The 1935 edition of Ohio State football featured a team with speed, size and depth. The special squad faced a fierce schedule with Notre Dame, Illinois and Michigan on the slate. Fans hoped Francis Schmidt – the football innovator, dreamer and schemer – would bring Ohio State its first national championship.
The 1934 season breathed new life into the Ohio State football program. Francis Schmidt and his myriad plays and formations had the players and fans excited for every offensive snap. With many talented players returning from that team, a Rose Bowl invitation and national championship were realistic goals in 1935.