I figured since the circumstances have changed we needed a 2007 letter...
Dear Ohio State Buckeyes:
First off, take pride in that introduction, because you are Buckeyes, and you are THE Ohio State University...look at the block O logo's on your shirts you're all probably wearing, and take pride in wearing the scarlet and grey. You have represented your school with so much class and respect his year, you have made the Buckeye nation proud, but you're not done yet.
In an earlier letter I talked about staying for your senior years. But if you take advantage of your chances, what more could you accomplish at Ohio State. You've already won the Illibuck two years ago, you've beaten Penn State, you've beaten Michigan both at home and on the road. Win this national championship, and you will be able to leave The Ohio State knowing you did absolutely everything you could have possible done while wearing the scarlet and grey. You bring home National Championship and you will forever be remembered as legends and perfect Buckeyes for beating Michigan and winning that crystal football. Yeah, you lost to the Illini, but in the eyes of future Buckeye fans, a defeat of Michigan and a Championship will only result in them viewing you as "Perfect."
To the defense: I also wrote earlier about how all of you could leave early and be drafted pretty high in the first round. Well, now that you have a title shot, a win would allow you to make the right decision for yourself while knowing that there will be no "what-if," there will be no question marks because what else could you possibly accomplish? You'd have the option of leaving and doing what's best for your family, with no futher obligation to Ohio State. Last year most of you were on and played in that game against Florida, in which you were blown out. Redeem yourselves, for you are the 2007 Buckeye defense.
To the offense: You guys have to prove yourselves. Last year most of you sat the bench, and many thought you would suffer without Troy Smith and Ted Ginn and Gonzo and Pittman. Many think you haven't faced a great defense, and many think LSU's defense will dominate. Most of you aren't seniors, but at the same time this will may be your last shot at a championship.
Guess what? LSU if the favorite, and they will be favored by a touchdown. Experts say you can't beat any SEC team, they say you're too slow, not athletic enough. They say LSU will have more fans there to support them and more confidence. They say you haven't beaten one great team yet, and most think you're going to embarrass yourselves - again. Am I trying to rile you guys up? You bet I am. Are all of my words true? You bet they are.
The fact of the matter is this season has been crazy for all 119 NCAA football Division one teams. You have survived, and you got a little lucky to get into this championship game, but you have deserved it. LSU is the favorite - their only two losses have been in triple OT to great teams, while you lost to Illini on your homefield. Do either of those records matter now? No. You are the two teams playing for a national championship, the past does not matter.
A national championship in a season where you defeated Michigan will live on forever. Ask anyone to name members on the 2002 team. Now ask them about 2001 or 2003...you'll be surprised at how quicker they name the title team rather than the other two.
This is a young team. But will next year bring another shot at the title? Probably not. This is your moment - seize it. Many Buckeye fans won't be around next year, and this is your shot to make their lives. Make January 7th, 2008, the best day of our lives. I know a win would make that statement true.
Being a champion is the pinnacle of sports. It means that for the 2007 NCAA football season, you guys were the best; you guys were #1; you guys were on top of the college football mountain; you guys won the National Title; and you guys are National Champions. You are the best in College Football in 2007 - that title is reserved for the winner of that game.
Buckeyes: Go out in a perfect season in all eyes, and win the National Championship of 2007 for Ohio State, for the Buckeyes, and for the Scarlet and Grey.
Our honor defend we will fight to the end for O-HI-O.
Sincerely,
Buckeye Nation
crazedbuckeye333
Scarlet Buckeye Forums
