The Ohio State football team is trying to win consecutive national championships. The Buckeyes would be the first team to win back-to-back titles since Georgia did in 2021-22. Unfortunately for them, they are coming off their first loss of the season, falling to Indiana.
Right now, the Ohio State Buckeyes will be taking on the winner of Texas A&M and Miami. If they win that game, they will be playing another game while the transfer portal is open. The Buckeyes could lose some members of the team during the new window, which is open from January 2-16.
These three players are at risk of entering the portal during this window.
1. Sam Dixon
Running back Sam Dixon has already explored the transfer portal. He decided to withdraw his name from the portal after entering last season. Unfortunately for him, he has now been passed up on the depth chart by two freshman running backs in Bo Jackson and Isaiah West.
It doesn't make much sense for Dixon to stay in Columbus if he is looking for some playing time. He won't be getting it from the Ohio State Buckeyes in the next couple of seasons. He won't be getting a lot of playing time in the College Football Playoff, either.
2. C.J. Hicks
When C.J. Hicks was preparing to play this season, he had fully switched positions from linebacker to defensive end. Hicks had been wanting to play the edge for the last few years, but was instead put at linebacker. His playing time steadily fell last season.
This season, that playing time dwindled pretty quickly again. He ended up redshirting this season, and he still might play in the CFP. Still, it's unlikely he is going to play much next season. He hasn't been able to play up to his high school recruiting profile, and a new stop for his final year might be best.
3. Jason Moore
Coming into this season, the Buckeyes had to replace their entire starting defensive line from a year ago. It was the perfect opportunity for some guys to earn playing time. Jason Moore was thought to be a factor in the rotation coming into this season. Instead, he has been a disappointment.
In two seasons in Columbus, Moore has just seven tackles. Even with the Buckeyes about to replace most of the starting defensive line again next season, Moore doesn't look ready to fill a role in the rotation. Perhaps he will look for other opportunities.