Ohio State has far fewer returning starters for the 2025 season than it did the last two times it was the defending national champion.
The Ohio State Buckeyes are poised to defend their national championship in the 2025 season, aiming to achieve the program’s first-ever consecutive titles. However, this pursuit is complicated by significant lineup changes, presenting challenges not faced by previous title-defending Ohio State teams.
Historical Context
Ohio State’s football legacy includes multiple national championships, with the most recent prior to 2024 occurring in 2014 under Coach Urban Meyer. Despite their storied success, the Buckeyes have never secured back-to-back national titles. The 2015 team, for instance, returned a substantial number of starters but fell short, losing to Michigan State and missing the playoff. In contrast, the 2025 squad faces the challenge of replacing a considerable portion of its championship-winning lineup.
Departures and Turnover
The offseason saw an exodus of talent from Columbus. Notably, 26 players entered the transfer portal, seeking opportunities elsewhere. This group includes key contributors such as quarterback Kyle McCord, who transferred to Syracuse, and wide receiver Julian Fleming, who joined Penn State. Additionally, running back Chip Trayanum moved to Kentucky, and safety Ja’Had Carter returned to NC State. The defensive backfield also saw departures, with cornerback Jyaire Brown heading to LSU and safety Kye Stokes transferring to Cincinnati. These losses represent a significant portion of the team’s experienced core.
Strategic Replacements and Additions
In response to these departures, Head Coach Ryan Day and his staff have been proactive in replenishing the roster. Embracing the evolving landscape of college football, Ohio State has been aggressive in the transfer portal. The Buckeyes secured commitments from 10 incoming transfers, aiming to fill immediate needs with experienced talent.
One of the most notable additions is running back Quinshon Judkins from Ole Miss. Judkins, known for his power and vision, is expected to make an immediate impact in the backfield. At quarterback, the Buckeyes brought in Will Howard, a graduate transfer from Kansas State, who brings leadership and a strong arm to the offense. The defense received a boost with the addition of safety Caleb Downs from Alabama, a player with a reputation for his ball-hawking skills and on-field intelligence. These strategic acquisitions aim to mitigate the impact of the offseason departures and maintain the team’s competitive edge.
Coaching Adjustments
The coaching staff has also undergone changes to adapt to the new roster dynamics. Recognizing the need for fresh perspectives, Coach Day made significant hires, including bringing in experienced coordinators to revamp both the offensive and defensive schemes. These adjustments are designed to maximize the strengths of the new lineup and ensure that the team remains adaptable against diverse opponents.
Challenges Ahead
The upcoming season presents a formidable schedule, with matchups that will test the cohesion and resilience of the restructured team. Early non-conference games will provide a benchmark for the team’s progress, while the Big Ten slate promises intense competition, particularly against traditional rivals. The ability of the new starters and incoming transfers to gel quickly will be crucial in navigating these challenges.
Conclusion
Achieving back-to-back national championships is a rare feat in college football, requiring not only talent but also depth, adaptability, and a cohesive team culture. The 2025 Ohio State Buckeyes face the added hurdle of significant lineup turnover, a challenge that previous title-defending teams did not encounter to this extent. However, with strategic roster additions, coaching adjustments, and a commitment to maintaining the program’s high standards, the Buckeyes are poised to make a strong bid for consecutive titles, aiming to etch their names in the annals of college football history.
