Ohio State Roster 2022

The 2022 Ohio State Buckeyes arrived with sky-high expectations and a roster brimming with NFL-calibre talent. From a Heisman-finalist quarterback to a receiving corps that terrified defensive coordinators across the Big Ten, this was a squad built to compete for a national championship. Whether you were glued to every Saturday kick-off or catching up on highlights, the 2022 roster remains a fascinating snapshot of a programme at the peak of its powers.

The Quarterback Room: C.J. Stroud Leads the Charge

Ohio State Buckeyes helmet and branded merchandise representing the 2022 roster

C.J. Stroud returned under centre after a phenomenal 2021 campaign, and he did not disappoint. The redshirt sophomore threw for over 3,600 yards and 41 touchdowns, cementing his status as one of the finest passers in college football. Behind him, Kyle McCord and Devin Brown battled for backup reps, giving the Buckeyes enviable depth at the most important position on the field. Stroud's poise in the pocket and ability to extend plays with his legs made him a nightmare for opposing defences, and his connection with the receiving corps was almost telepathic at times.

Skill Positions: A Receiving Corps for the Ages

Detailed view of a football helmet, symbolising the Buckeyes' formidable 2022 squad depth

Marvin Harrison Jr. emerged as a bona fide superstar, hauling in 14 touchdown receptions and torching secondaries with his crisp route-running and absurd body control. Opposite him, Emeka Egbuka blossomed into a reliable chain-mover, while Julian Fleming and Xavier Johnson provided timely contributions. The running back committee of Miyan Williams, TreVeyon Henderson and Dallan Hayden kept defences honest, combining for well over 1,500 rushing yards. Tight end Cade Stover became a trusted red-zone target, adding another dimension to an already lethal offence.

Defence and the Trenches: Toughness in the Shadows

While the offence grabbed headlines, the defensive unit quietly put together a respectable season. Linebacker Tommy Eichenberg led the team in tackles with relentless motor and football intelligence, earning first-team All-Big Ten honours. Up front, J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer formed a fearsome edge-rushing duo, with Tuimoloau's two-interception masterclass against Penn State standing out as one of the plays of the year. In the secondary, Denzel Burke and Cameron Brown patrolled the corners, though injuries tested the unit's depth as the season wore on.

Special Teams and the Road Ahead

Punter Jesse Mirco and kicker Noah Ruggles provided stability on special teams, with Ruggles converting clutch field goals throughout the campaign. The 2022 season ended in heartbreak against Georgia in the College Football Playoff semi-final, but the roster's talent was undeniable. Many of these players moved on to NFL careers, leaving behind a legacy of what might have been. For Buckeye fans, the 2022 roster will always be remembered as a group that came agonisingly close to glory.