GLENDALE, Ariz. — Ohio State’s locker room at State Farm Stadium on Saturday night was like most losing locker rooms. There was shock and there was silence, save for a lot of door slamming. Players showered and dressed quickly so they could get the you-know-what out of there.
In a corner of the room sat sophomore Chris Olave, the Buckeyes’ No. 1 wide receiver. He was still wearing pads and cleats, and his head hung low—not because he was looking at his phone (he wasn’t). Only minutes had passed since he had a unique chance to play hero and clinch the Buckeyes a trip to the national championship.