Ohio State's passing game has been a topic of discussion for the past few seasons, with a particular focus on improving yards after the catch (YAC). In 2025, the Buckeyes struggled in this area, averaging just 5.1 YAC per reception, which was the worst they've been in an entire season since 2020. This is despite having two of the best receivers in the country, including a top-four NFL draft pick and arguably the best player in college football for the next two years. What makes this situation particularly intriguing is the contrast between the team's impressive talent and its subpar performance in YAC. Personally, I think this highlights a critical area of improvement for the Buckeyes, and one that could define their offensive success in 2026. What makes this issue so fascinating is the paradox between the team's star power and its inability to generate significant YAC. In my opinion, this is a testament to the complexity of college football, where talent alone doesn't guarantee success. The Buckeyes' struggles in YAC are not just a product of their receivers' performance, but also of the overall passing game strategy and execution. This raises a deeper question: how can a team with such high-profile receivers struggle so badly in YAC? One thing that immediately stands out is the need for a more explosive passing attack. The Buckeyes' current strategy seems to be focused on short passes, which limits the potential for significant YAC. To address this, the team has made several strategic moves, including hiring a new wide receivers coach and offensive coordinator, as well as adding two new wide receivers from the transfer portal. These moves are particularly interesting, as they signal a shift in focus towards improving the passing game. The new wide receivers coach, Cortez Hankton, has a proven track record of developing receivers who excel in YAC. His hiring was a strategic decision to address the team's weaknesses in this area. Additionally, the transfer additions of Devin McCuin and Kyle Parker could also help the Buckeyes' passing attack become more explosive. These players bring unique skill sets and the potential to make significant contributions in YAC. However, the Buckeyes' success in improving YAC will depend on several factors. One key area of focus is the development of the team's quarterbacks. Julian Sayin, the most accurate passer in college football in 2025, could play a crucial role in unlocking more YAC. His stronger and more experienced performance could enable him to get the ball to his receivers in better positions to gain yards after the catch. Another important factor is the team's overall strategy and execution. The new offensive coordinator, Arthur Smith, wants his quarterback to get the ball out quickly to allow the playmakers on the outside to make plays with the ball in their hands. This strategy could help the Buckeyes generate more YAC by giving their receivers more opportunities to make plays after the catch. However, the Buckeyes must also address the psychological and cultural aspects of their passing game. The team's running backs coach, Carlos Locklyn, has made YAC a priority, not just for the running backs but also for the receivers. He emphasizes the importance of receivers sprinting to block and creating opportunities for themselves, which is a crucial aspect of generating YAC. In conclusion, Ohio State's passing game has a YAC problem that could define its offensive success in 2026. The team's struggles in this area are a testament to the complexity of college football, where talent alone doesn't guarantee success. However, with strategic moves such as hiring a new wide receivers coach and offensive coordinator, as well as adding new wide receivers, the Buckeyes have a good chance of improving their YAC. The success of these moves will depend on several factors, including the development of the team's quarterbacks and the overall strategy and execution of the passing game. Ultimately, the Buckeyes must prove their ability to generate significant YAC on the field if they want to win a national championship at the end of the season.
