100 Teams in 100 Days: Fans Want Woody Hayes Out After Another 3-Loss Season in 1953

With key offensive players returning, Ohio State fans held high expectations in 1953. However, a rule change affected the season. Before the season began, the NCAA rules committee banned the use of two platoon systems much to Hayes’ chagrin. This ruling had a major impact on the games and practices in 1953. Begrudgingly, Hayes abided. The 1953 Buckeyes Record 6–3 B1G Record 4–3, 4th Coach Woody Hayes (3rd year, 16–9–2) CaptainS George Jacoby and Bob Joslin Games of Note September 26th • Indiana • Ohio Stadium For the second straight season, Ohio State faced Indiana in the opener. Junior John Borton continued his stellar play at quarterback for the Buckeyes, as he threw for 122 yards and two touchdowns against the Hoosiers. Ohio State led 23-0 at halftime and Bernie Crimmins’ squad hardly threatened the rest of the game. Hayes put his team on cruise control and won 36-12. 1953 Schedule DATE OPPONENT LOCATION RESULT SEP. 26 INDIANA OHIO STADIUM W, 36–12 OCT. 3 CALIFORNIA MEMORIAL STADIUM W, 33–19 OCT. 10 ILLINOIS OHIO STADIUM L, 20–41 OCT. 17 PENNSYLVANIA FRANKLIN FIELD W, 12–6 OCT. 24 WISCONSIN CAMP RANDALL W, 20–19 OCT. 31  NORTHWESTERN OHIO STADIUM W, 27–13 NOV. 7 NO. 5 MICHIGAN ST. OHIO STADIUM L, 13–28 NOV. 14 PURDUE OHIO STADIUM W, 21–6 NOV. 21 MICHIGAN MICHIGAN STADIUM L, 0–20       6–3, 182–164 October 10th • Illinois • Ohio Stadium Before they hosted Illinois, the Buckeyes defeated Pappy Waldorf and California in Berkeley. Bobby Watkins rushed for 129 yards and…

Continue Reading: 100 Teams in 100 Days: Fans Want Woody Hayes Out After Another 3-Loss Season in 1953