To Urban Meyer, three things matter every season at Ohio State — beat Michigan, win the Big Ten Championship, and then go on to win the national championship. The Buckeyes achieved the latter in 2024, but does that mean there should be an asterisk next to their championship win? Absolutely not, according to Meyer.
Urban Meyer’s Perspective on Championships
During a recent episode of the Triple Option Podcast, Meyer shared his thoughts with co-hosts Mark Ingram and Rob Stone. “It will be discussed with some of the die-hards. But no, it’ll go down — and I would always ask our staff, how do you evaluate recruiting? Number one is wins. Number two is NFL draft picks,” he explained. “I mean, that’s the business we’re in. If you want to evaluate your players, they do it for you every April. The NFL evaluates your players for you.”
Meyer’s confidence in the Buckeyes’ accomplishments is rooted in the talent they showcased throughout the season. He highlighted the impressive skills of the team, particularly the offensive players. “Because I think their offensive skill, the guys you mentioned, the two tailbacks — I’m telling you. There are a couple of backup receivers who are going to be first-round draft picks, that Carnell Tate. I stood next to that cat. Holy. He’d be anywhere right now as an All-American.”
Star Players Shine in 2024
The Buckeyes’ two-headed backfield was a force to be reckoned with, featuring a pair of 1,000-yard rushers in Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson. Judkins rushed for over 1,200 yards, while Henderson added another 1,100 yards to the mix. This dynamic duo not only dominated on the ground but also contributed significantly in the receiving game, combining for 445 yards and three touchdowns.
As for the receiving corps, Tate, a 6-foot-3, 191-pound sophomore, caught 52 passes for 733 yards and four touchdowns in 2024. His potential to take on a larger role for Ohio State next season is exciting for fans. The Buckeyes also benefited from the talents of transfer quarterback Will Howard, who passed for over 4,000 yards and threw for 35 touchdowns. He worked in tandem with two 1,000-yard receivers, true freshman Jeremiah Smith and senior Emeka Egbuka, showcasing a well-rounded and explosive offense.
Overcoming Adversity
Despite the impressive statistics and talent on the roster, the Buckeyes faced a significant hurdle this season. They did not defeat their bitter rival from up north, which kept Ohio State out of the Big Ten Championship game. This could have been a moment of despair, but instead, the Buckeyes rallied. They ran the College Football Playoff gauntlet, ultimately claiming the national championship for the first time since Meyer hoisted the very first CFP trophy with Ohio State in 2014.
Meyer had nothing but high praise for head coach Ryan Day and the resilience the Buckeyes displayed throughout the season. “This [team] will go down, in my mind, as one of the great teams in the last 20 years of college football,” Meyer stated, emphasizing the significance of their achievement.
What Lies Ahead for Ohio State?
As the dust settles on a thrilling 2024 season, the future looks bright for Ohio State. With a talented roster and a coaching staff led by Day, the Buckeyes are poised to continue their success in the coming years. The question on every fan’s mind is: can they maintain this momentum and reclaim their place at the top of college football?
The answer may lie in their ability to keep their star players, like Tate, Judkins, and Henderson, in Columbus for another season. The potential for these athletes to elevate their game further could make Ohio State a formidable opponent in the Big Ten and beyond.
The Legacy of Urban Meyer
Meyer’s legacy at Ohio State is cemented not just by the championships but by the culture of excellence he instilled within the program. His focus on winning and player development continues to resonate with the current coaching staff and players. As the Buckeyes look to build on their recent success, they will undoubtedly draw inspiration from Meyer’s winning mentality.
In the ever-evolving landscape of college football, where competition is fierce and expectations are high, Ohio State remains a powerhouse. With their eyes set on future championships, the Buckeyes will strive to uphold the tradition of greatness that Meyer helped establish.
As fans gear up for another season, one thing is certain: the passion for college football at Ohio State is as strong as ever. The Buckeyes are ready to take on new challenges, and with their impressive roster, the sky’s the limit.
