Position-by-position analysis of Ohio State football’s 2025 defense and special teams

The Ohio State Buckeyes have long been known for their high-caliber defense and special teams play. As the 2025 season approaches, both units will be under scrutiny as Ohio State looks to build on past successes and continue its reputation as one of college football’s elite programs. With key players departing and new talent emerging, the Buckeyes will face a unique challenge in maintaining their defensive dominance and special teams excellence. This in-depth position-by-position breakdown examines the key players, potential changes, and outlooks for Ohio State’s defense and special teams as the team heads into the 2025 season.

Defensive Line

The defensive line is often the cornerstone of Ohio State’s defense, and the 2025 unit will need to build on its previous success. The Buckeyes have a tradition of developing elite pass rushers and stout run defenders, and this season should be no different.

• Key Players: The 2025 defensive line will likely feature a mix of returning veterans and talented underclassmen. With Zach Harrison potentially entering the NFL draft after the 2024 season, the leadership of the defensive line could fall to younger players like JT Tuimoloau, who showed flashes of brilliance in his previous seasons. Tuimoloau’s ability to both rush the passer and stop the run will be critical, and his experience will be invaluable in mentoring the younger players around him.

  Another key player to watch is Jack Sawyer, a pass-rushing specialist who has been known for his speed and athleticism. Sawyer could be in line for a breakout season, and his ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks will be crucial in disrupting the flow of offenses in the Big Ten and beyond. Additionally, players like Tyleik Williams and Michael Hall Jr. will be key contributors, as they have shown promise in both run defense and pass-rushing situations.

• Outlook: Ohio State’s defensive line will likely be its most consistent unit, with depth and talent across the board. The mix of returning starters and emerging underclassmen gives the Buckeyes flexibility in their rotation, allowing them to stay fresh throughout the game. Expect a lot of pressure on opposing quarterbacks and a strong presence in both run defense and pass rush, especially with Tuimoloau and Sawyer leading the charge.

Linebackers

Linebacker has historically been a position of strength for Ohio State, and in 2025, the unit will once again play a crucial role in the Buckeyes’ defense. With several departures at the position, Ohio State will be counting on both experienced players and newcomers to step up.

• Key Players: One of the biggest names to watch is C.J. Hicks, a talented linebacker who has shown significant potential in limited action. Hicks has the ability to be an all-around linebacker, capable of defending the pass, stopping the run, and rushing the quarterback. His athleticism and versatility could make him a leader for the defense in 2025.

  Additionally, we can expect to see Steele Chambers continue to play a critical role for Ohio State. Known for his leadership and solid play in both coverage and tackling, Chambers has been a reliable presence for the Buckeyes in recent years. He will be a key player in the middle of the defense, helping to keep offensive plays in front of him while also playing a vital role in sideline-to-sideline coverage.

  Freshman recruits and up-and-coming players will also be counted on to fill any gaps. While the depth may be a concern in comparison to the defensive line, the linebacker unit will be key to Ohio State’s ability to adapt to a variety of offensive schemes.

• Outlook: The linebacker unit will need to improve its consistency in 2025, particularly in pass coverage, as modern offenses continue to challenge defenses with quick passes and spread concepts. The emergence of Hicks and continued leadership from Chambers could provide a strong foundation, but the team’s success in this position will rely on how well they can develop the younger players behind them.

Secondary (Cornerbacks and Safeties)

Ohio State has had one of the most talented secondaries in recent memory, and the 2025 season will be no different. With elite recruits entering the program and several standout players already on the roster, the Buckeyes’ secondary will be a key factor in their defense.

• Key Players: The cornerback position is expected to feature standout players such as Denzel Burke, who has already made a name for himself with impressive coverage skills and physicality. Burke will need to step up as the leader of the unit, especially with the departure of other key players. His ability to shut down top receivers will be vital in Ohio State’s efforts to maintain defensive dominance.

  At safety, the Buckeyes will look to players like Ronnie Hickman and Josh Proctor to provide strong coverage and support in both the passing and running game. Both players have experience and will be expected to play a key role in defending against both the deep ball and the intermediate pass. Their ability to read the quarterback’s eyes and make timely interceptions will be crucial in Ohio State’s efforts to control the field.

• Outlook: The secondary will likely be a strength for Ohio State in 2025, with solid depth at both cornerback and safety. However, with the rapid pace and complex schemes of modern offenses, the defense will need to improve in key areas such as communication and consistency. The defensive backfield’s ability to cover both big-play receivers and disrupt passing lanes will be crucial as Ohio State faces top-tier offenses like Michigan and Penn State.

Special Teams

Special teams is often an overlooked aspect of football, but for Ohio State, it has been a critical factor in many victories. Heading into the 2025 season, Ohio State will look to continue its solid play in all facets of special teams, including kickoffs, punts, and field goals.

• Kicking Game: Ohio State’s kicking game in 2025 will largely depend on how well the team can replace key contributors from previous seasons. The departure of long-time placekicker Noah Ruggles means the Buckeyes will need to find a reliable kicker for both field goals and extra points. The competition at kicker should be one of the more intriguing battles in fall camp, as Ohio State looks to maintain a high level of consistency in the kicking game.

  Punter is another critical position to watch in 2025. The Buckeyes have consistently had a strong punting game, with deep, accurate kicks helping to flip field position. The competition for the starting punter role will be important, as a strong punter can dramatically impact the defense’s ability to pin opponents deep and force them into uncomfortable situations.

• Return Game: The return game is another area where Ohio State has excelled in recent seasons. Players like Emeka Egbuka, who has shown explosiveness and big-play ability, will be counted on to provide sparks in the return game. Whether it’s on punt returns or kickoff returns, Ohio State will need dynamic playmakers who can provide excellent starting field position and potentially change the course of the game with a well-timed return.
• Outlook: Special teams will be a mixed bag for Ohio State in 2025, with potential instability at kicker and punter positions. However, the return game should remain strong, and the coverage teams will continue to be a key factor in maintaining field position and minimizing opposing offenses’ opportunities. Ohio State’s special teams will be an area of improvement over the course of the season, and if they can stabilize the kicking game early, they could once again be a significant asset.