Offense
The 2002 offense early the season was fairly potent, but late in the season it was inept at best, resorting to a series of big plays at crucial times to get the job done. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for clutch plays, but I'd much rather have a consistent offense that can put up close to 40 points a game...kind of like the 2006 squad with a Heisman winner and three NFL players at the skill positions. That unit was loaded and Smith was one of the best leaders that the Buckeyes have had. I love Troy. I love Pittman. I love Ginn and Gonzalez. But...This 2007 unit has a physically dominating offensive line and a physically dominating running back that can take over a game (Pittman couldn't quite do that on his own). There isn't a total reliance on one player or one combination (Troy Smith/Krenzel to Jenkins). But most of all, it is it's big play ability. You might argue that Ginn and Gonzo had more big play ability, but check the stats. Robo is averaging nearly five yards more per catch and look at the number of runs of 30-plus from Beanie.
Edge: 2007
Defense
Ohio State's specialty. The silver bullets. Certainly, few defensive lines were as dominating as the 2002 unit and the 2006 team created a boat load of turnovers. Even the 2007 team in recent weeks has shown some weaknesses. But here's the deal. The 2006 unit is not even in consideration because of its implosion against Michigan and Miami. You known I'm all about the numbers and the 2002 group gave up just 10 points per game against ranked opponents (6.5 ppg before the title game). Without that defense, that team is 9-3 at best. I feel like I'm not be honest with myself with this decision because I think the 2007 defense is the best since the 1996 Rose Bowl group. But even with it's weak corners and less-than spectacular linebacking corps, the 2002 defense had the leadership of Doss and Wilhelm and the swagger of Smith. They produced in the biggest games. And THAT cannot be quantified.
Edge: 2002
Special Teams
Kick returning and punt returning edge goes to the 2006 squad. Kicking and punting goes easily to the 2002 unit. Hmm....what is more important? Teddy Ginn or Groom/Noog? Well, I'll go with the Tressel, who said "Every drive should end in a kick." And who do you want kicking the ball? Groom and Nugent.
Edge: 2002
Final Decision
Obviously, the 2002 team won the championship in a way that will keep it in our hearts forever. The 2006 team real soured us with that stinkeroo of a performance against Florida. Let's not forget how amazing that team was for 12 weeks. It beat two No. 2-ranked teams for pete's sake. When evaluating teams, there is also a tendency to elevate the here and now. It's that what-have-you-done-for-me-lately syndrome. I tried to be biased against 2007, but after looking at the numbers, it's pretty much a toss-up. So, I'll go with my gut. The 2002 team won it all. The 2006 team didn't. The 2007 team hasn't...yet. The bottom line is that 2007 defense is everyone from the 2006 team a year older and a year better. It's offense has the same offensive line a year better and a year older. Even first-year starters Robiskie and Hartline are veterans. Even the 2002 team wasn't this experience. Plus, I love the chip-on-the-shoulder attitude and the me against the world mentality never fails.
Edge: 2007
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