Ohio State returned 12 starters from 1992, making John Cooper's sixth team his most talented squad to date.
Tackle Korey Stringer, tailback Raymont Harris, fullback Jeff Cothran and receiver Joey Galloway led a loaded offense. The standout receiver from Bellaire, Ohio, returned after suffering a season-ending knee injury in Week 2 of the 1992 season. The biggest question mark for the offense came at quarterback and whether or not redshirt sophomore Bobby Hoying could take command.
Ohio State expected to have a stronger and bigger defensive line, with speed at every position.