The Buckeyes are Included Among the PFF Top 101 Players for the 2025 Campaign: A Closer Look at Ohio State’s Standout Talent
As the 2025 college football season approaches, fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the Ohio State Buckeyes’ storied history. The Buckeyes, consistently ranked among the top programs in the nation, are once again a force to be reckoned with, and their dominance is evident not just in their team rankings but in individual player performances. One notable acknowledgment of Ohio State’s excellence on the field comes from Pro Football Focus (PFF), which has included several Buckeyes among its prestigious list of the Top 101 Players for the 2025 season.
PFF, known for its in-depth player evaluations and advanced statistical analysis, compiles its Top 101 list to highlight the best college football players heading into the upcoming season. This list takes into account a wide array of factors, including individual performance metrics, positional value, and impact on their respective teams. The inclusion of multiple Buckeyes on this list is a testament to the talent, depth, and overall strength of Ohio State’s roster as they prepare for another championship-caliber campaign.
In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the Buckeyes who have made the cut for PFF’s Top 101 Players for 2025, analyzing their individual achievements, their impact on the team, and what makes them stand out among the best in college football.
1. Marvin Harrison Jr. (WR) – The Elite Playmaker
Arguably one of the most exciting and dynamic players in college football, Marvin Harrison Jr. is a name that has been on the radar of scouts, analysts, and fans alike for years. As a wide receiver, Harrison has been nothing short of spectacular during his time at Ohio State. His combination of size, speed, and hands has made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and PFF has rightfully placed him among the top players heading into the 2025 season.
Standing at 6’4″ and weighing in at around 210 pounds, Harrison possesses the ideal physical traits for a wide receiver. His ability to high-point the ball and make contested catches in tight spaces is remarkable. Harrison’s route running is refined and precise, making him not just a deep threat but also a reliable target on short to intermediate routes. In 2024, he caught over 1,200 yards and 12 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to dominate against the best defensive backs in the country.
What sets Harrison apart from many of his peers is his ability to make plays in critical moments. Whether it’s a game-winning touchdown, a key third-down conversion, or a spectacular one-handed catch, Harrison always seems to rise to the occasion. His presence on the field stretches defenses and opens up opportunities for his teammates, making him invaluable to Ohio State’s offense.
Heading into 2025, Harrison is not only one of the top wide receivers in college football, but he is also viewed as a top NFL prospect. His inclusion in PFF’s Top 101 is a testament to his exceptional skill set and the impact he continues to have on the field.
2. J.T. Tuimoloau (DE) – The Disruptive Force
On the defensive side of the ball, one Buckeye has garnered significant attention for his ability to dominate opposing offenses: J.T. Tuimoloau. The defensive end is a towering presence on Ohio State’s defensive line, and his combination of strength, agility, and football IQ makes him one of the most disruptive players in the country.
Tuimoloau’s journey to prominence has been nothing short of impressive. After a standout freshman season, he truly broke out in 2024, registering 10 sacks, 15 tackles for loss, and countless pressures on opposing quarterbacks. His ability to create havoc in the backfield, both as a pass rusher and in defending the run, makes him a game-changer for Ohio State.
What makes Tuimoloau especially dangerous is his versatility. While he’s primarily a defensive end, he’s capable of lining up at multiple spots along the defensive line, giving Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles the ability to scheme around his strengths. Tuimoloau is quick off the ball, has a lethal spin move, and possesses the strength to overpower blockers. He’s a nightmare for offensive lines, and his ability to impact the game in a variety of ways has made him one of the top defensive players in college football.
PFF’s inclusion of Tuimoloau on their Top 101 list for 2025 is a recognition of his growing reputation as one of the most dominant defensive players in the nation. With his leadership and playmaking ability, Tuimoloau is poised to be one of the biggest threats in college football for the upcoming season.
3. C.J. Stroud (QB) – The Mastermind Under Center
Though C.J. Stroud has already made the leap to the NFL, his impact on Ohio State’s program and its future cannot be understated. During his time as the starting quarterback for the Buckeyes, Stroud was one of the best quarterbacks in the country, and he remains a key part of the narrative surrounding Ohio State’s offensive success. Stroud’s leadership, arm strength, accuracy, and poise under pressure set him apart as a generational talent.
Stroud’s presence on Ohio State’s roster for the 2025 season may no longer be physical, but his influence is still felt throughout the program. His development under offensive coordinator Ryan Day laid the foundation for the next generation of quarterbacks at Ohio State. As the Buckeyes look to fill his shoes, the legacy of Stroud’s ability to lead, read defenses, and execute at a high level will undoubtedly leave a mark on his successors.
4. Kyle McCord (QB) – A Rising Star Ready to Step In
With C.J. Stroud gone, the responsibility of leading Ohio State’s offense falls on the shoulders of Kyle McCord. While McCord has yet to fully establish himself as a starter, he is widely regarded as one of the top quarterbacks in the 2025 class. His inclusion on PFF’s Top 101 list speaks volumes about the potential he brings to the table.
McCord has shown flashes of brilliance during his time as a backup to Stroud, and his ability to execute the offense with precision makes him a promising prospect for Ohio State in 2025. The Buckeyes are known for their potent offense, and McCord has the skill set to continue that tradition. Armed with a powerful arm, solid decision-making, and a deep understanding of the offense, McCord is ready to take the reins as the leader of Ohio State’s high-powered attack.
McCord’s ability to build on the success of his predecessors and guide the Buckeyes back to the College Football Playoff is critical for Ohio State’s championship hopes in 2025. His inclusion on PFF’s Top 101 list is an indication that he is considered one of the top players in college football as he looks to step into a prominent role.
5. Zach Harrison (DE) – The Powerful Pass Rusher
In addition to Tuimoloau, Zach Harrison is another key defensive player for Ohio State who has been recognized by PFF as one of the top players for 2025. Harrison, a veteran presence on the Buckeyes’ defensive line, has continued to grow into one of the top pass rushers in college football.
Standing at 6’6″ and weighing 270 pounds, Harrison is a physical specimen who has the size and athleticism to dominate offensive linemen. His ability to disrupt the passing game, along with his knack for creating turnovers, makes him an invaluable asset to Ohio State’s defense. In 2024, Harrison racked up 8 sacks and 14 tackles for loss, proving that he’s capable of consistently pressuring the quarterback.
What sets Harrison apart is his relentless motor. He never stops fighting through blocks, and his tenacity on every snap makes him a constant threat to opposing offenses. Harrison’s leadership, work ethic, and ability to change the course of a game with a big sack or forced fumble have earned him a spot on PFF’s prestigious list.
6. Miyan Williams (RB) – The Power Back Who Can Do It All
Ohio State’s offense isn’t just about the passing game; the Buckeyes also boast one of the most dynamic running backs in the nation in Miyan Williams. Williams is a versatile back who excels both as a between-the-tackles bruiser and as an outside runner capable of breaking off long gains. With his 6’0″, 225-pound frame, Williams has the strength to break tackles and the speed to outrun defenders in the open field.
In 2024, Williams was a workhorse for Ohio State, rushing for over 1,400 yards and 14 touchdowns. His vision, patience, and ability to read blocks make him a difficult player to stop. Whether it’s on the ground or as a pass-catcher out of the backfield, Williams can contribute in a variety of ways, making him an integral part of Ohio State’s offensive game plan.
As the Buckeyes aim to control the tempo and maintain balance in their attack, Williams’ ability to move the chains and keep defenses honest will be critical. His inclusion on PFF’s Top 101 Players for 2025 further highlights his importance to the team and his potential to be one of the nation’s top running backs.