Eric Boggs
Anticipation is high for the Ohio State Buckeyes this coming season, driven by standout talents on both sides of the ball. Offensively, running backs TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins bring exceptional skill and promise, making them one of the most exciting duos to watch. Defensively, veteran defensive ends Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau are set to lead a formidable pass rush, solidifying the Buckeyes as a well-rounded and dominant team. Pro Football Focus (PFF) has recognized the potential of these key players, ranking them among the top in their respective positions in college football.
Quinshon Judkins has been a powerhouse since his debut with Ole Miss, leading all Power Five running backs in rushing yards (2,726), yards after contact (1,800), and forced missed tackles (154) over the past two years. His combination of power, balance, quickness, and speed makes him a formidable force on the field. Standing at 6’0″ and 219 pounds, Judkins is not only durable but also poised to be a first-round pick in the next NFL Draft. PFF’s Max Chadwick ranked him No. 2, highlighting his impact and potential to dominate at the professional level.
TreVeyon Henderson, ranked No. 6 by PFF, is another key player for the Buckeyes. Despite an injury-plagued sophomore season, Henderson bounced back as a junior, earning a 90.0 PFF grade, which was seventh among Power Five running backs. His 5.9 yards per attempt were second among Big Ten running backs in 2023. Henderson’s explosive speed and burst make him a constant big-play threat. If he can stay healthy, he and Judkins are expected to overpower opposing defenses, with Henderson also eyeing a potential first-round draft selection.
As the season approaches, the dynamic between Judkins and Henderson will be fascinating to watch. The Buckeyes also boast a formidable defense, strengthened by the return of veteran defensive ends Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau. This duo is expected to lead a dominant pass rush, with both players earning spots in PFF’s Top 10 edge rushers list.
Jack Sawyer, ranked No. 3, was the most well-rounded edge defender in the nation last year, earning over 85.0 grades both as a pass rusher and as a run defender. At 6’5″ and 260 pounds, Sawyer has the size and skills to make a significant impact at both the college and professional levels. While he hasn’t reached the legendary status of former Buckeye stars like Joey Bosa or Chase Young, he has one more season to elevate his game and become a defensive powerhouse.
J.T. Tuimoloau, ranked No. 8, also brings great potential. Despite a less consistent season compared to Sawyer, Tuimoloau’s previous performances have shown his ability to be among the top Power Five edge defenders. Standing at 6’4″ and 270 pounds, his explosiveness and physical presence make him a key player for the Buckeyes. If he can achieve greater consistency, he and Sawyer will form an almost unstoppable defensive front, boosting Tuimoloau’s draft prospects as well.
The synergy between Ohio State’s offensive and defensive units sets the stage for an exciting season. With Judkins and Henderson spearheading the offense and Sawyer and Tuimoloau anchoring the defense, the Buckeyes are poised to challenge their opponents on all fronts. As the season unfolds, fans will eagerly watch to see how these standout players perform and lead their team to success.
