Ohio State may have a rising star this spring, but uncertainty surrounds other positions, according to Stephen Means.

Ohio State has long been a powerhouse in college football, consistently producing top-tier talent and competing for national championships. As the spring practices unfold, the Buckeyes find themselves in a position of transition and growth. While there is optimism surrounding the team’s potential, there are still many questions to be answered in key areas. According to Stephen Means, an insider familiar with the team’s dynamics, Ohio State may have a rising star emerging this spring, but there are also significant uncertainties at other positions that could affect their season outlook.

The Emergence of a Star

Spring football provides an opportunity for young players to shine, and this year, Ohio State appears to have a standout performer making a strong impression. This emerging star is someone who, while not necessarily a household name yet, has shown the potential to be a game-changer for the Buckeyes. Stephen Means notes that while it’s still early, there are indications that this player could make a big impact in the fall.

Ohio State’s program is known for its ability to develop talent, and the spring practices are where the foundation for that growth is laid. The coaching staff has done a remarkable job in recent years of bringing in top recruits, and now the challenge is to develop those players into contributors on the field. The player in question could be a freshman or a young player who has been waiting for his chance to step into a prominent role. What sets him apart is not just his raw talent, but also his work ethic and football IQ, which have impressed coaches and teammates alike.

The potential star is likely someone who has the tools to thrive in Ohio State’s high-octane offense or aggressive defense, depending on their position. Whether it’s a wide receiver, running back, linebacker, or cornerback, this player could be poised to become one of the team’s key contributors. If this talent continues to develop throughout the spring and into the summer, he could emerge as a focal point in the Buckeyes’ game plans come fall.

This type of development is not uncommon for Ohio State, as they have a history of finding hidden gems in their recruiting classes. Whether it’s a low-rated recruit who outperforms expectations or a player who has been patiently waiting behind more established stars, the Buckeyes have a knack for identifying and nurturing talent that others might overlook. The team’s success in this area could play a crucial role in the upcoming season, especially if the rising star can make an immediate impact.

The Uncertainty Elsewhere

While the emergence of a potential star is certainly a cause for optimism, the Buckeyes also face significant uncertainty in several areas of their roster. These question marks could play a pivotal role in determining the team’s success or failure in the 2025 season.

Quarterback Controversy

One of the most talked-about and debated positions in college football is quarterback, and Ohio State is no exception. With the departure of their previous starter, the Buckeyes are left with a competition to determine who will take the reins of the offense. Stephen Means highlights that the quarterback battle is one of the key storylines to watch this spring.

Ohio State has a strong tradition of producing elite quarterbacks, and the current competition is no different. The candidates for the starting role have the talent, but each brings a different skill set and style of play to the table. The question remains: who can lead the team effectively and efficiently?

One of the quarterbacks in the mix may be a highly touted recruit, someone who has been considered the future of the program since his high school days. Another option could be a more experienced player who has spent time learning the system and is ready to take the next step. Then there’s the potential for a transfer who brings an entirely different level of experience and leadership.

The uncertainty at quarterback is not just about choosing the right player; it’s also about how that choice will affect the rest of the offense. The quarterback is the leader of the team and often the one who sets the tone for the rest of the offense. A decision to go with a mobile quarterback could change the dynamics of the offense, emphasizing a more run-heavy attack. On the other hand, selecting a pocket passer could lead to a more traditional, pass-first offense. The coaching staff will have to weigh these factors carefully to ensure that the chosen quarterback fits with the overall game plan and can maximize the talent around them.

Offensive Line Concerns

Another area where questions loom for Ohio State is the offensive line. While the team has been known for producing strong, dominant offensive lines in the past, the current group has some holes that need to be addressed. Stephen Means points out that there are key players on the offensive line who are either leaving or transitioning to new positions, which creates some uncertainty heading into the season.

The offensive line is often considered the backbone of a football team, and Ohio State is no different. A strong offensive line can make a huge difference in both the running and passing games. The Buckeyes need to find the right combination of players who can protect their quarterback and open up holes for the running backs. With several positions up for grabs, the spring practices are crucial for identifying which players are ready to step up.

Ohio State has several talented young players who could potentially fill the gaps, but the question is whether they are ready to perform at a high level immediately. The team will need to develop cohesion and chemistry on the line to avoid mistakes and breakdowns during critical moments of games. This is an area of concern that may take some time to fully resolve, but with solid coaching and player development, it’s possible that the offensive line will come together by the time the season begins.

Defensive Backfield Questions

While Ohio State’s defense is generally known for its strength and physicality, there are concerns in the defensive backfield that need to be addressed. Stephen Means notes that the Buckeyes lost several key players to the NFL Draft, and there are questions about who will step up in their absence. The secondary is an area where Ohio State has historically thrived, but this season, they are looking for new leaders to emerge.

The cornerback and safety positions are critical for Ohio State’s success, especially in the pass-heavy Big Ten conference. The Buckeyes need to find players who can lock down opposing receivers and provide support against the run. There’s also the issue of depth in the defensive backfield, as injuries can often take a toll over the course of a long season.

The spring practices are the perfect time for younger players to prove themselves and show that they are ready to take on bigger roles. Ohio State has several highly regarded recruits and talented players who could step into starting positions. However, the question remains: can they handle the pressure of competing at the highest level in college football?

Special Teams Issues

While not as glamorous as other positions, special teams play can often make or break a team’s season. Ohio State is no exception, and this is another area where there are questions. The Buckeyes need to replace key contributors in both the kicking and punting game, and finding reliable players to handle these duties is critical.

Special teams can often be the difference between winning and losing, especially in close games. The Buckeyes will need to identify and develop players who can consistently execute under pressure. Whether it’s the kicker who has the leg strength to make a game-winning field goal or the punter who can flip the field with a long punt, these positions will need to be solidified during the spring.

Looking Ahead

As Ohio State continues to work through spring practices, it’s clear that there is a lot of talent on the roster. The emergence of a potential star is certainly a positive sign, and if that player continues to develop, they could play a key role in the team’s success. However, there are still many questions to be answered at important positions, including quarterback, the offensive line, the secondary, and special teams.

The coaching staff will have to navigate these uncertainties and make critical decisions over the next few months. If they can address the areas of concern and continue to develop their talent, Ohio State could be poised for another strong season. But as Stephen Means points out, the Buckeyes will need to find answers to these lingering questions if they want to remain a top contender in college football.

The spring season is just the beginning, and while some pieces of the puzzle are falling into place, others are still in flux. Ohio State’s journey to the 2025 season will depend on how well they address these challenges and harness the potential of their emerging star. The coming months will be crucial in shaping the direction of the team, and the Buckeyes will need to make the most of every opportunity to fine-tune their roster and prepare for the challenges that lie ahead.