With a loaded roster and a talented head coach, expectations were high for the 1937 season. The Buckeyes shutout six of their eight opponents, but mistakes cost the team a shot at greatness.
Francis Schmidt had started hot out of the gate for Ohio State, going 14–2 in his first two seasons on the sideline in Columbus. In his third campaign, his Buckeyes finished 5–3, despite outscoring opponents 160-27.
Most importantly, Schmidt was 3–0 against the despised Michigan Wolverines.
Needless to say, fans were now flocking to Ohio Stadium, despite the lingering effects of the Great Depression.