1. Introduction

The Ohio State Buckeyes have been a powerhouse in college football for decades, consistently competing for national championships and producing top-tier talent. One of the most critical positions on any football team, particularly in a high-profile program like Ohio State, is quarterback. The quarterback acts as the leader on the field, guiding the offense and making crucial decisions that can alter the course of a game. For Ohio State, this position has always been of the utmost importance. In recent years, Ohio State has been fortunate to have standout quarterbacks such as Justin Fields and C.J. Stroud, each leaving an indelible mark on the program.

Heading into the 2025 season, the Buckeyes are once again dealing with a competitive quarterback situation that is sure to define the team’s future. As with every offseason, the question arises: Who will be Ohio State’s starting quarterback for the upcoming season? ESPN and other major outlets have been following this QB battle closely, offering insights and updates on the key candidates, the team’s expectations, and how the competition will unfold.

2. Background of Ohio State’s QB History

To understand the weight of the quarterback situation in Ohio State, it’s important to look at the history of the position. The Buckeyes have had a long list of notable quarterbacks, each of whom has contributed to the team’s success. From the greats like Troy Smith, who led Ohio State to a national championship victory in 2002, to Heisman Trophy winners such as Justin Fields and C.J. Stroud, Ohio State’s quarterback lineage is rich and storied.

In recent seasons, the Buckeyes have found themselves with star quarterbacks capable of leading them to the College Football Playoff (CFP). C.J. Stroud, for example, set multiple records during his time in Columbus and is a likely first-round NFL draft pick. After Stroud’s departure to the NFL, the team found themselves once again in the midst of a quarterback competition, as they looked to replace a player who was integral to their success.

With Ryan Day at the helm, Ohio State has maintained a potent offensive attack, largely built around a dynamic, multi-faceted quarterback. His system requires quarterbacks who are not only capable passers but also able to make quick decisions and read opposing defenses with precision. The system also emphasizes a strong offensive line and dynamic playmakers at the skill positions, which allows for the QB to thrive in a pass-heavy offense.

3. Current Quarterback Roster

As of spring practice in 2025, the Ohio State Buckeyes have a talented and deep quarterback room. However, competition remains fierce, with multiple players vying for the starting role. The roster includes both returning quarterbacks and new faces that offer intriguing potential. Let’s take a look at the main contenders:

• Kyle McCord – The likely frontrunner, McCord has spent several years at Ohio State as a backup to C.J. Stroud. During limited playing time, McCord has shown flashes of brilliance, possessing a strong arm and a natural feel for the game. However, many believe his in-game experience might not be enough to guarantee a starting spot.
• Devin Brown – Brown, a redshirt sophomore, is known for his dual-threat ability. While McCord has been the more traditional passer, Brown brings more mobility to the table. His ability to make plays with his legs could make him a strong contender, especially in the modern college football landscape, where dual-threat quarterbacks are highly valued.
• Lincoln Kienholz – A freshman with a ton of promise, Kienholz has yet to see significant action at the college level. He was highly recruited out of high school, and his combination of size, athleticism, and arm strength has excited the coaching staff. However, the question remains whether he will be ready for a starting role in his first year.

Each of these players has shown promise in their respective skill sets, but they also have areas where they need to improve. The coaching staff will need to evaluate each candidate closely as they decide who will take the reins of Ohio State’s offense.

4. Analysis of Each Quarterback Candidate

Kyle McCord

Kyle McCord is often seen as the most polished and seasoned quarterback among the contenders. The former 5-star recruit had the privilege of learning behind C.J. Stroud, and many have pegged McCord as the “next in line.” He has had moments of excellence during mop-up duty in previous seasons, but his lack of extended starting experience has left some doubting his readiness for the pressure of being the Buckeyes’ starting QB.

McCord’s arm strength is one of his most notable assets. He can make every throw and has the ability to drive the ball downfield, especially on deep routes. His footwork and pocket presence are solid, though not as refined as some of the top-tier quarterbacks in the country. His accuracy on intermediate routes and timing with his receivers will need to improve if he is to truly succeed.

Devin Brown

Devin Brown offers a more dynamic skill set, with mobility and a strong ability to escape pressure. His dual-threat capabilities make him an intriguing option for Ryan Day’s offense. Brown has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly with his ability to extend plays with his legs, something that McCord lacks. However, Brown’s mechanics and consistency as a passer remain works in progress. His arm strength is good, but his ability to read defenses and make quick decisions under pressure is still developing.

Brown’s mobility could be a major factor in Ohio State’s offense, especially in high-pressure situations where extending a play with his legs can create big opportunities. If he can prove that he can make quick reads in the passing game and develop better chemistry with the team’s wide receivers, he may push McCord for the starting job.

Lincoln Kienholz

Lincoln Kienholz is the wildcard in this race. A highly touted recruit, Kienholz has the physical tools to be a star, but it’s uncertain how quickly he can transition to college football. His size, arm strength, and mobility suggest that he has a high ceiling, but he will likely need to learn and adjust to the speed of the game before becoming a serious contender for the starting spot. Kienholz could potentially see playing time in specific situations, but it seems more likely that he will take a redshirt year to develop under the guidance of Ohio State’s coaching staff.

5. Coaching and Scheme Impact

Ryan Day’s offensive system at Ohio State is one of the most successful in the country, blending a high-powered passing attack with a strong rushing game. For any quarterback stepping into this system, the expectations are high. Day demands precision, quick decision-making, and an ability to read defenses at an elite level. The QB must also handle the pressure that comes with being the face of one of college football’s most storied programs.

The offensive line and skill players at Ohio State are always top-notch, which means the quarterback will have the necessary weapons to succeed. However, the quarterback’s ability to distribute the ball effectively to those playmakers will be key to the offense’s success.

6. What ESPN is Reporting About the QB Battle

ESPN’s coverage of the Ohio State quarterback competition has centered around the fact that Ryan Day is taking a measured approach to the decision. According to multiple reports, Day is expected to take the quarterback battle into the fall, allowing each candidate to prove themselves in live game situations. ESPN analysts have noted that both McCord and Brown have had strong spring practices, but neither has fully separated themselves from the other.

One key piece of analysis from ESPN is the comparison between McCord’s stability and Brown’s potential for explosiveness. While McCord may be the safer option, Brown offers a dynamic ability that could potentially elevate Ohio State’s offense in ways McCord cannot.

7. Team Goals and Expectations

Ohio State is a perennial national contender, and with a talented roster, the 2025 season is no different. The quarterback position is vital to the team’s goals of competing for a Big Ten title and a spot in the College Football Playoff. The Buckeyes’ offensive scheme, combined with an elite defense, gives them the potential to make a deep run. However, the success of the team hinges on the development of the starting quarterback, whether that be McCord, Brown, or someone else. The QB will need to step up and lead the offense, making big plays when necessary and ensuring the team can keep pace with the high-flying offenses in the Big Ten and beyond.

8. Potential Outcomes and Scenarios

The potential outcomes for Ohio State’s quarterback situation vary depending on who emerges as the starter. If McCord earns the starting role, Ohio State can expect a more traditional approach, with a pocket passer who can control the game and lead the offense methodically. However, if Brown takes the reins, the Buckeyes may open up their playbook more, utilizing his mobility and dual-threat skills to create more dynamic plays and pressure on opposing defenses.

A best-case scenario would be for the starting quarterback to build chemistry with the skill players and develop into a leader who can carry the team through challenging games. The worst-case scenario would be for the QB battle to drag on throughout the season, leading to inconsistency and possibly affecting the team’s overall rhythm.

Ohio State’s quarterback situation is a critical storyline heading into the 2025 season. With a talented pool of players and a high-octane offense at their disposal, the Buckeyes have the potential to succeed regardless of who is named the starter. However, the quarterback’s ability to manage the offense, make key decisions, and elevate the team will ultimately determine how far Ohio State goes this year. ESPN’s updates and analysis suggest that the competition will remain close, and whichever player earns the starting role will have the weight of Ohio State’s lofty expectations on their shoulders.

The decision at quarterback will be a defining factor in the Buckeyes’ pursuit of another Big Ten title and a College Football Playoff berth. As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on Ryan Day and his quarterbacks, as Ohio State looks to continue its legacy as one of college football’s elite programs.