Ohio State football’s strategy for the future is deeply intertwined with the rapidly evolving landscape of college football, and the transfer portal has become a critical tool in that approach. As the 2024 season unfolds, the Buckeyes are looking to bolster their roster with key players who can make an immediate impact. Recently, Ohio State found themselves in a fierce competition with a familiar rival from the SEC, as they battled to secure the commitment of a top-tier transfer portal target.
The Battle for Talent in the Transfer Portal
The college football transfer portal has revolutionized the way teams build their rosters. Players seeking more playing time, a change of scenery, or better opportunities for development often turn to the portal, which has led to an influx of new talent for teams like Ohio State. While traditionally, the Buckeyes have recruited heavily from high school talent, the emergence of the portal has allowed them to supplement their roster with experienced players.
In one notable case, Ohio State found themselves competing against an SEC powerhouse for a highly coveted player. This battle encapsulates the high stakes of the modern recruiting world, where the biggest programs in college football vie for the same top-tier athletes. The ability to land a top transfer is seen as a sign of a program’s strength, as it requires not only the resources to attract these athletes but also the ability to provide them with a platform to succeed.
One example of this competition came when the Buckeyes and LSU were both in the mix for Josh Thompson, an offensive lineman who had previously played for Northwestern. With his significant experience as a starter at the Big Ten level, Thompson was viewed as a crucial piece for any team looking to improve their offensive line. Ultimately, Thompson chose to join LSU, adding another key piece to an already loaded SEC roster. While this was a setback for Ohio State, it’s a reminder of the intense competition that exists within the transfer portal, particularly between elite programs like the Buckeyes and their SEC counterparts.
Ohio State’s Strategy: Land Key Transfers
Despite losing out on Thompson, Ohio State has made a concerted effort to fortify their roster through the transfer portal. In the competitive environment of college football, a team’s ability to quickly adjust and secure transfers is critical. Ohio State’s approach has been deliberate and focused, targeting areas of need while also adding depth at critical positions.
One of the most significant moves for the Buckeyes has been the acquisition of Ethan Onianwa, an offensive tackle from Rice University. Onianwa, who stands at 6-foot-6 and weighs 345 pounds, is widely regarded as one of the top offensive linemen in the transfer portal. His size, strength, and technical skills make him a perfect fit for Ohio State’s powerful running game and dynamic passing attack. The Buckeyes hope that Onianwa will provide much-needed protection for their quarterbacks and improve the team’s overall offensive line play.
Additionally, Ohio State has focused on securing players who can contribute immediately. One of the most notable additions has been Max Klare, a tight end from Purdue who had a breakout 2024 season. Klare’s size (6-foot-4, 240 pounds) and pass-catching ability make him an exciting addition to Ohio State’s offense, especially considering the Buckeyes’ need for a reliable target at tight end. His ability to stretch the field and create mismatches with opposing defenses is expected to make him a key contributor in both the passing and blocking game.
Another significant addition to Ohio State’s roster is Quinshon Judkins, a running back from Ole Miss. Judkins had a standout season in 2023, rushing for over 1,100 yards and 15 touchdowns. His ability to break tackles, read blocks, and accelerate through holes made him one of the most sought-after running backs in the transfer portal. Judkins’ decision to transfer to Ohio State is seen as a major coup for the Buckeyes, as it gives them a proven playmaker who can contribute immediately to their offensive attack.
The Transfer Portal’s Impact on Recruiting
While high school recruiting remains a cornerstone of Ohio State’s program, the transfer portal has increasingly become an essential component of their strategy. This shift is reflective of a broader trend in college football, where programs are looking to fill immediate needs with experienced players. The ability to supplement their roster with experienced talent allows Ohio State to remain competitive at the highest level, even as they continue to develop their high school recruits.
Ohio State’s success in the transfer portal can be attributed to several factors. First, the program’s history of success and national prominence makes it an attractive destination for transfers. Players know that coming to Ohio State gives them an opportunity to compete for championships, play in front of large crowds, and potentially make an impact in the NFL. Additionally, the Buckeyes’ coaching staff, led by Ryan Day, is known for developing players at all positions, which adds to the program’s allure.
Moreover, the culture at Ohio State, with its emphasis on discipline, work ethic, and team-first mentality, aligns with the values that many transfers are looking for. Players who enter the portal often want an environment that will challenge them and help them reach their full potential. Ohio State’s reputation for player development, combined with the opportunity to play for one of the top teams in the country, makes it a desirable option for many transfer prospects.
Navigating the SEC Rivalry
When it comes to the SEC, Ohio State faces intense competition from some of the most successful programs in college football. The SEC has long been considered the dominant conference in the sport, and schools like Alabama, Georgia, LSU, and others are perennial powerhouses that have the resources, coaching staffs, and recruiting pipelines to secure top talent. As a result, Ohio State must be strategic when pursuing transfers who may also be courted by SEC programs.
The rivalry between the Buckeyes and SEC teams has intensified in recent years, particularly as both sides recruit at an elite level. The SEC’s dominance in college football, particularly in terms of national championships, gives these teams a recruiting edge. However, Ohio State has proven time and again that it can compete with these programs, both in recruiting and on the field. The Buckeyes’ success in the transfer portal is a testament to their ability to attract top-tier talent, even in the face of strong competition from SEC programs.
In the case of Josh Thompson, while the Buckeyes lost out to LSU, they remain undeterred in their pursuit of high-caliber transfers. The battle with the SEC for top transfer targets is likely to continue, but Ohio State’s ability to secure quality players from the portal shows that they can hold their own against these powerhouse programs.
