Ohio State has long been a powerhouse in college football, consistently ranking among the nation's elite programs. Even in the era of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals, the Buckeyes have maintained their dominance, assembling rosters brimming with top-tier talent. Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule acknowledges the challenge his Huskers face in taking on this juggernaut, but he believes Ohio State's success is rooted in more than just deep pockets.

Tradition, Not Transactions, Drives Ohio State's Roster Building

A Legacy of Winning

Ohio State's football program has a storied history, with a tradition of excellence that spans decades. From the legendary tenures of coaches like Woody Hayes, Jim Tressel, and Urban Meyer, to the countless All-Americans and first-round draft picks the Buckeyes have produced, the allure of playing for a perennial powerhouse is undeniable. Rhule acknowledges this, stating, "Those guys are at Ohio State because Ohio State wins, and players want to go to a winner."

Prioritizing Player Development

While the influx of NIL deals has undoubtedly impacted the college football landscape, Rhule believes Ohio State's roster-building success is not solely dependent on financial incentives. The Buckeyes' ability to develop players and prepare them for the next level is a key factor in their continued dominance. "Ryan's won, Urban (Meyer) won, Jim Tressel won, Ohio State has won a ton. Kids want to go be a part of one of the best programs in the country, one of the best receiving corps over the last however many years. Great all first-round quarterbacks," Rhule observed.

Cultivating a Winning Culture

Beyond the individual accolades and NFL draft selections, Ohio State has fostered a culture of winning that attracts top talent. Rhule recognizes that players are drawn to the Buckeyes not just for the financial opportunities, but for the chance to be part of a program that consistently competes for championships. "No one knows the impact of NIL, but to me, Ohio State's roster is not about NIL, it's about guys saying 'I want to go play at a place that competes for championships,'" he said.

The Challenge for Nebraska

As Rhule and the Huskers prepare to face the Buckeyes, they understand the magnitude of the task at hand. Rhule acknowledges that Nebraska must first establish a winning tradition of its own before it can attract the same caliber of talent as Ohio State. "For us to get to that point, we've got to win enough to justify players taking a chance on us until we're at the top of the mountain, and then everyone wants to come. You can't have many 56-7 games. You've got to go compete at a high level. But we'll get there," he said.The Buckeyes' continued success in roster building serves as a testament to the enduring power of a winning tradition. While the NIL era has introduced new variables, Ohio State's ability to attract and develop elite talent remains undiminished, a testament to the program's storied history and the allure of competing for championships year after year.