Ohio State football has an early captain candidate, and he thinks the Buckeyes can repeat as champs
As Ohio State football prepares for another season in the Big Ten and the national spotlight, the team is already buzzing with excitement. While the football world is focused on recruits, transfers, and the upcoming season’s schedule, one individual has already positioned himself as a potential leader for the 2024 campaign: an early captain candidate who firmly believes that the Buckeyes have what it takes to repeat as national champions. This individual, embodying the values of hard work, leadership, and dedication, has emerged as not only a vocal leader but also a key player on the field who holds the keys to Ohio State’s path to glory.
In this article, we take a deep dive into the player making waves as an early captain candidate for the Buckeyes, explore his leadership qualities, assess what it would mean for Ohio State to repeat as national champions, and examine the factors that will drive the Buckeyes’ pursuit of another championship title in 2024.
A Look at Ohio State’s Early Captain Candidate
The race to be named team captain is often a mixture of performance on the field, leadership in the locker room, and the respect of coaches and teammates. It’s a title that carries immense responsibility and symbolizes the heart and soul of the team. Ohio State football has long been known for producing some of the best and brightest players in college football, and the 2024 squad is no different.
One player who is already being talked about as a captain candidate is Miyan Williams, the senior running back who has been a consistent force in the Buckeyes’ backfield for the past few seasons. Williams, a native of Cincinnati, Ohio, has always been known for his work ethic, his no-nonsense attitude, and his commitment to team success. But it’s his evolving leadership skills, both on and off the field, that have made him a prime candidate for the team captaincy this season.
Williams’ playing style has always been one of power and consistency. His blend of speed, vision, and physicality has made him a go-to weapon for Ohio State’s offense. But in 2024, he’s expected to take on an even bigger role, not just in terms of his performance on the field but also in terms of leading the younger players in the locker room. This is a role Williams is eager to take on, as he is deeply invested in the success of the team and feels a personal responsibility to ensure that the Buckeyes continue to climb toward the top of college football.
“I’m ready for this next step,” Williams said in a recent interview. “It’s not just about being a good player—it’s about being someone the guys can look to when things get tough. I’ve been through the ups and downs here, and I know what it takes to win. This team has the talent, the drive, and the mentality to repeat as champions, and I’m ready to help lead us there.”
Williams’ candidacy for captaincy comes at a time when Ohio State is looking to build on the success of the past few seasons, as well as address the areas where improvement is needed. His experience in the program, his understanding of what it takes to compete at the highest level, and his leadership abilities have made him a natural choice to assume a more vocal role on the team.
Leadership Beyond the Field
While Miyan Williams’ on-field performance speaks for itself, it’s his leadership qualities off the field that have made him such a strong captain candidate. Ohio State football is a program that prides itself on character and discipline, and Williams embodies these qualities in every aspect of his life. He’s not just a great football player; he’s a mentor to younger teammates, a vocal leader in the locker room, and someone who leads by example.
His leadership style is built on hard work and accountability. Williams has been known to take the younger running backs under his wing, offering guidance on how to approach the game both mentally and physically. This mentorship has extended beyond just his position group; Williams is respected by players from all positions, as he has demonstrated the ability to connect with people on a personal level.
During offseason workouts, Williams has been spotted spending extra time with incoming freshmen, helping them adjust to the demands of college football. He is often seen staying late after practice to work on his own skills, providing motivation to the rest of the team to put in the extra effort necessary for success. This commitment to excellence has made him a respected figure in the locker room, and his work ethic has earned him the trust of his coaches and teammates.
“Leadership isn’t just about being vocal; it’s about setting the right example,” Williams explained. “I try to lead by doing the little things right every day. If the guys see me working hard, doing things the right way, then they know they can trust me. That’s how you build a culture of success.”
Coach Ryan Day, who has been at the helm of Ohio State football for several seasons, has noticed Williams’ growth as a leader. “Miyan has taken on a larger role as a leader this year, and he’s earned the respect of the team,” Day said. “He leads with integrity, with passion, and with an unwavering commitment to the team’s goals. Those are the types of qualities we look for in a captain.”
Ohio State’s Quest to Repeat as National Champions
With Williams on board as a leader and the 2024 season fast approaching, Ohio State’s aspirations to repeat as national champions are stronger than ever. The Buckeyes have been a perennial contender for the College Football Playoff (CFP) and are coming off a season in which they made a strong push toward the national title. The goal now is to go a step further and claim the ultimate prize: a second national championship in a row.
For Ohio State to achieve this feat, several key factors will play into their success:
Quarterback Play and Offensive Development
One of the biggest storylines heading into the 2024 season is the development of the quarterback position. With C.J. Stroud off to the NFL, Ohio State is looking to fill the void with a new signal caller. This position will be pivotal for the Buckeyes, as a strong quarterback can elevate the offense to another level.
The competition at quarterback will likely be between Kyle McCord, the highly-touted sophomore who has been waiting for his chance to lead the offense, and Devin Brown, another promising quarterback who brings his own skill set to the table. The development of whichever player takes the reins will be critical to Ohio State’s offensive success, as they look to balance a potent passing attack with a dynamic running game led by Miyan Williams.
A Dominant Defense
While Ohio State is known for its high-powered offense, the team’s defense has been a crucial element of its championship runs. The Buckeyes have built a formidable defense in recent years, with standout players like defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau and cornerback Denzel Burke providing key contributions.
In 2024, Ohio State’s defense will need to continue its dominance while adapting to the evolving offensive schemes across college football. Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles will be tasked with keeping the Buckeyes’ defense at the forefront of the national conversation, and the leadership of players like Tommy Eichenberg and Steel Chambers will be essential in maintaining the defense’s level of play.
Team Chemistry and Leadership
The leadership provided by Miyan Williams is an important piece of the puzzle. The Buckeyes will need a unified team with strong chemistry to overcome the inevitable challenges that come with a high-pressure season. Leadership will come not just from Williams but also from other key veterans, such as offensive linemen Paris Johnson Jr. and Luke Wypler, as well as defensive leaders like Eichenberg.
Having players like Williams who are willing to step up and take ownership of the team’s goals will go a long way toward creating a culture of accountability and success. As Williams himself puts it, “The only way to win a championship is together. We have the talent, the mindset, and the work ethic to get there. Now it’s up to us to execute and stay focused on the goal.”
Scheduling and National Exposure
Ohio State’s regular-season schedule will also play a crucial role in their ability to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff and ultimately compete for a national title. The Buckeyes will face tough competition within the Big Ten, including their rivalry games with Michigan, Penn State, and other conference foes. These high-stakes matchups will not only test Ohio State’s resolve but will also provide the team with ample opportunities to make a statement on a national stage.
Additionally, the growing influence of conference realignment and the shifting landscape of college football could make for an interesting postseason race. With more teams vying for playoff spots, Ohio State will need to stay sharp and maintain its focus if it hopes to make a return trip to the CFP and ultimately secure another national title.
Looking Ahead: Can Ohio State Repeat as Champions?
The road to a national championship repeat is never easy, and while Ohio State has the talent and leadership in place to make it happen, the challenges will be significant. Miyan Williams, as a potential captain and key player, is already setting the tone for the season with his leadership and commitment to team success.
Ohio State’s success will depend on several factors—quarterback development, defensive strength, and overall team chemistry. But with a player like Williams leading the way, the Buckeyes have the foundation to achieve greatness once again. As the 2024 season unfolds, the team’s leadership, guided by Williams, will be instrumental in helping Ohio State overcome obstacles and compete for another national championship.
If Williams’ vision for the team comes to fruition, Ohio State could be celebrating a championship repeat by the end of the season. But for now, the focus remains on the work that lies ahead—work that will require not just skill but the leadership of individuals like Miyan Williams to drive the Buckeyes toward another title.
