Five position battles to keep an eye on during Ohio State football’s spring practice, including the quarterback

As Ohio State football enters its spring practice period in preparation for the upcoming season, fans and analysts alike are closely monitoring the various position battles that will define the team’s makeup for 2025. With several key spots up for grabs and the impending changes at critical positions, spring practice represents a chance for new faces to emerge and for established players to solidify their roles.

Among the most crucial of these battles is the quarterback competition, a position that often determines a team’s success in the highly competitive Big Ten and on the national stage. However, quarterback isn’t the only spot worth paying attention to. Ohio State’s roster is filled with talented athletes, and spring practices provide an opportunity for coaches to evaluate who will step up and contribute. Here, we will break down five position battles to keep an eye on during Ohio State’s spring practice.

1. Quarterback: Who Will Lead the Offense?

The most talked-about position battle in Columbus heading into spring practice is undoubtedly the quarterback competition. After the departure of longtime starter C.J. Stroud, who declared for the NFL Draft following a successful career, Ohio State finds itself in a situation where the starting quarterback position is up for grabs.

Ohio State has a history of having elite quarterbacks—Stroud, Justin Fields, Dwayne Haskins, and Troy Smith to name a few—and now the question is, who will be the next to take the reins? Head coach Ryan Day has a wealth of talent to choose from, and spring practice will be vital in determining who emerges as the leader of the offense for the 2025 season.

Candidates:

• Kyle McCord: McCord, a former highly-rated recruit, has been waiting for his turn to start. As Stroud’s backup last season, he saw limited action, but in the opportunities he had, McCord showed flashes of his potential. He has a strong arm, quick release, and good understanding of the offense, but the question remains whether he can take that next step and deliver consistently when the spotlight is on him.
• Devin Brown: Another former 5-star recruit, Brown brings a slightly different dynamic to the table. Known for his dual-threat ability, Brown is more mobile than McCord and has the ability to extend plays with his legs. His athleticism and playmaking ability could give him an edge if Ohio State opts for a more dynamic quarterback this season.
• Tristan Gebbia: Although Gebbia may be seen as an underdog in this battle, he has experience and a strong understanding of the game. He could play a role in the quarterback competition if either McCord or Brown falters. However, Gebbia would likely need to show significant improvement and consistency to be considered a legitimate challenger for the starting role.

What to Watch:

Ohio State fans will be keen to see how each of these quarterbacks performs in practice, especially in terms of decision-making under pressure, accuracy on deep balls, and how they handle the fast pace of the offense. McCord’s ability to manage the game and read defenses, along with Brown’s ability to make plays with his legs, will be a crucial focal point throughout the spring. Ultimately, Ryan Day’s preference for a balanced, pro-style offense could give McCord the edge, but Brown’s skillset could force the coaching staff to re-evaluate their approach.

2. Running Back: Who Will Take the Lead in the Backfield?

The running back position at Ohio State has been a strength for the team in recent years. With standout players like J.K. Dobbins and Trey Sermon having carried the load in the past, the Buckeyes have consistently produced dominant runners. In 2025, Ohio State is once again looking to reload at running back, with several talented players vying for the starting spot.

After the departure of Miyan Williams and TreVeyon Henderson, who both played pivotal roles in Ohio State’s offense in previous seasons, it is unclear who will emerge as the top back for the Buckeyes. The competition will be fierce, with a number of talented players hoping to showcase their skills in spring practice.

Candidates:

• Chip Trayanum: Trayanum, a former transfer from Arizona State, showed flashes of his ability last season. Though primarily used as a short-yardage back, Trayanum’s physicality and toughness could make him a key contributor in 2025. His power running style and ability to break tackles could be a big asset for Ohio State, especially in critical situations.
• Dallan Hayden: Hayden was one of the most impressive freshmen in the 2024 season, flashing excellent vision and burst as a runner. As a promising underclassman, he is expected to compete for significant playing time in the backfield. If he can showcase improved pass protection and become more consistent in his running, Hayden could emerge as the top back for Ohio State in 2025.
• Evan Pryor: Pryor, another young back, brings a blend of speed and agility to the position. He has the ability to make defenders miss in open space, and his quickness can be a major weapon in Ohio State’s fast-paced offense. If Pryor can show growth in his vision and decision-making, he could take on a more prominent role in 2025.

What to Watch:

Spring practice will be critical for each of these running backs to make their case for the starting job. Look for them to battle in key areas such as vision, pass protection, and the ability to make plays in open space. The Buckeyes will also be evaluating each player’s ability to catch passes out of the backfield, as Ohio State’s offense often involves running backs in the passing game. The running back who can prove themselves to be the most complete back could secure the starting role heading into the season.

3. Wide Receiver: Who Will Step Up as the No. 1 Target?

Wide receiver is another position with high expectations at Ohio State. The Buckeyes have consistently produced top-tier wide receivers, from Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave to Jaxon Smith-Njigba. However, with several key players leaving for the NFL, Ohio State must find its next No. 1 receiver. This position battle could go in several directions, as there are a number of talented players looking to establish themselves as the top target.

Candidates:

• Marvin Harrison Jr.: Harrison is widely regarded as one of the top receivers in college football and could very well emerge as the leader of Ohio State’s receiving corps. His combination of size, speed, and route running makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. After a strong 2024 season, Harrison will be looking to establish himself as a true No. 1 target for whichever quarterback emerges as the starter.
• Emeka Egbuka: Egbuka has the potential to be a dynamic playmaker for Ohio State, with his speed and ability to stretch the field vertically. He has shown flashes of greatness in the past, but now is his time to step into a more prominent role as the top receiver for the Buckeyes.
• Xavier Johnson: A solid contributor last season, Johnson could be a reliable option for Ohio State’s quarterbacks. While not as flashy as Harrison or Egbuka, Johnson is a dependable target who can make big plays in clutch situations. His ability to create separation and work the middle of the field could make him a key weapon for Ohio State’s offense.

What to Watch:

This spring, pay attention to how these receivers perform in 1-on-1 drills, their ability to gain separation from defenders, and their chemistry with the quarterbacks. It’s essential for one of these players to emerge as a consistent deep threat, but also to show their ability to make plays across the field. Harrison and Egbuka have the potential to be elite, but Johnson’s consistency and reliability could make him an important factor for the offense.

4. Offensive Line: Who Will Protect the Quarterback?

Ohio State has historically boasted one of the best offensive lines in college football. With the quarterback position in flux, the offensive line will play a crucial role in ensuring the new signal-caller has time to make plays. The offensive line battle this spring is wide open, with multiple positions needing to be filled due to departures and potential player shifts.

Candidates:

• Donovan Jackson: Jackson has been a stalwart on the Ohio State offensive line and will be one of the most important players this spring. As a versatile lineman, he can play both guard and tackle positions, and he will be instrumental in providing stability for the offensive line in 2025.
• Paris Johnson Jr.: Johnson, a former top recruit, will be one of the anchors of the offensive line. The tackle position, in particular, will be critical, as Ohio State needs strong edge protection to give their quarterbacks time to throw downfield. Johnson has the athleticism and skill to dominate at the tackle spot.
• Luke Montgomery: Montgomery is a younger player who will have a chance to compete for starting time. His development this spring will be key in determining Ohio State’s overall offensive line depth, as the team looks to solidify their front five for the upcoming season.

What to Watch:

Focus on how well the offensive line holds up in practice drills, particularly in pass protection. With a new quarterback under center, the line must create a clean pocket and allow the quarterback to get through his progressions. This battle will also determine the level of depth on the offensive line and whether Ohio State can keep their new signal-caller protected.

5. Defensive Line: Who Will Step Up to Replace Key Departures?

Ohio State’s defensive line has been a dominant force in recent seasons, but with key players like Zach Harrison and Jerron Cage departing for the NFL, the team will need new players to step up. The spring practices will give players an opportunity to compete for starting roles and showcase their ability to disrupt the opposing offense.

Candidates:

• Jack Sawyer: Sawyer is a highly touted prospect who has been a force on the defensive line. He will be expected to take on a leadership role and dominate the line of scrimmage. Look for him to continue developing into a top-tier pass rusher.
• Tyleik Williams: Williams, with his size and strength, has the potential to be a key contributor on the defensive line. His ability to create disruption in the backfield will be a critical asset for Ohio State’s defense.
• Michael Hall Jr.: Hall is a promising young player who could become a standout this spring. His versatility in both run defense and pass rushing could make him a vital part of Ohio State’s defensive plans moving forward.

What to Watch:

Pay attention to the intensity of the competition among the defensive linemen, particularly in one-on-one drills. The Buckeyes need players who can apply consistent pressure on the quarterback and control the line of scrimmage. This battle will be key in setting the tone for Ohio State’s defense.

 An Exciting Spring Ahead for Ohio State Football

As Ohio State enters its spring practices, fans will be closely watching these five key position battles. With a new quarterback under center, an open running back competition, and crucial positions along the offensive and defensive lines, Ohio State’s coaching staff will have plenty of decisions to make in the coming months. Spring practice offers the first glimpse into the future of this talented roster, and for the players, it’s a critical opportunity to prove themselves worthy of starting roles. The stakes are high, and the competition is fierce, setting the stage for what could be a thrilling season of Ohio State football.