College Football Playoff Expectations for Ohio State: The Herd’s Outlook,
As the 2024 college football season approaches, Ohio State remains one of the most dominant programs in the nation. With a rich history of success, an elite roster, and a fanbase that consistently expects excellence, the Buckeyes are once again one of the top contenders for the College Football Playoff (CFP). But as the expectations grow, so do the stakes. The 2024 season is poised to be a critical one for Ohio State, not just in the Big Ten but also on the national stage.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at Ohio State’s CFP expectations for the upcoming season, evaluating their roster, coaching staff, and potential challenges. We’ll also examine how their recent performance and recruiting classes set the stage for a legitimate championship run.
Ohio State’s Path to the College Football Playoff
A Storied History and Recent Success
Ohio State is no stranger to the College Football Playoff. Since the inception of the CFP in 2014, the Buckeyes have been perennial contenders, qualifying for the playoff multiple times. In 2014, Ohio State made history by winning the inaugural CFP National Championship, defeating Oregon in the title game. Since then, they have remained a fixture in the conversation for the playoff, making additional appearances in 2016, 2019, and 2020.
Despite their success, Ohio State has faced some challenges in recent seasons, particularly in the high-stakes moments that determine their playoff fate. In 2022, the Buckeyes fell just short of a National Championship appearance, losing to Georgia in the CFP semifinals in a heartbreaking game that came down to a missed field goal. However, the loss served as a reminder of Ohio State’s ability to compete with the nation’s best, as they held their own against one of the most talented teams in college football history.
Heading into the 2024 season, expectations for Ohio State are as high as ever. The Buckeyes have the talent, coaching staff, and resources to contend for a national championship, but as with every year, the road to the CFP is never guaranteed. For Ohio State, the path to the playoff will require a mix of dominance within the Big Ten and the ability to navigate their non-conference schedule, with key matchups that could make or break their playoff aspirations.
Key Players for Ohio State in 2024
Offense: Quarterback and Playmakers
One of the most significant storylines for Ohio State entering 2024 is the quarterback situation. The Buckeyes have consistently produced high-level quarterbacks, from Justin Fields to Dwayne Haskins, and they will need another strong performance from their signal-caller to secure a CFP berth.
In 2024, Ohio State will be looking for a new leader under center, with either Kyle McCord or Devin Brown expected to take the reins after CJ Stroud’s departure to the NFL. Both McCord and Brown have had their moments in limited action during the previous seasons, and the competition for the starting role is expected to be one of the most closely watched battles of the preseason. The winner of the competition will be expected to deliver at a high level, with the pressure of leading a playoff-caliber team.
Ohio State’s offense also boasts some of the most talented playmakers in the country. Wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. is one of the top players in college football, a future NFL star who has the ability to take over games and create mismatches for opposing defenses. Alongside Harrison, Ohio State returns several other dynamic receiving threats, including Emeka Egbuka and Julian Fleming, who have the ability to stretch defenses and make big plays in the passing game.
In the backfield, Ohio State will rely on a talented stable of running backs, including TreVeyon Henderson, who has been a key contributor in the Buckeyes’ backfield since his freshman season. Henderson, along with other running backs like Miyan Williams and Evan Pryor, will be crucial to Ohio State’s offensive balance and success, as a strong running game will take pressure off the quarterback and open up opportunities for the passing attack.
Defense: A Well-Coached, Playmaking Unit
While Ohio State’s offense is always a key component of their playoff aspirations, their defense will play an equally important role in the 2024 season. Under the leadership of defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, the Buckeyes have made significant strides in recent years, transitioning from a more traditional defense to a more aggressive, playmaking unit that can dominate games.
The defensive line, in particular, is one of Ohio State’s strengths. With the addition of highly rated recruits like Darryll and Mandrell Desir, the defensive line should be a strength of the team in 2024. These two dynamic edge rushers will complement veteran players like J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer, providing Ohio State with a formidable pass-rush unit capable of disrupting quarterbacks and forcing turnovers.
The linebacker position will also be key for Ohio State. The Buckeyes return several experienced players, including Tommy Eichenberg, who had a standout season in 2023. Ohio State’s linebackers will need to continue playing at a high level to keep opposing offenses in check, especially in the high-stakes games that could decide their playoff fate.
In the secondary, Ohio State boasts a talented group of defensive backs, including cornerbacks Denzel Burke and Jordan Hancock. These players will be tasked with shutting down some of the top wide receivers in the Big Ten and beyond. With an improved pass rush and a secondary that can cover effectively, Ohio State’s defense has the potential to be one of the best in the nation.
Coaching: Ryan Day’s Leadership
Head coach Ryan Day enters the 2024 season with his own set of expectations. Since taking over for Urban Meyer in 2019, Day has established himself as one of the top coaches in college football, leading Ohio State to multiple Big Ten titles and CFP appearances. However, despite the success, there is still pressure on Day to win another national championship, especially after coming so close in 2022.
Day is known for his offensive acumen, but his ability to guide the defense and manage the team as a whole will be tested this season. With the addition of Jim Knowles as defensive coordinator, Day has placed a significant emphasis on building a more balanced and well-rounded team. If Day can continue to elevate Ohio State’s defense while maintaining one of the top offenses in the country, the Buckeyes will be a serious threat for a CFP spot.
Challenges on the Road to the CFP
While Ohio State has the talent and resources to make a run at the CFP in 2024, there are several challenges that stand in their way. The Big Ten, though traditionally dominated by Ohio State, has become increasingly competitive, with programs like Michigan, Penn State, and Wisconsin improving year after year.
The most significant challenge to Ohio State’s playoff hopes could come from Michigan, who have been Ohio State’s biggest rival in recent years. The Wolverines have beaten the Buckeyes in back-to-back seasons, including a dramatic win in the 2022 CFP semifinal that cost Ohio State a chance at the national title. In 2024, Ohio State will need to find a way to defeat Michigan in their annual rivalry game, which is always a high-stakes affair. A loss in that game could severely damage Ohio State’s chances of making the playoff, even if they run the table in the rest of their schedule.
Beyond the Big Ten, Ohio State will face challenges from other top-tier programs across the country. The College Football Playoff has become increasingly competitive, with teams like Georgia, Alabama, and Clemson consistently in the hunt for a national title. Ohio State will need to prove that they can compete with these teams in the postseason, especially after falling short in recent playoff appearances.
Conclusion: Can Ohio State Make the CFP in 2024?
The expectations for Ohio State in 2024 are clear: the Buckeyes are primed for another deep run in the College Football Playoff. With an explosive offense, a talented defense, and a championship-level coaching staff, Ohio State has all the pieces in place to make a serious title run. However, the path to the CFP will not be easy. Michigan remains a formidable rival, and the national landscape is filled with talented teams vying for a playoff spot.
Ultimately, Ohio State’s success in 2024 will depend on their ability to execute in key moments, especially in the toughest games on their schedule. If they can find a way to overcome Michigan and prove themselves against other top teams, the Buckeyes will be well-positioned to compete for a national championship and reclaim their place among the elite teams in college football.
