The Ohio State Buckeyes don't need more offensive star power after adding impact transfers in Quinshon Judkins and Will Howard, but head coach Ryan Day is building a plan to further help the unit. Star safety Caleb Downs, who transferred from Alabama this offseason, is in Day's plans to help the offense's depth. 

We dive into why Downs playing on offense creates the perfect plan for him to become a serious Heisman Trophy candidate in 2024. 

Ryan Day Can Boost Caleb Downs Heisman Odds

Downs was immediately a hit for Nick Saban at Alabama, producing 107 tackles, two interceptions, four pass breakups, and a fumble forced as a true freshman in 2023. Saban's retirement opened Downs' mind to transfer, and he opted for the Buckeyes over Georgia. While his potential NIL earnings might've played a part, so will his NFL stock and collegiate legacy.

---

Day, at Tuesday's press conference, admitted Downs has been attending running backs meetings throughout this spring and summer. Ohio State aims to have four quality backs for new offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, and Downs' presence would theoretically ease pressure on freshmen backups James Peoples and Sam Williams-Dixon. 

Of course, Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson figure to be the workhorses.

"Where it goes, we'll see, you never know. We're just trying to build contingency plans," Day stated.

---

The Buckeyes' lack of depth behind their two stars hasn't been the focus of fans or media, but Henderson's injury history does create some concern. Downs played on both sides of the field in high school but was more of a receiver than a rusher. Then again, it's unfair to say he wasn't talented at tailback, considering he tallied 20 rushing scores on 57 carries with a 6.8-yard average as a senior. 

Downs' current Heisman Trophy odds are only +15000, so he's clearly a longshot. Outside of Travis Hunter, the last big-time two-way player in college football was Jabrill Peppers. The Michigan star finished fifth in Heisman voting in 2016 when he tallied 72 tackles, four sacks, one interception, 170 yards from scrimmage, four total touchdowns, and 570 return yards. 

---

If Peppers' stats are the baseline of production for Downs, then he'll have to be quite active over the course of the regular season. The Buckeyes' defense scheme may not feed Downs as many tackles as Saban's, and turnovers are often more random than based on talent alone. 

Day can control the touches Downs sees on offense, but the 6-foot, 200-pounder isn't used to handling the rock a ton or returning kicks. It's possible a hybrid role that gives him highlight-reel opportunities and red zone touches helps overcome the volume he'll never see. 

---