Ohio State Football 2024 Preview Offense: The Return To An Explosive Power-House

Ohio State Football Preview 2024: Offense

The Ohio State offense was very good last year, though not as explosive or dominant as in previous seasons. It led the Big Ten in total offense, moved the chains effectively, but struggled in some key games: it scored only 17 points against Notre Dame, needed a late score to win, managed just 24 points against both Wisconsin and Michigan, and put up 20 points against Penn State. Excluding the short 2020 season, the 397 points scored were the fewest since the 6-7 season under Luke Fickell in 2011.

Enter Chip Kelly

Chip Kelly left his role as UCLA head coach to run the Buckeyes’ offense, and now expectations are high. Although it won’t operate at the same breakneck speed as his old Oregon teams, it will maintain a decent pace. UCLA’s team became more physical over his tenure, and this year’s Ohio State squad will start with a revamped offensive line.

Ohio State Offensive Line: Potential but Needs Production

The offensive line must improve in creating running lanes. It was adequate in pass protection, but the ground game, which typically averaged over five yards per carry, struggled to exceed four yards per attempt. The talent is present. Former San Diego State transfer Josh Simmons has NFL potential at left tackle, but his performance must match his ability. The right side of the line may be adjusted on the fly. Josh Fryar, last season’s starting tackle, might be better suited for a guard position.

The interior of the line might feature new players, but this is not a major concern. Alabama transfer Seth McLaughlin will be a reliable center, Donovan Jackson is a 320-pound NFL-caliber guard on the left side, and the right guard spot will be solid with Carson Hinzman, Tegra Tshabola, and Luke Montgomery competing for the position during fall camp.

Ohio State Running Backs: Among the Best in America

The running backs are poised for success if the offensive line can provide space. While banger Chip Trayanum has transferred to Kentucky and Miyan Williams is seeking an NFL spot, the Buckeyes remain in good shape. Leading rusher TreVeyon Henderson returns after averaging nearly six yards per carry with 926 yards and 11 touchdowns. With over 2,700 yards and 32 touchdowns in his career, Henderson is the top back, but Ole Miss transfer Quinshon Judkins is a close second.

Judkins, one of the top transfers, amassed 2,725 yards and 31 touchdowns at Ole Miss. Though not large, he combines agility with toughness. Following Henderson and Judkins are freshmen Sam Williams-Dixon and James Peoples, who represent the next wave of talent.

Ohio State Quarterbacks: Deep and Talented

Kyle McCord, now starting for Syracuse, completed 66% of his passes for 3,170 yards, 24 touchdowns, and six interceptions. Though he wasn’t at the level of CJ Stroud, Justin Fields, Dwayne Haskins, or JT Barrett, he wasn’t the reason Ohio State fell short of a national title.

Ohio State secured a seasoned veteran to lead the offense. Kansas State transfer Will Howard, who threw for 5,786 yards and 48 touchdowns and ran for 921 yards and 19 touchdowns in four seasons, brings size, experience, and winning ability. However, Howard must excel immediately, given the deep pool of quarterback talent behind him.

Devin Brown, who was expected to debut in the Cotton Bowl against Missouri before getting injured, might take over the starting role. Competing with Brown are former Alabama recruit Julian Sayin, 2022 backup Lincoln Keinholz, and promising newcomer Air Noland.

Ohio State Wide Receivers: Talented but Inexperienced

Ohio State’s wide receivers are always strong, though this group lacks experience. With no Marvin Harrison Jr., Emeka Egbuka needs to step up. Egbuka has No. 1 receiver potential and NFL talent but must stay healthy and dominate games after recording 41 catches for 515 yards and four touchdowns.

Jeremiah Smith, a 6-3, 215-pound true freshman, is poised to become an immediate deep threat, while fellow freshman Mylan Graham will contribute in the slot. Carnell Tate, who had 18 catches last season, and former top recruit Brandon Inniss should play larger roles.

With former starting tight end Cade Stover now with the Houston Texans, Gee Scott and Jelani Thurman will share tight end duties. Scott caught ten passes last season, and Thurman made two catches. Ohio transfer Will Kacmarek, who had 42 receptions over the last two years, will also be a reliable option.