Ohio State Buckeyes Eye National Championship with Strong Roster and Key Transfers
- Returning players and key newcomers have Ohio State aiming for another national championship.
- Loaded Ohio State has a strong chance at the national title.
- Expectations are high for Ohio State as they gear up for the championship.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — The Ohio State Buckeyes are poised for a strong run at the national championship, bolstered by a combination of returning starters and strategic transfers, thanks in part to Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) funding. The team has successfully retained key players while also attracting talent from the transfer portal, including experienced quarterback Will Howard from Kansas State. Coach Ryan Day is optimistic about the team's prospects, especially with Howard's impressive track record of nearly 5,800 passing yards and 48 touchdowns over four seasons. Howard, who emphasizes a team-oriented approach, stated, “I don’t have to go out there and do anything superhuman,” reflecting a mindset focused on collaboration rather than individual heroics. Alongside Howard, third-year quarterback Devin Brown remains a strong contender for the starting position, having been in the running last season. The competition among quarterbacks is expected to enhance the team's overall performance. Defensive end Jack Sawyer, a local talent, expressed a strong desire to defeat rival Michigan, highlighting the emotional stakes involved in their matchups. “It’s definitely something we think about, and we know what’s at stake when we play those guys,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of rivalry games in the Buckeyes' season. As the season approaches, the Buckeyes are gearing up for significant matchups, including games against Iowa, Oregon, Penn State, and Michigan, with freshman standout Jeremiah Smith generating considerable excitement among fans and analysts alike.