New Ohio State Football Reality Puts Unique Spin on Most Important Position Battle – Jimmy Watkins

Ohio State football has long been a perennial powerhouse, a program whose reputation for producing high-caliber talent and competing for championships has been consistently reinforced over decades. The Buckeyes’ dominance in the Big Ten and on the national stage has been fueled by a mix of elite recruiting, stellar coaching, and the development of players who excel in critical positions, most notably at quarterback. However, as the landscape of college football continues to evolve, Ohio State faces a new reality that puts a unique spin on its most important position battle heading into the 2025 season: the quarterback position.

For years, the Buckeyes have been known for their stable of exceptional quarterbacks, from Justin Fields to Dwayne Haskins and more recently C.J. Stroud, each of whom has enjoyed tremendous success and left their mark on the program’s legacy. But as Ohio State enters a new era, the quarterback battle has become far more complicated. Gone are the days when the Buckeyes simply had to plug in a future NFL star at quarterback. Now, the team finds itself at a crossroads with multiple candidates vying for the starting job, each with distinct strengths, weaknesses, and a different path to the top.

The unique aspect of the 2025 quarterback battle is the changing dynamics of how quarterbacks are viewed and developed. In the past, Ohio State’s offense has been built around a dual-threat quarterback or a traditional pocket passer with a powerful arm. However, as college football adapts to a more wide-open, pass-heavy game, Ohio State’s offensive identity is in flux, and the quarterback battle is now a reflection of that transformation.

The Changing Landscape of College Football

Before diving into the specifics of the quarterback battle, it’s important to understand the context in which Ohio State is operating. The landscape of college football has undergone significant changes in recent years, driven by factors such as NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, the transfer portal, and an increasingly competitive recruiting environment. For Ohio State, these factors have only added complexity to the quarterback competition.

In the past, Ohio State was able to rely on stability at quarterback with a pipeline of talent coming through the program. However, in the current era, the need for immediate impact from quarterbacks has led to increased pressure to develop young talent quickly while also managing an ever-shifting roster. The rise of the transfer portal has meant that established quarterbacks from other schools can move to programs like Ohio State, further complicating the battle for the starting job. Additionally, NIL deals have created a new dynamic, where quarterbacks are now more likely to consider financial incentives when deciding where to play, which may not always align with a program’s traditional approach.

Furthermore, the shift to a more pass-heavy style of play in college football has created a scenario where quarterbacks are expected to be both efficient passers and dynamic playmakers. This dual expectation places added pressure on a team like Ohio State, whose quarterback battle is now more nuanced than ever before. The Buckeyes must not only find a player capable of running their offense efficiently but also someone who can thrive in the evolving nature of college football, where speed, agility, and versatility are paramount.

The Candidates: A Diverse Group of Quarterbacks

The quarterback battle in Ohio State’s 2025 preseason is unique because of the diversity of candidates vying for the starting role. With the departure of C.J. Stroud, the Buckeyes have an open competition that features a blend of highly touted recruits, established players with experience, and a transfer who brings a fresh perspective to the fold. Each quarterback presents different styles and skill sets, adding an element of uncertainty to the decision-making process.

1. Kyle McCord – The Returning Veteran

Kyle McCord, a former 5-star recruit, has spent the last few years behind C.J. Stroud, patiently waiting for his opportunity to take the reins. McCord has shown flashes of brilliance during his limited playing time, and his experience with Ohio State’s offensive system gives him a clear advantage. Standing at 6’3″ and possessing a strong arm, McCord has the physical tools needed to succeed at the next level. His ability to make all the necessary throws, from deep balls to short, precise passes, has been lauded by coaches and teammates alike.

However, McCord’s challenge lies in his ability to handle the pressure of being the starter at Ohio State. Though he has shown promise, he has yet to prove himself as a consistent leader in game situations. The questions surrounding his ability to manage the game, lead the offense, and perform under pressure remain significant. Ohio State fans are eager to see if McCord can take the next step, but the spotlight on him as a former top recruit brings high expectations.

2. Devin Brown – The Rising Star

Devin Brown, another highly ranked recruit, is one of the most exciting prospects in Ohio State’s quarterback room. Known for his athleticism and dual-threat capabilities, Brown has the potential to add a dynamic element to the Buckeyes’ offense. His ability to make plays with his legs and arm has made him a fan favorite, and many believe he could be the perfect fit for the more mobile style of quarterbacking that has become popular across college football.

What makes Brown such an intriguing prospect is his ability to extend plays with his legs, something that Ohio State has lacked in recent years with more traditional pocket passers. His mobility allows him to avoid sacks and create opportunities downfield, making him a more dangerous weapon than a traditional pocket passer. Brown’s dual-threat capability is an asset that could help Ohio State adapt to the modern era of college football, where running quarterbacks are becoming increasingly important.

However, like any young player, Brown’s biggest hurdle is consistency. While he has shown flashes of brilliance, his decision-making and accuracy need refinement. Brown’s ability to develop a strong rapport with his receivers and lead Ohio State’s offense to success will determine his fate in the quarterback battle. If he can mature quickly and harness his physical talent, he could be a star for the Buckeyes in the near future.

3. Sam Horn – The Transfer with Big Expectations

Sam Horn, a transfer from a smaller school, is perhaps the most fascinating prospect in Ohio State’s quarterback competition. Horn’s journey to Ohio State is a testament to his belief in his ability to succeed at the highest level. Having excelled at his previous program, Horn brings an interesting dynamic to the battle. His style of play is more traditional, relying on his arm strength and accuracy to make plays.

What sets Horn apart from the other quarterbacks is his experience at the college level. While McCord and Brown are still relatively unproven in major game situations, Horn has already shown that he can perform under pressure. His leadership qualities and his poise in the pocket make him a strong contender for the starting job. Horn may not be as mobile as Brown, but his ability to throw with accuracy and precision in a traditional offense makes him a unique asset to Ohio State.

Horn will have to prove that he can compete at the level of Ohio State’s elite quarterbacks, but his experience gives him a legitimate shot at winning the job. If he can adapt to the system quickly and develop chemistry with his new teammates, Horn could be the surprise contender for the starting role.

The New Ohio State Offense: What Will It Look Like?

The nature of the quarterback battle in 2025 is also reflective of changes to Ohio State’s offense. The team’s offensive coordinator has emphasized adapting the scheme to match the skills of the quarterbacks, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach. The rise of mobile quarterbacks and the increased use of spread offenses in college football has forced Ohio State to rethink its offensive identity.

Ohio State’s new offensive philosophy appears to blend the best aspects of a traditional pro-style offense with modern elements of spread and option football. This could give quarterbacks like Devin Brown an edge, as his ability to run the ball and extend plays could be crucial in the new system. On the other hand, quarterbacks like Kyle McCord and Sam Horn, who excel in the pocket, will have to prove that they can adapt to the evolving offensive scheme.

The Bigger Picture: The Future of Ohio State Football

As Ohio State’s 2025 quarterback battle unfolds, the implications extend beyond just the immediate season. The outcome of this competition will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the program. With the rise of NIL deals, the transfer portal, and an increasingly competitive landscape in college football, Ohio State’s ability to develop its quarterbacks and adapt to changing dynamics will be essential for the program’s continued success.

The 2025 quarterback battle represents a turning point for Ohio State, as the team navigates new challenges and opportunities in a rapidly evolving college football environment. With multiple talented quarterbacks vying for the starting job, the Buckeyes’ ability to find the right fit will be critical for their success in the coming years.

Ohio State’s quarterback battle for the 2025 season is more than just a competition for the starting role—it is a reflection of the changing dynamics of college football. As the game continues to evolve, Ohio State must adapt, blending traditional offensive schemes with modern concepts to maximize the potential of its quarterbacks. With a talented pool of candidates, the Buckeyes are in a unique position to find a quarterback who can lead them into the future and continue their legacy of success. The next few months will be crucial as Ohio State looks to make one of the most important decisions in the program’s history.