Ohio State’s TreVeyon Henderson: The Underrated Game-Changer in National Championship

COLUMBUS, Ohio — As Notre Dame prepares to face Ohio State in the national championship game, all eyes are on Buckeyes wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. But overlooking running back TreVeyon Henderson could prove costly for the Fighting Irish. Henderson, a dynamic playmaker, has the ability to turn the tide of the game in an instant.

Henderson showcased his explosive talent earlier this season with a 66-yard touchdown run against Oregon in the Rose Bowl. He followed that up with a 75-yard screen pass touchdown just before halftime in the Cotton Bowl victory over Texas. “Trey is one of the most underrated guys in college football,” said Ohio State quarterback Will Howard. “That dude is an explosive guy when he gets the ball in his hands.”

Beyond his running ability, Henderson’s commitment to pass protection has earned him praise from teammates. “I think one of the most special things he does is without the ball in his hands is pass pro,” Howard added. “That guy is unbelievable in pass pro. As a quarterback, it’s cool because he takes so much pride in it.”

Henderson, a 5-star recruit in the 2021 class, has been a key contributor for the Buckeyes since his freshman year. Despite battling injuries over the past two seasons, he has consistently demonstrated his ability to make big plays. His vision, patience, and explosive speed make him a constant threat to opposing defenses.

In the passing game, Henderson is functional but not a high-end receiving option. He excels in dump-offs and screen passes, using his speed to turn short gains into significant yardage. His willingness to block and protect his quarterback adds another layer to his value on the field.

As Ohio State prepares for the national championship, Henderson’s role will be crucial. His ability to break open games with his speed and vision could be the difference-maker in securing a title for the Buckeyes. Whether running the ball, catching passes, or protecting his quarterback, Henderson has proven he can rise to the occasion when it matters most.