The Ohio State Buckeyes have been placed on a concerning 2025 list, sparking speculation and concern about future challenges.

The Ohio State Buckeyes have long been a symbol of excellence in collegiate athletics, especially in football. Their legacy is built on consistent dominance in the Big Ten Conference and national title contention. However, in 2025, the Buckeyes find themselves on a list that has generated significant concern and speculation. This list, which some are calling a “concerning 2025 list,” includes programs that could face substantial challenges in the coming years, whether from internal changes, external pressures, or the evolving landscape of college sports.

This new era brings about many uncertainties for Ohio State, with speculation swirling around their ability to maintain dominance in the ever-evolving college football ecosystem. From recruitment shifts to new governance challenges, and even the changing dynamics of conference realignment, the Buckeyes are on the precipice of potentially significant changes. In this analysis, we will explore the reasons behind Ohio State’s placement on this list, the factors contributing to these concerns, and what it means for the future of the program.

1. Recruiting Challenges and the Transfer Portal

One of the primary concerns for Ohio State moving into 2025 is the shifting dynamics of recruiting and the ever-growing influence of the transfer portal. The Buckeyes have traditionally excelled in recruiting, attracting some of the top high school talent in the nation. Under head coach Ryan Day, Ohio State has continued its tradition of recruiting elite athletes, especially at skill positions like quarterback and wide receiver.

However, the landscape has shifted dramatically with the introduction of the transfer portal, and Ohio State is not immune to its impact. While the Buckeyes have benefited from high-profile transfers, such as quarterback Justin Fields, there are also concerns about how the portal may disrupt long-term team chemistry and recruitment strategies. Other programs have become more aggressive in targeting Ohio State’s talent, leveraging the portal to lure away top players who might not see as much immediate playing time in Columbus.

Additionally, Ohio State’s success in recruiting has drawn the attention of other elite programs, meaning the competition for top-tier athletes has never been fiercer. Teams in the SEC, particularly Georgia, Alabama, and LSU, have been aggressive in signing top recruits and successfully developing them into NFL prospects. With the rise of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, the competition is no longer just about recruiting athletes to a program—it’s about creating a financial environment that appeals to these players. If Ohio State can’t keep pace with NIL offers from rival programs, it could struggle to land the top talent that has defined its previous dominance.

2. The Evolving Conference Landscape

Another significant concern for Ohio State lies within the ongoing shifts in conference realignment. Historically, the Big Ten Conference has been home to some of the most storied programs in college football, with Ohio State leading the way. However, as the College Football Playoff system expands and the financial power of conferences like the SEC grows, questions have arisen about how Ohio State’s future will be impacted by these developments.

In 2025, the Big Ten is in the process of expanding, incorporating powerhouse programs such as UCLA and USC into the mix. This adds both excitement and uncertainty to the conference. On one hand, the addition of these teams could strengthen the Big Ten’s national profile. However, it also means more competition for Ohio State, which will now have to contend with even more powerhouse teams on a regular basis. The Big Ten’s move to become a coast-to-coast conference will also test Ohio State’s ability to recruit nationally, balancing travel demands and regional rivalry matchups.

Furthermore, the Big Ten’s evolving television contracts and revenue-sharing models may lead to increased financial pressure on Ohio State to remain at the top. The conference’s ability to compete with the SEC in terms of media deals and TV ratings will be crucial in ensuring that Ohio State remains in the conversation for the national championship year after year. If Ohio State cannot leverage these new changes effectively, the Buckeyes may fall behind in terms of financial resources and national influence, which could have long-term repercussions.

3. Coaching Stability and Succession Planning

Another issue facing Ohio State as they look toward 2025 is the looming question of coaching stability. Ryan Day has proven to be an excellent coach, continuing the success established under Urban Meyer. However, coaching changes are inevitable in the world of college football. While Day’s tenure is still relatively young, there is always the potential for larger programs to come calling for his services. Additionally, as Day looks to keep pace with top programs, his ability to adapt to new trends in recruiting, strategy, and game planning will be put to the test.

The situation at Ohio State also raises questions about succession planning. Should Day leave, who would be the natural successor? Ohio State’s athletic department will need to be proactive in identifying the next great coach who can continue the program’s winning ways. This kind of foresight is critical to maintaining the continuity that has kept the Buckeyes at the top of the college football hierarchy for decades.

Moreover, the rise of the “coaching carousel,” where top programs change coaches frequently, has placed pressure on Ohio State’s leadership to make the right decisions. Given the wealth of talent and resources at Ohio State’s disposal, the wrong hire could send the program into a period of uncertainty that would affect recruitment, player development, and overall performance.

4. Increased National Competition

Ohio State’s biggest strength has always been its ability to compete with and beat some of the best teams in the nation, but the competition has only become fiercer in recent years. The SEC’s stranglehold on national championships in college football has expanded with programs like Georgia, Alabama, and LSU continuing to build dominant teams.

In 2025, the SEC will only grow in influence, especially with the anticipated expansion of the conference. This could put pressure on the Big Ten and Ohio State, as their path to the College Football Playoff may become more difficult with SEC teams continuing to dominate recruiting and postseason play. To remain relevant in the national conversation, Ohio State will need to consistently recruit and develop players who can compete with the best in the nation.

At the same time, the rise of new contenders—such as programs like Clemson, Oklahoma, and Texas—means Ohio State will face increasing competition from previously lesser-known teams that now have the resources to challenge for titles. The growing parity in college football means that Ohio State’s historic dominance can no longer be taken for granted.

5. Financial Pressures and Institutional Support

The financial landscape of college athletics has dramatically shifted with the rise of NIL deals, the increasing importance of television rights, and the general commercialization of college sports. While Ohio State is a financially powerful institution, it is not immune to the pressures facing other programs. To maintain its position as one of the top programs in college football, Ohio State will need to balance its financial resources with its ability to recruit top talent, fund facilities, and manage NIL compensation.

Ohio State’s athletic department will have to be proactive in adapting to these changes by building stronger relationships with boosters, alumni, and corporate partners. The ability to sustain revenue streams and secure lucrative media deals will be crucial to ensuring that Ohio State remains on top of the national landscape.

Moreover, as the NCAA continues to grapple with the shift toward a more market-driven college sports environment, Ohio State must navigate the challenges of balancing the business side of athletics with the educational and social mission of the university. This delicate balance is something that many programs, including Ohio State, will have to manage carefully in the coming years.

6. The Mental and Physical Toll on Players

Lastly, the physical and mental toll that the sport of college football takes on players has become an increasing concern. The evolution of the game, with its larger, faster athletes, has led to more injuries, and the demands of year-round training and competition have raised concerns about player well-being. Ohio State, like many programs, will have to address these issues head-on if it is to maintain a culture of success.

The NCAA has begun taking steps to address player safety, but the overall environment remains one in which athletes are pushed to their limits, both physically and mentally. With the increasing financial stakes of college athletics, the pressure to perform can be overwhelming for athletes, which could affect the long-term sustainability of programs like Ohio State.