Jim Tressel Compares Ohio State’s 2024 Team to Its 2002 Team, Lathan Ransom Calls the Buckeyes “Special”

The Ohio State Buckeyes football program has long been a powerhouse in college football, boasting a rich history of championships, Heisman winners, and legendary coaches. While the 2023 season is in the rearview mirror, the buzz around the 2024 Buckeyes is palpable, with many fans and experts already setting their sights on next season. What makes the 2024 season particularly exciting is the optimism surrounding the team’s potential, especially after some exciting developments and the continued evolution of key players.

One of the most fascinating comparisons to emerge as Ohio State heads into 2024 is between the current team and the 2002 Ohio State Buckeyes, a team that remains one of the most celebrated in the program’s history. As expectations for the 2024 season continue to rise, former head coach Jim Tressel, who led the 2002 squad to a national championship, has weighed in with an interesting comparison between the two teams. In addition, star defensive back Lathan Ransom has spoken passionately about the team’s character and what makes this group special.

The combination of historical insight from Tressel and Ransom’s firsthand experience on the current team gives a unique perspective on Ohio State’s 2024 squad and its potential to emulate the greatness of past Buckeyes teams. This discussion sheds light on the connections between two eras of Buckeyes football and provides insight into what could be a defining year for Ohio State.

The 2002 Ohio State Buckeyes: A National Championship Legacy

To understand the context of Jim Tressel’s comments about Ohio State’s 2024 team, it’s important to revisit the 2002 Ohio State Buckeyes and their unforgettable national championship run.

Led by Tressel in his second year at Ohio State, the 2002 Buckeyes were a team that embodied grit, determination, and resilience. The Buckeyes finished the regular season undefeated, claiming the Big Ten Championship and securing a berth in the BCS National Championship Game against Miami. The game, played on January 3, 2003, in the Fiesta Bowl, is one of the most thrilling and controversial contests in college football history.

The game went into overtime, and Ohio State secured a 31-24 victory, delivering the program its first national title since 1968. The win was remarkable not only for the outcome but also because the Buckeyes were seen as underdogs against a Miami team loaded with future NFL stars, including Frank Gore, Willis McGahee, and Ed Reed.

What made the 2002 team special was its ability to rise to the occasion. The defense, led by future NFL players like Chris Gamble and A.J. Hawk, was ferocious and opportunistic, making key stops at critical moments. On offense, Craig Krenzel was steady at quarterback, and Maurice Clarett emerged as a freshman sensation in the backfield, carrying the team on his shoulders with clutch plays.

Tressel, known for his conservative, methodical approach, built a team that was tough, disciplined, and capable of making plays when it mattered most. The 2002 Buckeyes didn’t blow out their opponents; they won games by showing poise in close situations and responding to adversity with unwavering confidence.

Jim Tressel’s 2024 Comparison: A Similar Vibe

As Ohio State enters the 2024 season, the echoes of 2002 seem to reverberate through the program. When Jim Tressel was recently asked about the similarities between his 2002 national championship team and the current 2024 squad, he was quick to draw some compelling comparisons.

Tressel noted that, like the 2002 team, the 2024 Buckeyes are composed of players who know how to handle pressure and execute in big moments. “In 2002, we had a group of guys who were just incredibly focused,” Tressel remarked. “They understood what it took to win. The 2024 team has a similar vibe. They have that look in their eyes—no one’s scared of the moment, and they’re ready to step up when it counts.”

Tressel also pointed out that Ohio State’s defense in 2002 was one of the most physical and opportunistic units in the country. The same can be said about the 2024 Buckeyes, who, under defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, have become known for their aggressive style and ability to generate turnovers. Ohio State’s defense has developed into a formidable unit that can change the course of a game with a single play. Tressel believes that this unit has the same “take no prisoners” mentality that the 2002 squad had, which is one of the keys to championship football.

While the 2002 team was known for its ability to win tight games, Tressel also sees that same resilience in the 2024 squad. “The key to winning championships is doing it in tough, close games,” he said. “The 2024 team has shown they can do that. It’s something that’s very much like the 2002 team.”

However, Tressel’s comparison goes beyond the X’s and O’s. He’s also noticed a similar mindset and culture among the players. “In 2002, the guys had a real belief in themselves and each other. You could see the brotherhood they had,” Tressel said. “This 2024 team has that same type of bond. They’re playing for each other, and that makes all the difference in the world.”

Lathan Ransom’s View on the 2024 Buckeyes

In addition to Tressel’s perspective, Lathan Ransom, one of the standout players on Ohio State’s defense, has been vocal about what makes the 2024 team special. The senior safety, who has been a key figure for the Buckeyes over the past few seasons, has consistently spoken about the team’s mentality and drive.

In a recent interview, Ransom was asked what sets the 2024 Buckeyes apart from previous teams, and he didn’t hesitate to provide an answer: “We’re a special group. We’ve got talent, we’ve got leadership, and we’ve got a mentality that we’re going to compete every single play.” Ransom emphasized that the team’s chemistry and unity were what stood out the most. “We all trust each other, and that’s what makes us different. Everyone’s bought in, from the offense to the defense. We’re all on the same page, and that’s how we’re going to win.”

Ransom’s comments reflect a level of confidence and belief that is essential for championship teams. It’s clear that, like the 2002 squad, the 2024 Buckeyes have created a strong sense of brotherhood and camaraderie that will serve them well as they chase another national title. Ransom’s leadership on the defensive side of the ball, along with the overall mindset of the team, has given Ohio State fans hope that the program could be on the verge of something special in 2024.

Ohio State’s Potential in 2024: A National Title Contender

With the comparisons to the 2002 national championship team and the high praise from both Jim Tressel and Lathan Ransom, the 2024 Ohio State Buckeyes are certainly a team to watch. The combination of experienced leadership, top-tier talent, and a winning mentality positions the Buckeyes as strong contenders for the College Football Playoff (CFP) and potentially the national title.

The offense, led by Kyle McCord or Devin Brown at quarterback, is loaded with talent, including Marvin Harrison Jr., who is widely regarded as one of the top wide receivers in the country. The offensive line, one of Ohio State’s trademarks, is poised to dominate, and the running back room is deep with playmakers. The defense, which has become increasingly formidable under Jim Knowles, has all the pieces to be one of the best in the nation, especially with stars like Ransom, Jack Sawyer, and Steel Chambers.

What makes the 2024 Buckeyes so intriguing is their balance. The offense is explosive, the defense is stingy, and the team has proven to be resilient in high-pressure situations. They have the ability to win close games, something that is critical when chasing a national championship.

With the combination of strong leadership, exceptional talent, and the belief that they can accomplish great things, the 2024 Ohio State Buckeyes are poised to make a serious run at the College Football Playoff and perhaps, much like the 2002 team, etch their name in history as national champions.

 A Championship Caliber Team

As the 2024 season approaches, Ohio State’s fans are filled with anticipation for what could be another magical year in Buckeyes football. The comparisons to the 2002 national championship team, as expressed by both Jim Tressel and Lathan Ransom, are a testament to the potential of this year’s squad. The 2002 team was defined by its toughness, resilience, and ability to perform in clutch moments, and the 2024 Buckeyes are showing similar qualities.

Whether or not they will achieve the same level of success remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the 2024 Ohio State Buckeyes are a team to watch, and their pursuit of greatness will captivate college football fans across the country. With the right mix of leadership, talent, and determination, Ohio State could very well be on the cusp of another championship run.