Former Ohio State standout running back Maurice Clarett recently discussed the Buckeyes’ national championship aspirations in an interview with TMZ, despite their tough defeat against Michigan.
We chatted with the legendary Maurice Clarett about the Michigan versus Ohio State matchup, the future of Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day (did OSU make the right choice in retaining him?), and whether @ReeseClarett13 thinks the season’s chances have vanished after the loss to the Wolverines!
Plus, is Clarett considering a coaching career? pic.twitter.com/Cm4SihUnTY— TMZ Sports (@TMZ_Sports) December 6, 2024
“I’m not one to dwell on a single moment when there are so many other things ahead,” Clarett remarked. “The playoffs are approaching, and we’re likely set to play on December 21 or 22. There are still several games left to play.”
“The season continues. That’s where my attention lies, and that’s what I believe the young players and the entire team should focus on as well.”
Undoubtedly, the Ohio State and Michigan rivalry is a significant event both squads anticipate yearly, meaning disappointed fans will be feeling the weight of the loss.
(2002) Maurice Clarett makes an impressive debut, running for 175 yards and 3 touchdowns, including a memorable first big play as a Buckeye.pic.twitter.com/lWM1lCnUWb
— Buckeyes in the NFL (@LetsGoBuckeyes) July 25, 2022
This defeat has placed OSU head coach Ryan Day under scrutiny, as he has now experienced four consecutive losses in “The Game.”
However, Clarett asserts that the onus should not solely fall on the coach, particularly noting Day’s successful record of 66 wins against 10 losses throughout his time with the program.
Fortunately for Ohio State, as Clarett highlighted, the new College Football Playoffs provide the Buckeyes (10-2) with a path to a championship, which may give Day a lifeline to retain his position.
📽 #ChampionshipMoments 2002
OHIO STATE 31 | MIAMI 24Maurice Clarett makes a pivotal play, stealing the ball back from Sean Taylor after the interception pic.twitter.com/1GaoybxOE9
— Pick Six Previews (@PickSixPreviews) January 7, 2019
Clarett understands the concept of second chances well, having experienced his share of legal troubles during his time in college. Before serving three years for robbery, he successfully led Ohio State to a national championship (defeating Miami 31-24) in his only season as a collegiate player.
In his breakout freshman year in 2002, Clarett rushed for 1,237 yards at an impressive average of 5.6 yards per carry, scoring a total of 18 touchdowns.
The 2024 season has not lived up to expectations for the Buckeyes, with their additional loss coming to the top-ranked Oregon (Ohio State lost 32-31), a team they might face again in the playoffs.
Image Source: Maurice Clarett @ Instagram
