Ohio State Football Is Poised for a Rare National Title – One as a Preseason Favorite
The Ohio State Buckeyes, a powerhouse in college football, have often found themselves in the conversation for national championships. However, entering the 2024 season, this team finds itself in an exceptionally rare and enviable position: as a preseason favorite to win the national title. For a program as rich in history and tradition as Ohio State, it’s not unheard of to enter the season with championship aspirations, but the 2024 squad seems poised to break through and deliver a rare feat — capturing the national title as the team everyone is watching from day one.
In this article, we will explore the various reasons why Ohio State football is considered a legitimate national championship contender, with an analysis of the team’s strengths, weaknesses, key players, and the larger landscape of college football that gives the Buckeyes this rare distinction. From the coaching staff to the recruiting pipeline, from standout offensive weapons to a defense that seems poised to dominate, Ohio State has all the pieces necessary to secure a title in 2024. Let’s take an in-depth look at the factors contributing to Ohio State’s rise as a preseason favorite, and why they could ultimately fulfill the enormous potential.
1. A Storied Program with Championship Pedigree
Ohio State football has a long and storied history, and the Buckeyes are no strangers to success on the national stage. With eight national championships, a legacy of Big Ten dominance, and a near-constant presence in the College Football Playoff (CFP) since its inception, Ohio State is one of college football’s most respected and successful programs.
Over the past two decades, Ohio State has consistently been a contender for the national title. The program has featured legendary coaches such as Jim Tressel and Urban Meyer, and more recently, Ryan Day, who took over as head coach in 2018. Under Day, the Buckeyes have continued to thrive, winning multiple Big Ten titles, competing in the CFP year after year, and coming close to capturing a national championship. In fact, the Buckeyes have reached the CFP final in two of the past six seasons (2014 and 2020) and have made the playoff in four of the last six years, solidifying themselves as one of the elite programs in the nation.
This rich championship pedigree, combined with a culture that expects greatness, makes it no surprise that Ohio State enters the 2024 season as a preseason favorite. Buckeyes fans, players, and coaches all know the bar is set high. The rare distinction of being a preseason favorite to win the national title comes with immense pressure, but for Ohio State, it’s an opportunity to prove they belong at the pinnacle of college football once again.
2. Ryan Day’s Leadership and Coaching Staff
At the helm of the Ohio State football program is head coach Ryan Day, who has quickly established himself as one of the brightest minds in college football. Day took over as the Buckeyes’ head coach in 2018, following Urban Meyer’s retirement, and has continued Ohio State’s tradition of excellence. In his first season, Day guided the Buckeyes to a 13-1 record and a spot in the College Football Playoff, and he has only continued to build on that success in the years since.
Day is known for his innovative offensive schemes, having helped transform Ohio State into one of the most potent offenses in college football. Under Day, the Buckeyes have boasted high-scoring offenses, utilizing dynamic quarterbacks, elite wide receivers, and an offensive line that consistently ranks among the best in the country. His ability to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of college football and find ways to maximize his players’ talents has been a key factor in Ohio State’s success.
In addition to Day’s leadership, Ohio State has one of the top coaching staffs in the country, with highly regarded assistants on both sides of the ball. Offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson and defensive coordinator Jim Knowles are instrumental in shaping the team’s identity. Wilson’s creativity on offense and Knowles’ defensive schemes, which helped turn the Buckeyes into one of the most feared defenses in 2023, have made the coaching staff one of the most complete in the nation.
Day’s leadership, combined with the expertise of his coaching staff, has set Ohio State on a path to success. The program has become a well-oiled machine under Day, and in 2024, the Buckeyes will have the coaching stability and strategy necessary to challenge for a national title.
3. Explosive Offense Led by Elite Quarterback Play
One of the defining features of Ohio State football in recent years has been its explosive offense, and the 2024 version of the team is no exception. With quarterback play being one of the most important positions in college football, Ohio State is well-positioned to excel in this area with the return of sophomore quarterback Cade Klubnik, a highly touted prospect who will take over as the starting quarterback. Klubnik’s skills were evident as he quickly earned his place as a leader on the field.
Klubnik’s talent is just one part of the equation, as Ohio State’s offense is loaded with weapons at every skill position. Wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. is widely considered one of the top talents in college football and a potential future first-round NFL draft pick. Harrison has the ability to take over a game with his incredible combination of size, speed, and route-running ability. His presence on the field provides Klubnik with a game-changing weapon, and the duo will likely be the focal point of the offense.
In addition to Harrison, Ohio State boasts a deep group of skill players, including Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Treyveon Henderson, and Miyan Williams. Smith-Njigba, who missed part of the 2023 season due to injury, is expected to return to full health and contribute heavily in the passing game. Henderson and Williams form a powerful running back tandem that can gash opposing defenses both on the ground and as receiving threats out of the backfield.
Ohio State’s offensive line is another strength. Anchored by returning veterans and highly rated recruits, the offensive line is one of the most talented in college football. The ability to protect Klubnik while also establishing the run game will be crucial to Ohio State’s success in 2024, particularly as they face the top defenses in the country.
4. Elite Defense Under Jim Knowles
Ohio State’s defense, which has historically been known for its physicality and playmaking ability, has undergone a transformation under defensive coordinator Jim Knowles. Since taking over in 2022, Knowles has injected new life into the Buckeyes’ defense, particularly in the areas of pass rush, defensive line play, and coverage schemes. In 2023, Ohio State’s defense emerged as one of the most aggressive and disruptive units in the nation.
A key player in the Buckeyes’ defense is J.T. Tuimoloau, a dynamic pass rusher who has the potential to wreak havoc on opposing quarterbacks. Tuimoloau’s ability to pressure the quarterback from the edge is complemented by the physical play of defensive tackle Tyleik Williams and linebacker Tommy Eichenberg. Eichenberg, in particular, is a standout player who excels in both pass coverage and run defense, and his leadership on the field will be crucial for Ohio State’s success.
The Buckeyes also have a strong secondary, led by cornerback Denzel Burke and safety Lathan Ransom. Burke’s ability to shut down opposing wide receivers in one-on-one coverage, combined with Ransom’s range and playmaking ability in the backfield, gives Ohio State a defense capable of shutting down both the pass and the run.
With a defense that can get after the quarterback, force turnovers, and limit big plays, Ohio State’s defense in 2024 could be one of the best in college football — and a key factor in their push for the national title.
5. A Tough Schedule and Strong Competition
One of the most challenging aspects of competing for a national title in college football is navigating a tough schedule. Ohio State’s 2024 schedule is stacked with high-profile matchups, including games against Michigan, Penn State, Wisconsin, and Notre Dame. The Buckeyes’ ability to succeed against these elite teams will be critical to their championship aspirations.
In particular, the annual showdown with Michigan, which has become one of the most heated rivalries in college football, will likely determine who wins the Big Ten and secures a spot in the College Football Playoff. Michigan enters the season as one of Ohio State’s biggest competitors, but the Buckeyes’ improved defense and potent offense will make this year’s matchup one to watch closely.
The College Football Playoff system, which is expanding to 12 teams starting in 2024, will add even more intrigue to Ohio State’s path to the national title. While the expanded playoff means the Buckeyes will likely have to win fewer games to secure a spot in the championship game, they will still face stiff competition from other elite teams like Georgia, Alabama, Clemson, and others.
Ohio State’s ability to handle the pressure of a tough schedule, combined with their talent and coaching, will be a critical factor in their national title bid.
6. The Road Ahead: Can Ohio State Deliver on Its Preseason Favoritism?
Ohio State has the talent, coaching, and championship pedigree to win the national title in 2024. The Buckeyes enter the season as a preseason favorite, a rare position for the program, but they also understand that the road to a national championship is never easy. They will face fierce competition from other top programs, and they will need to remain focused, healthy, and disciplined to secure the title.
For Ohio State fans, the 2024 season represents an opportunity to see the program reach new heights. With an explosive offense, a tenacious defense, and a coaching staff that knows how to win, the Buckeyes are poised to make a deep run in the College Football Playoff. Whether or not they can ultimately capture the national championship will depend on how they perform in key moments and handle the pressure of being a preseason favorite. Regardless of the outcome, Ohio State football is once again a team to watch, and their quest for the 2024 national title will be one of the most exciting storylines in college football this year.
