Ohio State faces tough test against USC; independence talks emerge

Ohio State is favored by 6.5 points in their upcoming game against USC, according to Yahoo Sports. The Buckeyes may start freshman quarterback Luke Fahey due to an injury to Julian Sayin. There are questions about whether Bo Jackson can take over the running game to keep the offense moving.

Speculation has emerged that Ohio State might become a college football independent program. This idea is linked to changes in college football's structure, including a potential expansion of the College Football Playoff to 24 teams, which could lessen the importance of conference affiliations and championship games, according to Yahoo Sports.

Ohio State has been a member of the Big Ten Conference since 1913. The conference is described as primarily a television package with fewer traditional rivalries. Independence could allow Ohio State to maximize its value without sharing revenue with many other schools, though such a move would be challenging and feasible for only a few programs.

The game against USC tests Ohio State's depth and ability to compete without key players. Meanwhile, the evolving landscape of college football may influence the Buckeyes' future conference alignment and competitive strategy.