5 things we think we learned from Ohio State football's loss to USC

November 1, 2026

Ohio State’s 30–18 loss to USC on a rain-soaked night in Southern California exposed significant flaws in a program still adjusting to life without star quarterback Julian Sayin. Freshman Luke Fahey, thrust into his first road start, struggled with accuracy and decision-making, while the Buckeyes’ offense compounded his challenges with costly penalties, dropped passes, and a lack of cohesion.

The team’s defensive and offensive units combined for a performance that left them with more turnovers and infractions than points scored, raising questions about their ability to sustain momentum in a tight College Football Playoff race—especially after their earlier upset loss to Texas. Despite flashes of poise from Fahey, the Buckeyes’ offensive identity remains unclear, and their reliance on a freshman quarterback in high-pressure situations has become a growing concern as the season ticks on.

The loss also underscored the need for Ohio State to maximize the impact of its most dynamic weapon, running back Jeremiah Smith, whose explosive plays could be the difference-maker in future games. With the Buckeyes now slipping to second place in the Big Ten and playoff hopes growing increasingly slim, the coaching staff faces a critical juncture: either refine the offense around Fahey or risk watching key opportunities slip away before the season’s end.