Maurice Clarett, a former standout running back at Ohio State, recently shared his insights with TMZ about the Buckeyes’ prospects for a national championship, even after their tough defeat to Michigan.
We talked to the great Maurice Clarett about Michigan vs. Ohio State, the future of Buckeyes HC Ryan Day (did OSU make the right move keeping him?), and whether @ReeseClarett13 believes the season is lost after losing to the Wolverines!
Also, would Clarett ever go into coaching? pic.twitter.com/Cm4SihUnTY— TMZ Sports (@TMZ_Sports) December 6, 2024
“I’m not the type to lament a single moment when there are many other opportunities ahead of you,” Clarett remarked. “The playoffs are still looming. We’re either playing on December 21 or 22, and we have several games to focus on.”
“There’s still a season to be played. That’s where my attention lies, and I think that should be the mindset for the younger players and the entire team.”
Undoubtedly, the Ohio State-Michigan rivalry is a significant event on both teams’ calendars, resulting in disappointment for losing fans.
(2002) Maurice Clarett runs for 175 yards and 3 touchdowns in his collegiate debut, including his first big play as a Buckeye.pic.twitter.com/lWM1lCnUWb
— Buckeyes in the NFL (@LetsGoBuckeyes) July 25, 2022
This prolonged streak of losses has put head coach Ryan Day in a precarious position, as he has now suffered defeat in “The Game” for four consecutive years.
However, Clarett emphasizes that not all the responsibility should rest on Day’s shoulders, especially given his impressive record of 66 wins and 10 losses during his coaching tenure.
Nonetheless, as Clarett noted, the new College Football Playoffs provide Ohio State (10-2) with a chance to pursue a championship, which may also help Day to retain his position.
📽 #ChampionshipMoments 2002
OHIO STATE 31 | MIAMI 24Maurice Clarett steals the ball back from Sean Taylor after the INT pic.twitter.com/1GaoybxOE9
— Pick Six Previews (@PickSixPreviews) January 7, 2019
Clarett is no stranger to second chances, as he faced legal troubles during his playing career and served three years in prison for robbery charges. However, he managed to guide Ohio State to a national championship during his only collegiate season, defeating Miami 31-24.
During his impressive freshman season in 2002, Clarett rushed for 1,237 yards (averaging 5.6 yards per carry) and scored 18 touchdowns.
The 2024 season has not gone as planned, as Ohio State’s other defeat came against the top-ranked Oregon team (the Buckeyes lost 32-31), which is a team they could potentially face again in the playoffs.
