While often overlooked inside their own state, the Ohio Bobcats have quietly built one of the most consistent football programs in the MAC. While last-minute Ohio football tickets are always in demand, cheap Ohio football tickets are often hard to find. The Bobcats have a long and proud tradition, with their football program dating back to 1894. Even during the 21st century, the Bobcats have remained toward the top of the hierarchy inside the MAC, making Ohio a quality mid-major football program that’s worth paying attention to and checking out in person.

The Good Old Days

The first golden era of Ohio football came under head coach Don Peden. Between 1929 and 1938, he led the Bobcats to six conference titles inside the Buckeye Athletic Association in a 10-year span. Peden’s tenure ended right before Ohio joined the MAC. He also laid a strong foundation for continued success in the 1950s and 60s. The Bobcats were a top-flight MAC program in the 1950s, culminating in a College Division national championship in 1960 under head coach Bill Hess, who also led Ohio to four conference titles in a nine-year span from 1960 to 1968, ultimately winning 108 games during his 20 seasons.

Frank the Tank

In the 21st century, all of Ohio’s success is owed to Frank Solich. Before retiring after the 2020 season, Solich led Ohio to a 115-82 record in 16 seasons. The Bobcats had just two losing seasons during Solich’s tenure and reached the MAC Championship Game four times. More importantly, Solich coached Ohio to a bowl game in 10 of his final 12 seasons, going 5-5 in those bowl games. He made the Bobcats a team that expects to be one of the best teams in the MAC East Division and go to a bowl game every single year, setting the stage for his successors to maintain such high standards for Ohio football.