College football entered a new era in 2024 with expansion being the season’s theme. The Big Ten and SEC expanded, adding both traditional and new-age powerhouse programs to their conferences, one of which won the league in Year 1.

What many Ohio State fans may not realize is that before winning his first national championship in 1954, Woody Hayes faced similar criticism. After a 4-3-2 record in 1951 and back-to-back 6-3 seasons in 1952 and 1953, he endured significant pressure from OSU fans who doubted him.