This college football season has been a whirlwind, with unexpected outcomes and surprises akin to a plot from Inception. Top-seeded teams have been toppled, transfers are shaking things up, and high-stakes matchups are dominating the headlines. Ohio State is set to face Texas, while Penn State takes on Notre Dame in games that have fans buzzing. Meanwhile, behind the scenes, other teams are hustling on the recruiting trail. Coaches like Dan Lanning and Ryan Day are likely feeling the pressure, while Curt Cignetti quietly builds momentum for Indiana.
NEWS: Ohio State RB Sam Williams-Dixon plans to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal, @Birm reports.https://t.co/gAIbJdN4px pic.twitter.com/5DBNSKDAoI
— Transfer Portal (@TransferPortal_) January 6, 2025
One of the most surprising developments is the wave of transfers from Ryan Day’s Ohio State squad, even as they gear up for a potential playoff victory. Notably, running back Sam Williams-Dixon has announced his intention to enter the transfer portal and will not stay with the team for the playoffs. During his first season with the Buckeyes, Williams-Dixon recorded seven carries for 53 yards. Despite his limited role, his departure could create an offensive setback for the team as they head into critical games.
This trend isn’t isolated. Ohio State has seen 10 players enter the transfer portal, including quarterbacks Air Noland and Devin Brown, as well as wide receivers Jayden Ballard and Kojo Antwi. Even their defense is affected, with pass rusher Mitchell Melton opting to leave. While many of these players had limited playing time, their exits still diminish the team’s depth. Despite this, the Buckeyes remain favorites in the playoffs, with observers eager to see how these roster changes might impact their performance.
Elsewhere, the Indiana Hoosiers have become a notable story under head coach Curt Cignetti. Though a title game appearance is out of reach this season, Cignetti has orchestrated a remarkable turnaround for the program, leading the team to its first 11-win season in history. Indiana’s losses came against some of the best teams in college football, but Cignetti is addressing weaknesses by bolstering his roster. One key addition is Ryland Gandy, a starting cornerback from Pittsburgh. Gandy, a redshirt junior, recorded 40 tackles and two pass breakups in 13 starts last season and brings valuable experience to Indiana’s defense.
The transfer portal is also stirring activity beyond Ohio State. Oregon has seen its share of upheaval, especially after their star quarterback Dillon Gabriel struggled against Ohio State’s formidable defense, which sacked him eight times in a dominant performance. Wide receiver Ryan Pellum, a highly touted 4-star recruit who initially committed to USC before flipping to Oregon, entered the portal after a season with minimal contributions.
In the midst of these dramatic developments, Ohio State’s transfer situation raises questions. Some see it as a sign of deeper issues within the program, while others argue it’s a natural part of college football’s evolving landscape. Analyst Josh Pate noted that Ohio State’s success hinges on recruiting talented players and reinvesting in them. However, with key players leaving, the team’s playoff prospects could be tested.
As the Cotton Bowl approaches, the Buckeyes remain a top contender, but the effects of these roster changes will be closely watched. For now, fans and analysts alike are left debating whether Ohio State’s transfer exodus is indicative of internal problems or a strategic reshuffle. Only time will tell how these shifts impact the team’s trajectory and the broader landscape of college football.