Paul Finebaum predicts Ohio State can still make playoffs with three losses
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 22, 2026, 4:11 AM
Last updated Sep 22, 2026

Ohio State lost to Texas 24-23 after leading 23-3, with a late touchdown sealing Texas's comeback. ESPN's Paul Finebaum believes Ohio State's playoff chances remain strong despite the loss. He argues that if the Buckeyes finish 9-3, they will still make the playoffs under the new 12-team format, where strength of schedule is heavily weighted. The game showcased notable performances from Texas players, including Arch Manning and Hollywood Smothers. Ohio State still faces challenging games ahead, including matchups against Oregon and Michigan.
- •Ohio State led 23-3 before losing to Texas.
- •Finebaum claims a 9-3 Ohio State team will get playoff consideration.
- •The new 12-team playoff format favors teams with strong schedules.
- •Texas scored 21 points in the fourth quarter to complete the comeback.
- •Upcoming games include matchups against Oregon and Michigan.
- 4:11 AMYahoo Sports — ESPN’s Paul Finebaum Says One Big Ten Powerhouse Will Make the Playoff Even With 3 Losses: “I’ll Guarantee You”
"Ohio State somehow managed to turn a game it controlled for most of the night into a loss it will be talking about for months. The Buckeyes led Texas 23-3 before everything unraveled in the fourth quarter.
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