Ohio State walking a College Football Playoff tightrope after Texas loss: Examining Buckeyes’ path

Ohio State knew its margin for error would be thin this season against one of the nation's most treacherous schedules. That comes with the territory for a program armed with an elite roster, endless resources and College Football Playoff expectations.

Now, the No. 1-but-not-for-long Buckeyes must prove they can absorb an early punch and get back in the ring stronger than ever.

Ryan Day's squad let Texas hang around in the second half before Arch Manning and the Longhorns hit the afterburners with 21 fourth-quarter points to stun Ohio State. The early-season loss is narrative-setting for the Buckeyes, who approach Big Ten play later this month in need of style points — and a bunch of remaining wins — to guarantee a return trip to the 12-team bracket.

There is enough on the table to potentially even absorb a three-loss season (though I see that as unlikely unless one of those losses occurs in the Big Ten Championship Game) and there are enough wins to bolster the Buckeyes' credentials. Paths to the CFP vary for a team that is capable from winning out from here, but the likelihood that happens with several more marquee matchups on the docket is daunting.

Original source: https://www.cbssports.com/