2024 Buckeyes vs. Past Seasons: How Does This Year’s Ohio State Team Compare?
The Ohio State Buckeyes are heading into the 2024 season with high expectations, hoping to secure a national championship. The roster boasts notable talent across several positions, but how does it compare to past teams from 2015 and 2019?
With key players returning and new additions, this article examines the 2024 team’s performance. We’ve also provided up-to-date state information based on stats collected from the best Ohio sportsbooks and reputable news sources.
Offensive Analysis
In 2024, Ohio State’s quarterback Will Howard established himself as the starter, leading with 1,248 passing yards and 12 touchdowns. This compares to JT Barrett in 2015 and Justin Fields in 2019, both of whom were pivotal to their respective seasons. Fields, in particular, had a breakout season in 2019 with 3,273 passing yards and 41 touchdowns, while Howard still has room to prove his dominance as the season progresses.
Quarterback Comparison
| Year | Quarterback | Passing Yards | Completion % | Touchdowns | Interceptions |
| 2015 | JT Barrett | 2,555 | 62.9 | 24 | 7 |
| 2019 | Justin Fields | 3,273 | 67.2 | 41 | 3 |
| 2024 | Will Howard | 1,248 | 71.5 | 12 | 3 |
Running Backs
Ohio State’s running game in 2024 is spearheaded by Quinshon Judkins, who has 468 yards and five touchdowns and is closely followed by TreVeyon Henderson. In comparison, Ezekiel Elliott had 1,878 rushing yards in 2015, while JK Dobbins contributed over 1,000 yards in 2019. The 2024 team has depth at the position, with Judkins and Henderson forming a solid one-two punch.
Wide Receiver Corps
Ohio State’s receiving corps in 2024 is led by standout Jeremiah Smith, who has 453 receiving yards and six touchdowns. This group compares favorably to the 2019 unit, which included Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson. While the 2015 group featured a rising Michael Thomas, the 2024 receivers offer depth and high potential, with players like Emeka Egbuka also contributing significantly.
Offensive Line Performance
The 2024 offensive line, while featuring experienced players like Josh Fryar and Donovan Jackson, is still finding its rhythm. This unit struggles compared to the 2015 and 2019 offensive lines, which had stalwarts like Taylor Decker and Thayer Munford, respectively. The line’s performance will be key to Ohio State’s success moving forward.
Defensive Analysis
The 2024 secondary is one of the strongest units in the history of Ohio’s college football, with Denzel Burke already recording two interceptions and Sonny Styles leading the team in tackles. In comparison, the 2015 team featured Eli Apple, and the 2019 team had future NFL star Jeff Okudah. The depth and versatility of the 2024 defense, however, give it an edge over past seasons.
While the linebacking unit remains a challenge in 2024, Cody Simon and Sonny Styles have stepped up to deliver consistent performances. The 2015 group, featuring Darron Lee, was much more dominant, and the 2019 linebackers, like Malik Harrison, also performed at a high level. The 2024 team will need improvement in this area to fully realize its potential.
Coaching and System Adjustments
Ryan Day continues to lead the 2024 team with a focus on versatility and depth. Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles is in his third year, and his adjustments, particularly in creating more turnovers, have helped improve the defense. However, offensive line struggles and inconsistency in the quarterback position remain critical areas of concern.
Special Teams Performance
Ohio State’s special teams unit in 2024 has been solid, with kicker Jayden Fielding going 100% on extra points (29/29) and field goals (2/2). Fielding’s consistency has been an asset, mirroring past performances from reliable Buckeye kickers.
While Ohio State’s 2015 and 2019 teams featured consistent kicking, the 2024 team benefits from this stability as they continue to face high-pressure games. Special teams may not be flashy, but they are crucial for tight games in competitive matchups.
Key Games and Impact on Season
The 2024 Buckeyes’ schedule features critical matchups, including the much-anticipated game against Michigan. Like in previous seasons, The Game” could decide their playoff fate. In 2015, Ohio State missed the playoffs after losing to Michigan State, while 2019 saw the team clinch a spot with dominant performances. The 2024 team’s path is similar, where winning key games, especially against Michigan, will be crucial for postseason success.
Overall Verdict and Expectations for 2024
The 2024 Ohio State Buckeyes show immense potential, especially in their wide receiver depth and secondary. However, challenges in the offensive line and linebacker units could limit their success compared to the 2015 and 2019 teams. If the key areas improve, this team could compete for a national championship.