Ohio State Buckeyes: Projected Two-Deep Depth Chart Analysis
Quarterbacks:
– Starter: Will Howard
– Backup: Devin Brown
The quarterback battle at Ohio State remains undecided, much like last year. Graduate transfer Will Howard and Devin Brown have been neck and neck throughout spring practice, and the competition will continue into the summer and fall camp. While it’s a close battle, Howard seems to have the edge due to his experience, pocket presence, and vision down the field. However, the decision might not be finalized until the season begins. The young trio of Julian Sayin, Lincoln Kienholz, and Air Noland are vying for the third-string position, with Sayin likely to secure it before the season starts. How head coach Ryan Day manages their in-game reps will be an intriguing aspect to watch this season.
Running back:
– Starter: TreVeyon Henderson
– Backup: Quinshon Judkins
Ohio State boasts one of the best running back duos in the country. While Henderson will start the season, it’s important to note that this is a shared backfield, with Judkins receiving significant playing time as well. Their dynamic abilities will be utilized frequently in the Buckeyes’ offense, and they could even be on the field together at times. Ohio State also has promising freshman talent in James Peoples and Sam Williams-Dixon, along with walk-on TC Caffey, who has received high praise this offseason. The running back group is particularly exciting and could be a major asset for the team this year.
Wide receivers:
– Starters: Emeka Egbuka, Carnell Tate, Jeremiah Smith
– Backups: Jayden Ballard, Brandon Inniss, Bryson Rodgers
Ohio State’s wide receiver room continues to be a strength for the team. Despite losing potential top-five draft pick Marvin Harrison Jr., the Buckeyes have an incredibly talented and deep group. Led by experienced leader Emeka Egbuka, this unit is poised to make a significant impact on and off the field. The trio of Tate, Smith, and Inniss is particularly exciting, with Tate already showcasing his abilities as a sophomore last year. Five-star recruit Jeremiah Smith adds to the talent, while Ballard and Rodgers provide additional depth. Overall, Ohio State’s wide receiver group is stacked and will be a key component of the team’s offense.
Tight ends:
– Starter: Gee Scott Jr.
– Backups: Jelani Thurman, Will Kacmarek
The tight end position at Ohio State remains intriguing. With the departure of Cade Stover, the Buckeyes will need to fill the void left by his 597 snaps from the previous season. Gee Scott Jr. is expected to lead the position, but there will be a focus on utilizing multiple players. Ohio State plans to employ two tight end sets frequently, with Thurman and Kacmarek providing valuable contributions. Thurman, in particular, has shown improvement since his freshman year and could excel as a pass catcher, especially in the red zone. Kacmarek’s strong blocking skills will also be beneficial, allowing for more versatile offensive formations. Keep an eye on Patrick Gurd, who could fill the fullback role previously held by Mitch Rossi.
Offensive line:
– Left tackle: Josh Simmons
– Backup: George Fitzpatrick
– Left guard: Donovan Jackson
– Backup: Enokk Vimahi
– Center: Seth McLaughlin
– Backup: Carson Hinzman
– Right guard: Carson Hinzman
– Backup: Luke Montgomery
– Right tackle: Josh Fryar
– Backup: Tegra Tshabola
The offensive line is crucial for Ohio State’s success, and this projected two-deep depth chart highlights the team’s talent and potential. Left tackle Josh Simmons is expected to make significant strides after a full year in the program. Donovan Jackson has solidified his spot at left guard, while Seth McLaughlin is set to take over at center after transferring from Alabama. Carson Hinzman and Luke Montgomery are competing for the right guard position, with Hinzman likely edging out as the better option. Josh Fryar is projected to start at right tackle, with Tegra Tshabola providing depth. Overall, Ohio State’s offensive line has the potential to be a strong unit.
Defensive end:
– Starters: J.T. Tuimoloau, Jack Sawyer
– Backups: Caden Curry, Kenyatta Jackson Jr., Mitchell Melton
The defensive end position is a standout group for Ohio State. This talented depth chart showcases the Buckeyes’ strength in this area. J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer are projected to start, but all five players on the depth chart could easily start for other teams. The freshman Eddrick Houston is also worth watching, as he could see playing time early in the season to prepare him for the future. Mitchell Melton, if he can stay healthy, has the potential for a breakout year. The depth and talent at defensive end give Ohio State a significant advantage on defense.
Defensive tackle:
– Starters: Ty Hamilton, Tyleik Williams
– Backups: Hero Kanu, Jason Moore
Ohio State’s interior defensive line boasts a wealth of talent. While Michael Hall Jr. has moved on to the draft, the Buckeyes still have strong options in Ty Hamilton and Tyleik Williams. Williams has the potential to be an All-American, while Hamilton is an emerging player ready to make a national impact. Hero Kanu and Jason Moore had impressive spring practices, adding to the strength of this position group. The defensive line is a major asset for Ohio State and will play a crucial role in the team’s success.
Linebacker:
– Starters: Cody Simon, C.J. Hicks
– Backups: Sonny Styles, Gabe Powers
Cody Simon and C.J. Hicks are projected to start at linebacker for Ohio State. Hicks, in particular, stood out during spring practice, showcasing his instincts and nose for the ball. Sonny Styles is a talented backup and will see significant playing time, albeit in different roles depending on the situation. This linebacker group is talented but lacks experience outside of Simon. However, their potential and skill set make them an asset to the Buckeyes’ defense.
Cornerbacks:
– Starters: Davison Igbinosun, Denzel Burke, Jordan Hancock
– Backups: Jermaine Mathews, Calvin Simpson-Hunt, Lorenzo Styles Jr.
Ohio State’s cornerback room is exceptional, potentially one of the best in the country. The starters, Davison Igbinosun, Denzel Burke, and Jordan Hancock, are all highly skilled players. Igbinosun had an impressive spring and continued to shine during the spring game. Burke has a chance to increase his draft stock and earn All-American honors, while Hancock is seeking redemption after being snubbed last year. The entire group is back from last season, contributing to Ohio State’s No. 1 pass defense ranking. Jermaine Mathews is a standout sophomore who will see playing time despite being listed as a backup. Calvin Simpson-Hunt and Lorenzo Styles Jr. are also highly promising players who will benefit from the playing time they receive.
Safety:
– Starters: Lathan Ransom, Caleb Downs
– Backups: Malik Hartford, Jayden Bonsu
Ohio State’s safety position has seen some changes with the implementation of a 4-2-5 defensive scheme. While traditionally a three-safety defense, the abundance of talented cornerbacks allows for a slight adjustment. Lathan Ransom and Caleb Downs are projected to start, forming one of the best safety duos in the country. Downs, in particular, had an outstanding freshman All-American season and has continued to impress during spring practice. Ransom’s health will be a factor, but he is a significant contributor when available. Malik Hartford and Jayden Bonsu provide valuable depth at the position, with Bonsu impressing during spring practices. Ja’Had Carter is another player to watch if he can stay healthy and regain his form.