site during the offseason to stay in the loop, but then occasionally lurk during the season without contributing because of the vitriol.
The general feeling on this site recently has been the comparison through transitive property to TTUN using this super negative lens. Let’s just enjoy the damn season and appreciate the time we have watching Ransom, Hickman, the OTs, and Stroud in their last season as buckeyes. We will miss them next year. They will all be superstars in the NFL.
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
Never been on a TTUN board but I can only imagine the negativity spewing they've done for the last 20 years, comparing themselves to THE World Famous Ohio Sate Buckeyes!
We've got it good and have had it good for 3 coaching staffs now. I guess the 2020 puss job and all the shit talking We've heard since November 2021 has our fan base losing their minds. It gets fixed on the 26th
"Put ya' weight on it"
I visit there regularly and the place is schizophrenic. They can turn on a dime and go from "OSU is going to crush us" to "OSU is soft and we are going to wipe them out" in a short period of time and sometimes in the same OP. They seem to ride the highs and lows on the highway of life and can't seem to find the level ground in northwestern Ohio.
Let's Go Bucks
Very, very true but don’t forget how this site was after their Penn St game and after NW.
This site is susceptible to mob mentality as well.
The ‘19 team was our best ever.
That’s my perspective as well. 100%. Enjoy the ride and appreciate the efforts. 10-0 isnt easy even when it’s expected.
It's the way it is like Knowles says there are always things to work on and improve to get better. Nothing is perfect yes many would love to be in our shoes and we are still not satisfied it's just the way things are. Millionaires are not happy they find ways to make more. Players today one time was ecstatic to get a free ride now we pay them just a couple examples. Fan is short for fanatic and we not only want to win but get pissed when it's not a blowout. Recruiting classes not happy if it's not the best class it goes on and on. Truth be told some things are not all great at OSU but don't ever mention that you will be stoned to death along with when we don't agree on football issues.
Denny
It’s not necessarily that I disagree with the reasons stated why we can’t be as good as we potentially could be. The talent on this team is capable of winning it all if the coaches get everything in line.
My only grievance is that the routine contributors on this site dismiss entirely the efforts that have been put forth to have this team in the position to even have that conversation. Bama is out of the CFP despite having the “top recruiting class” year in and year out, and their fans still find every reason why they should be in the playoffs.
Our fans (of a team that is very much in control of their playoff destiny) seem to find every reason to be upset with the coaching staff in comparison.
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
Exactly! If the coaches and players aren’t “satisfied” and they’re not, then neither should we be. Go BUCKS!
tbdfitl
Yeah man I agree with ya. I’m so tired of people crying about the possibility of snow against Michigan when we put up 500 yards in the snow last year. Like yes the day of the game I’ll be a nervous wreck but come on. And the whole toughness thing. Lol
I’m guilty of being super negative about the basketball team, but I think I also do a good job of recognizing the good too (even tho yes I’m not a huge Holtmann fan but I’m coming around a bit)
"We didn't play with enough force tonight"
I mean if I were a recruit, it’d probably be a turnoff to me that a certain fan base in the north is so cognizant of the weather and how it cripples their pro style offense that supposedly prepares them for NFL games in the cold weather.
A narrative that is propagated by everyone but Ryan Day. I’m just ultimately worried that our fan base is undoing our own chance to recruit the best talent, showing resentment while being undefeated.
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
To be fair, I really doubt that Dylan Raiola or Jeremiah Smith really give a shit about what a howler in Gahanna or Blanchester thinks about their decision.
While I’m sure that’s true, I’m also sure that they would most likely prefer their harshest critics not be their own fans.
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
Agree 1,000%. Let’s see if 1W poobahs have the nuts to agree.
A parent of a former player told they me they suggest not reading these types of boards. Which to some people would be fuel to do the opposite.
Denny
I would say that is wise advise.
Well said! Season always goes by way too fast and you made some excellent points here.
"We'd wipe the floor with them" - Evan Spencer
I'm with you. I'm sick of so called "Fans" saying things like how Stroud is a coward or Day needs fired because the offense sputters in 60MPH winds.
You must be on the game thread. Some of them are off their medication.
Yep. I had to log out of one a couple weeks ago over this comment about Stroud during the Northwestern game:
Fake fans like that just piss me off. Enjoy the team. This is a special time.
Very well put. The season goes by so quickly that appreciating every game is more important than criticizing it
Csr
Great post. 11W staff/owners and writers could do a lot to contribute to your positive vision.
What’s with all of the beef with the site?
The ‘19 team was our best ever.
The site,imo, promotes/ignores a lot of passive aggressive negativity for the sake of negativity clicks.
The site owners are unwilling to give clear and unambiguous statements of support for the basic capabilities of tOSU assistant coaches as things stand at this specific moment. They are unwilling to speak against the howlers pov…..
The first part is in reference to the mods?
The second part is still a bit vague to me.
The morning Skully is about as 100% positive Buckeye news as you can possibly get, all coaches included.
Can you elaborate?
The ‘19 team was our best ever.
And again, the DV fanboys are unwilling to articulate their criticism m.
I am just not sure where your beef is specifically.
Are you looking for articles of support on the coaches and their performances?
People DV everything here, I wouldn’t worry about that.
You and I have plenty of helmet stickers!
The ‘19 team was our best ever.
Yes, Ramzy, Priestas and the rest of the site writers should either speak/write in defense of the abilities and performance of the staff OR specifically explain why they should be fired/OR what they should specifically do different on field or in the locker room. It’s not hard-the Enquirer sportswriter specifically said Zac Taylor should NOT run trick plays in the red zone, as a practical example.
Don’t throw passive aggressive shade…..
I’m a bit lost.
I don’t read 100% of the site, but where has there been shade thrown at any of the coaches?
And who are they defending them against? Negative commenters here?
The ‘19 team was our best ever.
That seems trivial if that’s your strongest point.
The site is entitled to their opinions and criticisms if they deem them fair.
I think everyone is making their articles/comments/opinions in good faith with the teams best interest in mind.
I really don’t think the beef with the site is justified.
I can really only think of several positive articles about Knowles on the top of my head that have been written about the turnaround of the defense. But even in those, no shade is even thrown at Coombs, directly or indirectly.
Other than that, I know Hartline receives a ton of praise, as he should.
I really don’t see any other position coaches mentioned.
Was Walton ever mentioned when the CBs were struggling? I don’t think he was. Ever.
The ‘19 team was our best ever.
Hmm
I hope Michigan never wins another game.
Recently passed 10 years here (on 11W).
I'm older, but feel young enough to be excited about every game.
I'm passionate in my Buckeye fandom, but have garnered a perspective that growing up at the end of the Woody era through the dawn of the Cooper years has taught me.
I'm eager to share among others, but tired of irrational, unrealistic "fans".
Still love 11W, but commenting less these days (probably should be moderating more), and that's ok.
We're lucky to have Ohio State, lucky to have an opportunity to follow together here on-site, and not the other way around.
I have high hopes for the finish of this season, and beyond, but if things don't go as hoped I'll get through it...and be right here through the off-season and the promise of a new year.
"Character, like a photograph, develops in darkness." - Yousuf Karsh
Enough talk.
Yep. It's like people have no memory of the 80s (9-3 seasons galore), the 90s (can't beat TTUN at all), or even the mid-2000s when Tressel lost 8 games in the 3 seasons after our 2002 natty. The expectations are insane and just not rational. We have multiple posters calling for Day to be fired in the Penn State and Utah game threads. We have people treating an 11-2 season like it's the end of the world. And we have people losing their minds over 14-point wins in the elements at Northwestern. Expectations do not align with the human reality of the game.
We are damn lucky to have the program we have, and have it performing at the level it is.
Hove, rather you recall or not, we had many conversations during the infancy of this site. Always recognized you as one of the more level headed contributors even before you were made a mod.
I just want so badly for this site to show the respectful belief without the arrogance. And most importantly to trust that the staff actually does know what they are doing. Popularity attracts dissenters, and maybe that’s what’s happening to 11w. I just remember going from being a regular contributor on hineygate to watching all of the BS transpire and ultimately canceling my subscription.
Had a few afternoon beers and felt like voicing my transgressions. I’m just tired of reading on this forum all the reasons we can’t win, when other fan bases (whose teams haven’t done what ours has) defend their subpar teams to the grave.
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
I feel you, GV...we're in the same lane.
Go Buckeyes.
"Character, like a photograph, develops in darkness." - Yousuf Karsh
Enough talk.
Can you imagine if we had the internet in late November 1961? The 11W servers would have all melted when the faculty voted to decline the Rose Bowl. I was in the 6th grade at the time and I remember the controversy quite well.
Here is a link to the article for those who may not know or remember.
https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=kp5OAAAAIBAJ&sjid=EwEEAAAAIBAJ&pg=...
Let's Go Bucks
I agree somewhat. But the standard is national championships and if it's not - whats the point? I think that is where the negativity may come into play. I just pulled up a page that shows our records and finishes. I started watching the Buckeyes in 1965. Since then we have won a national championship in 1968, 2002 and 2014, However, we squandered realistic opportunities 15 times over that period as well: 69, 70, 73, 75, 79, 93, 96, 98, 06, 07, 12, 15, 18, 19, 20.
So basically in the last 57 years, we have had 18 shots and made good 3 times.
Not a great record in my opinion, though some might argue that being in that position in the first place is a positive, which I would agree with. With that many shots, we should have more than 3.
UCLA hoops in the late Wooden era and Bama in the Saban era are the only programs that meet your standards. If you don’t realize the off field/court advantages both programs have enjoyed, you are just foolish.
You raise a valid point.
But TTUN has 1/2 title since 1948. The last time they won an uncontested title, Berlin was being blockaded by the Soviets. We haven't won as many titles as we'd like, but we've been the most consistently competitive program in CFB for decades. That should bring us a lot of joy, and we should enjoy the titles we do have all the more.
So if we didn’t have so many opportunities to win a national championship, would you still be upset with only three titles in that time?
Your gripe kinda proves my point. The dissatisfaction in the amount of titles won only comes from consistent success and high expectations set by good coaching, proper administration, and a truck load of blue chip talent every year over every decade that cfb has existed.
There are teams that have achieved way less, sustained no success over the decades, yet still find every reason to support their team that year.
Our fan base is currently poking holes in a team that has won 10 games, a win count 125 teams would kill for any given year. While we do have a higher standard, I still struggle to see why we tear down our own team like they’ve eliminated themselves from playoff contention.
Could you imagine playing on this team right now while still feeling like you need to show your own fan base more?
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
I have thoroughly studied the Buckeyes rankings during the poll era (1936). OSU is the only program that has not had a down decade. Oklahoma is the only other school that is close with one down decade. Think about that - no down decades in over 80 years. Yes, Alabama has won more titles but they have been in the wilderness for several extended stretches.
Even during the Cooper years (1990s decade), they finished in the final AP poll 7 of 10 years with two #2 finishes and 5 ten win seasons at a time when the regular season was 11 games with no conference championship. And Cooper was fired for not beating Michigan and not winning bowls.
The record for the 1990s was 91-29-3. From 1995 through 1998, the records were 11-2, 11-1, 10-3, and 11-1 but lost to Michigan 3 of 4 and bowls 2 of 4. The only losses other than those were to PSU in 1997 and MSU in 1998.
Let's Go Bucks
I'm pretty certain we are the only program in the AP poll era (1936 to present) to never have a graduating class go without finishing at least one season ranked.
We are the model of consistency. By a large margin.
I agree we have been a model of consistency. We have won 3 national championships in the past 55 years. Many schools would kill to be us. I'm just saying as good as we have been, we also have had many missed opportunities. We are a little similar to the 1991-2005 Atlanta Braves. Fifteen playoff appearances - one World Championship.
I agree about the missed opportunities as I watched every one of them. At least the ones on TV. I am just happy to be in the conversation every year or almost every year.
Let's Go Bucks
I agree with your sentiment. I do think that this community is, by and large, mostly appreciative and supportive. I think there are a vocal few that are constantly complaining and making ridiculous comments about "Bench CJ and start McCord" or some such nonsense, but I think they represent 1% or less of the 11W commentariat. And those types of folks are going to be angry at anything less than a 15-0 national championship type season and they surely aren't self aware enough to see a post like yours and think "gee, I'm an asshole and I should probably tone it down a bit".
I think that we are in the Golden Age of Buckeye football and that we need to appreciate it while we have it. Hopefully we can add another trophy or two to the case before things change. I will always be grateful to people like Tressel, Urban, Ryan Day, Dwayne Haskins, JF1 and now CJ Stroud. They've all played huge roles in elevating our program into what we have today. Ohio State legends, all of them. Go Bucks!
We can't stop here; this is bat country...
I gotta say, as a Michigan fan, I agree with you 100%. OSU fans have it so good, and they still whine and complain.
Y'all should appreciate the golden era you are in, and the sustained success you have had. Even should you lose to Michigan, you still have it extremely good.
Ohio State has the same record in the CFP NCG as Georgia, and fewer appearances than Clemson and Alabama.
Clemsons 2015-2020 run worped peoples views on what's possible with simply top10 talent and a generational QB
Number 11, huh?
Well said. From a friggin TTUN fan, no less =)
Some of my PSU fans marvel at how ridiculous some of our fans can be, complaining when they'd sacrifice their first born to be where we are as a program. PSU fans are proud and active fans, and have a great and rich tradition. They haven't won a title since '86, and have won 12 games once since the Reagan administration.
Perspective.
Yep. Not all that long ago boards like this one would consist of osu fans defending osu against fans of other teams with the occasional depth chart debate. Now it’s osu fans defending osu against other osu fans.
I'm usually not one of the complaining fans (unless I'm shitposting drunk), but wanted to share my understanding. The frustration is in the fact that a 20 year golden era has earned only 2 national titles and has seen the rise of the Bama dynasty as well as the general rise of southeastern ownership of the trophy.
If you told me in the 90s that we'd have a 20+ year golden era beginning at the turn of the century that only has 2 titles, I'd be confused. To use a Harbaugh related example that you might understand as a Michigan Man: It's like we bought a prizes cow and have only gotten 2 glasses of milk out of her across her lifespan. Imagine the horror!
Priestas and Ramzy allow Tony Alford to be hung out to dry with zero editorial defense on this site. That’s not right. Either put the howlers on rhetorical blast, or concede that they share your view-which is perfectly honest.
So, you're saying that Priestas and Ramzy should not allow posters to have differing opinions? That sounds real fun. It isn't their intent to tell people how to think, I'm sure. Report, not make the news.
If you have two people that agree on everything, that only means one of them is not thinking at all.
People absolutely should be allowed to have different opinions-and to express them. I also think that the site leaders should confront/correct ridiculously dumb opinions from the commentariat. Put howlers on editorial blast. Get a grip on the realities of recruiting, injuries, team psychology-and put those out there to the Debbie Downers. Coach Alford has been made a constant whipping on here through no fault of his own for a long time. If 11W’s guidelines say “Don’t be a jerk”(whatever that nebulous turn of phrase means), maybe the 11W staff can extend that same courtesy to Coach Alford.
I’ve said it before-I don’t think the site should have DVs. Only UVs, with an identification as to which screen name handed them out. It’s far better to engage with fellow posters-as in reply to their post that you disagree with-than to say “I don’t like this. Let’s gray it out!”
I agree stx. During a week that osu doesn’t run dominantly you’ll see 3-4 different stories on it. During a week they do run well you’ll see a lot less coverage.
The privilege of winning is the expectation. We are fortunate. Who was that QB that we recruited that went to Arizona because he didn't want the pressure of winning that comes with playing at Ohio State? The lights shine bright and the pressure is intense on Saturday's in the fall in Columbus.
Robert M
Totally agree.
But if you committed to a literal sub-nation of people, wouldn’t their support motivate you? As opposed to reading every day how your brotherhood isn’t good enough?
It’s ok to talk about weaknesses, but I would want to feel like my fan base believes that my team can beat anyone and have faith in me.
Just tired of Georgia fans talking about the idea of beating the worst NFL team while we complain about only being a top 20 rushing team with injuries to every one of our scholarship RBs save a true freshman. This team should be applauded for being undefeated at this point, way more than what is happening.
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
Priestas wants anodyne clickbait and and fanboy “concern”, as opposed to real articles.
DVers-please actually respond to this post and explain why it is incorrect.
If Ohio State loses next week, it's a failed season and there won't be any sugar coating it.
So while I agree we have to focus on the positives, all that matters at this point is getting revenge next week. Two failures in a row and we've got serious issues, regardless of injuries, player development, or anything else.
After the smack Michigan talked last year, if that's not enough to motivate everyone to redouble their efforts for the last 300 and some odd days, then there is a problem.
I just think that some have lost the perspective of how awesome it is to pull for a team that has such high aspirations. I probably speak for every OSU fan, on here or not, in understanding that our entire season lives or dies based on what happens November 26th.
It's still ok to appreciate what it took to get to this point though, and take pride in the fact that our season hopes are still in tact despite losing the best WR in the nation and our entire RB room to injury. Trey Sermon handoffs were a waste of a snap, until they weren’t. Let’s pull for this team to keep winning and see if we can’t get on a roll like we’ve done before in the postseason.
I will expect and pull for this team to win, until they don’t and it’s time to look to next season. Until then, I’ll keep on believing they are just as deserving of a Natty as any team that ever won it.
Kitties aren't supposed to smell like cigarettes, they're supposed to smell like kitties.
If the opponent is never worthy of winning, is it really a great win? It’s a great win because they are at times worthy of winning and that’s what makes it THE game.
This is EXACTLY right. We can call it a "cruel reality", but it is reality. The Dodgers and Yankees had tremendous regular seasons and failed when it mattered most. Their seasons were failures. The standard is the same at Ohio State. Nobody will care about beating Toledo if we lose The Game. The biggest homers will say they disagree, but they definitely agree.
Robert M
Nope, I don’t call it failure. I call it sports reality. You obviously can’t.
Those are words taken from the mouths of Dave Roberts and Aaron Boone. As a Red Sox fan, I always hope both teams lose every game, but I respect the hell out of their "world championship or bust" mentality. Any football season at Ohio State that doesn't include a win over TTUN is unsuccessful. We owe it to Woody to acknowledge that.
Robert M
Hell the Yankees were taken to the fifth game by the Guardians. No way were they beating the Asterisks
Buckeye football isn’t every thing on Saturday. It’s the only thing on Saturday
Woody had a far greater understanding of the role of sports in the larger world than you obviously do not.
I think this is the first time in a while where I've just been proud of the team for being successful this far and without any coaching/player scandals.
Obviously to lose to TTUN again and not win a B1G and a NC title this year would be a huge disappointment. But I think I've realized that making myself miserable over my favorite football team is a wasted effort (I'm like that fan whose lost it in the Dr. Pepper Fanville commercials), especially when they are winning.
This team should go to the NC title game. I just don't see us falling short this year.
wb5
Well said.
Rob
I wonder how many of us thought we were witnessing a historic season when we were sweating through the 200s season. Or even after Va Tech in 2014.
Enjoy the ride. It’s good to be a Buckeye.
Beat Michigan
Speak to the site overlords
The 200s was awhile ago. Hard for me to remember 1800+ years of college football. Good for you for being so diligent.
TL; DR
200s, 2002, whatever it takes…
Beat Michigan
Amen!!! If I had 1000 upvotes you would get them. It is hilarious reading the bullshit on this site. I truly believe there are morons here who think they could do a better job than Ryan Day. And the whole "soft" bullshit. LOL. You want soft, look at the game threads when we aren't ahead 75-0. Now that is some soft shit.
Love this post. This team is a really awesome and fun team to watch. It’s been a great season.
Tired of the negativity re the negativity. Let opinions flow without criticizing them. That is what this board is for!
osufan
It's the beauty of the free market. Bad opinions get DV'ed and criticized to death.
We have had MANY opinions calling CJ Stroud weak, calling for Ryan Day's job, calling the team writ large soft, and so forth. I'm not talking about a single isolated post uttered in a moment of frustration, or a valid concern about our run game. The flak that Stroud has taken in various game threads especially is absolutely embarrassing. By posters who are undoubtedly soft, weak, and insignificant in life compared to CJ.
So yeah......I'm going to criticize those opinions, because those opinions are shit. And I'd rather our fan base not be defined by the idiots who spout that nonsense.
I think thats a bit hyperbolic but I could be wrong. I remember in the beginning of 2021 when CJ was struggling pretty significantly with overthrows, so much so that the on-air commentators were talking about it, I saw people getting killed on 11W for merely mentioning it. I barely saw anyone calling for CJ to be benched. What I did see was a bunch of pseudo-CJ Stroud helicopter dads plugging their ears and screaming "LA LA LA LA LA" as if pretending not to acknowledge the issue made it untrue. Maybe I wasn't in the right threads but I do not see people calling for CJ or Ryans job. The team is awesome this year, but I just don't get why there is this tribal binary principle that you either have to think Ohio State is the absolute best at every facet of college football, or your'e a traitor/troll. Like there is definitely a middle ground where people can discuss Ohio State praises and critiques in the context of the national CFB landscape. I still love 11W but I've def spent more time in the college football Reddit threads because you can have realistic conversation about Ohio State without the super homers screaming at every single critique. Dont get me wrong, the "sky is falling" people are equally as annoying. There has to be a happy balance.
Fantastic post my man!
Thank you for this post. Those words were much needed around here.
;-{)}
I feel like this is what has manifested from the game day threads. While I post comments on there, I never single disparage or call a player names or throw around insults. First off, if it were my kid playing I wouldn’t appreciate that at all and I’m sure nobody else would like that either, if it were their son playin. I post frustration at times, if I see an opportunity wasted. But I’m also very congratulatory. Those who only bash the negative plays without anything positive to contribute are more like trolls.
When telling the truth becomes a revolutionary concept, it’s wise to join the revolution
They were one of 2 undefeated teams, even today they would be in the CFP. There were a lot dudes playingn through things in 2002. I think the same will be said with this team come TTUN/CFP time.
Agreed there are a lot negative of comments but its part of the world we live in. However, I think last year's TTUN outcome and some short comings this season has exasperated the comments. With that said there have been a lot positives this season that we should be focusing on. All signs point to Nov 26th. Win and for me it;s Sunshine and Rainbows, lose and its abject despair.
.
Muck Fichigan
Grow the eff up. Refuse to give in to abject despair.
At 64, Buckeye football is one of my last true PASSIONS.
I almost always watch alone. I ask of family and friends 12 Saturdays a year for 4 hours to be left alone. I wont come to your wedding, your funeral, or any functions. So dont ask.
I believe I am a fair fan. I yell, I scream, but I dont knock personal performance.
I DO however, have expectations. The same as when I played. Effort is all I ask. A real effort.
PCSjr
Do you question the effort of specific players or the preparation of specific coaches for the 22’ season?
Totally agree OP. Some of this has gotten insane. Personally, I've distanced myself from almost all of the media and TV in general over the last couple years. It's just too much. I don't even have ESPN in the house anymore. Life is better. I listen to radio broadcast games and that is it besides the roundtable. Good enough for me. I'm much happier with life this way.
Overall it can get frustrating but is what it is. A lot of people here have Michigan in their head rattling around non-stop it seems. Loss really got to them.
What stinks to see is there are several posters here who seem to relish in the team having an issue as though that proves their negativity correct. Really weird tribalism thing.
Misery loves company and validation. Some people were so hurt by last year they became guarded to not feel that again. Must not have grown up in the Cooper years… The beauty of sports makes us feel real emotions without any real consequences.
A little bit of objectivity can go a long way
Here is everything I’ve written and published going back to the 2022 season preview.
I’ve been critical of special teams. I’m not seeing or recalling any other negativity from me? I love this year’s team. I’m also never going to coach any 11W writer or poster away from having their own opinion about the team - we don’t do that here. If I or anyone else has a take that sucks, we own it. It’s ours.
Look at you being all transparent and stuff. Nice work!
Buckeye football isn’t every thing on Saturday. It’s the only thing on Saturday
Hard to knock on Tressel. He won a NC, was in the NC game 3 x.
His last 9 years, OSU finished #1, 4, 20, 4, 2, 5, 9, 5, and 5.
8-1 vs UM, 6-3 in bowl games, and 8 conference championships.
Urban won a NC game.
His 7 years, OSU finished 3rd, 12, 1, 4, 6, 5, and 3rd.
7-0 vs UM, 5-2 in bowl games, but only 3 conference championships.
For comparison:
Ryan has zero NC's. Was in the NC game 1x
His 3 years, OSU finished 3rd, 2, and 6.
2-1 vs UM, 2-2 in bowl games, and 2 conference championships.
Any time you give a man something he doesn't earn, you cheapen him. Our kids earn what they get, and that includes respect - Woody Hayes
I think that's the scary part. The Game seems like a "must win" for many of us. TTUN will probably be better next year and the game is in AA. If this blog wants to see negativity, try a 3 game losing streak to TTUN.
Robert M
Hats off to the OP on his thread!
A lot of negative ninny's haven't been around long enough to understand what it was like 30-40-50 years ago. They have pushed aside the dominance of the program the last two decades. Day made the moves to improve the defensive side of the ball and knew what the "opportunity" was there to help this team. This team has played well all year while developing a new defensive system. Players are playing well together. Let the coaches coach. Just look at how it unfolded when Babb Caught the touchdown last week and how they rallied around their team mate.
The team will not be perfect every game, no team will and many won't even be contenders to play in the playoff. Be happy we have what we have, I remember the 70's, 80's and 90's as well. This team can be one of the great teams that have played at OSU.
Beat Maryland!
Enjoying daily the back to back ttun beat downs.
I have to balance my negativity(Browns fan)...with my extreme positivity about pur Buckeyes.
Ying and Yang of my sports experiences.
I'm just a kid from Akron, Ohio[Goodyear Heights].
Actions speak louder than words
I was thinking about posting something similar yesterday. Some posters here have gotten out of hand and the quality has really gone down. To read post how these coach's and players owe us anything is ridiculous. The amount of criticism alone is out of hand.Do people actually realize its week 10 and were 1 out of 4 teams that are undefeated and have beaten all of our opponents by double digits. Like a poster stated we haven't had our #1 wr for most of the season our #1, #2, #3,#5 and #6 RB have all been injured and missed time and our cb's have been all banged up. Yet were undefeated, won every game by double digits and have a top 5 offense and top 10 defense.Life is good! Yes, we have problems and things can be fixed but dear lord thats with everything in life.If we viewed our own life's like we viewed the football team, our life's would be miserable and downright unbearable. I'm not saying everything needs to be roses and honey but the negativity far outweighs the positive here and is making this board unreadable. This fanbase is starting to sound entitled and not realize how good we actually have it. All I'm asking for is some perspective on this team and this program and a little less negativity
Simple...ignore the outliers.
TLDR
I hope Michigan never wins another game.
Quality post. +1 from me. Perspective matters.
“If trees could scream, would we be so cavalier about cutting them down? We might, if they screamed all the time, for no good reason.”
-Jack Handey
CONCEIVE - BELIEVE- ACHIEVE!
TLDNR, at least not most.
Maybe 11W should have a separate category for those of us that want to keep our scarlet glasses on. I have stayed away from most posts for a long time because I do not like the negativity and name calling.
Beat everyone, in every sport, all the time!!!
TLDNR, at least not most.
Maybe 11W should have a separate category for those of us that want to keep our scarlet glasses on. I have stayed away from most posts for a long time because I do not like the negativity and name calling.
Beat everyone, in every sport, all the time!!!