WR Chris Olave, Ohio State
HEIGHT: 6-1
WEIGHT: 185
HOMETOWN (HIGH SCHOOL): San Marcos, CA (Mission Hills)
247 RATING: .8875
STARS: 3
YEAR: Junior
POSITION RANK: 7
CAREER
Receiving: 60 catches, 1,037 yards (17.3 ypc), 15 touchdowns
2019
Receiving: 48 catches, 840 yards (17.5 ypc), 12 touchdowns
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Chris Olave Breakdown
Last time we saw Chris Olave, he was taking blame for the Ohio State Buckeyes’ College Football Playoff loss. Anyone who watched the game knows that it’s not true, but that’s the mentality he brings to his game, and it’s a reason he’s set to thrive in 2020.
On a Buckeyes team that’s full of blue chip recruits, Olave didn’t come to campus with the same amount of flare as others. In fact, Ohio State’s coaching staff found him on accident, as they were actually coming to his high school to recruit his teammate. So he already came to Ohio State with a chip on his shoulder, and he carries it with him every day.
Olave found a way to lead the Buckeyes in receiving last year, and that came in a group that boasted a ton of talent. Once again this year, his touches could be limited because of the competition at receiver, but also at tight end. Fortunately for him, he already found a way to separate himself from the group and become a leader. Now, he’s teaching the youth behind him how to get better, and should elevate his game to a new level. One more year with wide receivers coach Brian Hartline will help him sharpen his routes to create even more separation in man coverage.
Justin Fields had a number of options to throw to last year, but Olave’s ability to find holes in the defense. Even before and during the snap, he’s constantly scanning for openings for Fields to throw. His awareness of where everyone is on the field helps him get open, but also allows him to make difficult catches, even on the sideline.
Chris Olave brought a winning mentality to Ohio State, and it’s the biggest reason he’ll continue to thrive. In a group that’s loaded with talent and competition, Olave has a way of standing out and putting his name amongst the best receivers in college football.
