Ohio State football is typically synonymous with dominance, relentless competition, and a storied tradition of excellence. However, 2025 has proven to be a year of frustration, disappointment, and perhaps most shockingly, bad luck. Sure, the Buckeyes have had their fair share of struggles before, but the numbers emerging this season suggest something far more sinister—something that can’t be chalked up solely to bad coaching or player performance.
The stat in question: Ohio State’s turnover margin.
Currently sitting at a dismal -6 turnover differential, this number has been a silent killer in the team’s downfall this season. In 2025, turnovers have not just been a bad habit; they have been the defining factor in multiple losses. Whether it’s a fumble at the worst possible time or a crucial interception thrown deep in enemy territory, the Buckeyes have found every possible way to hand games over to their opponents.
The impact? Consider the fact that in their three losses, Ohio State gave up an average of 3.4 turnovers per game, while their opponents averaged 1.1 turnovers. In one of the most glaring examples, a brutal 17-14 loss to Michigan, the Buckeyes had four turnovers in the second half alone, handing the Wolverines the ball on multiple occasions in critical moments. That’s a statistic that echoes throughout the season—Ohio State’s failure to protect the ball has been their Achilles’ heel.
While it’s easy to blame head coach Ryan Day or the offensive playcalling, the turnover issue is more than just a byproduct of coaching. The stats tell a different, harsher truth. Players seem rattled, out of sync, and often unable to execute even the most basic of plays. The sheer volume of turnovers isn’t just a coincidence; it’s a glaring issue that speaks to internal dysfunction and a lack of execution at the most critical moments.
But the turnover issue isn’t just hurting Ohio State offensively. The defense, which has otherwise been stout and aggressive, is being put in untenable positions far too often. With the offense failing to generate sustained drives and consistently handing the ball back to opponents, the defense is forced to carry the weight of a team that hasn’t been able to hold onto the ball. The Buckeyes’ defense has been on the field for over 75 more snaps than their opponents this season—significantly impacting their ability to stay fresh and effective, especially in the second half.
In addition, this turnover plague has severely hampered Ohio State’s ability to control games. A team that once relied on clock control, high-efficiency drives, and a balanced attack has been thrown off balance entirely. Instead of controlling the game and dictating tempo, Ohio State is now constantly playing from behind, trying to make up for mistakes that could’ve been avoided.
Here’s where the controversy comes in: Is it fair to say the Buckeyes have simply been “screwed” by bad luck? Or is it time to look deeper and consider that Ohio State might have a culture problem? The constant turnovers suggest that Ohio State has failed to adjust to the pressures of high-stakes games. The question on everyone’s mind: Are they falling victim to a mental block, where the weight of expectations becomes too much, or has something in the team’s preparation and leadership structure gone terribly awry?
Whatever the case, the turnovers have been the stat that’s cost Ohio State more than any other this season. In a season where every inch counts, where every decision is magnified, and where every opportunity is vital, the Buckeyes’ inability to take care of the ball has exposed them in ways that no fan or analyst could have predicted.
It’s the perfect storm of misfortune, poor execution, and underperformance. And unless this turnover problem is addressed—soon—Ohio State’s 2025 season will be remembered not for what they could have achieved, but for how the game slipped right through their fingers.