Murphy: Ohio State’s loss to Oregon needs to lead to program changes

For all intents and purposes, Ohio State’s game against Oregon on Saturday afternoon was a must-win. The Buckeyes returned home after a disappointing loss at USC last week and welcomed a Ducks team to Ohio Stadium that already had three losses and whose season had gone sideways.

For one quarter, the Scarlet and Gray played like a team that knew everything was on the line. Ohio State took a 14-0 lead with 1:20 to play in the opening stanza. From there, everything fell apart.

Oregon kicked a field goal to cut the lead to 11 points early in the second quarter. After one more punt, the Ducks scored touchdowns on three straight possessions. A missed 52-yard field goal was the only thing that kept the visitors from scoring on five consecutive drives.

Ohio State’s 2026 college football season is in the final stretch. The Buckeyes suffered a second loss of the season at USC, but still have plenty to play for this year. There is so much  news and insight regarding the Scarlet and Gray as the season begins. Ohio State basketball’s 2026-27 season is here as the Buckeyes look to build on last year’s success. It’s the busiest time of year for Ohio State. Stay on top of the latest Buckeye news by BECOMING A BUCKNUTS SUBSCRIBER today!

Ultimately, the Buckeyes lost 41-28. It’s the type of loss that effectively ends the Scarlet and Gray’s season and could be program-changing.

It starts with the coaching staff.