The Ohio State Buckeyes are heading to the national title game after a thrilling 28-14 victory over Texas in the Cotton Bowl. The game was highlighted by a pivotal scoop-and-score touchdown from defensive end Jack Sawyer, which sealed the win for Ohio State. But this victory was not just about one player; it was a team effort that showcased the immense talent brought in through the transfer portal.
Key Players from the Transfer Portal
Ohio State’s success in this game and throughout the season can be largely attributed to the contributions of three standout players acquired via the transfer portal: quarterback Will Howard, running back Quinshon Judkins, and safety Caleb Downs. These players were part of a significant transfer-portal recruiting class that ranked ninth nationally, according to 247Sports. Their performances have been instrumental in propelling the Buckeyes back to the national championship stage for the first time in four seasons.
Howard’s Impressive Performance
In the Cotton Bowl, Will Howard was named the offensive MVP after a stellar showing. He completed 24 of 33 passes for 289 yards, tossing two touchdowns along the way. Although he did throw an interception, Texas failed to capitalize on the turnover, allowing Howard to continue leading his team effectively. His journey to Ohio State began after three seasons at Kansas State, where he amassed 5,786 yards, 48 touchdowns, and 25 interceptions, helping the Wildcats secure a Big 12 title in 2022.
Howard’s performance this season has exceeded expectations. Initially viewed as a game-manager, he has transformed into a dynamic passer. Over the course of the season, he has thrown for 3,490 yards, with 32 touchdowns and just nine interceptions—career-high numbers. His recent playoff performances have been particularly impressive, with standout games against Tennessee, Oregon, and Texas, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most.
Judkins and Downs Make Their Mark
Quinshon Judkins, who transferred to Ohio State after two impressive 1,000-yard rushing seasons at Ole Miss, has also played a crucial role in the Buckeyes’ success. Despite sharing carries with TreVeyon Henderson, Judkins has made significant contributions, including scoring two touchdowns in the Cotton Bowl. His ability to find the end zone has been a vital asset for Ohio State throughout their playoff run.
Caleb Downs, perhaps the most significant addition from the transfer portal, has made an immediate impact on the Buckeyes’ defense. After a stellar freshman year at Alabama, where he led the team in tackles, Downs has continued to shine at Ohio State. In the Cotton Bowl, he recorded five tackles and an interception, but his most critical play came when he helped stop Texas from scoring on the one-yard line, showcasing his elite instincts and defensive prowess.
Building a $20 Million Roster
The success of these players is part of a larger strategy employed by Ohio State, which has invested heavily in its football program. Ryan Day and the Buckeyes built a remarkable $20 million roster through a combination of recruiting, NIL deals, and the transfer portal. This staggering figure was reported before the 2024 season and reflects the program’s commitment to returning to the top of college football.
The motivation behind this investment was clear: after losing to rival Michigan in 2023 and watching the Wolverines claim the national title, Ohio State knew it had to make significant changes. The $20 million was funneled into attracting top talent, both from high school recruits and the transfer portal, while also ensuring that existing players were encouraged to stay rather than pursue NFL opportunities.
Looking Ahead: The National Championship
With the Cotton Bowl victory secured, the next challenge for Ohio State is to face Notre Dame in the national championship game. The Buckeyes will rely on the contributions of Howard, Judkins, and Downs, who have proven to be pivotal in their playoff success. As they prepare for this monumental match-up, fans are eager to see if this talented trio can lead Ohio State to its first national title in years.
Final Thoughts on the Buckeyes’ Journey
The journey of the Ohio State Buckeyes this season has been nothing short of remarkable. From the strategic use of the transfer portal to the emergence of key players like Howard, Judkins, and Downs, the Buckeyes have shown resilience and determination. Their ability to adapt and thrive under pressure has set the stage for an exciting national championship game. As they gear up for this final showdown, one thing is clear: the Buckeyes are ready to make their mark on college football once again.
