Can Tennessee football create a roster similar to that of Ohio State? It need more than NIL alone.

When college football fans discuss elite programs, the names that often come up include Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State. Each of these programs has become synonymous with success—national championships, top-tier recruits, and a track record of sending players to the NFL. Tennessee, a program with a rich history and passionate fan base, is looking to re-enter the upper echelon of college football, but the road to building a roster that rivals the likes of Ohio State requires much more than just money, especially with the rising prominence of the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era.

While NIL undoubtedly plays a role in college football recruiting, Tennessee’s path to creating a roster like Ohio State’s requires a multi-faceted approach, one that includes recruiting, player development, coaching, facilities, and maintaining a competitive culture. For Tennessee, the challenge is not only recruiting the best talent but ensuring that the culture, resources, and on-field success all align to sustain sustained excellence.

In this article, we’ll examine the factors that Tennessee must prioritize to build a roster similar to Ohio State’s and explore how NIL fits into the larger picture of elite college football success.

Ohio State’s Success: What Makes Their Roster So Special?

Ohio State’s football program has been the gold standard in the Big Ten for years, and in many respects, their roster is a model for what Tennessee hopes to emulate. The Buckeyes consistently bring in top-tier talent across the board, from elite skill players to massive offensive linemen and game-changing defenders. Several factors contribute to Ohio State’s ability to stockpile talent year after year.

1. Consistent Recruiting Success

Ohio State has a recruiting strategy that has been remarkably consistent under head coach Ryan Day (and even under previous coach Urban Meyer). The Buckeyes regularly land top-five recruiting classes, signing some of the most coveted prospects in the country. Part of Ohio State’s success can be attributed to their national appeal—Ohio State recruits across the entire United States and is known for developing players into NFL-caliber talent.

Their recruiting dominance is not just limited to one position group. Ohio State consistently brings in top players across the board, whether it be at quarterback, wide receiver, offensive line, or defensive back. The Buckeyes’ ability to recruit a full roster of elite players sets them apart from many other programs, and that’s a key reason why they have maintained national relevance for so long.

2. Player Development

Recruiting the best talent is important, but player development is what turns that talent into sustained success. Ohio State has built a reputation for turning blue-chip prospects into NFL stars. Players who arrive in Columbus with high expectations often leave as polished, mature, and well-rounded football players ready for the next level.

From strength and conditioning programs to in-depth coaching, Ohio State creates an environment where players improve year over year. This development is particularly evident on both sides of the ball. The offensive line at Ohio State, for instance, is consistently one of the best in the country, while the defensive backfield produces NFL draft picks at an alarming rate. Ohio State’s focus on player development ensures that each recruit gets the attention needed to fulfill their potential.

3. Coaching and Scheme

Ohio State’s coaching staff is among the best in the nation, with a focus on not just recruiting but implementing schemes that allow players to shine. Ryan Day is known for his offensive acumen, but his staff is also proficient in other areas of the game, including defense and special teams. Coaches like Kerry Coombs (defensive backs) and Larry Johnson (defensive line) are widely regarded as some of the best at their respective positions, and they consistently churn out NFL talent.

Moreover, Ohio State has an ability to adapt its scheme to match the talent it recruits. Whether it’s the up-tempo, pass-heavy attack led by a mobile quarterback or a pro-style system that emphasizes power running, Ohio State adjusts to make the most of the players it brings in. This flexibility is key to maintaining an elite roster year after year.

4. Facilities and Resources

The resources available to Ohio State players—ranging from state-of-the-art training facilities to top-tier medical care—are another vital aspect of the program’s success. Ohio State’s commitment to upgrading facilities ensures that the Buckeyes have the infrastructure needed to compete at the highest level. Whether it’s weight rooms, practice fields, or nutrition centers, Ohio State provides an environment where athletes can maximize their potential.

Tennessee’s Path to a Comparable Roster

Tennessee has made significant strides in recent years, and the Vols’ 2024 season showed real promise. Under head coach Josh Heupel, Tennessee has embraced an up-tempo, high-scoring offense that has made the team one of the most exciting in college football. However, if the Vols are to build a roster capable of competing with the likes of Ohio State, there is still work to be done.

1. Recruiting: Tennessee’s Opportunity for Growth

To build a roster similar to Ohio State’s, Tennessee must recruit at a consistently high level. The Vols are already a solid recruiting program, and they have seen a resurgence in talent, particularly on the offensive side of the ball. Players like quarterback XYZ, wide receiver ABC, and linebacker DEF are indicative of the program’s potential. However, to truly compete with the Buckeyes, Tennessee needs to sign multiple top-ten recruiting classes in a row.

One area where Tennessee has an advantage over many programs is its ability to recruit in-state talent. The state of Tennessee has produced elite football talent over the years, and the Vols can make a concerted effort to keep top players home. Additionally, while Ohio State often recruits nationally, Tennessee has the opportunity to capitalize on recruiting relationships in neighboring states like Georgia, Alabama, and North Carolina. By building deep relationships with high school coaches in these areas, Tennessee could further strengthen its recruiting base.

2. Player Development: Creating NFL-Caliber Talent

Tennessee’s coaching staff is still relatively new, and while they have shown promise in player development, they need to continue to prove their ability to develop NFL-caliber players. While Tennessee has sent players to the NFL recently, to truly rival Ohio State, Tennessee will need to see consistent development across all position groups.

This means focusing on areas like strength and conditioning, as well as developing a coaching pipeline that can produce elite assistants who specialize in certain areas. Tennessee must also ensure that its system develops quarterbacks, offensive linemen, defensive backs, and pass rushers who can excel at the highest levels.

3. Coaching and Scheme: Building a Unified Vision

Josh Heupel has proven himself as an innovative offensive mind, but the next step is for Tennessee to establish an overall cohesive system that excels on both sides of the ball. While Heupel’s fast-paced offense has brought excitement and success, Tennessee needs to ensure that its defense can hold up against elite teams like Ohio State. This includes recruiting and developing a more dominant defensive line, linebackers who can cover and stop the run, and defensive backs who can compete with top-tier wide receivers.

Tennessee must also continue to invest in its coaching staff to ensure that it has the best minds on both sides of the ball. Having elite coordinators who are respected nationally can be a significant recruiting tool and an indicator of a program’s long-term viability.

4. Facilities and Resources: An Area for Improvement

Tennessee has already made substantial investments in its facilities, but to compete with Ohio State and other elite programs, the Vols will need to continue improving and innovating. This includes expanding training facilities, increasing the staff supporting players’ development (such as strength coaches, nutritionists, and mental health professionals), and ensuring that Tennessee’s infrastructure remains at the cutting edge.

The Role of NIL in Tennessee’s Ambitions

While NIL has changed the landscape of college football recruiting, it is clear that the ability to land top recruits is not solely dependent on money. Yes, NIL can offer an additional incentive for players to choose Tennessee, but a roster like Ohio State’s is built on more than just financial incentives. The Vols can use NIL strategically, but it must be part of a larger, holistic approach to recruiting, player development, coaching, and facilities.