Coming off the program's first national championship in 34 years, things should have been euphoric in Columbus.
Unfortunately, there was a cloud of controversy and uncertainty entering the 2003 season. Ohio State eventually suspended star running back Maurice Clarett for the season due to filing a false police report. The defending champs should have had him in the backfield with eyes on another trophy. Instead, Clarett stood on the outside looking in and never again took the field in a Buckeye uniform.
| The 2003 Buckeyes | |
|---|---|
| Record | 11–2 |
| B1G Record | 6–2, 2nd |
| Coach | Jim Tressel (3rd year, 32–7) |
| CaptainS | Tim Anderson, Michael Jenkins, Craig Krenzel, Will Smith September 13th • #24 NC State • Ohio Stadium |