In order to repeat as college football’s king of the hill, Ohio State needs to start over when spring football blossoms.
Ohio State University, one of the most storied programs in college football history, has established itself as a powerhouse in the sport. However, as the Buckeyes look to repeat as college football’s “king of the hill,” they find themselves at a critical crossroads. With spring football just around the corner, Ohio State needs to rebuild and reload if they are to continue their dominance on the national stage. While their past success has been marked by incredible players and an unparalleled tradition of excellence, the key to repeating as champions will be their ability to adapt and evolve—starting from the ground up this spring.
The Road to National Championship Glory
Ohio State’s 2022 season ended in heartbreak with a near-miss in the College Football Playoff (CFP) following a heartbreaking loss to Michigan. While they earned a spot in the CFP, they fell short in a thrilling semifinal against Georgia. Despite the loss, Ohio State demonstrated why they are considered one of the elite programs in college football, with a potent offense, a dynamic quarterback in C.J. Stroud, and a defense that, despite its struggles, showed flashes of brilliance.
Yet, the transition to a new season often involves a significant turnover of talent, especially in a program as successful as Ohio State. Gone are star players like Stroud, wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and standout defensive players. While Ohio State is known for its ability to reload and maintain high standards, the challenges of maintaining elite status year after year cannot be overstated.
As they look to defend their place as the preeminent force in college football, Ohio State will need to not only replace key contributors but also establish new leadership, refine their gameplans, and build upon the foundations set in previous seasons. And with the start of spring football, there’s no better time to begin the journey.
The Importance of Spring Football
Spring football is an essential time for college football teams, especially those with championship aspirations. With the majority of offseason training and practices being focused on building physical strength, developing mental toughness, and refining individual skills, spring football provides an invaluable opportunity for teams to solidify their identity and set the tone for the upcoming season.
For Ohio State, spring football is a time to answer several crucial questions. The team must evaluate their quarterback position, develop new leaders, and ensure that all facets of their game—offense, defense, and special teams—are firing on all cylinders. Furthermore, the spring serves as a time for younger players to step up and prove that they are capable of filling the voids left by departing stars.
Quarterback: Replacing the Irreplaceable
The most immediate question that will dominate Ohio State’s spring football practices is who will step into the massive shoes left behind by C.J. Stroud. Stroud’s departure to the NFL leaves a hole at quarterback that will be difficult to fill, given the remarkable success he enjoyed during his time at Ohio State.
Several candidates are in the running to replace Stroud, including Kyle McCord, Devin Brown, and possibly others. McCord, a former highly-rated recruit, has experience as Stroud’s backup and is widely regarded as the front-runner for the starting job. Brown, another talented quarterback, provides a strong alternative. Both quarterbacks bring their own unique skill sets to the table, and spring football will be crucial in determining who will take the reins of the Ohio State offense.
The new starting quarterback will need to develop chemistry with a talented group of wide receivers, including Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka. Harrison, in particular, is one of the best wideouts in the country, and his ability to make plays will be crucial for the success of Ohio State’s offense. A new quarterback will need to trust in his weapons and show the leadership necessary to guide the Buckeyes back to the national championship hunt.
Offensive Line: Building the Foundation for Success
Another area of focus during spring football will be the offensive line. Ohio State has a history of producing elite offensive linemen, and the team will need to continue that tradition in order to protect their new quarterback and establish a dominant running game. The offensive line must be retooled after losing several key players, including left tackle Paris Johnson Jr. and center Luke Wypler. Replacing such experienced and talented linemen will be a challenge, but it also provides an opportunity for younger players to step up and prove their worth.
In spring ball, the offensive line must develop cohesion and communication to ensure that the Buckeyes’ offense functions at a high level. This will require new leaders to emerge within the unit, as well as a continued emphasis on strength and technique. The offensive line is the backbone of any successful offense, and for Ohio State to contend for another national title, they need to have a strong, reliable front that can protect the quarterback and open up lanes for the running backs.
Running Game: Balancing the Attack
While Ohio State has become known for its high-flying passing game, the running game will remain a vital component of the offense. The Buckeyes have traditionally relied on a dominant ground attack to balance out their offensive scheme, and this season will be no different. With running back TreVeyon Henderson returning after an injury-plagued season, Ohio State will need to reestablish its running game as one of the best in the country.
Spring football will give the coaching staff the opportunity to evaluate Henderson’s recovery and determine how to best utilize him in the offense. Additionally, the Buckeyes have a deep stable of running backs, including Miyan Williams and Dallan Hayden, who will need to prove themselves capable of carrying the load. A strong running game will take pressure off the new quarterback and allow Ohio State to control the tempo of games, keeping opposing defenses on their heels.
Defensive Rebuild: Re-establishing Dominance
Ohio State’s defense has often been the weak link in its championship aspirations, especially in high-pressure games like the 2022 College Football Playoff loss to Georgia. However, the Buckeyes’ defense showed promise last season, and with the addition of new players and returning veterans, the potential for a dominant defensive unit is there.
Key players such as defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau, linebacker Tommy Eichenberg, and cornerback Denzel Burke return, providing a strong foundation for the defense. Tuimoloau, in particular, is one of the best defensive linemen in college football, and his ability to disrupt opposing offenses will be a critical factor in Ohio State’s success.
Spring football will be vital for ensuring that the defense is ready to step up in big moments. The team will need to develop depth in the secondary, improve their pass rush, and make significant strides in stopping the run. Coach Ryan Day and defensive coordinator Jim Knowles will need to find ways to get the best out of their defense, as any weaknesses in this area could derail their national title hopes.
Special Teams: The X-Factor
Special teams are often an overlooked aspect of college football, but they can play a pivotal role in the outcome of games. Ohio State has been fortunate to have reliable specialists, but with the departure of kicker Noah Ruggles, the Buckeyes must find a new player to handle placekicking duties. Additionally, the team will need to develop strong return units and solidify their coverage teams. Special teams can provide an advantage in tight games, and Ohio State must ensure that they have a reliable and efficient unit that can contribute in all phases of the game.
Leadership and Culture: Building the Foundation for Success
Perhaps one of the most important factors in Ohio State’s ability to repeat as champions is their leadership and team culture. The Buckeyes have long been known for their relentless work ethic, toughness, and commitment to excellence, and this spring will be crucial in reinforcing those values. New leaders must emerge both on and off the field, taking ownership of the team’s direction and setting a positive example for the younger players.
Coach Ryan Day has established a strong culture at Ohio State, but the Buckeyes will need to continue building on that foundation. The spring will provide an opportunity for the players to get back to basics, focusing on their fundamentals and recommitting themselves to the team’s goals. In order to become champions once again, Ohio State must foster a collective mindset that embraces competition, accountability, and the desire to be the best.
A New Chapter for Ohio State
The road to repeating as college football’s king of the hill is never easy. Every season presents new challenges, and Ohio State will face many obstacles as they look to defend their national title aspirations. However, with spring football serving as the starting point for the upcoming season, the Buckeyes have a chance to rebuild, reload, and re-establish themselves as one of college football’s elite programs.
By answering questions at key positions, including quarterback, offensive line, and defense, and by continuing to focus on leadership, culture, and team development, Ohio State has the potential to remain at the top of the college football world. The upcoming spring football season will provide a blueprint for the future, and the Buckeyes must use this time wisely to ensure they are ready to take on the challenges of the 2025 season and beyond.
If they can successfully navigate the spring, develop the necessary chemistry, and embrace the competition that lies ahead, Ohio State will have a strong foundation from which to launch another championship run. The quest to remain college football’s king of the hill starts now—and Ohio State must start over in order to climb back to the top.