The Ohio State football team in 2024 will be led by a strong contingent of upperclassmen, many of whom returned for the season aiming for a national championship win and to defeat Michigan. Additionally, several of these players are expected to be high draft picks.
However, the team’s impact won’t be solely dependent on upperclassmen; there are numerous young players who will also contribute significantly as starters or backups this season. The Buckeyes have a number of younger players competing for playing time.
Three underclassmen, in particular, are expected to play crucial roles in the 2024 team, particularly on offense. The first player on this list has received considerable hype during the offseason.
1. Jeremiah Smith
Jeremiah Smith has garnered more hype on the offensive side of the ball than any freshman in the last decade. He was the top recruit in the country for the 2024 class and has demonstrated his talent in several spring practices.
Smith is poised to be either the third or fourth receiver on the depth chart, ensuring he receives significant playing time, especially early in the season during the non-conference games, which are notably easier this year.
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With a new quarterback in Will Howard, Smith should have ample opportunities to showcase his skills. He’s a deep threat with an impressive catch radius, capable of gaining 10-15 yards whenever he’s on the field. As the season progresses, he’ll gain enough experience to excel in high-pressure games.
I fully anticipate Smith making an immediate impact; his athleticism is too exceptional to ignore. The next player on this list, also on the offensive side, is expected to see even more playing time than Smith.
