Ohio State’s New Era: Will the Buckeyes’ Young Core Keep Them in Title Contention?

By Jason Bolton June 08, 2025 01:17

The Ohio State Buckeyes are no strangers to transition, but the 2025 season marks a true turning point for one of college football’s most storied programs. With a wave of talented underclassmen stepping into key roles and head coach Ryan Day retooling his approach, Ohio State faces the challenge of maintaining its status as a perennial title contender in the ever-competitive Big Ten.

A Youth Movement Takes Center Stage

After a 2024 campaign that saw the Buckeyes fall just short of the College Football Playoff, the program has reloaded with one of the youngest and most dynamic rosters in the nation. The departure of veteran stars like quarterback Kyle McCord and wide receiver Emeka Egbuka has opened the door for a new generation of Buckeyes to make their mark.

Leading the charge is sophomore quarterback Julian Sayin, a former five-star recruit who dazzled in limited action last season. Sayin completed 72% of his passes for 1,128 yards, 10 touchdowns, and just two interceptions, showing poise beyond his years. “Julian’s command of the offense is impressive,” said head coach Ryan Day during spring camp. “He’s earned the trust of his teammates and our staff. We’re excited about his leadership and playmaking ability.”

Sayin will be joined by a talented supporting cast, including sophomore running back Jeremiah Smith, who rushed for 842 yards and 9 touchdowns as a true freshman, and wide receiver Brandon Inniss, who is expected to step into a starring role after flashing big-play ability in 2024.

Defensive Youth With Veteran Guidance

While the Buckeyes’ offense is loaded with young stars, the defense is blending youth with experience. Junior linebacker C.J. Hicks returns as the heart of the unit after leading the team with 92 tackles and 11 tackles for loss last season. “We know what’s expected at Ohio State,” Hicks said. “The young guys are hungry, and the older guys are making sure the standard stays high.”

The secondary features sophomore cornerback Aaron Scott Jr., who earned Freshman All-American honors with four interceptions and 13 pass breakups. Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles praised the group’s energy and adaptability: “This is one of the most athletic groups I’ve coached. They’re smart, they communicate well, and they love to compete.”

Championship Standards Remain

Despite the influx of youth, expectations in Columbus remain sky-high. The Buckeyes have won at least 11 games in nine of the last ten seasons and have made five College Football Playoff appearances since 2014. The program’s recruiting pipeline remains among the nation’s best, with the 2025 class ranked No. 2 nationally by several outlets.

Ryan Day is confident that the young core is ready for the spotlight. “We don’t rebuild at Ohio State—we reload,” Day said. “Our players understand the responsibility that comes with wearing this jersey. They’re talented, they’re driven, and they’re ready to compete for championships.”

Looking Ahead

As the 2025 season approaches, the Buckeyes’ young stars will be tested early and often, with key matchups against Texas and Penn State looming large. If Sayin and his fellow underclassmen can rise to the occasion, Ohio State will remain firmly in the hunt for a national title.

For Buckeye Nation, the future is bright—and the new era is already underway.