Eric Boggs
As the 2025 college football season approaches, optimism is high in Columbus, and the latest episode of The OHIO Podcast gave Buckeye Nation plenty to think about. In a deep-dive position group ranking episode featuring Eric, Chris, Cory, and national champion Jamal Luke, the Buckeye faithful got a comprehensive look at how this talented Ohio State roster stacks up from top to bottom. While there’s plenty to be excited about, a few question marks remain—especially in the trenches and at quarterback. But one thing is clear: the Buckeyes are as loaded with skill-position talent as any team in America.
At the bottom of the rankings, the defensive line came in ninth. Despite this, there’s cautious optimism that the group, led by Kenyatta Jackson Jr. and Caden Curry on the edge, and Tywone Malone and Hero Kanu inside, could surprise if they find consistency. The addition of Beau Atkinson provides versatility and depth, potentially transforming this unit by season’s end. Coach Larry Johnson has developed elite lines before—no one is counting this group out just yet.
Quarterback was slotted eighth, a sign of the lingering uncertainty after the graduation of Will Howard. Highly-touted Julian Sayin looks to be the future, but he’s unproven. Lincoln Kienholz brings steady presence, and freshman Tavien St. Clair may rise quickly. Houston Christian transfer Brady Brickhandler adds needed experience, but the lack of established performance at the Power Five level makes this a group with potential, but also one that must prove itself early.
Tight ends came in at number seven, boosted by Cory’s strong belief in their upside. With veterans like Will Kacmarek and Purdue transfer Max Klare, along with high-upside talents like Jelani Thurman and Bennett Christian, this room has depth. The key here is usage—if new OC Brian Hartline taps into this group strategically, the ceiling rises significantly.
The cornerback group landed sixth. With returning starter Davison Igbinosun and rising star Jermaine Mathews Jr., the Buckeyes are set on the perimeter. Add in blue-chip redshirt freshmen Aaron Scott Jr. and true freshman Devin Sanchez, and the potential is sky-high. Penalty control and consistent discipline will determine if this room can evolve into one of the nation’s elite.
At fifth were the running backs, a unit loaded with talent but light on proven experience. Transfer CJ Donaldson brings a Big 12 workhorse pedigree, while James Peoples showed flashes of brilliance in limited touches. Watch out for freshmen Bo Jackson and Turbo Rogers, who could each carve out meaningful roles. The ceiling is high, but this group must gel quickly to complement the passing game.
Tied for third were the safeties and linebackers. The safety room, led by superstar Caleb Downs, may be the most intimidating in the nation. Malik Hartford and Faheem Delane offer toughness and depth, while Jyaire Brown and Jaylen McClain could step up as impact players. The only lingering question is nickel—can Bryce West or Lorenzo Styles Jr. secure the spot?
At linebacker, Sonny Styles returns after a 100-tackle season and will be the centerpiece. Arvell Reese offers experience, while Payton Pierce, Riley Pettijohn, Garrett Stover, and TJ Alford offer explosive athleticism. This room is built for speed, versatility, and violence. Expect aggressive, sideline-to-sideline football from this unit.
Shockingly, at number two—yes, second—is the offensive line. It’s not a ranking fans are used to seeing for this group, but it speaks volumes about the rebuild that’s taken place. The interior is elite with Carson Hinzman leading the way. On the outside, transfers like Ethan Onianwa and Phillip Daniels bring experience, while Austin Siereveld and Tegra Tshabola are pushing to start. The depth and strength of this line could be the foundation of a national title run.
Finally, and unsurprisingly, the wide receiver room was ranked number one. Brian Hartline continues to churn out NFL talent, and this year may be his deepest group yet. Jeremiah Smith, Brandon Inniss, and Carnell Tate headline the stars, but Bryson Rodgers, Mylan Graham, and five-star Quincy Porter add even more firepower. With this much depth, OSU may struggle to get everyone on the field, but that’s a good problem to have.
While there’s still a long road ahead, the panel’s breakdown shows a team that’s deeper and more talented than ever. Some position groups need development and stability, but others are downright terrifying for opposing teams. If Ohio State can solidify its quarterback play and keep the offensive line healthy, the Buckeyes have all the tools needed to make a championship run in 2025.
