Three Offensive X-Factors For Ohio State In 2026

Continuity is the story for Ohio State’s offense heading into 2026.

The Buckeyes return eight starters on offense, including four offensive linemen, two wide receivers and their entire starting backfield, giving first-year offensive coordinator Arthur Smith a solid foundation to build upon.

The former NFL head coach inherits plenty of talent, including Heisman Trophy finalist quarterback Julian Sayin and two-time Big Ten Receiver of the Year Jeremiah Smith, but faces the challenge of revitalizing an Ohio State rushing attack that lost momentum against the elite defensive lines of Indiana and Miami (Fla.) in the Buckeyes’ Big Ten Championship and Cotton Bowl losses.

But returning production only tells half the story. To maintain that standard, Ohio State must integrate key freshmen and transfers — particularly at tight end and receiver — while watching new playmakers emerge.

Ahead of Ohio State’s 2026 campaign, Buckeye Sports Bulletin highlighted three offensive X-factors whose impact could dictate the ceiling of the Buckeye offense.

RT Phillip Daniels

After transferring from Minnesota following the 2024 season, where he saw action in 12 games, including three starts, offensive tackle Phillip Daniels established himself as one of Ohio State’s most reliable offensive linemen in 2025.

The redshirt sophomore beat out Rice transfer Ethan Onianwa for the starting right tackle job during fall camp and went on to start 13 games, missing only the Buckeyes’ win over Purdue due to injury.

Daniels logged 761 snaps, the fourth-most among Buckeye offensive linemen, and earned Third-Team All-Big Ten honors in his first season as a full-time starter.

While the 6-5, 315-pound tackle did not receive the same level of recognition as Second-Team All-Big Ten left tackle Austin Siereveld, Daniels provided solid stability on the edge and showed flashes of becoming one of the conference’s top tackles.

With another offseason in Ohio State’s strength program and a year of starting experience, Daniels is a prime candidate to take a step forward in 2026. If he develops into an upper-tier Big Ten tackle, it could boost a rushing attack that struggled against elite defensive fronts last season. He’ll still have to hold off redshirt sophomore Ian Moore, but Daniels remains a key piece of the Buckeyes’ offensive ceiling.

RB Bo Jackson

Though he began the 2025 season as Ohio State’s third-string running back, Bo Jackson quickly emerged as the Buckeyes’ lead back in his freshman year.

In 2025, Jackson totaled 179 carries for 1,090 yards and six touchdowns on the ground to go along with 19 receptions for 200 yards and a score through the air. He also ran for 100 or more yards six times.

While Jackson underwent shoulder surgery in the spring, he is set to be the starter to begin the 2026 season, giving him a chance to build early momentum.

His health and progression will dictate the identity of the 2026 offense. While Jackson shone individually, Ohio State’s ground game sputtered late last season, culminating in postseason losses where Indiana (58 rushing yards allowed) and Miami (45) completely neutralized the run.

Unlocking a consistent rushing attack is the top priority for Arthur Smith, with the 6-0, 217-pound Jackson being Ohio State’s best option to be its engine on the ground.

If Jackson can stay healthy after his surgery and emerge as a true bell-cow back, he would provide the balance needed to fully unlock the Buckeyes’ offense.

WR Chris Henry Jr.

Few players generated more buzz during Ohio State’s spring practices than freshman wide receiver Chris Henry Jr. The former five-star prospect out of Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, Calif., arrived in Columbus with enormous expectations, and early returns suggest the hype may be justified.

The 6-5, 195-pound receiver showcased that potential during Ohio State’s spring game, hauling in four receptions for 96 yards and a touchdown while creating two explosive plays of 30-plus yards down the field.

With Carnell Tate’s departure leaving the No. 2 receiver role up for grabs, Henry will have an opportunity to earn meaningful snaps immediately. Though he will have to beat out transfers Kyle Parker of LSU and Devin McCuin of UTSA for the starting job, both of whom are expected to compete for significant snaps, Henry’s upside is unmatched among Ohio State’s wideouts waiting in the wings.

If Henry develops quickly, Ohio State’s passing attack could reach another level in 2026. The rookie’s size and ability to create mismatches would give the Buckeyes two matchup nightmares on the outside, making him one of the offense’s most intriguing pieces.