Ohio State has some difference-makers hiding in plain sight. A trip to Iowa City would be a good time to let them out.

Illinois has interrupted an Ohio State championship climb before. This year’s Buckeyes enter the final Saturday of an imperfect September with plenty of room to rise.

Illinois has interrupted an Ohio State championship climb before. This year’s Buckeyes enter the final Saturday of an imperfect September with plenty of room to rise.

YouTube video by Eleven Warriors

Every episode is a little different, but the tightening always feels the same. Buckeye fans had seen this one before.

The 14th Eleven Warriors charity tailgate will be held on 10/10 behind the Varsity Club.

via DALL-E

Ohio State and Texas spent opening weekend hiding tendencies and exposing flaws. On Saturday night, their alibis expire.

Ohio State and Texas spent opening weekend hiding tendencies and exposing flaws. On Saturday night, their alibis expire.

Your preseason No. 1 team has a recent national title and a five-year conference title drought. Just another perfectly normal September in Columbus.

Your preseason No. 1 team has a recent national title and a five-year conference title drought. Just another perfectly normal September in Columbus.

A new season of familiar expectations, an uncommon bourbon and the nation’s No. 1 team trying to stop fighting itself.

A new season of familiar expectations, an uncommon bourbon and the nation’s No. 1 team trying to stop fighting itself.