Ohio State football’s plans for its secondary during spring practice in 2025 are critical to the team’s defensive structure and performance heading into the next season. With significant turnover in key positions, the coaching staff will be using this time to not only evaluate returning players but also to integrate new talent and make strategic adjustments to the secondary’s approach. Spring practice, which begins in mid-March, offers an opportunity to refine individual skills, foster team cohesion, and experiment with different defensive alignments before the upcoming season’s competitions.
Departures and the Need for Fresh Talent
One of the most significant factors influencing Ohio State’s secondary plans is the departure of several key players from last season’s defense. For example, cornerback Denzel Burke, safety Ronnie Hickman, and cornerback Cameron Brown have all moved on, either graduating or entering the NFL draft. These departures leave substantial gaps in the secondary that need to be filled with promising young players or returning veterans. The void is particularly significant in both the cornerback and safety positions, where Ohio State will be looking to replace experienced players with talent capable of stepping up at the highest level.
Given this context, spring practice becomes an essential period for determining who will fill these roles. The coaching staff, led by head coach Ryan Day and new defensive coordinator Matt Patricia, will be closely watching the players in these positions to assess their readiness to contribute. The secondary’s depth will be tested early, as the Buckeyes are expected to face a tough schedule in 2025.
Key Position Battles in the Secondary
The cornerback and safety positions will be the most hotly contested areas of Ohio State’s secondary during spring practice. With several players vying for starting roles, here are some of the key battles to keep an eye on.
Cornerback Competition
Ohio State has a long-standing tradition of strong play at the cornerback position, and 2025 is no different. Although the Buckeyes have a returning starter in Davison Igbinosun, the other cornerback spot is up for grabs. Igbinosun, a transfer from Ole Miss who played a pivotal role in 2024, will anchor one side of the field. He has the athleticism, experience, and football IQ to be one of the top cornerbacks in the Big Ten. However, spring practice will be crucial for him to continue developing his technique and adjusting to new defensive schemes under Patricia’s leadership.
On the other side of the field, sophomore Jermaine Mathews Jr. is a player to watch closely. Mathews is highly regarded for his physicality and ability to cover top receivers. With Igbinosun on one side, Mathews will have a chance to showcase his talents and potentially claim a starting role. However, he will face stiff competition from other defensive backs vying for playing time, including several players who have shown flashes of promise during past practices.
The competition in this position group is not only about skill but also about leadership and ability to handle pressure. The coaching staff will be looking for cornerbacks who can maintain coverage, create turnovers, and act as reliable shutdown players in critical moments.
Nickel Cornerback and Defensive Flexibility
The nickel cornerback position, responsible for covering slot receivers, is becoming more important in modern football, particularly in a conference like the Big Ten, where passing offenses continue to evolve. Lorenzo Styles Jr. is expected to see increased snaps in this role. Styles, who originally played wide receiver before making the transition to the defensive backfield, brings unique versatility to the table. His ability to cover quick, agile receivers while also contributing in run support makes him an intriguing option for the nickel cornerback position.
Ohio State’s defensive scheme will likely continue to evolve as Patricia integrates his philosophies. Styles, as a nickel back, will be tested in various scenarios, including covering inside routes and providing extra support in the box. His performance during spring practice will be a key factor in determining whether he secures the role or whether another player will emerge as a viable alternative.
Safety Position: A New Look
The safety positions will be another area where Ohio State’s secondary will undergo significant transformation. Last year’s departures at safety leave two positions open for competition. Caleb Downs, a highly touted recruit from the 2024 class, is expected to play a major role in 2025. Known for his exceptional football IQ, quick reactions, and ability to read the quarterback, Downs has all the makings of an elite free safety.
Alongside him, Jaylen McClain is in line to compete for the strong safety spot. McClain, a returning player who has had limited starting experience, is expected to take on a larger role in the defense. He’s known for his physicality and ability to deliver big hits in the open field. The safety duo of Downs and McClain could become a strong foundation for the defense, but their cohesion and chemistry will need to be solidified during spring practice.
A significant aspect of spring practice for the safety group will be the ability to communicate effectively, especially in passing situations. Safeties often serve as the last line of defense, and their ability to react quickly to the quarterback’s movements is crucial. Spring will provide ample opportunities for both Downs and McClain to work on their timing, communication, and coverage skills.
Coaching Philosophy and Development Focus
Head coach Ryan Day, along with defensive coordinator Matt Patricia, brings an evolving defensive philosophy to Ohio State’s secondary. Patricia, known for his experience in the NFL, will likely implement more sophisticated schemes aimed at maximizing the Buckeyes’ athleticism. This could involve more zone coverage concepts, disguising coverages, and creating more opportunities for turnovers through strategic blitzes or player rotations.
One of Patricia’s priorities will be to make sure that the secondary is adaptable. With the increase in passing offenses across college football, being able to adjust to different offensive schemes will be crucial. Expect to see a focus on both man-to-man and zone coverage principles, which will challenge cornerbacks and safeties to be versatile and agile in their play.
Additionally, there will be a strong emphasis on developing mental toughness. As Patricia has expressed in the past, football is as much about mental preparation as it is about physical prowess. Spring practice will include drills designed to test players’ resilience under pressure, ensuring they can handle high-stakes moments in the secondary.
Player Development and Leadership in the Secondary
In addition to on-field coaching, leadership development will be an important aspect of Ohio State’s plans for the secondary. With so many new faces expected to take on significant roles, veteran players like Igbinosun will be expected to lead by example. His ability to communicate effectively, help younger players adjust to the speed and intensity of college football, and serve as a mentor will be key.
Another player who could emerge as a leader in the secondary is safety Caleb Downs. Though he is a newcomer to Ohio State, his high school pedigree and maturity have made him a leader among his peers. He will likely be counted on to provide direction both on and off the field as the Buckeyes adjust to new personnel and schemes.
During spring practices, the coaching staff will be looking for players who take ownership of their positions and rise to the occasion as vocal leaders. Strong leadership within the secondary is crucial to maintaining unit cohesion and ensuring consistent communication during games.
Expectations for the 2025 Season
The spring practice period is pivotal for Ohio State to determine how well its secondary will perform in 2025. While there is significant talent in the group, the team will need to develop its cohesion and adaptability to face the challenging offenses in the Big Ten and beyond. Ohio State’s defense will need to be sharp, especially with the pressure to compete against potent passing attacks, including those of conference rivals and potential playoff contenders.
With so many players vying for starting spots, it’s possible that the secondary will experience growing pains, particularly early in the season. However, the experience gained in spring practice will allow the Buckeyes to better adjust to game situations. By the time the season begins, Ohio State aims to have a secondary that is well-coached, fundamentally sound, and able to handle the pressures of high-level competition.
In conclusion, Ohio State football’s plans for the secondary during spring practice are focused on filling key vacancies left by NFL departures and ensuring that the new players are ready to contribute immediately. The battles at cornerback and safety will be intense, and the development of both veteran players and young talent will be vital to the team’s defensive success in 2025. The spring practices under Ryan Day and Matt Patricia will lay the foundation for a defense that can handle the challenges of the Big Ten and potentially compete for a national title. With strong leadership, a focus on versatility, and a commitment to player development, the Ohio State secondary looks poised for a promising season ahead.
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