Scarlet and Game
Fansided

The case for putting the Ohio State football team atop the AP Poll

As Texas claims the No. 1 ranking following Alabama's upset, Ohio State is making a strong argument for why they should be at the top, fueled by their elite talent and impressive performances on the field.

By Tyler Lyman

Oct 5, 2024; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day looks at his players before the game against the Iowa Hawkeyes on Saturday.
Oct 5, 2024; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day looks at his players before the game against the Iowa Hawkeyes on Saturday. / Samantha Madar/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
facebooktwitterreddit

With Alabama’s surprising loss to Vanderbilt, Texas has climbed to the No. 1 spot in the USA TODAY Sports Re-Rank 1-134, nudging the Ohio State football team down to No. 2. It’s interesting to see three different teams holding the top ranking in just as many weeks, especially after Georgia’s earlier run ended with their defeat to Alabama.

That said, there’s a strong case for Ohio State deserving a higher rank. The Buckeyes just delivered a solid 35-7 win over Iowa, showcasing their depth of talent. They have arguably the best backfield in the nation, led by quarterback Will Howard and running backs Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson.

This trio can really change the game with their skill and versatility. On top of that, Ohio State boasts a formidable receiving corps, including standout Egbuka Emeka, along with promising freshmen Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate, who are already making their mark on the field.

Texas can point to their win against Michigan earlier in the season as a highlight, but that victory loses some say considering Michigan’s recent loss to Washington, a team that hasn’t been a powerhouse this year.

Ohio State also has one of the best defenses in the country, consistently stopping opposing offenses. Their ability to pressure the quarterback and shut down passing lanes makes them a tough matchup for anyone.

While Texas might be enjoying their time at the top for now but Ohio State’s combination of talent and depth suggests they’re more than capable of claiming the No. 1 spot as the season progresses. As we move forward, it will be interesting to see how these teams continue to compete.

manual

If the Ohio State Buckeyes can win this week against Oregon, there's a really good shot that we will have a new number-one team in the country.

Home/Ohio State Football