**The Ohio State Buckeyes Are Ranked Number 2 in the Preseason USA Today Coaches Poll**
The Ohio State Buckeyes have once again solidified their place among college football’s elite, earning the No. 2 ranking in the preseason USA Today Coaches Poll. This prestigious placement reflects the program’s sustained excellence, a loaded roster brimming with talent, and the high expectations surrounding head coach Ryan Day’s squad as they prepare for the 2024 season. With a storied history, a relentless recruiting machine, and a championship-or-bust mentality, the Buckeyes are poised to make another run at the College Football Playoff—and potentially reclaim the national title that has eluded them since the 2014 season.
Ohio State’s No. 2 ranking is no accident. The Buckeyes have been a model of consistency in college football, boasting one of the most successful programs in the sport’s history. With multiple national championships, countless conference titles, and a reputation for developing NFL talent, Ohio State has earned the benefit of the doubt in preseason polls. The Buckeyes have been a perennial contender under Ryan Day, who has continued the legacy established by predecessors like Urban Meyer and Jim Tressel. Since taking over in 2019, Day has maintained an elite standard, guiding Ohio State to multiple playoff appearances and keeping them in the national conversation year after year.
This preseason ranking is a testament to the program’s ability to reload rather than rebuild. Even after losing key players to the NFL, the Buckeyes consistently restock with five-star recruits and seasoned transfers, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the sport. The No. 2 spot in the Coaches Poll signals that the college football world expects Ohio State to once again be in the mix for the sport’s ultimate prize.
Several factors contribute to Ohio State’s lofty preseason ranking. First and foremost is the sheer talent on the roster. The Buckeyes return a wealth of experience on both sides of the ball, including potential Heisman candidates and All-Americans. Quarterback play will be crucial, and whether it’s returning starter Kyle McCord or a new face under center, Ohio State’s offense is expected to be explosive. The Buckeyes have a history of high-powered attacks, and with elite skill players at wide receiver and running back, they should once again rank among the nation’s best offenses.
Defensively, Ohio State has made significant strides in recent years. After years of being labeled an offensive juggernaut with a sometimes-vulnerable defense, the Buckeyes have transformed into a more balanced team. Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles has elevated the unit, and with a mix of veteran leaders and emerging stars, Ohio State’s defense could be one of the best in the country. The combination of a high-scoring offense and a stifling defense makes the Buckeyes a legitimate title contender.
Another reason for the No. 2 ranking is Ohio State’s schedule. While the Big Ten is always competitive, the Buckeyes avoid some of the toughest crossover matchups in the expanded conference, setting them up for a potential undefeated run. Of course, the annual showdown with Michigan looms large, and after back-to-back losses to the Wolverines, Ohio State is hungry for revenge. A win in “The Game” could propel the Buckeyes into the playoff, and the coaches clearly believe this team has what it takes to compete for a championship.
Every great team has standout players who define its success, and Ohio State is no exception. On offense, all eyes will be on the quarterback position. Whether it’s McCord building on his experience or a new signal-caller stepping up, the Buckeyes need stability under center. At running back, TreVeyon Henderson returns as one of the most dynamic backs in the country, capable of breaking games open with his speed and vision. The wide receiver room is, as usual, stacked with future NFL talent, including Emeka Egbuka, who could be the next Buckeye receiver to dominate college football.
Defensively, Ohio State boasts stars at every level. The defensive line is anchored by potential first-round picks, while the secondary features lockdown cornerbacks and hard-hitting safeties. Linebacker play will be crucial, and if the Buckeyes can stay healthy, this defense has the potential to be special.
With a No. 2 ranking comes immense pressure. Ohio State isn’t just expected to win games—they’re expected to compete for a national championship. The Buckeyes have come painfully close in recent years, falling just short in title games and playoff semifinals. For a program of Ohio State’s caliber, anything less than a championship is considered a disappointment.
Ryan Day understands the stakes. After Michigan’s recent dominance in the rivalry and Georgia’s stranglehold on the national title, Ohio State is determined to reclaim its spot atop college football. The preseason ranking is a sign of respect, but the Buckeyes want more. They want to prove they’re the best team in the country.
The journey begins with Ohio State’s season opener, but the real tests will come later in the year. The Buckeyes must navigate a tough Big Ten schedule, including pivotal games against Penn State, Wisconsin, and, of course, Michigan. The playoff expansion means Ohio State could afford a loss and still make the postseason, but this team has its sights set on perfection.
If the Buckeyes live up to their No. 2 ranking, they’ll have a chance to play for it all in January. The talent is there. The coaching is there. The only question is whether they can put it all together when it matters most.
Ohio State’s No. 2 ranking in the preseason USA Today Coaches Poll is a reflection of the program’s elite status. With a loaded roster, championship aspirations, and a chip on their shoulder after recent shortcomings, the Buckeyes are ready to make a statement in 2024. The road won’t be easy, but if they play to their potential, this could be the year Ohio State returns to the top of college football.
For Buckeye fans, the excitement is palpable. The season can’t start soon enough.
