Two years ago, Ohio State, having narrowly missed a CFP bid and dealing with a couple of marquee opt-outs, faced both motivation questions and an early deficit in the Rose Bowl. The Buckeyes showed resolve, however, battling back from 14 down at halftime to beat Utah, 48-45.
This time around, No. 6 Ohio State has narrowly missed a CFP bid and is dealing with the prospect of even more opt-outs (and the transfer of starting quarterback Kyle McCord). The Devin Brown, against No. 9 Missouri, could test their resolve even more. The Buckeyes are Mizzou's highest-ranked bowl opponent since the 1970 Orange Bowl, and the Tigers should make it to the game with their two-deep mostly intact.