Ohio State’s Heisman Hopefuls Face Challenges from Coaching Decisions: Stephen Means
Ohio State’s football team has two prime candidates for the Heisman Trophy this season: Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith. As the season progresses, both athletes face challenges due to coaching decisions, particularly concerning the offensive strategy.
Talent on Display: Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith
Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith have demonstrated exceptional skills worthy of Heisman consideration. Sayin, with a completion rate of 78.4%, has thrown for 1,479 yards and 15 touchdowns. His efficiency has set him apart, especially when given opportunities to showcase his talents. In a game against Wisconsin, he started strong, completing eight passes in a row, culminating in a 33-yard touchdown to teammate Carnell Tate.
- Sayin’s statistics through Week 8:
- Completing 78.4% of passes
- 1,479 passing yards
- 15 touchdowns
- Upcoming potential: On pace to break the Big Ten record for consecutive games with over 70% completion, currently held by Russell Wilson.
Meanwhile, Jeremiah Smith is widely regarded as the nation’s top player, having recorded 40 receptions for 505 yards and 10 touchdowns before the Week 8 clash. His performance has been impactful, though he has not yet exceeded 100 receiving yards in a game against a Power 4 opponent, partly due to the Buckeyes’ conservative game plans.
Coaching Decisions Impacting Heisman Hopes
The Ohio State coaching staff’s cautious approach has limited the offensive explosiveness necessary for the Heisman Trophy contenders. The strategy has focused more on efficiency than on showcasing the abilities of Sayin and Smith.
Ohio State’s current strategy entails a gradual build-up, possibly to ensure performances peak during November. Championships and Heisman wins are often determined by late-season form rather than early games.
Heisman Race Competitors
Currently, Smith and Sayin rank third and fourth in Heisman betting odds. They trail competitors like:
- Fernando Mendoza from Indiana, whose Heisman candidacy hinges on a potential matchup against Ohio State in the Big Ten Championship.
- Ty Simpson from Alabama, who is working to restore the Crimson Tide’s winning streak after an initial loss.
Ohio State has not seen a Heisman winner since Troy Smith’s victory in 2006. With emerging talents like Sayin and Smith, the opportunity exists to end this long drought, contingent on coaching decisions and how the team approaches the remainder of the season.
