What We Learned from Ohio State’s Offense on the Second Day of Spring Practice

As Ohio State football enters another critical spring practice, fans, analysts, and coaches alike are paying close attention to how the team is progressing under head coach Ryan Day. The Buckeyes are coming off a highly successful 2024 season, but their sights are already set on improving and contending for another Big Ten title and College Football Playoff berth. The second day of spring practice provided a glimpse into the offense’s development, and there were several key takeaways that could shape Ohio State’s 2025 campaign.

From quarterback battles to emerging playmakers, Ohio State’s offense is undergoing significant changes, both in terms of personnel and scheme. In this article, we will break down what we learned from Ohio State’s offense on the second day of spring practice, including highlights from the quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, and offensive line, as well as some early indications of what to expect as the season progresses.

1. Quarterback Battle Continues to Heat Up

One of the biggest storylines surrounding Ohio State’s spring practice is the ongoing quarterback competition. After the departure of C.J. Stroud to the NFL, the Buckeyes are looking for their next leader under center. On the second day of spring practice, it was clear that the quarterback battle is still very much alive, with Kyle McCord and Devin Brown both taking significant reps and showing off their respective skill sets.

Kyle McCord: The Experienced Option

McCord, a junior who served as Stroud’s backup in 2024, entered spring practice as the presumed favorite to win the starting job. On day two, McCord looked poised and comfortable running the offense, making quick decisions and showing excellent touch on his throws. He demonstrated good command of the offense and showcased his ability to read defenses and make adjustments at the line of scrimmage.

McCord’s deep ball accuracy stood out during practice, particularly when he connected with wide receivers on several long passes down the sideline. While he didn’t have the same electric mobility as Stroud, McCord displayed the ability to move within the pocket and extend plays when necessary. His leadership and experience could give him an edge in this competition as the spring practices progress.

Devin Brown: The Dual-Threat Option

On the other hand, Devin Brown, a redshirt freshman, continues to push McCord for the starting role. Brown, who is known for his mobility and strong arm, showed off his ability to make plays with his legs during the second day of spring practice. He looked comfortable rolling out and delivering accurate throws on the run, showing the potential to be a dual-threat quarterback capable of making explosive plays both in the air and on the ground.

While Brown’s passing accuracy still has room for improvement, he demonstrated impressive throws on short-to-intermediate routes, displaying a quick release and good timing with his receivers. His ability to create chaos for opposing defenses with his legs will likely make him an intriguing option for Ryan Day as he looks for the best fit to lead Ohio State’s high-powered offense.

What to Expect Moving Forward

At this point, it’s difficult to determine which quarterback will win the job, as both McCord and Brown have shown flashes of excellence. It’s likely that this competition will extend well into the fall, as both players will continue to battle for the starting role. Regardless of who ultimately wins the job, the Buckeyes are in a good position with two talented quarterbacks who are capable of leading the offense.

2. Wide Receiver Group is Deep, But Who Will Step Up as the Top Target?

Another position that Buckeye fans are closely watching during spring practice is the wide receiver room. With the departure of Jaxon Smith-Njigba to the NFL and Marvin Harrison Jr. opting to declare for the draft after an outstanding 2024 season, Ohio State’s receiving corps is in a state of transition. However, the talent in this group is undeniable, and there are several players who could emerge as the next go-to targets for whichever quarterback wins the starting job.

Emeka Egbuka: A Potential Superstar

Emeka Egbuka, a junior wide receiver, has been the star of the wide receiver room so far in spring practice. Egbuka has already proven himself as one of the most talented receivers in the Big Ten, but he has taken his game to another level this spring. On day two of practice, Egbuka looked explosive, running crisp routes and showcasing his ability to make defenders miss in the open field.

Egbuka’s chemistry with McCord and Brown is evident, as he consistently found ways to get open, making several highlight-reel catches in both team drills and one-on-one situations. His ability to track deep balls and make contested catches down the field will be vital for Ohio State’s passing game in 2025. If Egbuka can continue his strong performance throughout the spring and into the fall, he could be poised for a breakout season as the team’s No. 1 receiver.

Julian Fleming: A Veteran Presence

Alongside Egbuka, Julian Fleming, a senior, is another experienced receiver who could step into a leading role this season. Although Fleming has dealt with injuries throughout his career, he has the tools to be a standout receiver when healthy. On day two of spring practice, Fleming showed impressive speed and route-running ability, especially on intermediate routes across the middle of the field.

Fleming’s experience in big-game situations gives him an advantage over younger players, and his leadership will be crucial as Ohio State looks to replace the production of Smith-Njigba and Harrison Jr. The chemistry between Fleming and the quarterbacks is still developing, but his ability to make plays and be a consistent target could make him a key piece of the offense this season.

The Young Guns: Carnell Tate and Brandon Inniss

While Egbuka and Fleming are the top options at wide receiver, Ohio State also has a talented group of true freshmen in Carnell Tate and Brandon Inniss, both of whom have already started to turn heads during spring practice. Tate, a five-star recruit, has showcased his ability to create separation with his route running and has already become a favorite target for both quarterbacks. Inniss, another highly touted recruit, has impressed with his playmaking ability and knack for making defenders miss in the open field.

Both freshmen are highly talented, and it will be interesting to see how quickly they can contribute to the offense in 2025. With the Buckeyes looking to replace two key playmakers, Tate and Inniss could be the next stars of Ohio State’s prolific receiving corps.

3. Offensive Line: Maintaining Consistency and Depth

One of Ohio State’s greatest strengths over the years has been its ability to produce a dominant offensive line, and this spring practice is no different. The Buckeyes have a number of talented players up front, and as always, the offensive line will be critical to the team’s offensive success in 2025.

Paris Johnson Jr.: Anchoring the Line

Paris Johnson Jr., one of the top offensive tackles in the country, has been a leader on the line during the first few days of spring practice. Johnson is an imposing physical presence who has the ability to dominate both in the run game and in pass protection. His experience and leadership will be crucial as Ohio State’s offensive line seeks to continue its tradition of excellence. Johnson will likely be a key figure in helping to protect whichever quarterback is under center while also opening up lanes for the running game.

Other Key Contributors

In addition to Johnson, Ohio State boasts a number of other talented players on the offensive line, including Dawand Jones, Matthew Jones, and Luke Wypler, among others. These players have all been impressing during spring practice with their physicality and technique. Maintaining depth on the offensive line will be critical as Ohio State looks to keep their quarterbacks upright and create holes for their running backs.

The Buckeyes’ offensive line will have to gel quickly, especially with a new quarterback under center. The line’s ability to provide stability and protection will be crucial as the offense continues to develop throughout the spring and into the fall.

4. Running Back Situation: Who Will Take Over the Lead Role?

While Ohio State’s offense is known for its potent passing game, the running back position is just as important to their success. The Buckeyes are replacing Miyan Williams and Trevon Henderson, two key players in their backfield in 2024. On day two of spring practice, it was clear that Ohio State is still working through who will take the reins in the backfield.

Travon Henderson’s Return

Trevon Henderson, who was sidelined for much of the 2024 season due to injury, has returned to full health and has looked explosive in practice. He showed off his trademark speed and vision, making several impressive runs during drills. Henderson has the potential to be one of the top running backs in the country, and if he can stay healthy, he will likely be Ohio State’s primary ball carrier in 2025.

Chip Trayanum’s Role

In addition to Henderson, Chip Trayanum has been taking significant reps at running back. Trayanum, a transfer from Arizona State, has the size and strength to be a bruising runner in Ohio State’s backfield. His ability to gain tough yards between the tackles will provide balance to the offense and give Ohio State another valuable weapon.