Ohio State Football Spring Practice: 5 Position Battles to Monitor, Including Quarterback
As Ohio State football enters spring practice for the 2025 season, the excitement is palpable. Fans, coaches, and players alike are gearing up for what promises to be another thrilling year for the Buckeyes. While the program remains a perennial powerhouse, this spring, there are several key position battles to watch that could shape the team’s future and potentially determine the Buckeyes’ success in the upcoming season. Among the most talked-about competitions is the quarterback battle, but there are also several other positions where the competition is fierce, with spots up for grabs.
Let’s take a closer look at five key position battles to monitor during Ohio State’s spring practice.
1. Quarterback: Will Howard vs. Kyle McCord
The most talked-about position in Ohio State football this spring is undoubtedly quarterback. Will Howard, the former Kansas State transfer, made an immediate impact in 2024, leading the Buckeyes to a College Football Playoff National Championship. However, Howard isn’t guaranteed the starting role in 2025, and the competition is heating up between him and sophomore Kyle McCord.
Will Howard: A seasoned quarterback with a wealth of experience, Howard’s leadership and poise under pressure are unquestioned. After transferring from Kansas State in 2024, he showed incredible growth and helped guide the team to its first national championship in years. Howard brings a powerful arm and is known for his decision-making, but he’ll need to continue proving himself in spring practice to hold off the competition.
Kyle McCord: McCord, who served as the backup quarterback in 2024, is no stranger to big moments. He’s been a part of the Buckeyes’ quarterback room since 2022 and has learned under the tutelage of Ryan Day and quarterbacks coach Corey Dennis. While McCord didn’t see as much action last season, he’s been one of the top quarterbacks in Ohio State’s recruiting history. McCord has the potential to be a future star, and with a full spring of reps, he could challenge Howard for the starting job.
What to Watch: The spring practices will be crucial for both quarterbacks to prove their worth. The battle for the starting job will likely come down to consistency, decision-making under pressure, and ability to execute Ryan Day’s high-powered offense. Both quarterbacks have the tools to succeed, but spring practice will offer a glimpse into who will take the reins of one of college football’s top programs.
2. Wide Receiver: Julian Fleming vs. Marvin Harrison Jr.
While the Buckeyes have one of the most dynamic receiving corps in the country, there is still a competition brewing for the starting spots opposite Marvin Harrison Jr., who is already a preseason All-American candidate and one of the top receivers in college football.
Julian Fleming: Fleming, a former five-star recruit, has shown flashes of brilliance throughout his Ohio State career but has struggled with consistency and injuries. In 2024, Fleming became more of a key contributor, showcasing his deep threat abilities and excellent route running. This spring, Fleming is looking to make his case as one of the primary outside threats alongside Harrison.
Marvin Harrison Jr.: There is little question that Harrison will be the top receiver for the Buckeyes, but spring practice will allow him to continue his development and fine-tune his skills even further. His ability to create separation, track the ball, and make contested catches will be critical as he prepares for what could be a Heisman-worthy season.
What to Watch: The position battle here isn’t necessarily about whether Harrison will start (he will), but who will emerge as the other starting wide receiver spots. Look for Fleming to battle for one of the top two roles, along with other talented wideouts like Emeka Egbuka and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who will also be looking to make their mark.
3. Running Back: TreVeyon Henderson vs. Miyan Williams
Another position battle that will be closely watched this spring is running back. Ohio State has long been known for producing elite running backs, and in 2025, they boast two very capable options in TreVeyon Henderson and Miyan Williams.
TreVeyon Henderson: Henderson, a dynamic and versatile back, was widely considered one of the best running backs in college football when he entered Ohio State. His vision, speed, and ability to make defenders miss are impressive, but injuries have somewhat limited his impact in recent seasons. This spring, Henderson will be looking to prove that he can be the feature back for the Buckeyes and stay healthy for the entire season.
Miyan Williams: Williams, who played a key role in Ohio State’s offense in 2024, is known for his bruising style and ability to grind out tough yards between the tackles. Williams brings a physicality to the position that complements Henderson’s speed and agility. However, Williams’ ability to improve in the passing game and become a more complete back will be key to winning the starting job.
What to Watch: The Buckeyes will look for one of these running backs to take control of the backfield in 2025. Both Henderson and Williams are highly talented, and the competition between them will be fierce. Spring practice will showcase which player can separate themselves through consistency, health, and pass-catching ability.
4. Cornerback: Denzel Burke vs. Jordan Hancock
With Ohio State’s secondary always under intense scrutiny, the cornerback battle will be one of the most crucial competitions to follow this spring. Denzel Burke, a former freshman All-American, and Jordan Hancock, a rising star in the Buckeyes’ secondary, will compete for one of the cornerback starting roles.
Denzel Burke: Burke has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in his freshman season, but struggled with some inconsistency last year. A physical and athletic corner, Burke has the tools to be a lockdown defender, but he’ll need to prove he can consistently shut down top-tier receivers. This spring is critical for him to show that he can regain his top form.
Jordan Hancock: Hancock, a former top recruit, has been steadily improving and has shown the ability to be a difference-maker in the secondary. As one of the more physically gifted players on the roster, Hancock brings elite speed and ball skills. If he can improve his technique and gain more confidence, he could emerge as a starter alongside Burke.
What to Watch: The cornerback battle is about consistency, technique, and ability to compete in a high-stakes environment. Both Burke and Hancock will need to show they can be relied upon to cover some of the most dangerous receivers in the Big Ten and beyond. Expect this battle to be fierce, with both players bringing unique strengths to the table.
5. Defensive Line: J.T. Tuimoloau vs. Jack Sawyer
Ohio State’s defensive line is consistently one of the most dominant in college football, and in 2025, the competition for starting spots along the front is as intense as ever. Two of the most promising defensive linemen for the Buckeyes are J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer, who are vying for significant roles in Ohio State’s defense.
J.T. Tuimoloau: Tuimoloau is a versatile defensive lineman who can disrupt both the pass and the run. Known for his explosive first step and playmaking ability, Tuimoloau is a force to be reckoned with on the edge. In 2024, he showcased his potential with several standout performances, and this spring will be a chance to further cement his role as a starter.
Jack Sawyer: Sawyer, a former five-star recruit, has been patiently waiting for his opportunity to shine in the Buckeyes’ defensive scheme. Known for his athleticism and speed, Sawyer brings a unique skill set to the table. As a rising star, he’ll look to prove that he’s ready to take over as one of the leaders on the defensive line.
What to Watch: The competition between Tuimoloau and Sawyer will be a battle of physicality and technique. Tuimoloau brings a relentless motor and versatility, while Sawyer brings exceptional athleticism and pass-rushing ability. This spring will determine who emerges as the starting edge rusher for the Buckeyes.