 Despite its average record, Ohio State elected to accept an invitation to the Outback Bowl for a rematch with South Carolina.Although Ohio State lost this game also, it was marked by a strong second half comeback and were a presentiment that 33 years of frustration at not winning a national championship were about to come to an immediate end.While fans were optimistic about the chance for success of the 2002 team, most observers were surprised by the Ohio State's National Championship.