How One Memorable Play by Ohio State Football Became a Talking Point at the 2025 NFL Combine

The 2025 NFL Combine, one of the most anticipated events for college football players transitioning to the NFL, was filled with moments that would undoubtedly make headlines. However, for Ohio State football fans and NFL scouts alike, there was one talking point that stood out among the rest: a single, unforgettable play from the Buckeyes’ 2024 season. This play not only became the topic of conversation throughout the Combine but also illustrated the raw talent, football IQ, and determination that Ohio State athletes are known for. It became a defining moment for several draft prospects, and its ripple effect was felt as teams debated how to best utilize these athletes moving forward.

This article delves into how one play from Ohio State football resonated at the 2025 NFL Combine, becoming a talking point for scouts, coaches, and analysts alike. We’ll break down the play itself, its significance for Ohio State’s NFL prospects, and the lasting impact it had on the conversations surrounding players during the Combine.

The Play: A Defining Moment in Ohio State’s 2024 Season

The play in question occurred during Ohio State’s high-stakes regular-season game against a top-ranked opponent, the kind of matchup that many anticipated would go down to the wire. With the game tied in the final minutes and the Buckeyes looking to seal the victory, Ohio State’s offense executed a play that would not only prove pivotal for their win but would also cement its place in NFL Combine lore.

It was a fourth-quarter play, with the Buckeyes on their own 35-yard line, facing a crucial third-and-10. Quarterback C.J. Stroud, who had already established himself as a Heisman contender and one of the top prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft, stepped back into the pocket under heavy pressure. He looked downfield but was quickly flushed to his right, forcing him to improvise. With defenders closing in on him, Stroud evaded a would-be sack with a smooth spin move, regained his balance, and threw a perfectly placed 40-yard strike to wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. on the sideline, who made a spectacular toe-tapping catch to keep the drive alive.

This play was not just about athleticism. It was a showcase of Stroud’s football intelligence, his poise under pressure, and his precise arm strength. For Harrison, the catch exemplified his elite route-running ability, hand-eye coordination, and ability to make big plays when it mattered most. The combination of Stroud’s escape and Harrison’s clutch reception led to a game-winning touchdown, and the Buckeyes pulled off an emotional victory.

However, what made this play truly memorable in the context of the 2025 NFL Combine was the way it encapsulated what both Stroud and Harrison could bring to an NFL team. It was a play that had scouts and coaches discussing the specific qualities that would make them successful at the professional level, from Stroud’s quick decision-making to Harrison’s route-running finesse and ability to make contested catches in crucial moments.

Stroud’s Poise and Decision-Making: NFL-Level Potential

C.J. Stroud’s performance on that memorable play became the centerpiece of conversations during the 2025 NFL Combine. As scouts watched the footage repeatedly, they marveled at his poise and decision-making under pressure. Stroud had already established himself as one of the best quarterbacks in college football, and this play gave a glimpse into his readiness to make the leap to the NFL.

One of the recurring themes that dominated discussions about Stroud at the Combine was his ability to perform under pressure. NFL quarterbacks must make split-second decisions while dealing with intense rushes, and Stroud’s calmness when facing the blitz showcased his potential to thrive in high-stakes situations. His ability to recognize a collapsing pocket, maintain his composure, and still deliver an accurate pass was a skill many NFL teams were desperate to see in their potential franchise quarterbacks.

At the Combine, several scouts mentioned Stroud’s decision-making and how well it translated to the professional game. His anticipation of routes, his timing on passes, and his ability to read defenses were all praised in the aftermath of that play. Several teams noted how Stroud’s performance in this particular moment showed his readiness to step into an NFL offense and immediately contribute, especially in moments of high pressure.

The play also highlighted Stroud’s mobility. While not necessarily known for being a run-first quarterback, Stroud’s ability to extend plays with his legs was on full display. He was quick enough to escape the pocket but also composed enough to keep his eyes downfield while surveying the situation. This ability to improvise and make off-schedule throws would be critical for NFL offenses, where quarterbacks are often forced to make plays when their original designs break down.

During interviews and meetings at the Combine, Stroud addressed how his experience at Ohio State—especially in big games—prepared him for these kinds of moments. His leadership skills were also front and center, with coaches pointing out that Stroud didn’t just rely on his arm strength but also on his mental toughness, which would be crucial for any team that drafted him.

Marvin Harrison Jr.: Elite Receiver Skills Under the Spotlight

On the other side of the memorable play was wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., whose 40-yard catch from Stroud highlighted his elite skills as a pass catcher. Harrison Jr. was already on the radar as one of the top wide receiver prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft, and this particular play only cemented his place as one of the most promising talents in the draft class.

What made Harrison’s catch so impressive wasn’t just the length of the reception but the way he managed to maintain control while making a spectacular sideline catch with defenders all over him. He showcased his excellent ball-tracking skills, a high-level ability to adjust mid-air, and his physicality to win contested catches. Even more impressive was Harrison’s ability to toe-tap on the sideline to complete the catch, a display of athleticism and attention to detail that had NFL scouts buzzing.

At the Combine, there was a palpable excitement surrounding Harrison Jr.’s skills. He was seen as an immediate impact player who could contribute right away at the next level. His route-running was a major talking point, with scouts noting that he possessed the ability to separate from defenders with sharp cuts and precise movements. His separation skills were also on display during drills, where he showed off a combination of speed, agility, and fluidity that made him an enticing prospect for teams looking for a wide receiver to pair with a young quarterback.

One of the biggest takeaways from the Combine conversations was the versatility that Harrison Jr. brings to the table. Whether lined up in the slot, out wide, or even in motion, he was seen as a receiver who could thrive in any offensive system. His balance of size, speed, and technical skills gave him the potential to become an immediate playmaker in the NFL.

Furthermore, his football IQ and attention to detail—evident from his ability to maintain control and make that toe-tap catch—further set him apart. This play highlighted Harrison Jr.’s mental focus and discipline, which were critical points raised during the Combine as scouts assessed how well he would adjust to the rigors of the NFL.

The Ripple Effect: NFL Teams Take Notice

After the 2025 NFL Combine, teams began making evaluations based not only on physical testing results but on the film and highlights that had become talking points throughout the event. The unforgettable play between Stroud and Harrison Jr. at Ohio State became a symbol of what these two athletes could bring to an NFL team.

For Stroud, the Combine reaffirmed his status as one of the top quarterbacks in the draft. NFL teams that had concerns about his ability to succeed in high-pressure moments now had ample evidence that he was more than capable. Teams like the Indianapolis Colts, Carolina Panthers, and Atlanta Falcons—all in need of a quarterback to lead their offense—began honing in on Stroud, making him a key player in their draft strategy.

As for Harrison Jr., the combination of his impressive skills and this iconic play made him an obvious choice as one of the top wide receivers in the draft. His name had been associated with several teams at the Combine, including the Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings, and New York Giants, who were all looking to add a dynamic playmaker to their receiving corps. Harrison’s ability to make plays like the one at Ohio State was a major talking point when teams were comparing his skills to other receivers in the draft class.

A Defining Moment for Two Future Stars

The 2025 NFL Combine was full of discussions and analysis, but for many, the most memorable moment came from a single play that demonstrated the raw talent and professionalism of Ohio State’s C.J. Stroud and Marvin Harrison Jr. Their combined effort in that iconic play against a top-ranked opponent became a talking point that went beyond just highlights—it became a defining moment for both players, setting the stage for their future NFL careers. It’s clear that this unforgettable play will be remembered as a key moment in the lead-up to the 2025 NFL Draft, and it will remain etched in the minds of NFL fans as both Stroud and Harrison Jr. begin their professional journeys.