Three Ohio State Buckeyes Who Might Emerge as Offensive Football Standouts in 2025
As the Ohio State Buckeyes prepare for the 2025 college football season, the excitement around the program remains palpable. Ohio State is known for its rich tradition of producing top-tier talent on both sides of the ball, and the offensive side is no exception. With several key players returning and a new crop of freshmen eager to make an impact, the 2025 season has the potential to be one of the most exciting in recent memory for Ohio State fans.
In the coming season, several players on the offensive side of the ball are poised to break out and establish themselves as future stars in college football. Here are three Ohio State Buckeyes who could emerge as standouts on offense in 2025.
1. Kyle McCord – Quarterback
Overview: Kyle McCord is arguably the most significant player to watch for the Buckeyes in 2025. Having spent the last few seasons learning under C.J. Stroud, McCord is finally set to take the reins as Ohio State’s starting quarterback. He has shown flashes of brilliance during his limited playing time, and with the full confidence of the coaching staff, McCord is ready to lead this high-powered offense.
Why McCord Could Emerge:
- Strong Arm & Mobility: McCord possesses a cannon for an arm, capable of making every throw on the field. His mobility is often overlooked, but McCord has the ability to extend plays with his legs when needed. This dual-threat capability will keep defenses guessing.
- Experienced Supporting Cast: McCord will have a wealth of talent around him, including an elite receiving corps and an offensive line that should provide plenty of protection. With these weapons at his disposal, McCord has the potential to thrive in Ohio State’s offense.
- Learning Under C.J. Stroud: McCord has benefited greatly from working alongside one of the best quarterbacks in the country, C.J. Stroud. The knowledge and experience he gained from watching Stroud’s progression will be invaluable as McCord steps into the starting role.
Impact in 2025: McCord has the tools to be one of the top quarterbacks in the Big Ten and potentially the nation. With Ohio State’s offensive firepower and a favorable schedule, McCord could put up huge numbers in 2025, positioning himself as one of the premier quarterbacks in college football.
2. Marvin Harrison Jr. – Wide Receiver
Overview: Marvin Harrison Jr. is one of the most highly anticipated players in college football heading into the 2025 season. The son of Hall of Fame wide receiver Marvin Harrison, the younger Harrison has already established himself as one of the top receivers in college football. After a stellar 2024 season, Harrison will look to take his game to new heights in 2025, and his potential seems limitless.
Why Harrison Could Emerge:
- Elite Route-Running: Harrison’s route-running ability is second to none. He is smooth, precise, and can create separation from defenders with ease. His ability to run complex routes and find openings in opposing defenses makes him a nightmare for cornerbacks.
- Proven Playmaker: In 2024, Harrison demonstrated that he can make big plays when the game is on the line. He has an uncanny ability to make crucial catches in critical moments, whether it’s a contested catch downfield or a touchdown reception in the red zone.
- Top-Shelf Athleticism: Standing at 6’4″ and possessing elite speed, Harrison can burn defenders with his speed or outmuscle them with his size. His combination of speed, agility, and physicality makes him a complete package and a potential first-round NFL draft pick.
Impact in 2025: As McCord’s top target, Harrison is poised to have a monster 2025 season. If McCord develops into the elite quarterback that many expect him to be, Harrison could see even more opportunities to showcase his talents. A season filled with highlight-reel catches and game-winning touchdowns is likely in store for the star receiver. With his combination of skills and football IQ, Harrison could lead the Big Ten in receiving yards and touchdowns, further solidifying his status as one of the nation’s best.
3. TreVeyon Henderson – Running Back
Overview: After an impressive freshman season in 2022, TreVeyon Henderson entered 2024 with high expectations, but injuries and inconsistent play limited his full potential. However, as he enters his junior season in 2025, Henderson will look to bounce back and reclaim his spot as one of the top running backs in the nation. When healthy, Henderson has the ability to take over games and dominate on the ground, and 2025 could be his year.
Why Henderson Could Emerge:
- Breakaway Speed: Henderson’s speed is one of his most defining characteristics. He has the ability to turn any carry into a touchdown with his breakaway speed. Once he finds a crease, he can leave defenders in the dust, making him a home-run threat every time he touches the ball.
- Strong Vision & Elusiveness: Henderson’s vision and ability to make defenders miss in the open field are key components of his game. He’s adept at reading blocks and finding the right lanes, making him difficult to stop once he gets into the second level.
- Versatility in the Offense: Ohio State’s offense isn’t just built on the passing game; they also have a strong tradition of dominant running backs. Henderson is capable of contributing both as a rusher and as a pass-catcher out of the backfield, adding an additional dimension to his game.
Impact in 2025: If Henderson stays healthy in 2025, he has the chance to lead the Big Ten in rushing yards and touchdowns. Ohio State has always been a run-first team, and with a solid offensive line returning, Henderson will have the chance to make a major impact. His ability to stretch the field with explosive runs will add balance to Ohio State’s offense, taking pressure off McCord and allowing the passing game to flourish.
Bonus: Cade Stover – Tight End
While McCord, Harrison, and Henderson are the primary players to watch, it’s worth mentioning Cade Stover, the Buckeyes’ talented tight end, who could also have a breakout season in 2025. Stover has shown glimpses of greatness over the past two seasons, and with his size, athleticism, and strong hands, he could be a vital piece of Ohio State’s offensive scheme in 2025.
Why Stover Could Emerge:
- Physicality and Size: Standing at 6’5” and weighing 255 pounds, Stover is a mismatch for defenders. He’s fast enough to get down the field and strong enough to block on the line of scrimmage or fight for contested catches.
- Red Zone Threat: Stover has been a reliable target in the red zone and could see an increase in usage in 2025. His size and ability to catch passes in tight windows make him an ideal target for short-yardage situations and touchdowns.
If McCord can develop chemistry with Stover, the tight end could become a major contributor to Ohio State’s passing attack in 2025, making him a player to watch heading into the season.