Six under-the-radar Buckeyes who could decide Texas showdown

When Ohio State rolls into Austin this Saturday, most of the attention will fall on the big names. Jeremiah Smith, Julian Sayin, Kenyatta Jackson Jr. Those are the players Texas fans know all too well. But as any seasoned football observer will tell you, games at this level are often decided by the guys who don't make the highlight reels until it matters most.

Here are six lesser-known Buckeyes who could swing the game in Ohio State's favor, and why Iowa fans should keep an eye on them too.

Legend Bey, running back

Texas isn't the only team with a freshman playmaker who can flip a game on its head. Legend Bey chose Ohio State over Tennessee in a dramatic recruiting battle, and his Week One debut showed exactly why the Buckeyes pushed so hard. Bey finished with 74 total yards and a highlight-reel receiving touchdown against Ball State. He also handles return duties, making him a threat to score every time he touches the ball. He won't lead the team in carries, but his touches could be the most impactful ones on the field.

Devin McCuin, wide receiver

Everyone knows what Jeremiah Smith can do. But history shows that when Texas faces Ohio State, it's the second receiver who changes the game. Carnell Tate delivered a massive touchdown catch last season, and in 2024 both he and Emeka Egbuka led the receivers in yards. This year, UTSA transfer Devin McCuin appears to have claimed that WR2 role after a six-catch, 97-yard, one-touchdown performance in Week One. Texas defensive coordinator Will Muschamp will surely game-plan around Smith, but McCuin could make them pay if he's overlooked.

Chris Henry Jr., wide receiver

Another freshman who can alter the outcome lines up opposite Smith on Saturday. Chris Henry Jr., son of the late NFL receiver Chris Henry, was one of the most coveted recruits in the 2026 class. He's drawn consistent praise since arriving in Columbus. His Week One stat line was modest, one catch for 15 yards and a touchdown, but a breakout is coming. At 6-foot-5, he's a matchup problem Texas may not have enough bodies to cover, especially with Smith demanding so much attention.

John Walker, defensive tackle

Ohio State's defense lost several elite players to the NFL, including defensive tackle Kayden McDonald. John Walker, a senior transfer from UCF, looks like his replacement and anchors a deep defensive line room. His career stats don't jump off the page, but he's proven to be a remarkably disruptive force. Texas's interior offensive line is still finding its footing, and Walker will be one of the first major tests for that rebuilt unit.

TJ Alford, linebacker

No position group took a bigger hit this offseason than Ohio State's linebackers. Sonny Styles and Arvell Reese both left for the NFL, prompting the Buckeyes to bring in Christian Alliegro to lead a young but talented group. One of those young standouts is Tarvos