Everyone knows the Ohio State Buckeyes have world-class football talent, but sometimes it is just nice to be reminded that your name is among the best in the nation.
That’s what ESPN did when they broke down the top-30 teams capable of making the College Football Playoff. The Buckeyes were, of course, mentioned; however, they came in at No. 4, lower than most would’ve assumed.
ESPN’s Heather Dinich wrote her take on the top 30 teams that could make the CFP and also gave thoughts on each team’s toughest test and what committee members will want to see — and what what they won’t.
“This team will make the CFP and should be favored to win the Big Ten, but it should also be No. 2 this preseason behind Georgia,” said Dinich. “The question isn’t whether the Buckeyes will get in — it’s how deep a run they can make. Ohio State is oozing talent on both sides of the ball, and last season’s defense made huge strides, ranking in the top three in both scoring and total defense.
Coach Ryan Day has assembled a veteran staff with strong familiarity, including the hire of former UCLA coach Chip Kelly to call the plays on offense. K-State transfer Will Howard is the most experienced option at quarterback, having become the Wildcats’ all-time leader in touchdown passes (48). In addition to Howard, the offense will get a boost from Ole Miss transfer running back Quinshon Judkins.”
The last three points might be able to be guessed too. The toughest test is likely the Oregon Ducks on the road.
HAPPY AUGUST, CFB FANS! Bigger CFP means bigger list of contenders! Breaking down ESPN Analytics’ 30 teams that can reach the postseason https://t.co/HcmUvzbEEL
— Heather Dinich (@CFBHeather) August 1, 2024
What the committee will want to see is them route the Michigan Wolverines and finally return to dominance in “The Game.” Lastly, the committee won’t want to see the non-conference schedule, but at this point, that is out of the Buckeyes’ hands.
Ohio State was the fourth team mentioned with Georgia, Oregon and Texas all coming in before them. Penn State also cracked the top five with Michigan outside of the top ten, sitting at No. 12.
