3 Ohio State Players Who Are Entering a Make-or-Break Spring with the Buckeyes
The spring season at Ohio State is always a critical time for players to show their growth, adjust to new roles, and prove they are worthy of a spot on the field when the regular season rolls around. For some players, however, spring practice carries extra weight — these individuals face make-or-break moments that could determine their future with the Buckeyes. Whether it’s battling for a starting role, bouncing back from injury, or trying to meet high expectations, these spring practices are pivotal for a select group of players.
As Ohio State enters the 2025 season with championship aspirations, several players are at key crossroads in their careers. With the competition for starting spots intensifying, here are three Buckeyes who are facing a make-or-break spring:
1. Kyle McCord – Quarterback
Why It’s Make-or-Break: The quarterback position at Ohio State is one of the most highly scrutinized roles in college football, and for Kyle McCord, the spring of 2025 represents a critical opportunity to solidify his place as the starting quarterback for the Buckeyes. McCord, a former 5-star recruit and one of the most talented quarterbacks in the country, has shown flashes of brilliance, but has struggled with consistency during his time at Ohio State.
After serving as the backup to C.J. Stroud for much of his first two seasons, McCord now finds himself in a competition for the starting role. He’ll be competing against Devin Brown, who is also highly talented and has had a strong reputation as a dual-threat quarterback. With both McCord and Brown showing their skills in previous limited opportunities, spring camp will be pivotal in deciding who has the edge going into the 2025 season.
This spring, McCord must prove that he can take the reins of Ohio State’s explosive offense and be the leader on the field. With a highly anticipated roster and a talented receiving corps, the expectations for the quarterback position are high. McCord will need to show that he can distribute the ball effectively, make quick decisions, and protect the football. With the potential for a huge 2025 campaign for Ohio State, this spring could be McCord’s chance to establish himself as the unquestioned leader of one of the nation’s most powerful offenses. If he falters in this competition, it could spell trouble for his career in Columbus.
2. J.T. Tuimoloau – Defensive End
Why It’s Make-or-Break: Ohio State’s defense has been solid in recent years, but it has also struggled at times to consistently disrupt opposing quarterbacks and create game-changing plays. A player who has the potential to change that is J.T. Tuimoloau, a former 5-star recruit and one of the most highly touted defensive players in the 2022 class. However, despite flashes of brilliance during his first two seasons, Tuimoloau has yet to fully live up to his immense potential.
The spring of 2025 represents a critical opportunity for Tuimoloau to establish himself as a dominant force on the defensive line. With the departure of key figures like Zach Harrison, Tuimoloau is expected to take on a much larger role in Ohio State’s pass-rush efforts. He has the physical tools to be a top-tier edge rusher, with explosive quickness, strength, and an ability to rush the passer from multiple angles. Still, his consistency and overall development have not yet matched the hype surrounding his recruitment.
This spring, Tuimoloau needs to take a significant leap in his game. Whether it’s refining his pass-rushing technique, becoming a more disruptive force in the run game, or simply improving his consistency, Tuimoloau must demonstrate that he can handle the responsibilities of a primary playmaker on the Buckeye defense. If he is unable to make a significant jump, it could hinder his draft stock and leave a major void on a defense looking to be more aggressive and impactful.
With Miyan Williams leaving, the defensive line and edge rusher spot will need a playmaker to step up, and J.T. Tuimoloau must be that player for Ohio State to remain among the nation’s elite. This spring will be a make-or-break opportunity for him to prove that he is ready to become a dominant force.
3. Emeka Egbuka – Wide Receiver
Why It’s Make-or-Break: Ohio State has consistently been one of the most prolific passing offenses in the country, with standout wide receivers playing a major role in that success. Heading into the 2025 season, Emeka Egbuka enters a make-or-break spring, as he looks to establish himself as one of the top wideouts in college football.
Egbuka has had flashes of brilliance during his time at Ohio State, especially in 2024 when he served as one of the team’s top targets. However, with the departure of Marvin Harrison Jr. — a once-in-a-generation talent — and the expected rise of other young wide receivers, Egbuka faces heightened expectations to step into a more prominent role. As the likely top receiving target in 2025, it will be up to Egbuka to be the go-to guy in Ohio State’s potent passing attack.
Egbuka has the physical tools to be a star — he’s quick, has excellent hands, and can make plays at all levels of the field. But he will need to prove this spring that he is capable of being the focal point of the Buckeyes’ receiving corps. The chemistry with his quarterback (whether it’s McCord or Brown) will also be crucial, and spring practice will give him the chance to develop that rapport.
This spring will also be pivotal in Egbuka’s pursuit of making a name for himself on the national stage. With his talents, he has the potential to be a first-round pick in the NFL Draft, but to do so, he must emerge as the dominant wide receiver in the Big Ten and the nation. With the increased pressure and the opportunity to be the leader of Ohio State’s offense, Egbuka must prove he can handle the spotlight. If he struggles to meet expectations, it could hurt his stock, as well as Ohio State’s offensive success.