Better Late Than Never for Buckeyes

The Ohio State Buckeyes, having waited 12 years to return to the Rose Bowl, had to wait an hour more Wednesday when mechanical problems with their charter delayed their flight from Columbus.

But once they arrived, they were eager to prepare for the New Year’s Day meeting with Arizona State without further delay.

Immediately after leaving the plane at Ontario Airport, the Buckeyes boarded buses and headed for a practice at Riverside Community College.

“We’re just going to do a little running, work the stiffness off,” said Orlando Pace, Ohio State’s All-American offensive lineman, referring to the 4 1/2-hour flight.

Before heading west, the Buckeyes (10-1) held 10 practices at home to stay sharp but also to try regrouping after their devastating loss to Michigan in the regular-season finale.

“These kids are young. They bounce back quick,” Coach John Cooper said. “We’re ready to play.

“We’re proud to be here as Big Ten champions. Only two teams in the country have better records. We’d like to put [the Michigan loss] behind us, but you won’t let us.”