Two years ago, Ohio State signed a handful of transfers who were crucial in the Buckeyes’ run to the national championship.
From the start, quarterback Will Howard, running back Quinshon Judkins, safety Caleb Downs, center Seth McLaughlin and tight end Will Kacmarek made an impact.
The Buckeyes brought in another haul of transfers this year. Most didn’t have the same lofty pedigree as the 2024 transfers, but they were expected to be significant contributors.
Some have done so earlier than others, but Saturday’s 31-14 win at Iowa was a breakthrough for the transfers as a group.
“I think in this game, you start to see that,” Ohio State coach Ryan Day said as the Buckeyes prepare for Saturday’s game against Maryland. “They’re starting to build confidence now.”
Consider:
*Defensive end Qua Russaw had five tackles, including 1½ sacks.
*Defensive tackle John Walker’s hit on Iowa quarterback Hank Brown caused the interception caught by Jaylen McClain
*Safety Earl Little had three tackles.
*Linebacker Christian Alliegro had three tackles, a half sack, and a fumble recovery to set up Ohio State’s first touchdown.
*Wide receiver Devin McCuin caught four passes for 80 yards, including a touchdown after the Alliegro fumble recovery.
*Running back Ja’Kobi Jackson ran for 72 yards and a touchdown on 14 carries.
*Defensive back Cam Calhoun had a pass breakup and a tackle.
Little, Alliegro and McCuin have been starters from the beginning of the season. Jackson has run well enough that he should be considered as a tandem with Bo Jackson and not just his top backup.
Other than McCuin, who came from Texas-San Antonio, the other transfers came from major programs. But even for them, there was an adjustment period.