Yesterday’s episode of “The 330 Sports Show” had a special appearance from Steve Helwagen of 247Sports/Bucknuts! Steve discussed his opinions on college football and the Buckeyes’ upcoming season.
Yesterday’s episode of “The 330 Sports Show” featured an exciting special guest, Steve Helwagen from 247Sports and Bucknuts, who joined the hosts for an in-depth discussion about college football and the Ohio State Buckeyes’ upcoming season. The conversation provided a detailed look into Steve’s perspectives on the team’s strengths and challenges, his thoughts on recruiting, the overall landscape of college football, and how the Buckeyes fit into the bigger picture as they prepare for the new campaign.
Steve began by sharing his take on the current state of college football, emphasizing how dynamic and competitive the sport has become, especially within the Big Ten conference. He noted that the parity among teams has increased significantly over the past few years, making every game more unpredictable and exciting. He pointed out that the era of a few dominant programs controlling the conference is shifting, with schools like Michigan State, Penn State, and Wisconsin consistently challenging Ohio State’s supremacy. Steve stressed that this increasing competition places even more pressure on the Buckeyes to perform at a high level week in and week out.
When the conversation shifted specifically to Ohio State, Steve offered a cautiously optimistic outlook. He acknowledged the program’s consistent ability to reload talent and maintain a high standard under Coach Ryan Day, who has shown strong leadership and adaptability since taking the helm. Steve praised the Buckeyes for their recruiting prowess, highlighting that they continue to attract some of the nation’s top high school prospects, especially in key positions such as quarterback, defensive line, and wide receiver. This influx of talent, according to Steve, is critical to maintaining Ohio State’s competitive edge both within the Big Ten and nationally.
Steve then delved into the Buckeyes’ roster, breaking down key players to watch and potential areas of concern. On offense, he expressed confidence in the quarterback position, noting that the depth chart looks promising with experienced players ready to step up if called upon. He mentioned that the offensive line, which had some struggles last season, appears to be more solid this year due to returning starters and incoming talent. This improvement could be vital in giving the quarterback more protection and creating better running lanes.
Regarding the skill positions, Steve was enthusiastic about the receiving corps. He highlighted several young receivers who impressed during spring practice and early workouts, suggesting that the Buckeyes could have a more versatile and explosive passing game than in previous seasons. The running back group also looks strong, with a blend of speed and power that can keep opposing defenses off balance.
On the defensive side of the ball, Steve identified some challenges but also reasons for optimism. He noted that Ohio State’s defense has undergone some changes, including the loss of key veterans, which will test the depth and experience of the unit. However, he emphasized that the coaching staff has done a good job recruiting defensive talent and developing young players who could make significant contributions. Steve particularly pointed to the defensive line and linebacker groups as units to watch, as their performance will largely determine how well the Buckeyes can control the line of scrimmage and disrupt opposing offenses.
Steve also touched on the special teams, which he felt are often an underrated aspect of the team. He praised the Buckeyes’ return specialists and kicking game, noting that these elements can provide crucial advantages in tight contests. He encouraged fans to pay close attention to how well the special teams perform, as they could swing momentum in important games.
When discussing Ohio State’s schedule, Steve acknowledged the difficulty of the upcoming season. He pointed out that the Buckeyes will face a mix of tough conference matchups and challenging non-conference opponents, meaning that every game will be a test of their resilience and ability to adjust. He highlighted the importance of the early-season games to build momentum and confidence, especially with new or younger players stepping into more prominent roles.
Steve also addressed the expectations that come with being a perennial powerhouse. He noted that the pressure on Ohio State to compete for the Big Ten title and a spot in the College Football Playoff is immense, and that the team’s mental toughness and ability to handle adversity will be just as important as physical talent. He praised Coach Day for instilling a culture of accountability and preparation, which he believes is crucial for navigating the ups and downs of a long season.
Recruiting was a major topic of discussion, with Steve explaining how Ohio State’s ability to secure top prospects year after year is the foundation of their sustained success. He detailed some of the standout recruits in the latest class and how their skill sets fit into the Buckeyes’ system. He also mentioned the increasing competition from other schools nationwide, which makes landing elite talent more challenging and more rewarding. Steve highlighted that while Ohio State’s recruiting footprint remains strong in Ohio and neighboring states, they are expanding their reach further across the country, which bodes well for the future.
Beyond the on-field aspects, Steve offered some insights into the broader college football landscape. He discussed how the transfer portal and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities are reshaping team-building strategies. He noted that Ohio State has been savvy in navigating these changes, leveraging their brand and resources to attract both high school recruits and transfers who can contribute immediately. Steve mentioned that while these new dynamics add complexity, they also create exciting opportunities for teams willing to adapt quickly.
Steve wrapped up the conversation by sharing his predictions for the Buckeyes’ season. He expects Ohio State to compete at a high level and be in the mix for the Big Ten championship once again. He emphasized that their success will depend on how well they execute in critical moments, how quickly the younger players mature, and how effectively the coaching staff manages injuries and adjustments. He acknowledged the presence of strong competition in the conference but remains confident that Ohio State’s blend of talent, coaching, and experience will keep them near the top.
Throughout the episode, Steve’s enthusiasm and deep knowledge of Ohio State football and college football in general made for an engaging and informative discussion. His analysis painted a comprehensive picture of the Buckeyes’ strengths and challenges, while also highlighting the evolving nature of college football as a whole. Fans left the episode with a clearer understanding of what to expect this season and a renewed excitement for the Buckeyes’ pursuit of excellence.
