Jonathan Rhoades
As we gear up for the 2024 college football season, the excitement surrounding Ohio State is palpable. Buckeye fans are eager to see their team compete for a national championship, and there’s no denying that the roster is stacked with talent. The coaching staff appears ready to push this team to the pinnacle of college football. However, amidst the optimism, there are a few significant concerns that could derail Ohio State’s championship aspirations. Here are the three biggest issues that could prevent the Buckeyes from capturing the national title this year:
1. Injuries: The Depth Dilemma
One of the most pressing concerns for Ohio State is the potential for injuries, especially in key positions. While the Buckeyes have a solid depth chart, certain areas are more vulnerable than others. The running back position is particularly worrisome. With only four scholarship running backs on the roster, the margin for error is razor-thin. In a season where Ohio State could play 16 or 17 games to win a national championship, losing even one running back could severely hamper the team’s versatility and effectiveness on offense.
This concern isn’t just hypothetical. The 2022 season’s game against Georgia serves as a stark reminder. Late in that game, Ohio State found itself with Mitch Rossi, a fullback, lined up alongside C.J. Stroud in the backfield. This limited the offensive options and made the Buckeyes one-dimensional, a situation that must be avoided this year. The team needs to stay healthy, particularly at positions where depth is shallow, to maintain the offensive flexibility that makes Ohio State so dangerous.
2. Offensive Line: Can Justin Fry Deliver?
The second major concern is the offensive line, specifically under the leadership of Coach Justin Fry. While there is hope that this year’s line will be solid, Fry’s track record raises some questions. During his time at UCLA under Chip Kelly, Fry’s offensive lines were inconsistent, particularly in pass protection.
One might argue that UCLA had a great season in 2021 with Zach Charbonnet and Deshaun Thompson-Robinson, but PFF’s stats beg to differ. According to PFF, UCLA never graded out better than Ohio State in run blocking or pass blocking from 2019-2021. In the past two seasons that Frye has been with Ohio State (2022-2023), UCLA graded out better in run-blocking. Like many others, I hope that Frye will improve the offensive line this year, but if we go by the numbers, it is still a valid concern.
Ohio State’s success this season will heavily depend on the offensive line’s ability to protect the quarterback and establish the run game. With standout players like Josh Fryer and Donovan Jackson, there is potential for greatness. However, if the line falters, particularly in critical games, it could spell disaster for the Buckeyes’ championship hopes. The pressure is on Justin Fry to ensure that this unit performs at an elite level, and any missteps could be costly.
3. Will Michigan Stop Cheating?
The third concern, and perhaps the most controversial, is the question of whether Michigan will stop cheating. The past few seasons have been marred by allegations of sign-stealing and other unethical practices by Ohio State’s biggest rival. While some may dismiss these concerns as sour grapes, the reality is that any advantage gained through underhanded tactics could significantly impact Ohio State’s chances, particularly in The Game.
The concern isn’t just about what has happened in the past but whether Michigan will continue to push the boundaries in 2024. The stakes are high, and if Michigan finds new ways to gain an edge, it could pose a serious threat to Ohio State’s championship run. As long as there’s a lingering doubt about Michigan’s methods, this will remain a significant concern for Buckeye fans.
Conclusion: Overcoming the Obstacles
While these concerns are legitimate, they are not insurmountable. Ohio State has the talent, coaching, and determination to overcome these challenges and win the national championship. However, the margin for error is slim. Avoiding injuries, solidifying the offensive line, and staying vigilant against any potential foul play from Michigan are all critical factors that will determine whether the Buckeyes can reach the top this season.
Buckeye Nation, let’s hope for a healthy, dominant season where Ohio State can showcase its full potential and bring home the championship trophy.
