The Indiana Ohio State game has long been a staple in Big Ten football, drawing fans, media, and analysts to one of college football’s most consistent matchups. Though traditionally lopsided in favor of Ohio State, the contest remains a key event on the NCAA calendar. Whether it’s a home opener or a conference showdown, this game carries emotional weight and championship implications every year it’s played.
History of the Indiana Ohio State Game
The Indiana Ohio State game dates back to 1901, marking over a century of football tradition. Ohio State holds a dominant lead in the all-time series, with more than 80 wins. Indiana has managed just a dozen victories, with the last win coming in 1988. Since then, Ohio State has maintained an overwhelming win streak.
Over the years, the matchup has seen moments of tension, spirited competition, and occasional near-upsets that electrified fans. These moments keep the game interesting, even when Ohio State is the heavy favorite.
| Year | Location | Winner | Score |
| 2024 | Columbus | Ohio State | 38–15 |
| 2023 | Bloomington | Ohio State | 23–3 |
| 2020 | Columbus | Ohio State | 42–35 |
| 1988 | Bloomington | Indiana | 41–7 |
The 2020 game is remembered for Indiana’s comeback attempt, which fell short by a touchdown. It showed the potential of a revitalized Hoosiers squad and renewed fan interest in making the rivalry more balanced.
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2024 Indiana Ohio State Game Recap
The 2024 Indiana Ohio State game took place on November 23 in Columbus. Going into the game, Indiana was having a strong season, but they faced a powerhouse Ohio State squad ranked No. 2 nationally. The game started with Indiana scoring first, surprising many fans and analysts.
However, the second half saw Ohio State dominate the field, executing 31 unanswered points. Quarterback Will Howard had a standout performance with two passing touchdowns and one rushing touchdown. Running back TreVeyon Henderson also played a vital role, scoring a touchdown and racking up critical yardage.
Indiana’s offense struggled to keep up, especially after halftime. Ohio State’s defense tightened up, limiting Indiana to only one score in the final three quarters. The final score stood at 38–15, reinforcing Ohio State’s superiority in this long-standing matchup.
Importance in Big Ten Football
Every Indiana Ohio State game impacts the Big Ten standings, especially for Ohio State, a perennial contender for the conference title. For Indiana, the game is often seen as a measuring stick—a chance to evaluate their progress and growth as a program.
The Big Ten is one of the most competitive conferences in college football. When Indiana performs well against Ohio State, it sends a message to other teams that they’re building something special in Bloomington. For Ohio State, the goal remains dominance and consistency, maintaining their historic win streak.
Player Highlights and Star Performers
In the 2024 Indiana Ohio State game, several athletes stood out. Will Howard, Ohio State’s quarterback, led his team with poise and athleticism. His accurate throws and calm decision-making helped Ohio State control the tempo.
On the defensive side, Jack Sawyer recorded multiple sacks and pressured Indiana’s quarterback consistently. Indiana’s offense, led by Brendan Sorsby, had flashes of potential but couldn’t maintain momentum after the early touchdown.
These individual performances highlight how talent depth plays a key role in deciding outcomes. Ohio State’s roster is filled with high-caliber players expected to perform at elite levels. Indiana, while improving, still lacks the depth seen in top-tier programs.
Fan Experience and Game Atmosphere
Whether in Bloomington or Columbus, the Indiana Ohio State game always delivers a vibrant and electric game-day atmosphere. Fans of both teams take the matchup seriously, even though the historical results favor Ohio State. For Indiana fans, beating the Buckeyes would be a program-defining win.
Ohio Stadium, known as “The Horseshoe,” offers one of the most intimidating environments in college football. The sea of scarlet and gray creates a tough setting for any visiting team. In contrast, when the game is played in Indiana, it’s often one of the biggest home games of the season, with Hoosiers fans filling Memorial Stadium with optimism and passion.
Broadcast and Media Coverage
The Indiana Ohio State game is consistently featured on major networks like ESPN, FOX, and ABC. With both teams in the Big Ten, media attention is naturally high, especially when Indiana has a good season. Analysts discuss the game days in advance, reviewing matchups, team trends, and key injuries.
Post-game coverage typically highlights Ohio State’s dominance, but when Indiana plays competitively, they earn national respect and exposure. This media spotlight is crucial for recruiting and elevating the visibility of the program.
Why Indiana Struggles Historically
The Indiana Ohio State game often ends in favor of Ohio State due to several key factors. First, recruiting. Ohio State consistently brings in top-10 recruiting classes, while Indiana ranks lower. Talent disparity is a clear challenge.
Second, Ohio State’s infrastructure and tradition provide long-term support for their football program. They have advanced facilities, alumni funding, and a winning culture that’s tough to replicate. Indiana has improved, but the gap remains.
Lastly, coaching stability and development make a difference. Ohio State’s coaches often have championship-level experience, while Indiana goes through more frequent changes, impacting consistency.
Future of the Indiana Ohio State Game
As of 2025, the two teams are not scheduled to play each other. This is due to new Big Ten scheduling models that rotate matchups to include newly joined teams like USC, UCLA, Oregon, and Washington. While fans are disappointed, the pause may add anticipation when the game eventually returns.
Still, both programs will continue to build their identities. Indiana is focused on becoming bowl-eligible more consistently, while Ohio State continues aiming for national titles. When the rivalry returns, the stakes could be even higher.
How the Game Affects Recruiting
The Indiana Ohio State game has recruiting consequences. A competitive showing from Indiana helps attract young players looking for a chance to play early. Recruits often watch rivalry games to gauge a program’s intensity, fan support, and performance under pressure.
Ohio State’s national recruiting status means they rarely struggle in this area. However, beating or nearly beating Ohio State could give Indiana an edge in local recruiting battles in the Midwest.
Cultural and Regional Relevance
The rivalry holds deep meaning, especially for fans in Indiana and Ohio, two states where football is a vital part of community identity. Generations of fans have grown up watching the Indiana Ohio State game, attending tailgates, and discussing the outcome at work, school, and family gatherings.
While not a rivalry in the traditional sense like Ohio State vs. Michigan, the game still carries weight because of the history and conference importance. It also represents the broader challenges smaller programs face in trying to compete with football powerhouses.
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Statistical Comparison: All-Time Record
| Metric | Ohio State | Indiana |
| Wins in Series | 80+ | 12 |
| Longest Win Streak | 29 (1991–2024) | 2 (1947–48) |
| Last Indiana Victory | 1988 | – |
| Last Ohio State Victory | 2024 (38–15) | – |
These numbers showcase just how one-sided the rivalry has been, but they also reflect the consistency and tradition Ohio State has built over the decades.
Media Predictions and Betting Odds
Before each Indiana Ohio State game, sports betting platforms publish odds and spread predictions. In most matchups, Ohio State is heavily favored, often by two or more touchdowns. Analysts discuss the likelihood of upsets, performance expectations, and potential playoff implications for Ohio State.
Media outlets also predict breakout players, game tempo, and potential injury updates. This adds excitement for fans and informs viewing decisions for casual college football watchers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of the Indiana Ohio State game?
The Indiana Ohio State game began in 1901, and Ohio State leads the all-time series with over 80 wins. Indiana last won in 1988.
When was the last Indiana Ohio State game played?
The most recent game was on November 23, 2024. Ohio State defeated Indiana 38–15 in Columbus.
Why is the Indiana Ohio State game important in college football?
This Big Ten matchup impacts conference rankings and showcases Ohio State’s dominance. It also gives Indiana a chance to make a statement.
Will Indiana and Ohio State play in 2025?
As of now, the two teams are not scheduled to meet in 2025 due to the Big Ten’s rotating schedule with new teams added.
Conclusion
The Indiana Ohio State game is more than just another football matchup—it’s a story of tradition, imbalance, potential, and perseverance. Though Ohio State has dominated the series, Indiana continues to build its program in hopes of pulling off an upset that could reshape perceptions.
From passionate fan bases to prime-time coverage, the game leaves a lasting impression each year. As both teams evolve, future matchups could become more competitive, more intense, and more meaningful for Big Ten standings.
While 2025 may not feature an Indiana Ohio State game, fans and players alike eagerly await its return. This rivalry, lopsided or not, remains a defining part of Midwest college football culture.