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**Why Ohio State Is the Most Recession-Proof Program in College Football**

In the ever-changing landscape of college football, where dynasties rise and fall, coaching tenures are fleeting, and recruiting battles shift like the wind, one program has remained a constant force: Ohio State. Through economic downturns, conference realignment, and even a global pandemic, the Buckeyes have not just survived—they’ve thrived. No program in the country is as recession-proof as Ohio State, and there are several key reasons why.

### **1. Unmatched Financial Stability**
College football is a billion-dollar industry, and few programs generate revenue like Ohio State. The Buckeyes consistently rank among the top three in annual athletic revenue, bringing in over $250 million per year. Their football program alone generates more than $100 million annually, thanks to massive TV contracts, sold-out stadiums (even in down years), and one of the most passionate fan bases in the sport.

Unlike schools that rely heavily on donor contributions or conference payouts, Ohio State’s financial model is self-sustaining. The Big Ten’s media rights deal, which will pay member schools over $80 million annually starting in 2024, only strengthens their position. Even in an economic downturn, Ohio State’s brand is strong enough to maintain sponsorship deals, ticket sales, and merchandising at an elite level.

### **2. A Recruiting Base That Never Dries Up**
Recruiting is the lifeblood of any college football program, and Ohio State benefits from one of the most talent-rich home states in the country. Ohio annually produces multiple blue-chip prospects, and the Buckeyes have a near-monopoly on the best in-state players. Unlike programs that have to recruit nationally to stay competitive, Ohio State can build a championship-caliber roster just by keeping the top Ohio prospects home.

But it doesn’t stop there—Ohio State’s brand is so strong that it pulls elite talent from across the country. From Texas (Quinn Ewers) to Florida (Marvin Harrison Jr.) to California (Jack Sawyer), the Buckeyes recruit at a level only Alabama and Georgia can match. Even when other programs struggle to retain commits during coaching changes or losing seasons, Ohio State rarely loses recruits because of its stability.

### **3. Coaching Continuity & Elite Succession Planning**
Since World War II, Ohio State has had just five full-time coaches who lasted more than three seasons: Woody Hayes, Earle Bruce, John Cooper, Jim Tressel, and Urban Meyer. That kind of longevity is unheard of in modern college football. Even when transitions happen, Ohio State doesn’t just hire a coach—it hires a CEO who understands the expectations.

Ryan Day, despite early skepticism, has proven to be a seamless successor to Urban Meyer. He has maintained Ohio State’s status as a perennial playoff contender while modernizing the offense. The program’s infrastructure ensures that even if Day were to leave, the next coach would inherit a loaded roster, top-tier facilities, and an administration fully committed to winning.

### **4. The Michigan Factor (And Rivalry Dominance)**
A program’s health can often be measured by how it performs against its biggest rival. Ohio State has dominated Michigan for the better part of two decades, winning 18 of the last 22 meetings. This streak has reinforced the Buckeyes’ psychological edge in recruiting and national perception.

Even in years when Ohio State doesn’t win a national title, beating Michigan keeps the fan base engaged and the revenue flowing. The rivalry is so important that a single loss (like in 2021 or 2023) is treated as a crisis—proof of how high the standard is. Meanwhile, Michigan’s occasional victories don’t destabilize Ohio State’s long-term trajectory.

### **5. NFL Pipeline & Player Development**
Players go to Ohio State to win championships—but also to get to the NFL. The Buckeyes have had 92 players drafted since 2015, the most of any program. In 2023 alone, Ohio State had six first-round picks. This reputation as an NFL factory ensures that even in “down” years, elite recruits still flock to Columbus.

Coaches like Larry Johnson (defensive line) and Brian Hartline (wide receivers) have built position groups that are virtually guaranteed to produce All-Americans and high draft picks. This development track record means Ohio State doesn’t need to rely on transfer portal fixes—it reloads with high school talent.

### **6. The Brand Is Bigger Than Any One Season**
Some programs rise and fall with a single superstar player or coach. Ohio State doesn’t. Even in “off” years (like 2023’s 11-2 season), the Buckeyes remain in the national conversation. The program’s brand is so strong that a two-loss season is considered a disappointment, while at most schools, it would be a success.

Ohio State fans travel, buy merchandise, and pack the Shoe no matter what. The program has sold out every home game since 1982. This loyalty ensures financial and cultural stability even when on-field results aren’t perfect.

### **7. Adaptability in the Modern Era**
The transfer portal and NIL have destabilized many programs, but Ohio State has used both to its advantage. The Buckeyes were early adopters of NIL, with collectives like **THE Foundation** ensuring top recruits are compensated. Meanwhile, they’ve selectively used the portal to fill gaps (e.g., Justin Fields in 2019, Caleb Downs in 2024) without relying on it.

While other blue-blood programs (USC, Florida State, Texas) have struggled to adjust, Ohio State has remained ahead of the curve.

### **Conclusion: Built to Last**
Recession-proof programs don’t just win—they sustain success through economic shifts, coaching changes, and recruiting battles. Ohio State’s combination of financial power, in-state talent, coaching stability, and brand strength makes it the closest thing to a sure bet in college football.

Even if the sport undergoes massive changes (expanded playoffs, super conferences, player unionization), Ohio State will adapt and remain at the top. That’s why, no matter what happens in the broader landscape of college football, the Buckeyes aren’t going anywhere.