Ohio State 2025 Class Review | Who Is Ohio State’s Biggest Commit? | Inside Scoop

The stage is set for the matchup between Ohio State and Akron next weekend. The Buckeyes are heavy favorites rolling into the matchup, as expected. They’re one of the most complete teams in all of college football, and the odds reflect that.

According to FanDuel Sportsbook, Ohio State is currently favored by 49.5 points, one of the biggest favorites of the weekend. The game total is set at 57.5 points. Here’s some more details on what you need to know heading into the game.

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How to watch Ohio State vs. Akron

Time: 3:30 PM EST

Channel: CBS, FuboTV (Streaming)

Location: Ohio Stadium —Columbus, Ohio

Ohio State enters the 2024 campaign with one of the most loaded rosters in the country, with weaponry and talent all over the place. Expectations are sky high across the nation for the Buckeyes, who check in at No. 2 in the first version of the Associated Press Poll. They’ve made a number of impressive additions in the offseason, with the biggest being all-world safety Caleb Downs. He was the No. 1 ranked player in the transfer portal, after he stuffed the stat sheet with 107 total tackles and two interceptions as a true freshman for the Alabama Crimson Tide.

On offense, Ohio State once again features one of the nation’s most impressive collections of talent at the skill positions. Wide receiver Emeka Egbuka is one of the nation’s best. He hauled in 41 catches for 515 receiving yards and four touchdowns last year for the Buckeyes. In 2022, Egbuka snagged 74 catches for 1,151 yards and 10 touchdowns. He figures to be the No. 1 receiver for quarterback Will Howard, who transferred to Ohio State this offseason from Kansas State.

Howard threw for over 2,600 yards last year for KSU, while tossing in 24 touchdowns with 10 interceptions. As a runner, he has had over 350 rushing yards in two different seasons for KSU.

There’s also ultra gifted freshman receiver, Jeremiah Smith, who has drawn an extensive amount of national media attention dating back to his high school days. He’s expected to make quite the splash for the Buckeyes in his first year. He’ll be an exciting one to watch. Smith was rated as the No. 1 overall player in the 2024 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Rankings. There’s been steady buzz around his play ever since he set foot in Columbus in the spring.

Ohio State is also home to one of the nation’s best running back tandems in Ole Miss transfer Quinshon Judkins and Treyveon Henderson. Judkins has rushed for over 2,600 yards and 31 touchdowns combined the past two seasons for the Ole Miss Rebels. He’s firmly cemented himself as one of the nation’s best at his position. And if they want another option, the Buckeyes will have Treyveon Henderson to turn to, who has rushed for over at least 900 yards in two of his three seasons in college football.

That’s just scratching the surface of some of the talent on the OSU roster. It’s easy to see why Vegas thinks this one is one of the biggest mismatches of the entire 2024 college football season.

When visiting a new state, small towns are always overlooked, with travelers choosing famous cities with prominent personalities as their chosen destinations. This applies to the Buckeye State, where Cleveland and Columbus attract the lion’s share of tourists. Despite this, small-town Ohio is home to adorable little towns that deserve a second look. Nestled between rolling hills and valleys, charming villages like Hillsboro and Granville thrive with solid communities and cultural offerings often eclipsed by their larger neighbors.

The following are small towns to explore in Ohio for their historic downtown areas, scenic natural scenery, and relatable small-town charm. With pleasant aesthetics and welcoming atmospheres, these lesser-known havens provide a refreshing counterpoint to busy urban areas and the opportunity to experience a simple yet fulfilling way of life.

Germantown

Most travelers heading to Dayton use Germantown as a brief stop on their journey, never stopping to take a closer look at what this quaint community offers. They fail to realize that Germantown has a captivating heritage that comes alive in its historic downtown. Founded by German Americans in the early 1800s, the town hosts a couple of vintage landmarks worth stopping by. The Veterans Memorial Museum on Main Street is a great start and pays tribute to war heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country. Germantown preserves several covered bridges as a stark reminder of its past, including the Germantown Covered Bridge, constructed in 1870.

Alongside its lovely history, the community presents beautiful nature spaces for visitors who like green and serene surroundings. Daniel’s Peace Memorial Park spans 100 acres of raw nature with a quiet where environment tailored for secluded walks and uninterrupted picnics.

Mansfield

Despite offering a little bit of everything to captivate all its visitors, not enough travelers come to experience this vibrant community of Richland County. Mansfield’s charm starts from its busy Main Street, lined with coffee shops, restaurants, and galleries to create a buzzing social atmosphere. Tourists can stop by the Mansfield Playhouse to watch an engaging play or admire beautiful art pieces at the Mansfield Art Center for a feel of the local art landscape. Those who want some background on the town will be intrigued by the majestic Romanesque Revival Ohio State Reformatory, whose colorful heritage includes being featured in the cult classic “Shawshank Redemption.”

Mansfield is dotted with idyllic outdoor spaces that nature lovers will enjoy exploring, including Kingwood Center Gardens. If you visit with young ones, be sure to take them to Richland Carrousel Park for a fun time with peers.

Lebanon

With Cincinnati less than 40 minutes away, very few tourists dedicate their time to exploring this quaint suburban community of Warren County comprehensively. However, this does not take away from its compelling story, which you can learn better by visiting its several historical markers. The Warren County Historical Society is a prominent point of interest, beckoning newcomers to delve into Lebanon’s past as documented by various archives and artifacts. Do not leave the town without dining or staying at the rustic Golden Lamb Restaurant & Hotel. This vintage treasure has been running since the early 1800s, hosting famous personalities like Mark Twain and Charles Dickens at one point in its extensive tenure.

A lively cluster of antique stores, including Lebanon Peddlers Mall, encourages visitors to immortalize their memories in Lebanon with beautiful vintage souvenirs. Beyond history, movie lovers can join peers in catching the latest Hollywood releases at Colony 7 Cinemas without breaking their budget.

Chillicothe

Very few people realize that before Columbus, Chillicothe was actually Ohio’s maiden capital, making it a prime destination for travelers interested in Ohio’s formative years. Chillicothe’s colorful heritage can be explored inside the Ross County Historical Society, which exhibits informative archives and documents about the town’s past. The town also hosts the Adena Mansion & Gardens Historic Site, a 19th-century homestead with original furnishings and artifacts presenting a vivid look into Victorian-era Chillicothe.

Those who are inclined towards the arts will find intimate works by local artists at Pump House Center for the Arts to keep them engaged. Elsewhere, Yoctangee Park provides a peaceful escape to the great outdoors with opportunities for hikers, picnickers, walkers, and bikers.

Grand Rapids

With so many beautiful river towns in Ohio, few visitors think they are missing out on this gem in Wood County. Grand Rapids might have a small population of under 1,000, but it packs a punch of fun for those passing by. Its location on the Maumee River allows for beautiful nature areas like Grand Rapids Park. People converge at this site to revel in the tranquil atmosphere and stunning water vistas. You can also access the river to indulge in adrenaline-filled activities like canoeing and kayaking, courtesy of Maumee River Outfitters.

Visitors can also explore some of the town’s historical markers for some background, which will involve touring the Isaac R. Ludwig Historical Mill from 1849. Finally, consider sampling the lively craft winery and brewery scene in Grand Rapids by visiting Majestic Oak Winery & Neon Groundhog Brewery.

Peninsula

Not many people realize there is a functioning village in the middle of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, which explains why this Summit County town does not get the attention it deserves. Peninsula demonstrates a strong sense of community at Szalay’s Farm & Market, where a fun atmosphere engulfs the area as friendly vendors interact with visitors shopping for fresh produce from the farm. Several trailheads lead adventurers into the wilderness of the surrounding park, including Lock 29 Trailhead, which accommodates bikers and hikers.

Meanwhile, Beaver Marsh Boardwalk View offers a lush atmosphere for uninterrupted moments to yourself and features a wooden promenade from which you can admire the area’s wildlife. Away from the open spaces, indoor-inclined tourists can watch an entertaining musical performance inside G.A.R Hall.

Granville

This adorable Licking County village is home to Denison University and sits only 35 miles from Columbus. Granville is understandably overlooked with the capital being so close, but travelers should be privy to its charm. It has beautiful natural scenery, with Lake Hudson providing a pristine swimming beach, fishing spots, and other recreational opportunities. The same applies to the Denison Biological Reserve, which has picturesque walking and running paths cutting through a wooded section.

The Robbins Hunter Museum preserves local history through a collection of exciting Victorian artifacts. It has gorgeous Greek Revival architectural details and welcomes guests for exciting tours exploring the town’s yesteryears. When you need a cozy night spot, stay at the historic Granville Inn for a rustic accommodation experience.

Yellow Springs

Yellow Springs is one of the underrated small towns to explore in Ohio for outdoor adventures. Located on the northern side of Greene County, it is a dream come true for outdoor thrill seekers and offers plenty of wilderness areas tailored for outdoor adventures. The Glen Helen Nature Preserve harbors pristine natural wonders, including wildflowers and old-growth trees, but the highlight remains the beautiful cascades the town was named after. More adventures await at the John Bryan State Park, from camping, fishing, hiking, and picnicking.

Yellow Springs has a small but fun downtown region, with a mix of businesses inviting newcomers to interact with friendly locals. You can savor delicious ice creams at Young’s Jersey Dairy or shop for cote pottery work at Yellow Springs Pottery.

Hudson

Hudson has a historical heritage, including playing a vital role in the Underground Railroad. Strolling through the Hudson Historic District reveals a lovely mix of historic structures that provide evidence of its storied beginnings. The townsfolk take pride in a strong sense of community, which visitors will experience when shopping at the Hudson Farmer’s Market. The welcoming atmosphere and the friendly exude delightful small-town vibes that make first-timers feel like being home away from home.

Hudson Springs Disc Golf Course is an excellent spot for golf enthusiasts who want to enjoy their favorite pastime while exploring the rich scenery in the open spaces. This is also true for Hudson Springs Park, which spans 260 acres and serves as a hub for recreational enthusiasts in the town.

Hillsboro

Hillsboro is recognized as the home of the World’s Largest Horseshoe Crab, a whimsical roadside attraction that visitors cannot miss when driving into the town. Its sheer size attracts many admirers who come to pose for a photo beside it. The Rocky Fork State Park serves as the ultimate playground for outdoor lovers in the town. Sprawling over 2,000 acres, it has multiple nature hiking trails and offers many recreational opportunities to keep visitors engaged, including camping, boating, and fishing.

A couple of kid-friendly venues allow families to enjoy fun times with loved ones while staying in Hillsboro. One such place is Highland Lanes, which offers easygoing bowling sessions. But if you are unsure where to go, the friendly staff at the Visitors Bureau of Highland County will point you in the right direction.

The Takeaway

For those seeking an authentic experience off the beaten path in the United States, be sure to carve out time to discover one or more of these underrated small towns to explore in Ohio. Whether wandering through historic districts like Hudson or admiring the architecture of picturesque villages like Peninsula, each settlement offers a captivating glimpse into the state’s rural culture and heritage. A trip to these special communities guarantees friendly locals, beautiful scenery, and insight into regional traditions largely unchanged by modern trends.

The Ohio State Buckeyes are absolutely stacked with talent this season. In the backfield, they have two stars that will split carries throughout the course of the year.

Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson will both be featured at the running back position.

Judkins made the move to Ohio State after playing the first two years of his college career with Ole Miss. Now, he’s set to be a huge part of helping the Buckeyes compete for a National Championship.

During the 2023 season with Ole Miss, Judkins ended up carrying the football 237 times for 1,052 yards and 15 touchdowns. Back in 2022, he racked up 1,476 yards and 16 touchdowns on 251 carries.

While he’s fully focused on helping the Buckeyes win a championship, Judkins is also playing for his hopeful NFL future.

NFL Draft Buzz took a look at Judkins and his future outlook. They made a very bold statement about the young star running back, stating that he has the potential to become a “cornerstone player.”

“As the pro game continues to value versatile, dynamic running backs, Judkins stands out as a prospect who can contribute immediately while possessing the upside to become a cornerstone player.”

They also listed a few comparisons for Judkins.

Kendre Miller, Zach Chaarbonnet, and Rachaad White were all named similar comparisons. All three players are young running backs in the NFL with big-time potential.

RotoWire has provided some projections for Judkins in 2024. They believe he will rush for 1,030 yards and 12 touchdowns on 169 carries.

Being able to reach those projections while splitting time with Henderson would be a big win for Judkins. He would take a big step towards making his NFL dreams become a reality.

All of that being said, it will be interesting to see how the 2024 college football season unfolds for Judkins. Ohio State needs him to live up to the hype and have a big-time year.

Judkins certainly seems ready to live up to the hype and be a key piece of powering the Buckeyes to the National Championship.