The 2024 Ohio State Buckeyes entered the season carrying astronomical expectations, fueled by an aggressive transfer portal haul and a loaded recruiting class. Head coach Ryan Day assembled a roster designed specifically to chase a national championship, blending seasoned returning veterans with elite new talent across both sides of the ball.
Understanding this roster requires looking past basic names and numbers. The team completely revamped key offensive positions, fortified the secondary, and retained defensive anchors who chose to bypass early NFL entry. Let's break down the depth chart, the standout playmakers, and how the pieces fit together for a high-stakes campaign.
Offensive Personnel and Depth Chart Analysis
The offense underwent significant changes, particularly at quarterback and running back, where new faces immediately seized starting roles.
Quarterback Room
Will Howard arrived via transfer from Kansas State to lock down the starting quarterback job. His veteran presence and dual-threat capability gave the offense a physical edge in short-yardage situations. Behind him, Julian Sayin—who transferred from Alabama—quickly emerged as the primary backup and quarterback of the future, showcasing a remarkably quick release and elite processing skills during fall camp. Lincoln Kienholz provided further depth, rounding out a room with vastly improved stability compared to previous seasons.
The Backfield Duo
Ohio State boasted arguably the most lethal one-two running back punch in the country. TreVeyon Henderson opted to return for another season rather than jump to the NFL, bringing explosive speed and veteran leadership. He shared the backfield with Quinshon Judkins, a high-profile transfer from Ole Miss known for his punishing tackle-breaking style. This combination allowed the coaching staff to wear down opposing defensive fronts without losing any big-play potential.
Wide Receivers and Tight Ends
Emeka Egbuka returned as the stabilizing veteran leader of the wide receiver room, utilizing his exceptional route-running from the slot. However, true freshman Jeremiah Smith stole the spotlight immediately, earning a starting role right away with rare physical maturity and catching ability. Carnell Tate rounded out the primary trio on the outside. At tight end, Jelani Thurman and Gee Scott Jr. split vital snaps, providing reliable targets over the middle and strong inline blocking.
Offensive Line Structure
The offensive line faced scrutiny early on, but experience across the interior solidified the group. Donovan Jackson anchored the left guard spot with All-America potential, while Seth McLaughlin stepped in from Alabama to handle center duties. Josh Simmons held down the left tackle position, and Josh Fryar managed the right tackle spot, giving the pocket enough time for deep developing routes.
Defensive Front and Secondary Breakdown
Jim Knowles' defensive scheme relied heavily on multi-positional athletes and lockdown corners who could play aggressive man coverage.
Defensive Line and Edge Rushers
Jack Sawyer anchored the edge rush, returning alongside JT Tuimoloau to form one of the most disruptive defensive end tandems in college football. Their ability to set the edge against the run and collapse the pocket on passing downs changed opponent play-calling. Inside, Tyleik Williams ate up double teams, allowing the linebackers to scrape clean to the ball carrier.
Linebacker Corps
Cody Simon returned for a graduate season to direct traffic from the middle linebacker spot. Flanking him was Sonny Styles, who transitioned smoothly into a permanent linebacker role after spending time adjusting from safety. Styles brought rare sideline-to-sideline speed that neutralized modern spread offenses.
The Secondary
The defensive backfield featured arguably the top secondary unit nationally. Cornerbacks Denzel Burke and Davison Igbinosun locked down opposing perimeter targets, forcing quarterbacks to look elsewhere. Meanwhile, safety Caleb Downs—who transferred in from Alabama—provided elite range and football IQ on the backend, instantly becoming the quarterback of the defense alongside veteran Lathan Ransom.
Special Teams and Depth Considerations
Special teams featured consistency where it mattered most. Punter Nick McLarty brought an unconventional background from Australia to handle booming punts, pinning opponents deep inside their own territory. Field goal units relied on dependable execution from kickers who won tight battles in practice.
Depth was tested over the grueling Big Ten schedule, particularly along the offensive trenches and the defensive line. Rotating fresh linemen into the game during the fourth quarter frequently tilted close contests in Ohio State's favor.
Common Roster Management Mistakes to Avoid
When analyzing a powerhouse roster like Ohio State's, casual observers often fall into specific evaluation traps:
- Overvaluing Star Ratings: While recruiting rankings matter, late-bloomers and experienced transfers frequently outperform highly touted freshmen within complex schemes.
- Ignoring Scheme Fit: A player might excel individually, but success depends entirely on how well their specific traits match the coordinator's tactical requirements.
- Underestimating Special Teams Impact: Depth charts are often judged solely by offense and defense, ignoring how hidden yardage in the kicking game decides tight matchups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the starting quarterback job for Ohio State in 2024?
Will Howard secured the starting quarterback job after transferring from Kansas State, bringing crucial veteran experience to the offense.
Which true freshman made the immediate starting lineup?
Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith earned a starting spot right away, showcasing elite talent and physical readiness from day one.
Where did safety Caleb Downs transfer from?
Caleb Downs transferred to Ohio State from Alabama following his standout freshman season.
Did any key seniors choose to return instead of entering the NFL Draft?
Yes, several core players including defensive end Jack Sawyer, wide receiver Emeka Egbuka, and running back TreVeyon Henderson chose to return for another season.
