Ohio State Player Ratings: NCAA Football 2026
Alright football fanatics, let's dive deep into the Ohio State player ratings for the much-anticipated 2026 NCAA season! As we gear up for another thrilling year of college football, everyone's buzzing about how the Buckeyes will stack up against the competition. Weâre breaking down the key players, positions, and overall team outlook, giving you the inside scoop on what to expect. Whether you're a die-hard Ohio State fan or just love the game, this is your go-to guide for all things Buckeyes. So, grab your scarlet and gray, and letâs get started!
Quarterbacks: The Heart of the Offense
When it comes to college football, the quarterback position is undoubtedly the most crucial. For Ohio State in 2026, the quarterback situation is looking promising, with a blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars vying for the starting role. Let's break down the key contenders and their ratings:
Veteran Leadership
First up, we have the senior quarterback, letâs call him Jake âThe Jetâ Johnson. Johnson has been a consistent performer for the Buckeyes, known for his strong arm and excellent decision-making skills. Over the past three seasons, he's shown tremendous growth, and his experience will be invaluable in leading the offense. Johnsonâs player ratings reflect his maturity and skill set:
- Overall: 92
- Arm Strength: 95
- Accuracy: 90
- Mobility: 85
- Decision-Making: 94
Johnson's arm strength allows him to make those deep throws, stretching the field and keeping defenses honest. His accuracy ensures that he can hit his receivers in stride, maximizing yardage after the catch. While he's not the most mobile quarterback, his pocket presence and ability to make quick decisions under pressure make him a formidable force. Johnson's high rating in decision-making highlights his ability to read defenses and make the right play, a critical attribute for any quarterback leading a championship-contending team.
The Rising Star
Now, let's talk about the sophomore sensation, Marcus âThe Missileâ Miller. Miller is a dynamic dual-threat quarterback who brings a different dimension to the Ohio State offense. His athleticism and ability to make plays with his legs make him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Miller's player ratings showcase his potential:
- Overall: 88
- Arm Strength: 87
- Accuracy: 85
- Mobility: 96
- Decision-Making: 82
Miller's mobility is off the charts, allowing him to escape pressure and turn broken plays into positive gains. His arm strength is still developing, but his natural talent is undeniable. Accuracy is an area where he can improve, but his potential is through the roof. The coaching staff is working closely with Miller to refine his decision-making, and as he gains more experience, heâs expected to become a truly elite quarterback. The competition between Johnson and Miller will be fierce, pushing both players to elevate their game and making the Buckeyes' quarterback situation one of the strongest in the nation.
The Quarterback Battle
The battle between Johnson and Miller is one of the most intriguing storylines heading into the 2026 season. Coach Ryan Day has a tough decision to make, but itâs a good problem to have. Having two quarterbacks with such high potential gives the Buckeyes flexibility and depth at the most important position on the field. The coaching staff will likely utilize both quarterbacks in different situations, leveraging their unique skill sets to maximize the offense's effectiveness. Johnsonâs experience and poise make him a reliable option in crucial moments, while Millerâs athleticism and playmaking ability can spark the offense and keep defenses on their toes. Ultimately, the quarterback who can consistently perform at a high level and lead the team to victory will emerge as the starter, but both players will undoubtedly play a significant role in Ohio Stateâs success.
Running Backs: The Engine of the Offense
The Ohio State running back room is always a hotbed of talent, and 2026 is no exception. With a stable of powerful and agile backs, the Buckeyesâ ground game is poised to be a major strength. Letâs take a look at the key players and their ratings:
The Powerhouse
Leading the charge is junior running back, letâs call him Devon âThe Destroyerâ Davis. Davis is a physical runner with the ability to break tackles and gain tough yards. His combination of size and speed makes him a threat to score every time he touches the ball. Davisâs player ratings reflect his power and determination:
- Overall: 90
- Rushing Power: 95
- Speed: 88
- Agility: 85
- Catching: 75
Davis excels at running between the tackles, using his strength to overpower defenders and churn out yardage. His high rushing power rating indicates his ability to break tackles and gain extra yards after contact. While heâs not the fastest back, his speed is still above average, allowing him to break off long runs when he gets into the open field. Agility is an area where he can continue to improve, but his overall skillset makes him a dominant force in the running game. Catching is another area for development, but he's shown flashes of potential in the passing game, adding another dimension to his game.
The Speedster
Complementing Davis is sophomore running back, letâs call him Jalen âThe Jetâ Jackson. Jackson is a speed demon with the ability to outrun defenders and score from anywhere on the field. His agility and elusiveness make him a nightmare for opposing linebackers and defensive backs. Jacksonâs player ratings highlight his explosiveness:
- Overall: 87
- Rushing Power: 78
- Speed: 97
- Agility: 95
- Catching: 80
Jacksonâs speed is his greatest asset, allowing him to turn short runs into long touchdowns. His agility and elusiveness make him incredibly difficult to tackle in the open field. While he doesnât have the same raw power as Davis, his speed and agility more than make up for it. Catching is another strength of Jacksonâs, making him a valuable weapon in the passing game. The combination of Davisâs power and Jacksonâs speed gives the Buckeyes a dynamic running back duo that can attack defenses in multiple ways.
The Running Back Strategy
The Buckeyesâ running game in 2026 will likely revolve around a two-back system, utilizing both Davis and Jackson to their strengths. Davis will handle the majority of the carries in short-yardage and goal-line situations, while Jackson will be used to exploit mismatches and provide a change of pace. Offensive coordinator Coach Smith is known for his creative play-calling, and he will undoubtedly find ways to get both backs involved in the offense. The ability to run the ball effectively will be crucial for Ohio Stateâs success, opening up the passing game and controlling the clock. With Davis and Jackson leading the way, the Buckeyesâ ground game is in excellent hands.
Wide Receivers: The Air Attack
The Ohio State wide receiver corps is renowned for producing top-tier talent, and 2026 is shaping up to be another stellar year for the Buckeyesâ passing attack. With a mix of experienced veterans and promising newcomers, the receiving corps is poised to make big plays and stretch the field. Letâs break down the key players and their ratings:
The Veteran Leader
Leading the way is senior wide receiver, letâs call him Chris âThe Clutchâ Carter. Carter has been a mainstay in the Buckeyesâ offense for the past three seasons, known for his reliable hands and ability to make tough catches in traffic. His experience and leadership will be invaluable in guiding the younger receivers. Carterâs player ratings showcase his consistency and skill:
- Overall: 91
- Catching: 95
- Speed: 90
- Route Running: 92
- Yards After Catch: 88
Carterâs catching ability is his greatest strength, making him a go-to target for the quarterbacks in critical situations. His speed allows him to get open downfield, and his route running is precise and efficient. Heâs also adept at gaining yards after the catch, turning short passes into significant gains. Carterâs leadership on and off the field makes him a valuable asset to the team, and his presence will be crucial for the Buckeyesâ success.
The Rising Star
Next up is sophomore wide receiver, letâs call him Jordan âThe Juggernautâ Jones. Jones is a physical receiver with the ability to overpower defensive backs and make contested catches. His size and strength make him a mismatch for smaller corners, and his athleticism allows him to make acrobatic catches. Jonesâs player ratings highlight his potential:
- Overall: 89
- Catching: 92
- Speed: 93
- Route Running: 85
- Yards After Catch: 90
Jonesâs combination of size and speed makes him a threat to score every time he touches the ball. His catching ability is exceptional, and he excels at making contested catches in traffic. His speed allows him to stretch the field, and his yards after catch ability makes him a dangerous weapon in the open field. Route running is an area where he can continue to improve, but his overall skillset makes him a potential All-American. Jonesâs emergence as a star receiver gives the Buckeyes another dynamic weapon in the passing game.
The Speed Demon
Rounding out the receiving corps is junior wide receiver, letâs call him Marcus âThe Missileâ Matthews. Matthews is a burner with the ability to outrun any defender on the field. His speed and agility make him a deep-threat specialist, and heâs a constant threat to score a touchdown. Matthewsâs player ratings reflect his explosiveness:
- Overall: 88
- Catching: 85
- Speed: 98
- Route Running: 82
- Yards After Catch: 85
Matthewsâs speed is his greatest asset, allowing him to get behind defenses and make big plays downfield. His catching ability is solid, and heâs working to improve his route running. Yards after catch is another area where he can make an impact, using his speed and agility to elude defenders. Matthewsâs ability to stretch the field gives the Buckeyesâ offense another dimension, and heâs a constant threat to score a touchdown. With Carter, Jones, and Matthews leading the way, the Ohio State receiving corps is one of the most talented in the nation.
The Wide Receiver Strategy
The Buckeyesâ passing attack in 2026 will likely feature a balanced approach, utilizing all three receivers to their strengths. Carter will be the reliable target in key situations, Jones will be the physical presence who can make contested catches, and Matthews will be the deep threat who can stretch the field. Offensive coordinator Coach Smith will design plays to exploit mismatches and get the receivers open, and the quarterbacks will have a wealth of options to choose from. The ability to throw the ball effectively will be crucial for Ohio Stateâs success, and with this talented receiving corps, the Buckeyes are well-equipped to light up the scoreboard.
Offensive Line: The Foundation
The Ohio State offensive line is the unsung hero of the team, providing the foundation for both the running and passing games. A strong offensive line is crucial for any successful team, and the Buckeyes have a talented and experienced group of linemen in 2026. Letâs take a look at the key players and their ratings:
The Anchor
Leading the way is senior center, letâs call him David âThe Dominatorâ Davis. Davis is a four-year starter and a rock in the middle of the offensive line. His strength, technique, and leadership make him one of the best centers in the nation. Davisâs player ratings reflect his dominance:
- Overall: 93
- Run Blocking: 95
- Pass Blocking: 92
- Strength: 96
- Technique: 94
Davis excels in both run blocking and pass blocking, providing a solid anchor for the offensive line. His strength allows him to move defenders in the running game, and his technique ensures that he can protect the quarterback in passing situations. Davisâs leadership is also invaluable, as heâs responsible for making the line calls and ensuring that everyone is on the same page. His presence on the offensive line is a major asset for the Buckeyes.
The Powerhouse Guards
Flanking Davis are junior guards, letâs call them Mike âThe Machineâ Miller and Tom âThe Tankâ Thompson. Miller and Thompson are both powerful run blockers who excel at creating holes for the running backs. Their strength and physicality make them a nightmare for opposing defensive linemen. Millerâs and Thompsonâs player ratings highlight their power:
- Overall (Miller): 90
- Overall (Thompson): 89
- Run Blocking (Miller): 94
- Run Blocking (Thompson): 93
- Pass Blocking (Miller): 88
- Pass Blocking (Thompson): 87
- Strength (Miller): 95
- Strength (Thompson): 94
- Technique (Miller): 90
- Technique (Thompson): 89
Miller and Thompson are both exceptional run blockers, using their strength and technique to create running lanes for the backs. Theyâre also solid pass blockers, providing the quarterback with time to throw. Their physicality and toughness set the tone for the offensive line, and theyâre both key contributors to the Buckeyesâ offensive success.
The Agile Tackles
Protecting the edges of the offensive line are senior tackles, letâs call them John âThe Jaguarâ Johnson and Steve âThe Stallionâ Stevens. Johnson and Stevens are both athletic tackles who excel in pass protection. Their agility and quickness allow them to handle speed rushers, and their strength ensures that they can hold their own against power rushers. Johnsonâs and Stevensâs player ratings showcase their athleticism:
- Overall (Johnson): 91
- Overall (Stevens): 90
- Run Blocking (Johnson): 88
- Run Blocking (Stevens): 87
- Pass Blocking (Johnson): 94
- Pass Blocking (Stevens): 93
- Strength (Johnson): 92
- Strength (Stevens): 91
- Technique (Johnson): 93
- Technique (Stevens): 92
Johnson and Stevens are both outstanding pass blockers, using their agility and technique to protect the quarterbackâs blind side. Theyâre also solid run blockers, contributing to the Buckeyesâ ground game. Their ability to handle both speed and power rushers makes them valuable assets to the offensive line.
The Offensive Line Strategy
The Ohio State offensive line in 2026 is a well-rounded unit with a blend of strength, technique, and athleticism. Offensive line coach Coach Larson is one of the best in the business, and heâs done an excellent job of developing this group of linemen. The Buckeyesâ offensive success will depend heavily on the performance of the offensive line, and with this talented group leading the way, the future looks bright. Whether it's paving the way for the running backs or providing a clean pocket for the quarterbacks, the offensive line will be a key factor in Ohio Stateâs quest for a championship.
Conclusion
So there you have it, guys! A comprehensive breakdown of the Ohio State player ratings for the 2026 NCAA season. From the quarterback battle to the dynamic running back duo, the explosive receiving corps, and the rock-solid offensive line, the Buckeyes are loaded with talent on offense. Of course, defense wins championships, so be sure to check out our defensive player ratings analysis coming soon! With the season just around the corner, the excitement is building, and we canât wait to see what the Buckeyes can accomplish. Stay tuned for more updates, analysis, and all things Ohio State football. Go Bucks!