Ohio State football’s position in our six Big Ten tiers for 2025: Buckeye Talk podcast

As we enter the 2025 college football season, the Ohio State Buckeyes are once again positioned at the forefront of the Big Ten Conference. With a new season brings new expectations, and Ohio State, under head coach Ryan Day, remains one of the most dominant programs in the nation. However, just where do the Buckeyes stand in the ever-evolving landscape of the Big Ten? To answer that question, we’re diving deep into Ohio State’s position within our six Big Ten tiers for 2025, based on a variety of factors including roster talent, coaching, schedule, and recent program trends.

Tier Breakdown: Defining the Big Ten Landscape

Before we dive into Ohio State’s spot, let’s outline the six tiers in the Big Ten for 2025:

1. Tier 1: National Title Contenders These are the teams with championship aspirations that can compete for a College Football Playoff berth and potentially make a run at the national title.
2. Tier 2: Conference Championship Contenders These teams have the talent and coaching to challenge for the Big Ten title but may fall short of national title contention.
3. Tier 3: Perennial Bowl Teams These are strong programs with consistent success but might fall just short in a competitive Big Ten. These teams can secure bowl games but may not always be contenders for championships.
4. Tier 4: Rising Programs Programs that are on the rise but have yet to consistently prove themselves. These teams have the potential to shake things up but still have significant growth ahead.
5. Tier 5: Rebuilding Teams Programs that are in the midst of rebuilding, either due to coaching changes or talent depletion, and are looking for a fresh start.
6. Tier 6: Struggling Programs These teams have faced sustained struggles and have a long way to go before becoming competitive in the Big Ten again.

Ohio State Buckeyes: Where Do They Stand?

When it comes to Ohio State, the Buckeyes have long resided comfortably within the upper echelon of the Big Ten. But as the competition within the conference becomes stiffer year by year, the question remains: Can Ohio State maintain its dominance, or will other programs begin to close the gap?

For the 2025 season, Ohio State’s place in the Big Ten tiers is firmly at the top of Tier 1—National Title Contenders.

A Rich History of Success

Ohio State’s football history is littered with national championships, Big Ten titles, and Heisman Trophy winners. With a long legacy of success, the Buckeyes have established themselves as one of the premier programs in college football. In 2025, they will again be one of the favorites to win the Big Ten and secure a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP). Under the leadership of Ryan Day, Ohio State has become a perennial powerhouse with elite recruiting, strong coaching, and a balanced style of play.

Although the Buckeyes missed out on the College Football Playoff in 2024, their overall talent level and consistent dominance within the conference ensure that they are never far from the national conversation. Day has recruited an influx of top-tier talent and continues to have Ohio State well positioned for success in 2025.

Returning Talent

Ohio State’s position in Tier 1 is largely bolstered by the return of several key players who will play pivotal roles in the 2025 season. Let’s break down some of the most important returning players:

1. Quarterback – Kyle McCord / Devin Brown The quarterback position will be a major storyline for the Buckeyes in 2025. Kyle McCord, who has shown flashes of brilliance, is likely to be the starting quarterback for the Buckeyes after gaining valuable experience in 2024. However, Devin Brown, a highly touted recruit, is also expected to push for the starting role. Regardless of who wins the job, Ohio State will have one of the top quarterbacks in the Big Ten.
2. Wide Receiver – Marvin Harrison Jr. Marvin Harrison Jr. is arguably the best wide receiver in college football and will be a game-changer for Ohio State. His ability to make plays downfield and stretch defenses gives Ohio State an elite weapon in the passing game. The Buckeyes have a solid group of receivers to support Harrison, but his presence alone elevates their offense into one of the nation’s best.
3. Defensive Line – J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer Ohio State’s defense has been a strength under Ryan Day, and the defensive line is one of the most formidable in the country. J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer will be among the top defensive players in the Big Ten in 2025, both capable of disrupting opposing quarterbacks and setting the tone in the trenches. The defense’s ability to generate pressure will be key to the Buckeyes’ chances of winning both the Big Ten and a national championship.
4. Running Back – TreVeyon Henderson TreVeyon Henderson is one of the most explosive running backs in college football. His vision, speed, and elusiveness make him a lethal weapon in both the run and pass game. The Buckeyes will look to balance their offensive attack by leaning on Henderson, who will complement McCord/Brown and Harrison in Ohio State’s dynamic offense.

With this kind of talent returning in 2025, Ohio State is clearly positioned to contend for the College Football Playoff. But it’s not just about returning players—the Buckeyes are also bringing in elite recruits and continuing to build depth across the roster.

Recruiting and Depth

Ohio State’s recruiting has remained among the best in the country, ensuring that they are never without talent at key positions. The 2025 class includes elite prospects, particularly in the trenches, at wide receiver, and in the defensive backfield. Ryan Day has cultivated a system that attracts top-tier talent, and as long as this trend continues, Ohio State will remain a fixture in the national title picture.

The depth of Ohio State’s roster is another reason they are positioned in Tier 1. The Buckeyes don’t just rely on their starters; they have capable backups at nearly every position who can step in and make an impact when needed. This level of depth is crucial when navigating through a tough Big Ten schedule and competing in the College Football Playoff.

Coaching and Culture

Ryan Day has proven himself to be one of the top coaches in college football, and his leadership is a major reason why Ohio State remains among the best in the Big Ten. Day has built a program that is not only loaded with talent but also one that operates with a clear culture of success. The Buckeyes’ offensive philosophy is one of the most potent in the nation, and their defense, under the tutelage of defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, has become more consistent and dominant in recent years.

Day’s ability to develop quarterbacks, manage the locker room, and make key adjustments during games will be critical in 2025. Ohio State’s recent shortcomings in the College Football Playoff (most notably losing to Georgia in the 2024 semifinal) have been eye-opening, but Day’s focus on continually improving and adapting to the modern college football landscape should keep the Buckeyes among the top teams in the country.

Big Ten Outlook

While Ohio State is firmly in the “National Title Contenders” tier, the Big Ten landscape is as competitive as ever, and the Buckeyes will face formidable challenges on their path to the conference championship. Michigan, after securing back-to-back Big Ten titles, will once again be one of the top contenders in the conference, while Penn State, Wisconsin, and other programs are also looking to make noise in the coming seasons.

The rivalry between Ohio State and Michigan remains the marquee game of the regular season and will likely decide the winner of the Big Ten East, as well as a potential College Football Playoff berth. With Jim Harbaugh’s success at Michigan, Ohio State will need to be at its best to secure a spot in the Big Ten Championship game.

However, even with the competition rising, Ohio State is in a strong position to emerge from the Big Ten and into the national picture once again in 2025. Their talent, depth, and coaching staff set them up for success, and they will likely enter the season as the team to beat in the Big Ten.