Where is Ohio State in Joel Klatt’s way-too-early 2025 college football rankings?

The college football season is a year-round conversation. Fans and analysts alike are always looking ahead, whether it be to recruiting cycles, team developments, or what the next season’s rankings might look like. And as we wrap up the 2024 season and look forward to the upcoming years, Joel Klatt, Fox Sports’ lead college football analyst, has weighed in with his “way-too-early” rankings for the 2025 college football season. As always, Klatt’s rankings serve as a snapshot of where teams stand based on projected performance, roster strengths, and coaching stability.

For Ohio State, a perennial powerhouse in college football, the question becomes: where does the Buckeyes’ program fit in the conversation for the 2025 season? As one of the premier football programs in the country, it’s always worth considering where they rank, how their roster will shape up, and how they could perform on a national scale in the coming years.

In his way-too-early rankings, Joel Klatt had Ohio State firmly positioned among the elite. However, as with any rankings that predict future success, there are plenty of variables that must be considered. Let’s take a deep dive into why Ohio State is where it is in Klatt’s rankings, what factors contribute to their position, and what it means for the team as they prepare for the 2025 season.

Ohio State’s 2024 Season Recap

Before diving into why Ohio State is ranked where it is for 2025, it’s important to revisit their 2024 campaign. Under head coach Ryan Day, Ohio State continued its tradition of being a national contender, although they fell short of winning a national title. Despite their continued success, they faced challenges throughout the season, especially in the College Football Playoff semifinal game against Georgia, where they came close to pulling off an upset. While the Buckeyes’ 2024 season ended in disappointment, the season showcased the team’s talent, resilience, and depth — factors that bode well for the 2025 season.

While Ohio State’s offense remained a high-powered unit led by Heisman hopefuls such as quarterback Kyle McCord and wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., their defense took a major step forward under coordinator Jim Knowles. The defense became a more dominant force, and the improvements in the secondary and defensive line solidified the Buckeyes’ status as a team that could contend for a national title. This season’s finish, despite falling short, reaffirmed that Ohio State is on track to compete for championships in the coming years.

Joel Klatt’s Way-Too-Early 2025 Rankings: Where Ohio State Stands

Joel Klatt’s ranking of Ohio State in his way-too-early 2025 list places the Buckeyes solidly in the top five, and for good reason. They’re one of the most consistently dominant programs in college football, and the 2025 season projects to be another competitive year for the team. Ohio State’s combination of recruiting, returning talent, and coaching stability under Ryan Day makes them a strong contender for a playoff berth and potentially a national championship.

Klatt ranked Ohio State within the top three in his 2025 predictions, placing them alongside teams like Georgia and Michigan, which are considered the early favorites in the race for the national championship. While some might question whether Ohio State has enough to edge out Georgia — the reigning national champions — and Michigan — a team with a lot of returning talent — Ohio State has a proven track record of making deep playoff runs and competing for titles.

Ohio State’s 2025 Roster Outlook

A significant part of why Ohio State remains in the top tier in Klatt’s rankings for 2025 is due to the team’s roster, which looks poised to compete at the highest level. The Buckeyes have a strong recruiting class coming in, with a solid mix of experienced upperclassmen and exciting underclassmen. Ohio State’s ability to bring in elite talent year after year is a cornerstone of their success.

Here are a few key players that are likely to impact Ohio State’s position in the rankings:

1. Quarterback Situation:

Ohio State has been a quarterback factory, consistently producing high-level signal-callers who make an immediate impact on the national stage. As of now, Kyle McCord is expected to return for his junior season in 2025 after spending time behind C.J. Stroud. McCord has already shown flashes of his potential, and if he can step into the starting role and take the next step, Ohio State’s offense will continue to be dynamic.

In addition to McCord, there are also talented quarterbacks waiting in the wings. The program continues to attract top quarterback prospects, and the emergence of a new star quarterback in 2025 could elevate Ohio State’s offense even further.

2. Wide Receiver Corps:

Ohio State’s wide receiver room is arguably the most talent-laden in the country. With Marvin Harrison Jr. likely returning for his final season in 2025, Ohio State has a bona fide superstar who is expected to be one of the best players in the country. Harrison, a projected first-round NFL draft pick, has consistently been one of the most dominant receivers in college football, and his presence will make Ohio State’s passing game one of the most explosive in the nation.

Alongside Harrison, Ohio State has a deep and talented group of wide receivers, including Jaxon Smith-Njigba (if he returns), Emeka Egbuka, and others who can make significant contributions in 2025.

3. Running Back Depth:

Ohio State has consistently been known for its stable of running backs, and 2025 should be no different. TreVeyon Henderson, who has been a key part of Ohio State’s offense since his freshman season, is expected to continue to anchor the backfield. Henderson has the skill set to be one of the best running backs in the nation, and the depth behind him will provide additional balance to the offense.

In addition to Henderson, Ohio State often rotates running backs to keep the offense fresh, so expect more depth from the position in 2025.

4. Defensive Line and Secondary:

The defensive line for Ohio State in 2025 will be one of the team’s biggest strengths. The Buckeyes continue to recruit elite defensive linemen who can disrupt opposing offenses and create pressure. With a group of returning pass rushers like J.T. Tuimoloau, who has the potential to be an All-American, Ohio State’s defense should be a dominant force in 2025.

The secondary, led by talented defensive backs such as Denzel Burke, is another key area of strength. Ohio State’s defense has continued to improve under Jim Knowles, and with more talent on that side of the ball, the Buckeyes should be a tough matchup for any opponent.

Challenges Ahead for Ohio State in 2025

While Ohio State’s roster is certainly talented, there are a few challenges that the team will need to address as they look to live up to the expectations in 2025.

1. Competition in the Big Ten:

Ohio State will face stiff competition within the Big Ten Conference, particularly from Michigan. The Wolverines have been on an upward trajectory and have consistently challenged Ohio State for supremacy in the Big Ten. Michigan’s success, particularly their wins in recent years, will continue to make them a formidable opponent in 2025. Ohio State’s rivalry with Michigan remains one of the most important games of the season, and any slip-ups in conference play could prevent the Buckeyes from securing a playoff spot.

2. SEC Dominance:

As always, the SEC remains a powerhouse conference, with teams like Georgia and Alabama poised to be top contenders in 2025. Ohio State will need to match up against these elite teams in the playoff, and the competition from the SEC will provide one of the toughest obstacles for the Buckeyes. While Ohio State has proven they can compete on a national stage, beating SEC powerhouses consistently is a challenge that the Buckeyes will need to rise to in 2025.