Ohio State’s best bowl games since 2000

#7 2004 Fiesta Bowl

The 2004 Fiesta Bowl matched up the Buckeyes against the Kansas State Wildcats. Just a year removed from their National Championship win over Miami, Ohio State was invited back to the same Fiesta Bowl location. Despite going 10-2, they had lost to Michigan and the Wolverines were the conference champion invited to the Rose Bowl. Ohio State still made it to a BCS bowl game though, and the Wildcats were the Big 12 Champion.

Kansas State was favored going into the game, but starting quarterback Ell Roberson was accused of sexual assault just a night before. He would eventually play, but there had been great uncertainty on his status leading up to game time.

An early 21-0 lead by Ohio State quickly turned into a tight game. Future NFL-standout Darren Sproles played against Ohio State that night, and scored a touchdown. Touchdowns by Michael Jenkins and Santonio Holmes kept the Buckeyes in the shootout.

With 2:47 left in the game, Kansas State scored a touchdown to pull within seven. They then attempted an onside kick which was recovered by Ohio State to seal the deal.

Next: 2006