Eric Boggs
As the defending national champion Ohio State Buckeyes take the field for spring practice, anticipation is high for what lies ahead in 2025. With a roster full of talent and a coaching staff determined to keep the program at the top, the focus is now on position battles, leadership transitions, and schematic adjustments that will shape the Buckeyes’ title defense.
One of the most pressing storylines is the quarterback position, where Julian Sayin has emerged as the frontrunner. While Lincoln Kienholz and incoming freshman Tavien St. Clair remain in the mix, Sayin’s quick release, accuracy, and decision-making make him the likely successor to Will Howard. Reports from the first day of practice showed Sayin delivering tight spirals with a quick release, reinforcing the belief that the job is his to lose. While Ryan Day insists that the competition remains open, Sayin’s early performance suggests he has a firm grip on the starting role.
Beyond the quarterback battle, Ohio State faces crucial decisions on both sides of the ball. On offense, new line coach Tyler Bowen has been tasked with rebuilding the offensive line following key departures. The addition of transfers Philip Daniels and Ethan Onianwa was expected to solidify the unit, but the coaching staff is prioritizing versatility. Austin Siereveld has seen time at tackle, while Ian Moore is getting opportunities at different spots. Carson Hinzman is holding down the center position, flanked by Luke Montgomery and Tegra Shibola at guard, as the Buckeyes look to establish depth and chemistry.
Defensively, a new-look unit is taking shape under the direction of Matt Patricia. With the entire starting defensive line from last season gone, players like Kenyatta Jackson, Caden Curry, Caden McDonald, and Edric Houston are stepping into bigger roles. A surprise development has been C.J. Hicks shifting to the defensive line as a pass-rush specialist. His athleticism and speed could add an intriguing element to Patricia’s multiple-front scheme, though he is not expected to play defensive end full-time. Meanwhile, Logan George and Tywone Malone are also in the mix, providing additional depth.
At linebacker, Arvell Reese has stepped into a starting role alongside Sonny Styles, replacing Cody Simon. The secondary appears solid with Jermaine Mathews and Davison Igbinosun manning the cornerback spots, while Lorenzo Styles Jr. is seeing time at nickel. Freshman Devin Sanchez has already made an impression and could play meaningful snaps this season. At safety, Caleb Downs is entrenched as one of the best in the country at free safety, while the battle at strong safety between Malik Hartford and Kye Stokes remains undecided.
Leadership transitions will also be key, as last year’s vocal leaders—Jack Sawyer, Emeka Egbuka, and J.T. Tuimoloau—have moved on. This spring, players like Downs, Jeremiah Smith, and C.J. Donaldson are expected to step into those roles, setting the tone for the team. While leadership is often forged in high-stakes moments, the foundation is built in the offseason.
Off the field, Ryan Day addressed the media with a mix of confidence and determination. He introduced former Buckeye and NFL veteran Nate Ebner as the program’s new special teams analyst and emphasized that last year’s championship is in the past. Day has ensured that all national title-related material is being removed from the Woody Hayes Athletic Center, making it clear that this team must earn everything again. “We’ve earned nothing yet,” he stated, signaling a mindset focused on the future rather than past success.
With a roster loaded with talent and a coaching staff committed to improvement, Ohio State is poised to make another run at a national championship. While spring practice won’t provide all the answers, it is already giving a glimpse into the depth, leadership, and hunger that define this team. As they continue their preparation, one thing is certain: the Buckeyes are not resting on their laurels, and the rest of college football should take notice.
