Ohio State football is entering a new chapter under the leadership of head coach Ryan Day. After a highly successful tenure that has seen the Buckeyes consistently contend for Big Ten titles and College Football Playoff berths, the program is undergoing significant changes that could define the next phase of its football program. With a revamped coaching staff and roster, Ohio State is poised to build on its strong foundation while making the adjustments necessary to stay at the pinnacle of college football.
The Ryan Day Era: A Quick Recap
When Ryan Day took over as the head coach of Ohio State in 2019, he inherited a program already accustomed to excellence under Urban Meyer. Day quickly proved he was capable of maintaining that standard, leading the Buckeyes to a 13-1 record and a spot in the College Football Playoff in his first season. Day has consistently put together strong recruiting classes, developed top-tier quarterbacks like Justin Fields, and maintained Ohio State’s position as one of the top programs in the country. However, despite the team’s success, there have been moments where the Buckeyes have fallen short of their ultimate goal—the national championship.
In particular, Ohio State’s performances in the College Football Playoff and big games against rivals like Michigan have been a point of focus. While the team has remained competitive, Day has faced criticism for not yet delivering a national title, and the pressure is mounting to take that next step.
To meet those expectations, Day is focusing on reshaping Ohio State’s roster and coaching staff, making strategic moves that he believes will position the program for sustained success. These changes signal that Day is committed to elevating Ohio State to the next level.
Revamping the Coaching Staff
One of the most significant changes for Ohio State this offseason is the revamping of the coaching staff. While Ryan Day has retained some key assistants who have contributed to the Buckeyes’ success, several new hires have been made to enhance the program’s performance across the board. The adjustments made on the coaching staff reflect Day’s desire to address areas that need improvement and build a more balanced, resilient team.
Offensive Coaching Changes
Ohio State’s offense, while consistently potent under Day, has occasionally struggled to find consistency in key moments. Day, known for his offensive acumen, has decided to make changes to the offensive staff to ensure that the Buckeyes remain at the forefront of offensive innovation.
One of the most notable changes was the hiring of a new offensive line coach, a position that has been critical to Ohio State’s offensive success in the past. The offensive line is the backbone of any successful offense, and the Buckeyes’ offensive line play has at times been inconsistent. By bringing in a new coach with a focus on improving technique, footwork, and physicality, Day aims to re-establish Ohio State’s offensive line as one of the best in the country.
Additionally, the quarterback room is set to see a shift with the departure of C.J. Stroud, one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in Ohio State history. Day has emphasized the need for a more complete offense that utilizes both the running and passing game in a balanced manner. While Ohio State has often been known for its high-powered passing attack, Day is focused on finding a quarterback who can thrive in a more diverse offensive system.
Defensive Coaching Changes
On the defensive side of the ball, Day made a crucial change by hiring a new defensive coordinator, signaling a potential shift in the defensive philosophy. Ohio State’s defense, while strong at times, has also been prone to lapses in big games, particularly against fast-paced offenses or teams with elite quarterbacks.
The new defensive coordinator comes to Ohio State with a track record of turning around struggling defenses and implementing aggressive schemes that focus on pressuring the quarterback. This aggressive approach will be a key aspect of Ohio State’s defense moving forward, as Day aims to build a unit that can disrupt offenses and generate turnovers at a higher rate.
Additionally, a stronger emphasis will be placed on developing the defensive line, which has been an area where the Buckeyes have seen a lot of success in the past. With several high-level recruits expected to make an impact, the new defensive coaching staff is expected to bring out the best in Ohio State’s defensive talent.
Position-Specific Changes
Ohio State has also made key position-specific coaching changes, especially in areas where improvement was needed. For example, changes at the wide receiver and running back coach positions aim to bring out the best in Ohio State’s playmakers. As the Buckeyes have seen an influx of highly-ranked recruits at the wide receiver and running back positions, developing this talent will be critical to the offense’s success. Ensuring that these young athletes are able to perform at a high level from day one will be one of the staff’s top priorities.
The secondary, which has faced challenges in big games against high-powered passing offenses, will also receive increased attention with new coaching leadership. Day’s goal is to build a defense that can perform consistently at a high level and has the flexibility to adjust to the varying offensive schemes the Buckeyes will face throughout the season.
Roster Overhaul: Players to Watch
While the coaching changes are significant, the adjustments to the roster are just as important. Ohio State is known for recruiting elite talent, and this offseason is no different. With several key players departing for the NFL, Day and his staff are focused on getting the next wave of talent ready to step up and fill the voids left by those departures.
Quarterback Battle
Arguably the most important position on the field, Ohio State enters the 2025 season with a new quarterback under center. C.J. Stroud’s departure has left a hole that will be filled by one of the young quarterbacks in the program. The competition at quarterback will be fierce, with several talented players vying for the starting job.
The two frontrunners for the starting role are Kyle McCord and Devin Brown. McCord, who has seen limited action as Stroud’s backup, brings experience to the table, while Brown, a highly-touted freshman, has the potential to be a dynamic playmaker. Whoever wins the job will be expected to lead a high-powered offense that is expected to put up big numbers. Day’s offensive system is quarterback-friendly, and whoever is at the helm will be given the tools to succeed.
Wide Receiver Group
Ohio State has consistently produced elite wide receivers under Ryan Day, and this year’s group is no different. With Marvin Harrison Jr. returning, the Buckeyes will have one of the top playmakers in college football. Harrison, widely regarded as a top NFL prospect, is expected to be the focal point of the passing game.
However, Ohio State’s receiving corps doesn’t stop with Harrison. Emeka Egbuka and Julian Fleming, both highly-ranked recruits, are ready to take on larger roles in the offense. Day’s offense relies heavily on a deep receiving corps that can stretch the field, and this group has the talent to do just that.
Running Back Depth
While Ohio State has been known for its explosive passing game, the Buckeyes also possess a deep and talented group of running backs. TreVeyon Henderson, one of the top running backs in college football, will be the focal point of the running game. Henderson’s combination of speed and vision makes him one of the most dangerous backs in the country.
Behind Henderson, Ohio State has a stable of capable backups, including Miyan Williams and Evan Pryor, who are more than capable of taking on significant roles. The Buckeyes’ ability to maintain balance on offense with a strong running game will be crucial to their success in 2025.
Defense: Key Players and Improvements
The defense will also see key players emerge as leaders, particularly on the defensive line and in the secondary. Defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau is expected to be a force off the edge, while linebacker Tommy Eichenberg is one of the leaders of the defense. The Buckeyes will rely on these players to step up and lead the defense as they aim to improve their consistency, especially in critical moments.
In the secondary, Ohio State will need to develop its cornerbacks and safeties to match the level of competition they will face in the Big Ten and beyond. If the defense can stay disciplined and execute the new aggressive scheme, Ohio State will be a tough team to beat.
Looking Ahead: The Buckeyes’ Future
As Ohio State begins this new chapter under Ryan Day, the program is poised for continued success. With a revamped coaching staff, a new quarterback, and a roster filled with talent, the Buckeyes are well-positioned to compete for national championships in the years to come.
The 2025 season will be a defining year for Day and his team. While the pressure to win a national title is mounting, Ohio State’s foundation remains strong. If the coaching changes and roster adjustments pay off, the Buckeyes could be in line for another dominant season that establishes them as one of the top programs in college football.
The future of Ohio State football is bright, and the new chapter under Ryan Day is just beginning. Whether they can translate their potential into championship success will be the ultimate test. With a revamped staff, roster, and a focus on balance and development, Ohio State is ready to take the next step in its pursuit of greatness.