TE Luke Farrell, Ohio State
HEIGHT: 6-6
WEIGHT: 250
HOMETOWN (HIGH SCHOOL): Perry, OH (Perry)
247 RATING: .9233
STARS: 4
YEAR: Senior
POSITION RANK: 8
CAREER
Receiving: 29 catches, 343 yards (11.8 ypc), 3 touchdowns
2019
Receiving: 7 catches, 119 yards (17.0 ypc), 2 touchdowns
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Luke Farrell Breakdown
Tight ends haven’t been a focal point in the Ohio State offense for a while, but that trend could end in 2020. The amount of talent at the position this year makes a strong case for guys like Luke Farrell to make an impact with new receivers needed. Farrell’s already shown that he can make plays even with limited chances, and it’s just a matter of the coaching staff finding ways to utilize his skillset better.
Despite having just seven catches in 2020, and only 29 in his career, Farrell’s actually a quality option in the passing game. He has strong hands that allow him to snatch a pass out of the air, even if he has a man right on him. He won’t create much separation or run past anyone, but he uses his focus and length to secure the pass. His length also gives him a larger catch radius, leaving more room for his quarterback to fit a pass in to him. While he’s a capable receiver, he stands out more with his blocking.
Farrell’s the best blocker at tight end for the Buckeyes, and his physicality will get him on the field more. Not only does his length help him catch passes easier, but it also helps him gain leverage on the man he’s blocking. Throw in a strong base with that length, and it’s tough to get through Farrell when he’s blocking even if he doesn’t gain leverage right away. He can recover well still keep his man out of the play.
Ohio State enters the 2020 season looking for playmakers in the passing game. Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson return at receiver, and there’s also talent behind them that should contribute. But Ryan Day knows he has to reliable options behind them, starting with Farrell. He should see the most time thanks to his blocking abilities, but he should also see more passes head his way.
