The Ohio State Buckeyes are gearing up for a thrilling Cotton Bowl showdown against Texas on January 10. As one of the most formidable teams in college football, their roster boasts exceptional talent. However, the excitement on the field is paralleled by the intensity of the transfer portal, where some players are seeking new opportunities.
Transfer Portal Turmoil
Despite their rich history and success, Ohio State is not immune to the lure of other programs. Promising bigger roles or more lucrative NIL deals, rival schools have managed to entice some Buckeyes away. Recently, former four-star recruit Jayden Bonsu, a 6-foot-2, 207-pound safety from Hillside, N.J., made headlines by entering the transfer portal in mid-December. He ultimately committed to Pitt over the weekend. Rated as a three-star transferee by 247 Sports, Bonsu was considered the 39th-best player in his position within the portal.
While losing Bonsu is a notable departure, it is not a devastating blow for Ohio State. In his two seasons with the Buckeyes, he did not see significant playing time. This reflects the competitive nature of the program under head coach Ryan Day, where depth and talent are abundant.
Recent Departures from the Buckeyes
The Buckeyes have experienced a wave of departures recently. Players such as offensive tackles Zen Michalski and Miles Walker, wide receiver Jayden Ballard, linebacker Gabe Powers, and quarterback Air Noland have opted to pursue opportunities at other schools. This exodus underscores the challenges that come with maintaining a deep roster in college football, where players often seek more playing time or better prospects elsewhere.
Ryan Day’s Optimism Amidst Changes
Despite the fluctuations within the roster, Coach Ryan Day remains optimistic about the future of the Buckeyes. Following a triumphant 41-21 victory over Oregon at the Rose Bowl, Day spoke to ESPN about the transformative impact of the new 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) format. He expressed how this structure has provided valuable opportunities for growth and development within the team.
“I think we’ve learned a lot about our team, I think we’ve grown a lot as a team and we’re banking on this to be our best football this season,” Day remarked. He emphasized the importance of momentum, stating, “You can see the passion, and I think the way that this format is and the way the playoffs are set now, it allows us an opportunity to grow as a team and to learn and to get better late in the season.”
Looking Ahead to the Cotton Bowl
As the Buckeyes prepare for their upcoming matchup against Texas, Day’s focus is firmly on the present. “The Oregon game is over. … The only thing that matters is this game right here, playing against Texas,” he declared. This mindset is crucial as the team aims to capitalize on their recent successes and build on the momentum they have established.
The new playoff format has changed the landscape of college football, allowing teams like Ohio State to remain in contention even with a couple of losses. In previous years, a two-loss Buckeyes team that did not win the Big Ten might have struggled to secure a playoff spot. However, with the current structure, they are now considered favorites to claim the national title, according to ESPN.
The Future of Ohio State Football
The Buckeyes’ ability to attract top talent and maintain a competitive edge is a testament to the program’s strength. However, as the transfer portal continues to reshape rosters across the nation, Ohio State must remain vigilant in its recruitment efforts. The challenge lies in balancing the retention of current players while also seeking new talent to bolster the program.
Fans of Ohio State can take heart in the resilience of their team. The Buckeyes have weathered the storm of player departures and are poised to make a strong showing in the Cotton Bowl. With a talented roster and a committed coaching staff, the future looks bright for Ohio State football.
As the countdown to the Cotton Bowl begins, the excitement surrounding the Buckeyes is palpable. Will they rise to the occasion and secure a victory against Texas? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the passion and dedication of the Ohio State program are unwavering, and the journey is far from over.
