Hey Buckeye fans! This weekend, our beloved Ohio State Buckeyes are taking on the Western Michigan Broncos, and it's shaping up to be an exciting game. Whether you're heading to Ohio Stadium or watching from the comfort of your home on the Big Ten Network, here's everything you need to know to get ready for game day.

Game Details

Alright, Buckeyes fans, circle Saturday, September 7th on your calendars. Kickoff is at 7:30 PM EST at the legendary Horseshoe in Columbus. The weather's looking great for football – clear skies and a cool breeze. Perfect for cheering on our team!

Team Overview

The Buckeyes have been in a positive position so far this season going into this game. The offense has been functioning efficiently while the defense has stood firm and reliable. In comparison, the Western Michigan Broncos want to cause an uproar but let us be frank here; we stand a better chance of winning. Ohio State is rated as likely to win by a margin of 95.2 percent.

Players to Watch

Watch out for our star quarterback Will Howard, with his impressive performances that often make headlines, especially in Ohio. Secondly, speed and agility have made Jeremiah Smith, our outstanding wide receiver, a game-changer in the first game. Nine tackles, 2 for a loss, and a touchdown is what Lathan Ransom does during defense as well as he can make many significant plays.

For Western Michigan, quarterback Hayden Woff will be leading the charge. Wide receiver Malique Dieudonne is another player to watch, known for his ability to make big catches. On defense, linebacker Donald Willis has been a standout performer.

Pregame Festivities

For those individuals having the game tickets, a truly unique experience awaits them. Fascinatingly enough, Ohio Stadium boasts of an electrifying ambiance where more than 100,000 supporters hail their favorite team, the Buckeyes. In any case, these are some pre match happenings one should not overlook:

- Skull Session: This is a must see! Especially the meeting in St. John’s Arena hosts the Ohio State University Marching Band’s pep rally. Doors open four hours prior to the start and admission is free.
- FanFest: Located on the South Lawn of St. John Arena, FanFest opens three hours before kickoff. It’s a great place for food, games and live music.
- Team walk: Want to show some team spirit? About two hours before kickoff, the Buckeyes march into the stadium. Fans line up to cheer them on and give them a big send-off. It's a great way to get pumped for the game!

Personal Story

My first Ohio State game is still fresh in my head. It was an evening of chilly autumn air, and the arena felt electric. My father was with me, he has always supported the Buckeyes since his childhood days. Every single touchdown was like a game-winner to us; we yelled; we made jokes; we danced around in joy as if there was no tomorrow. For the first time that night, I realized how to be among Buckeyes members. The whole experience should be more than just football games; it should also include our experiences and norms passed down through generations.

O Buckeye Nation! The wait is finally over, it’s time to kick off the 2024 season! Ohio State is going to celebrate their debut at home battling against the Akron Zips this weekend. Nothing can beat the excitement of the very first game, but it remains to be seen in what way this will feed into our expectations of a Championship year, it being a the start to an exciting new year for every spectator. (3:30pm at the Shoe)

A Strong Start

Ohio State has a stellar record to open the season, winning 24 in a row. The group looks sharp and the passion is palpable. Players have busted their butts working all summer and fall, so you can trust they are just waiting for the moment to step on to the field to show us what they can do.

Game Day Traditions

For many of us, game day is more than just football. It’s about tradition, family and friends. I remember my first Ohio State game like it was yesterday. My dad picked me up when I was a kid, and the energy in the stadium was electric. We painted our faces, wore grey and scarlet, and cheered until we lost our voices. Those memories are what make being a Buckeye fan so special.

What to Watch For

Keep an eye on our star quarterback, Will Howard, who’s been making waves in practice. The defense also looks solid, with some new talent poised to make their mark. And of course, the atmosphere in the Horseshoe will be unbeatable. Whether you’re in the stands or watching from your living room, you’ll feel the energy.

Which Team Should Win Each Phase

- Offense: Ohio State should dominate this phase. The Buckeyes, with an incredibly skilled signal-caller and a powerful receiving group, are expected to score fairly well against the Akron defense.

- Defense: Ohio State’s defense appears to be in good form this season. A combination of veterans and hopefuls could lead them to successfully handle Akron’s attacking force.

- Special Teams: Ohio State's special teams unit is well-coached and disciplined. They should have an edge in this phase, especially with their reliable kicking game and strong return units.

Key Players to Watch

- Ohio State Buckeyes:
- Will Howard (QB): The new starting quarterback is expected to lead the offense with precision and power.
- Jeremiah Smith (WR): A dynamic receiver who can make big plays and stretch the field.
- Sonny Styles (LB): A key player on defense, known for his tackling and leadership.

- Akron Zips:
- Ben Finley (QB): The champion MAC East Offensive Player of the Week, he can execute plays using either his arm or his feet.
- Charles Kellom (RB): An all-purpose running back who is capable in running plays as well as passing ones.
- Antavious Fish (LB): A defensive leader that will help slow down Buckeyes' offense.

This article will focus on the Ohio State Buckeyes Football depth chart for the 2024-2025 season. The new era at OSU is expected to be intriguing, as it will involve solid players who have been in the game for quite some time and rookies with bright futures ahead of them.

Quarterback

Most discussions about the team revolve around who is playing as quarterback. Kanas State transfer Will Howard is expected to lead the offense. He has a strong arm and a good instinct when it comes to finding space on the field, both by running or passing the ball. Devin Brown and Julian Sayin are other people that may come in after him; they both showed big moments during their first camp. Truth be told, there were definitely some flashes of brilliance from both Devin Brown and Freshman Julian Sain during fall scrimmages.

Running Back

In the backfield, Quinshon Judkins is the name to watch. This junior from Alabama is a powerhouse, combining speed and strength to break through defenses. TreVeyon Henderson and James Peoples are also in the mix, providing depth and versatility.

Wide Receivers

The receiving corps is stacked. Emeka Egbuka, a graduate student, brings experience and reliability. Freshman phenom Jeremiah Smith and the speedy Jayden Ballard round out the top three, making this group one of the most dangerous in the nation.

Offensive Line

Left tackle Josh Simmons and center Seth McLaughlin anchored the offensive line. These men are unsung heroes, and they are paving the way for crime to happen by providing security. Donovan Jackson at left guard and Josh Fryer at right tackle are also key players to watch.

Defensive Line

On the defensive side, the line is led by Jack Sawyer and JT Tuimoloau at the ends. These two are relentless pass rushers who can disrupt any offense. Inside, Ty Hamilton and Tyleik Williams are the big men clogging up the middle.

Linebackers

The linebacker corps is headlined by Sonny Styles and Cody Simon. Styles, in particular, is a versatile player who can cover, tackle, and blitz with equal effectiveness. C.J. Hicks and Arvell Reese provide solid depth.

Secondary

In the secondary, Denzel Burke and Davison Igbinosun are the cornerbacks to watch. Both have a knack for making big plays and shutting down opposing receivers. Safeties Lathan Ransom and Caleb Downs round out a strong defensive backfield.

Special Teams

Special teams are often overlooked, but not here. Jayden Fielding is the primary kicker, with Anthony Venneri handling punting duties. These guys are crucial for field position and scoring those all-important points.

Today was an important day for Ohio State 2024 football fans as Buckeye head coach Ryan Day announced that Will Howard will be the starting quarterback for the Buckeyes this season. This decision comes after a fierce competition with Devin Brown and Julian Sayin, but Howard's experience and recent performance in camp secured him the top spot.

A New Leader for the Buckeyes

Howard comes to the Buckeyes from Kansas State, and he has some serious play. Will started every regular season game for the Kansas Wildcats last year, racking up 2,600 yards and 24 touchdowns. Seriously, the dude can throw. In addition, he is a natural leader who can keep his composure under pressure. No wonder the coaches are stoked to have him on board!

A Personal Memory

Man, I will never forget the first time I saw Howard play. It was an ice cold, like, hoodie-and-hot-cocoa breeze. The whole stadium was buzzing with excitement, and Howard just saved the game. I mean, this kid was calm and confident, even back then. It's no wonder he's killing it as the quarterback for the Buckeyes now!

Overcoming Challenges

Coming to Ohio State wasn't a walk in the park for Howard. Will had to learn a whole new Chip Kelley playbook, make new friends on the team, and basically start over. But don’t underestimate Howard – he’s super determined and works his butt off. Because of that, everyone on the Ohio State football team, including the coaches, really respects him.

The Quarterback Room

Howard's got some serious competition for the quarterback spot. Devin Brown, who's been here a couple years, can really sling it and can also move around pretty well. Then there's Julian Sayin, this super hyped-up freshman who everyone's talking about. He's got crazy potential and will definitely be a big deal for the Buckeyes in the future.

Targets and Weapons

Howard will have an impressive array of wide receivers to throw to. Emeka Egbuka, a senior, is a standout with his speed and reliable hands. Freshman Jeremiah Smith, standing at 6'3", is another exciting prospect who is expected to make an immediate impact. Other notable receivers include Jayden Ballard and Brandon Inniss, both of whom have shown great potential in practice.

Ground Game Support

Howard's got a pretty sweet crew of running backs backing him up. TreVeyon Henderson, this senior dude, is lightning fast and can totally shake off defenders. Then there's Quinshon Judkins, a junior who's all about power and can do it all. Together, they make our running game super tough to stop.

Morning Dew and Gridiron Dreams

The sun was just starting to peek over the edge of the world, shining all golden on the dewy grass outside the Woody Hayes place. It was August 1st, and Buckeye fans had been counting down the days for this moment. Fall camp was here, and the air crackled with anticipation.

I was just hanging out, watching everyone, but my heart was pounding like crazy. It felt like I was about to put on pads myself! That fresh-cut grass smell mixed with the feeling of a new season was awesome. The coaches were all grouped together, whispering about plays and stuff. Players—some veterans, others wide-eyed freshmen—stretched, their breath visible in the crisp morning air.

The JUICE Is Back

And then it happened—the moment that sent shivers down every spine. The Ohio State Football X account shared a video, and suddenly, we were all part of it. The camera panned across faces etched with determination, eyes locked on the prize. The caption read, "We're back & we're back with JUICE."

The "juice" was more than adrenaline; it was the lifeblood of Buckeye football. It flowed through veins, fueled by tradition, rivalry, and the unwavering belief that greatness was within reach. As the players jogged onto the field, their cleats biting into the turf, I felt it too—the pulse of something extraordinary.

From Whistle to Whistle

The drills began—the rhythmic thud of pads, the sharp blasts of whistles. Quarterbacks zipped spirals, receivers leaped for catches, linemen grunted in synchronized effort. Each movement was a brushstroke on the canvas of a new season. The coaches barked instructions, demanding precision, and the players responded with sweat-soaked resolve.

Faces to Watch

Carson Hinzman, the redshirt sophomore, has shifted seamlessly between center and right guard. And then there is Jeremiah Smith, the freshman phenom, who moved like lightning—graceful yet lethal. The veterans, like Seth McLaughlin, steadied the ship, their scarlet helmets gleaming in the morning light.

The Countdown Begins

August 31st loomed—a date etched in scarlet ink. The season opener against Akron awaited, and every practice, every bruise, was a step toward that moment. The Buckeyes would sprint, not stroll, to victory. The Big Ten title and the elusive College Football Playoff berth were the prizes dangling just beyond the goalposts.

Big news for the Ohio State Buckeyes! They just landed another awesome defensive lineman for their 2025 class. Jarquez Carter, a super talented player from Florida, decided to join the Buckeyes today. This is a bit of a surprise, as Miami, UCF, and Penn State were also after him. Looks like Ohio State is on a roll!

The Legend of Larry Johnson

Carter's decision was heavily influenced by legendary defensive line coach Larry Johnson. Johnson's reputation as a master developer of NFL-caliber talent has drawn top recruits to Columbus for years. Carter himself cited Johnson as the main reason behind his choice, saying, "He's a legend."

A Youth Movement on the D-Line

At 6-foot-2 and 284 pounds, Carter brings power and agility to the interior of Ohio State's defensive line. He joins fellow tackles Trajen Odom and Maxwell Roy in what promises to be a formidable unit. With the departure of all four starters after the 2024 season, including standouts like Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau, Johnson needs fresh bodies to step up.

A Personal Connection

So how'd Ohio State land another top recruit? It all started with a visit in June. Jarquez Carter, a super talented defensive lineman from Florida, went to Ohio State for a few days (from the 19th to the 21st of June, to be exact). During that visit, he hung out with the players, got to feel the electric atmosphere of the Horseshoe stadium, and totally pictured himself rocking the scarlet and gray. It was a lightbulb moment for him – he knew he wanted to be part of something special at Ohio State.

Meet Malik Autry, a great defensive lineman who turned heads on high school fields across the country. At 6-foot-7 and 320 pounds, Autry is more than just an athlete—he's a force of nature. And guess what? Ohio State has its eyes locked on him.

Background and Recruitment

Picture this: It’s Friday night, the lights are flashing, the crowd is boisterous, and Malik Autry is smashing offensive lines like a runaway train. His high school life? It’s absolutely amazing. From flattening opponents to dropping quarterbacks, Autry’s highlights are full of jaw-dropping hits and game-changing moves.

But it’s not just his stats that grabbed Ohio State's attention. It’s that undeniable spark—the fierce look in his eyes when he hits the field. Coaches compare him to a young J.J. Watt, with all that raw power and grit. Autry's got the kind of talent that makes recruiters drool.

Ohio State's Pursuit

Now, let's talk about the Buckeyes. They've been wooing Autry like a suitor in a Jane Austen novel. Official visits? Check. Late-night phone calls with Coach Ryan Day? Double check. Autry even got a sneak peek at the legendary "Shoe"—Ohio Stadium—where the echoes of past victories seem to whisper, "Join us, Malik."

And the campus tour? Autry's eyes widened as he walked into the locker room. There was a row of shiny dumbbells, a lounge area, and a picture of Archie Griffin—the only two-time Heisman winner—looking down. It was like walking into football heaven.

Competition and Decision Timeline

But here's the twist: Autry's not an easy catch. Auburn's been courting him too, dangling promises of Southern hospitality and SEC glory. The Tigers have their own charm—a blend of sweet tea, tailgates, and a stadium that feels like a revival tent during a winning streak.

And the clock is ticking. August 17—the day Autry reveals his college choice—is approaching faster than a cornerback chasing down a wide receiver. Will he don the scarlet and gray, or will he head south to the land of "War Eagle"?

Impact on Ohio State

If Autry chooses Ohio State, it's a game-changer. Imagine him lining up alongside the Buckeyes' defensive front, a human wall that says, "Thou shalt not pass!" His size, speed, and sheer tenacity could turn close games into blowouts. And the fans? They'd embrace him like a long-lost Buckeye brother.

But if he goes elsewhere, well, the Buckeyes will regroup. They'll keep recruiting, keep building, and keep chasing that elusive national championship. Because in college football, the pursuit never stops.

Gates Mills, Ohio — Buckeye Nation, rejoice! Three-star tight end Brody Lennon just joined the Ohio State team! The 6-foot-4, 220-pounder from Gilmore Academy chose the Buckeyes over Kentucky, Missouri and Wisconsin after a June 21st visit to Columbus.

A Dream Realized

This isn't just about football for Brody. This is a dream come true! Growing up in Ohio, he's been a die-hard Buckeyes fan forever. His dad, who went to Ohio State too, totally passed on that love for the team. So, when Coach Bailey offered him a spot, it felt like it was meant to be. "It felt amazing," Lennon shared. "I always grew up an OSU fan, and my dad went there. Coach Bailey believed in me, and I couldn't pass up the opportunity to wear the Block O".

Tight End Renaissance

Ohio State hasn’t seen a pair of tight ends like this since 2016. Thanks to Lennon’s commitment, they now have two promising talents at the position. He joins four-star Oklahoma prospect Nate Roberts, and together, they aim to redefine the role of tight ends in the Buckeyes' offense. Roberts and Lennon bonded during their official visit to Columbus, and their camaraderie could spell trouble for opposing defenses.

The Impact

Lennon's commitment brings Ohio State's 2025 class to 20 members. Alongside other blue-chip recruits like quarterback Tavien St. Clair and running back Bo Jackson, Lennon hopes to make an immediate impact. The Buckeyes are building something special, and Brody Lennon is a crucial piece of that puzzle.

Buckeye fans, listen up! You might not know Jake Cook yet, but this Westerville North star is making a name for himself. He's been putting in the hard yards, hitting up all the Ohio State camps, basically doing everything he can to play for the Buckeyes in that awesome scarlet and gray uniform.

The Audition

This summer, Jake got his shot and headed to the Ohio State football facilities. He totally impressed the coaches twice, showing off his moves, his strength, and how much he wanted it. But even though he crushed those workouts, that dream offer from the Buckeyes is still out there waiting. Jake's heart, however, remained unwaveringly set on the Buckeyes.

The Call That Changed His College Plans

Then came that life-changing call. Justin Frye, the offensive line coach, reached out to Jake. The Buckeyes had evaluated his film, dissected his performance, and were ready to extend an offer. Jake's dream was finally within reach. His emotions swirled—a mix of relief, pride, and sheer excitement. The seven-year-old boy who once dreamed of playing for Ohio State was now on the brink of realizing that dream.

Proving His Worth

Jake's journey wasn't without challenges. After a demanding sophomore season, he lost 40 lbs., honed his skills and proved a force on the field. Coach Day acknowledged Jake's transformation, admitting that he had "shocked the hell out of them." The offensive line board was reevaluated, and Jake's name was etched prominently.

The Private Workout

Coach Frye invited Jake back for a private workout. Center reps awaited him, and Jake seized the opportunity. Under Frye's watchful eye, he absorbed every lesson, every nuance of the position. The disappointment of not receiving an immediate offer faded as Jake focused on growth. He knew he belonged here, among the Buckeyes, and he was determined to prove it.

Stuck smack dab in the middle of America, where corn grows taller than skyscrapers, lives Mariyon Dye. This dude dreams of rocking the scarlet and gray (you know, Ohio State colors) more than anything. Football is basically his life, and let me tell you, he's ridiculously good at it. College coaches everywhere are taking notice!

The Final Eight

Mariyon recently unveiled his final eight schools, and Ohio State made the cut. Alongside powerhouse programs like Georgia, Tennessee, and Penn State, the Buckeyes stand tall. Dye, a 4-star Indiana defensive end, knows that choosing a college isn't just about football—it's about finding a home. His official visit to Columbus is scheduled for June 14, and anticipation hangs in the air like a Hail Mary pass.

The Buckeye Connection

Why Ohio State? Mariyon's answer is simple: tradition. It's about family. Mariyon's uncle, a proud Buckeye alum, regales him with tales of epic clashes against Michigan and late-night celebrations at the Varsity Club. Those memories linger, like the scent of fresh-cut grass on game day.

A Personal Story

Picture this: A crisp autumn afternoon, leaves crunching underfoot. Mariyon stands on the sidelines during an Ohio State game, his heart racing. The crowd chants, "O-H!" He responds, "I-O!" Goosebumps prickle his skin. His uncle, grinning ear to ear, claps him on the shoulder. "One day, nephew," he says, "this could be you."

The Edge Rusher

Dye's game? Explosive. He bursts off the line like a cannonball, eyes locked on the quarterback. His 6-foot-5 frame weaves through blockers, hungry for sacks. Coaches envision him terrorizing Big Ten offenses, a scarlet blur in pursuit. And when the Buckeye faithful rise to their feet, chanting his name, Mariyon knows he's found his tribe.