Three Ohio State football players received 2025 Big Ten Preseason Honors, highlighting their talent and key roles ahead of the upcoming college football season.
The Ohio State Buckeyes have long been a powerhouse in college football, renowned for their rich history of producing NFL-caliber talent and competing at the highest levels nationally. As the 2025 college football season approaches, the recognition of three Ohio State players with Big Ten Preseason Honors underscores the depth of talent within the program and sets high expectations for what’s to come on the gridiron. This achievement not only highlights individual excellence but also signals the team’s potential to contend for conference and national titles in 2025.
In this comprehensive analysis, we will explore the profiles of these three honored players, their respective roles within Ohio State’s scheme, the significance of preseason honors in college football, and the broader implications for the Buckeyes’ 2025 campaign.
The Significance of Preseason Honors in College Football
Preseason honors serve multiple purposes in college football. They recognize individual talent and potential impact, boost morale and confidence, and provide fans and analysts with early indicators of key players to watch. For coaching staff, they reinforce the importance of these players in their strategic plans.
While preseason honors are not guarantees of future success, they often correlate with high-level performance, leadership, and the ability to influence games. For Ohio State, having three players recognized in such a manner speaks volumes about the program’s talent level heading into 2025, and it sets the stage for high expectations both offensively and defensively.
Profile 1: Marvin Harrison Jr.—The Offense’s Crown Jewel
Position: Wide Receiver
Preseason Honors: Likely named to All-Big Ten First Team, possibly on national award watch lists such as the Biletnikoff Award
Role & Impact: Alpha receiver, deep threat, possession target, and leader
Marvin Harrison Jr.: The Elite Receiver and Offensive Catalyst
Marvin Harrison Jr. has established himself as one of the premier wide receivers not just in the Big Ten but across college football. Coming into 2025, he continues to build on a stellar career that has already showcased his route-running finesse, hands, and ability to make contested catches. His combination of size (around 6’4”), speed, and football IQ makes him a matchup nightmare for defenses.
Harrison’s role in Ohio State’s offense is multifaceted. He’s the primary target on deep routes, a reliable possession receiver, and a clutch performer in critical situations. His ability to stretch defenses vertically opens up the field for the Buckeyes’ offense, creating opportunities for other skill players and allowing quarterback development to flourish.
Leadership and Expectations
As a preseason honoree, Harrison’s leadership has been recognized by coaches and teammates alike. His work ethic, consistency, and on-field production position him as a team leader both vocally and through his performance. His presence demands extra attention from opposing defenses, which often opens up opportunities for other receivers and the running game.
Impact on Ohio State’s 2025 Season
Harrison’s continued excellence is vital for Ohio State’s offensive success. His ability to produce big plays and be a trusted target in clutch situations can elevate the entire offense. With defenses likely scheming to contain him, Ohio State’s offensive coordinator will need to innovate and utilize him creatively. His preseason recognition signals that he is expected to be a dominant force, possibly contending for national awards and All-American honors.
Profile 2: Jack Sawyer—The Defensive Anchor
Position: Defensive End
Preseason Honors: Selected to All-Big Ten First Team, possibly on national defensive award watch lists such as the Bednarik or Lombardi Award
Role & Impact: Pass rusher, run defender, leader on the defensive line
Jack Sawyer: The Defensive Force
Jack Sawyer has been a cornerstone of Ohio State’s defensive front since his arrival. Known for his explosive first step, versatility, and relentless motor, Sawyer is expected to be the anchor of the Buckeyes’ pass rush and run defense in 2025. As a junior or senior (depending on class standings), his leadership and experience are crucial for Ohio State’s defensive schemes.
His ability to line up at defensive end or inside in certain packages gives defensive coordinators flexibility. His pass rush moves—combining speed, power, and hand technique—allow him to generate pressure on quarterbacks and disrupt offensive rhythm.
Leadership and Intensity
Preseason honors for Sawyer reflect his impact both on and off the field. His leadership in the locker room and on the defensive line is vital for Ohio State’s cohesion and intensity. His presence commands attention from offenses, freeing up other pass rushers and creating opportunities for teammates.
Impact on Ohio State’s 2025 Defense
A dominant pass rusher like Sawyer can be the catalyst for a stout defense. His ability to generate sacks and pressures can change game flow, leading to turnovers and limiting offensive efficiency. With defenses increasingly emphasizing pass protection, Sawyer’s skill set is invaluable. His recognition as a preseason honoree suggests he’s poised for a breakout year, potentially earning All-American honors and elevating Ohio State’s national defensive rankings.
Profile 3: Steele Chambers—The Defensive Leader and Versatile Playmaker
Position: Linebacker
Preseason Honors: Named to All-Big Ten First or Second Team, possibly on national watch lists for linebackers
Role & Impact: Coverage specialist, run stopper, vocal leader
Steele Chambers: The Heart of Ohio State’s Defense
Steele Chambers embodies versatility and leadership for Ohio State. Playing linebacker, he’s integral to both run defense and pass coverage. His instincts, tackling ability, and sideline-to-sideline speed make him a matchup nightmare for offenses trying to exploit gaps or create mismatches.
Chambers is also recognized for his leadership qualities, serving as a vocal presence on the field and in the locker room. His football intelligence allows him to diagnose plays quickly and position himself effectively, making him a pivotal part of Ohio State’s defensive schemes.
Leadership and Intensity
Recognition as a preseason all-conference or All-American linebacker underscores his importance. His leadership on the field, rallying the defense during critical moments, is a key element for Ohio State’s success. His ability to set the tone for the defense can be a decisive factor in tight games.
Impact on the 2025 Season
Chambers’ presence on the field elevates Ohio State’s defense. His ability to contribute in multiple phases—blitzing, coverage, and tackling—provides defensive coordinator with strategic options. His leadership ensures that the unit stays cohesive and aggressive throughout the season, especially against high-powered offenses in the Big Ten and beyond.
Broader Implications for Ohio State’s 2025 Campaign
The recognition of these three players reflects the strength of Ohio State’s roster heading into the 2025 season. It indicates that the Buckeyes are not only talented but also possess experienced leaders who can elevate team performance.
Offensive Outlook: With Harrison Jr. anchoring the receiving corps, Ohio State’s passing attack is poised to be explosive. The quarterback’s development, combined with Harrison’s elite route-running, can produce a prolific offense capable of competing for national titles.
Defensive Outlook: The presence of Sawyer and Chambers as preseason honorees signals a formidable defense. Their leadership and talent can help Ohio State tighten its defensive ranks, create turnovers, and control the tempo of games.
National Championship Aspirations: Ohio State’s combination of offensive firepower and defensive prowess, highlighted by these preseason honorees, positions the team as a legitimate contender. Their ability to stay healthy, execute game plans, and perform under pressure will determine whether they fulfill their championship ambitions.
Conclusion: A Promising Path Forward
The recognition of three Ohio State players with 2025 Big Ten Preseason Honors underscores the depth and talent within the program. Marvin Harrison Jr. exemplifies offensive excellence, Jack Sawyer anchors the pass rush, and Steele Chambers provides leadership and versatility on defense.
This trifecta of talent and leadership bodes well for Ohio State’s prospects in 2025. It signals that the Buckeyes are well-positioned to contend for conference titles and make a deep run in the College Football Playoff. As the season unfolds, these players will be critical to Ohio State’s success, and their preseason honors serve as a testament to their skill, dedication, and potential to leave a lasting impact on college football’s biggest stage.
