Summary of "Ohio State’s Dominant CFP Run and Ben Johnson’s Fit in Chicago" – The McShay Show

Introduction

In the January 21, 2025 episode of The McShay Show hosted by Todd McShay, long-time NFL Draft and College Football Analyst, the discussion primarily revolves around Ohio State's impressive run in the College Football Playoff (CFP) and the potential fit of Ben Johnson as the head coach of the Chicago Bears. The episode delves deep into game analyses, player performances, coaching strategies, and draft prospects, providing listeners with comprehensive insights into the current landscape of college and professional football.

1. Ohio State’s CFP Run and the 12-Team Format

Todd McShay begins the episode by addressing the newly implemented 12-team CFP format. While acknowledging its imperfections, he emphasizes the progress it represents compared to the previous four-team system.

Todd McShay [00:12]: "But for all the complaining in this first year of the 12 team playoff, I want to remind everyone Ohio State's not in the old format... We would not have had that in the old format. So that's my initial take to all of this. Like, let's celebrate this 12 team playoff and if it gets to 14, 16, whatever it is down the road, hear about changes... But let's celebrate what we have because it's better than what we had. And to me that's progress."

Despite criticisms of the format, McShay defends Ohio State's exclusion from the playoff in the previous year, attributing their loss to a single game against Michigan rather than a reflection of their overall program strength.

2. Analysis of Notre Dame vs. Ohio State Game

The heart of the episode focuses on the national championship game between Notre Dame and Ohio State. McShay and his co-host dissect pivotal moments, player performances, and strategic decisions that defined the game.

a. Key Plays and Player Performances

A standout moment discussed is Riley Leonard's remarkable drive for Notre Dame, which, despite ending in a loss, showcased his determination and potential.

Co-host B [06:45]: "I was like, like this is what it's all about. And he did that. And so that shocked me right off the top... so that was awesome."

McShay highlights Will Howard's (Ohio State quarterback) evolution over the season, praising his decision-making and adaptability against Notre Dame's defensive strategies.

McShay [05:04]: "But Will Howard tonight, he saw there were... and now I'm seeing anticipation throws... he knows when to take the shots, knows when to be aggressive."

b. Defensive Strategies

The discussion delves into Notre Dame's heavy reliance on man-to-man coverage versus zone defenses, comparing it to previous defensive performances and adjusting strategies accordingly.

Co-host B [08:51]: "They played zone coverage on every play, every snap... and Ohio State accepted that, and the task then became... to earn these drives and be efficient."

They also commend Ohio State's defensive unit, particularly players like JTT and Jack Sawyer, for their outstanding performances throughout the playoff.

McShay [63:14]: "The whole defense elevated every, like throughout this entire College Football Playoff... honestly, the whole defense elevated every."

3. Player Draft Prospects

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to evaluating Ohio State players' prospects in the upcoming NFL Draft. McShay analyzes standout athletes, projecting their potential draft positions based on their performances.

a. Will Howard

Will Howard's improved gameplay earns substantial praise, positioning him as a top draft prospect due to his enhanced decision-making and leadership on the field.

Co-host B [19:48]: "I think that's critical as we get in the Senior bowl and we start talking about him as a prospect at 6 foot 4, 235 pounds with some mobility. And now I'm seeing anticipation throws."

b. Jeremiah Smith

Smith's athleticism and critical plays, especially in clutch moments, make him a highly regarded receiver in this draft class.

Co-host B [75:32]: "All those players... Stabby Brown. You're able to do that when you respond the way that they responded."

c. Other Notable Players

Players like Joey Bosa, Zeke Elliott, Eli Apple, and Taylor Decker are highlighted for their consistent performances and high draft stock, reflecting Ohio State's depth in talent.

McShay [46:02]: "Forget nil. Forget old versus new... it's not the best team... it's not the best talent that's been on a roster at Ohio State. It's not... it's not."

4. Chip Kelly’s Role and Coaching Style

Chip Kelly, Ohio State's offensive coordinator, is lauded for his innovative coaching methods and offensive strategies that have significantly contributed to the team's success. McShay discusses Kelly’s history, work ethic, and his dynamic approach to offense.

Co-host B [30:10]: "Chip is an absolute lunatic... a football history buff... he's in the lab all the time and he's a junkie and he's kind of a football buff."

Kelly's ability to adapt and implement creative plays under pressure is highlighted as a key factor in Ohio State’s dominant performance.

Co-host B [37:14]: "He had this kind of cat... How big of a fiend he is and how many hours spent in the lab."

5. NFL Draft Discussion: Ben Johnson’s Fit with the Chicago Bears

Towards the episode's end, McShay shifts focus to the NFL, speculating on the potential hiring of Ben Johnson as the head coach for the Chicago Bears. They explore the implications of this move, considering Johnson’s coaching prowess and the Bears' current roster needs.

Co-host B [83:03]: "But no, you're good... but you're a different cat... If you’re watching Chip, and I know you’re not because you’re celebrating a national championship, but if word gets back to you and I’ll make sure I shoot you a text. You owe me a computer."

The conversation assesses how Johnson's offensive expertise could revitalize the Bears' struggling offensive line, despite potential challenges in adapting to a new role and managing high-talent quarterbacks like Caleb Williams.

McShay [86:04]: "You're just skeptical that it's going to happen... sometimes when it’s like, oh, it’s a perfect coordinator. Too good to be true."

6. Season Memorable Moments

McShay and his co-host reminisce about the season's standout games and memorable plays, highlighting dramatic moments and exceptional individual performances that defined the year.

McShay [65:01]: "Texas Arizona State in the playoff game was the best game by far... Cam Ward had 343, four touchdowns in that game."

They recount thrilling plays, such as the controversial Hail Mary against Virginia Tech and impressive performances by players like Jaden Greathouse and Tyler Warren.

7. Future Outlook and Predictions

Looking ahead, the hosts discuss upcoming games, draft preparations, and potential shifts in coaching roles. They express optimism about Ohio State's continued dominance and the evolving strategies in the NFL.

McShay [94:04]: "But who else? Who. Like, if you. If I’m telling you... what other direction do you want?"

They also touch upon other teams poised for breakout seasons, mentioning Clemson, LSU, and Florida, predicting their trajectories based on recent performances and coaching changes.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with reflections on Ohio State's remarkable CFP journey, the strategic insights of Chip Kelly, and the prospective impact of Ben Johnson in the NFL. Todd McShay and his co-host provide a balanced perspective, celebrating the achievements of the season while anticipating future developments in college and professional football.

McShay [98:01]: "We got to keep this thing going so we can stay alive. But we're fired up to get in the draft season. This is a perfect way to end it."

Listeners are encouraged to stay tuned for upcoming shows focusing on the NFL Draft and additional post-season analyses.

Notable Quotes

• Todd McShay [00:12]: "Let's celebrate what we have because it's better than what we had. And to me that's progress."

• Co-host B [19:48]: "I think that's critical as we get in the Senior bowl and we start talking about him as a prospect at 6 foot 4, 235 pounds with some mobility."

• Co-host B [30:10]: "Chip is an absolute lunatic... a football history buff... he's in the lab all the time."

• McShay [46:02]: "Forget nil. Forget old versus new... it's not the best team... it's not the best talent that's been on a roster at Ohio State."

• Co-host B [75:32]: "All those players... You're able to do that when you respond the way that they responded."

Final Thoughts

This episode of The McShay Show offers an in-depth analysis of Ohio State's stellar CFP performance, evaluating both the team's strategic advancements and individual player growth. Coupled with discussions on NFL coaching dynamics and draft prospects, it provides listeners with a thorough understanding of the current state and future directions of college and professional football.