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Ohio Football: Bobcats facing new challenges ahead of 2021 season

By Michael Hanich

CINCINNATI, OH - SEPTEMBER 22: The Ohio Bobcats helmet on the side lines of the game against the Cincinnati Bearcats at Nippert Stadium on September 22, 2018 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OH - SEPTEMBER 22: The Ohio Bobcats helmet on the side lines of the game against the Cincinnati Bearcats at Nippert Stadium on September 22, 2018 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) /
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Most teams had a serious change to their programs either during the COVID-19 lockdown or right after the 2020 season. Ohio football is a team that is facing huge changes right before the 2021 season. 

For the first time since the beginning of the offseason in 2004, the Bobcats will be without head coach Frank Solich. On July 14, it was announced that the 76-year old head coach would retire to focus on his cardiovascular health. Solich leaves as the most iconic figure in the football program. He finished his coaching career with 173 wins, tied for 38th all-time in Divison 1 football.

Finally, Solich brought great success to the Bobcats program. He took the Bobcats to 11 bowls and helped them win four MAC East titles. He had an overall record of 115-82 at Ohio.

With Solich gone, the program quickly has to step out of their comfort shell and move on to attempt to play in their sixth bowl game in seven years. Last season, the Bobcats had a 2-1 record. They were only able to play three games due to the impact of COVID-19.

Ohio will have a longer and more defined season with long-time offensive coordinator Tim Albin as the new head coach. Albin is entering his 17th season with the program, as he has been the offensive coordinator of the Bobcats since 2005. He was the former head coach of the Northwestern Oklahoma State Rangers for three seasons (1997-99). He accumulated an overall record of 25-8 and won the NAIA Championship in 1999. Albin is more than ready to be a head coach after being an assistant under Solich for 16 seasons.

The Bobcats return some talented players on both sides of the ball, where they were nationally ranked. These are players that have more potential than actual production on the field. This season, the Bobcats have a good chance to compete for the MAC East title, but they have a better chance at a bowl game.

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