Ranking the top 20 players for Ohio State in 2024
Introduction
As one of college football’s premier programs, Ohio State is always stocked with talent. The 2024 season promises to be another exciting chapter in the storied history of the Buckeyes. With an influx of fresh faces, as well as veteran leaders, Ohio State is poised for another shot at the Big Ten title and potentially the College Football Playoff.
With the 2024 season quickly approaching, here’s a ranking of the top 20 players who will be vital to the team’s success. These players represent the best talent on both sides of the ball and will be key contributors in Ohio State’s pursuit of excellence. Whether through standout performances, leadership, or developmental potential, these athletes will play integral roles throughout the season.
Ranking Criteria
To compile the top 20 list, I’ve considered a variety of factors that will contribute to each player’s ranking:
- Statistical Production: Historical stats and expectations for 2024.
- Position Importance: Some positions, such as quarterback and defensive linemen, may carry more weight in the rankings.
- Potential & Upside: The ability to make an impact in 2024, especially for younger players.
- Leadership: Veteran players who provide direction and motivation for the team.
- Injury History: Players who are healthy or are expected to be key contributors after recovering from injuries.
Top 20 Players for Ohio State in 2024
1. Marvin Harrison Jr. – WR
Position: Wide Receiver
Class: Junior
2023 Stats: 1,263 yards, 14 TDs
Harrison Jr. is arguably the best wide receiver in college football entering 2024. His size (6’4”), speed, and elite route running make him an automatic game-changer for Ohio State. With one of the most dominant performances in college football over the past seasons, he’s projected to be a top pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. The Buckeyes’ offense will run through Harrison, and he will be the focal point of their passing attack.
2. Kyle McCord – QB
Position: Quarterback
Class: Junior
2023 Stats: 3,256 passing yards, 25 TDs
McCord has the potential to be one of the best quarterbacks in college football in 2024. With the departure of C.J. Stroud, McCord will step into the starting role as the leader of the Buckeye offense. His experience in the 2023 season, where he earned significant playing time, will be invaluable as he leads Ohio State’s high-powered offense. His ability to manage the game, avoid turnovers, and connect with weapons like Harrison Jr. will be crucial.
3. J.T. Tuimoloau – DE
Position: Defensive End
Class: Junior
2023 Stats: 7.5 sacks, 14.5 TFL
Tuimoloau is a freak of nature on the defensive line. His pass-rushing ability, strength, and agility make him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. He was one of the top defensive players in the country in 2023, and heading into 2024, he has the potential to dominate every game. Tuimoloau will be a key player in Ohio State’s defensive scheme, helping to put pressure on opposing offenses.
4. Tyler Williams – OT
Position: Offensive Tackle
Class: Junior
Williams has the tools to be a top pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. His protection of the quarterback and ability to open lanes in the running game are vital for the success of the offense. As the leader of the offensive line, he’ll be expected to provide solid protection for McCord and create space for running backs.
5. Tyleik Williams – DT
Position: Defensive Tackle
Class: Junior
2023 Stats: 5.5 sacks, 8.5 TFL
As a force in the interior of the defensive line, Williams will anchor Ohio State’s defense. His ability to collapse the pocket and stop the run makes him one of the most critical players for the defense. The Buckeyes’ success on defense starts with Williams controlling the line of scrimmage.
6. Emeka Egbuka – WR
Position: Wide Receiver
Class: Junior
2023 Stats: 1,151 yards, 10 TDs
Egbuka is another dynamic receiver in Ohio State’s star-studded receiving corps. His versatility and ability to stretch the field give the offense even more firepower. McCord’s chemistry with Egbuka will be important in spreading the field and keeping defenses on their toes.
7. Steel Chambers – LB
Position: Linebacker
Class: Senior
2023 Stats: 98 tackles, 2 INTs
Chambers is a leader on Ohio State’s defense. His ability to read the play, cover ground, and make tackles in the open field sets him apart as one of the top linebackers in the Big Ten. Chambers is expected to continue his leadership role and be a key communicator on defense.
8. Miyan Williams – RB
Position: Running Back
Class: Senior
2023 Stats: 1,158 yards, 14 TDs
Williams is an explosive running back who can break games open with his speed and vision. He will be a key part of Ohio State’s offense in 2024, especially if McCord continues to develop as a quarterback. Williams’ power and ability to keep defenses honest make him one of the most important pieces of Ohio State’s offense.
9. Jack Sawyer – DE
Position: Defensive End
Class: Junior
2023 Stats: 5 sacks, 10 TFL
Another dynamic pass rusher for Ohio State, Sawyer is expected to take another step forward in 2024. With the attention Tuimoloau attracts, Sawyer will have plenty of opportunities to disrupt the quarterback and get after the passer.
10. Denzel Burke – CB
Position: Cornerback
Class: Junior
2023 Stats: 4 INTs, 10 PBUs
Burke has been one of Ohio State’s most reliable cornerbacks, and in 2024, he will be relied upon to shut down the top receivers in the Big Ten. His physicality and ball skills make him one of the top defensive backs in the country.
11. Zach Harrison – DE
Position: Defensive End
Class: Senior
2023 Stats: 5 sacks, 9 TFL
Harrison has been a consistent presence on Ohio State’s defensive line throughout his career. In 2024, he’ll be a senior leader and a key contributor to both the pass rush and the run defense.
12. Kye Stokes – S
Position: Safety
Class: Sophomore
2023 Stats: 3 INTs, 5 PBUs
Stokes made an immediate impact in 2023, and his development is critical for Ohio State’s secondary. His range, awareness, and ball skills will help solidify the defense in the back end.
13. Julian Fleming – WR
Position: Wide Receiver
Class: Senior
2023 Stats: 621 yards, 7 TDs
Fleming has been a solid contributor throughout his career, and in 2024, he’ll be a reliable target in Ohio State’s passing game. His size and strength will complement Harrison and Egbuka.
14. Dallan Hayden – RB
Position: Running Back
Class: Sophomore
2023 Stats: 533 yards, 4 TDs
Hayden showed flashes of brilliance as a freshman, and he will be key in Ohio State’s running back rotation in 2024. His speed and vision should help keep defenses off balance.
15. Caden Curry – DT
Position: Defensive Tackle
Class: Sophomore
2023 Stats: 3 sacks, 5 TFL
Curry has the potential to make a big leap in 2024. His disruptive playmaking ability will be crucial in stopping the run and getting pressure up the middle.
16. Luke Montgomery – OT
Position: Offensive Tackle
Class: Freshman
Montgomery has the talent and size to become a key contributor on the offensive line from day one. His ability to protect McCord’s blindside will be crucial for Ohio State’s offense.
17. Jahkai McFadden – LB
Position: Linebacker
Class: Junior
2023 Stats: 64 tackles, 5 TFL
McFadden provides depth and versatility to Ohio State’s linebacker corps. He’s expected to continue his growth and contribute heavily in 2024.
18. Jordan Hancock – CB
Position: Cornerback
Class: Junior
2023 Stats: 2 INTs, 7 PBUs
Hancock’s ability to shut down receivers will be vital in Ohio State’s secondary. He has the talent to develop into a top-tier cornerback by 2024.
19. Tavion Thomas – RB
Position: Running Back
Class: Senior
2023 Stats: 741 yards, 9 TDs
Thomas’ experience and powerful running style make him a critical asset for Ohio State’s ground game.
20. C.J. Hicks – LB
Position: Linebacker
Class: Sophomore
2023 Stats: 49 tackles, 4 TFL
Hicks is a dynamic player who should take on an expanded role in 2024, using his athleticism to make plays all over the field.
Ohio State’s roster in 2024 is stacked with talent, and the top 20 players listed above are poised to make a major impact on the season. From offensive juggernauts like Marvin Harrison Jr. to defensive forces like J.T. Tuimoloau, these athletes will be at the heart of Ohio State’s bid for a national championship. Their performances will be critical to the team’s success, and it will be exciting to see how they contribute to the Buckeyes’ pursuit of greatness in 2024.
