College football players are often tough, but few can match the level of determination shown by Ohio State’s right tackle, Josh Fryar. Throughout the 2024 season, Fryar battled through physical pain, ensuring the Buckeyes’ offensive line remained as strong as ever. His ability to play through discomfort became one of the key storylines in Ohio State’s march to the College Football Playoff, culminating in a spot in the national championship.
Fryar’s journey to becoming a cornerstone of Ohio State’s offensive line wasn’t an easy one. Coming in as a three-star recruit, Fryar didn’t immediately garner the same level of recognition as some of his highly touted teammates. However, his tenacity and work ethic have earned him the respect of his coaches and teammates. Despite his physical challenges, Fryar played an integral role in Ohio State’s run for the national title.
In Ohio State’s College Football Playoff quarterfinal against Tennessee, Fryar’s resolve was put to the test in a critical moment. As quarterback Will Howard connected with wide receiver Emeka Egbuka for a crucial 40-yard pass, Fryar, who had been playing through an injury to his lower body, found himself on the turf in pain. The celebration around him continued, but Fryar knew his duty was far from over.
“After seeing that pass, I was hurting, but I knew I had to push through,” Fryar said in a postgame interview. “I remember thinking, ‘Oh s—, I’ve got to go down there and help get us into scoring position.’” His resilience in that moment spoke volumes about his character and determination, as he immediately got back on his feet and hustled down the field, providing key blocks to help keep the drive alive.
Fryar’s battle with pain wasn’t just a one-off. Throughout the season, the right tackle dealt with nagging injuries, some more serious than others. Yet, time and again, he refused to sit out. Even when coaches expressed concern over his well-being, Fryar was adamant about staying on the field. His selflessness and commitment to the team became a source of inspiration for his fellow linemen and players across the entire roster.
“Josh has been playing hurt for a while now,” said Ohio State offensive line coach Pat Perles. “But it’s not just that he’s tough — it’s how consistent he is. He doesn’t let anything deter him from doing his job, no matter what’s going on with his body. We all look up to him for that.”
As Fryar continued to power through his injuries, his performance on the field improved. He became a key protector for Howard, providing crucial time in the pocket for the Buckeyes’ quarterback. Fryar’s ability to consistently win battles in the trenches allowed the offense to flourish, and his leadership began to shine as Ohio State prepared for its high-stakes games in the playoff.
In the weeks leading up to the national championship game, Fryar’s injury status remained a topic of conversation. Though he was far from 100%, Fryar’s impact on Ohio State’s offensive line couldn’t be understated. Despite the challenges, he maintained a level of play that had the Buckeyes’ coaching staff confident in their chances at the title.
“I’ve been watching Josh for a long time, and he’s one of the most resilient players I’ve seen,” said Ohio State head coach Ryan Day. “His work ethic and toughness are second to none, and that’s something you can’t teach. It’s one of the reasons we’re in this position today.”
Fryar’s drive helped make Ohio State one of the top offensive teams in the nation in 2024, as the Buckeyes averaged more than 500 yards of total offense per game. Fryar’s ability to control the line of scrimmage made a huge difference in the run game, where Ohio State averaged over 200 rushing yards per game. His effectiveness as a blocker opened up lanes for standout running backs and gave Howard the time he needed to make plays.
As the season progressed, Fryar’s contributions were increasingly recognized by the media and fans. His role in Ohio State’s playoff berth and title aspirations became a defining narrative for the Buckeyes’ offense. As much as the spotlight shone on star players like Howard and Egbuka, Fryar’s name continued to rise in importance.
Heading into the national championship game, Fryar’s grit and determination were on full display. Although his lower-body injury still plagued him, he was prepared to give everything he had. It was clear that the Buckeyes had a leader in Fryar — someone who understood what it meant to play through pain for the sake of the team’s success.
Fryar’s story is a testament to the resilience and determination required to compete at the highest levels of college football. His efforts this season solidified his legacy as one of the key players in Ohio State’s championship run. It also serves as a reminder that sometimes the toughest battles aren’t fought on the scoreboard, but rather within the player’s own body.
As the Buckeyes prepare for the final game of the season, Fryar’s commitment to his team remains unwavering. Despite all the obstacles he’s overcome, Fryar will continue to battle on the field, determined to help Ohio State bring home another national championship.