James Peoples

As a freshman, Peoples didn't see much action with Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson playing ahead of him, but their departures have left the door wide open for the sophomore. Peoples looked great with his opportunities in 2024, compiling 197 yards and two touchdowns on 49 carries. The Buckeyes hired Tyler Bowen as the new offensive line and running backs coach, and he'll look to parlay his previous successes at Virginia Tech and Penn State as the team undergoes some key departures in the trenches. If the Buckeyes can plug the holes on the offensive line left by graduates, Peoples should be able to compile excellent numbers as the Buckeyes aim for another deep run in the College Football Playoff. The team dipped into the transfer portal to add CJ Donaldson to the mix, and the two will attempt to replicate much of the success Judkins and Henderson experienced last season, though Peoples seems the likely leader of the room. Read Past Outlooks