Ohio State’s path to repeating as national champions in 2025 won’t be easy, despite their recent success. Coming off a national championship win, the Buckeyes are facing several challenges heading into the new season. Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles left for Penn State, offensive line coach Justin Frye joined the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals, and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly is now with the Las Vegas Raiders. These departures leave gaps in key coaching positions.
In addition to coaching changes, Ohio State must replace star players like quarterback Will Howard, running backs Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson, and seven defensive starters. With all these departures, it might seem like a rebuilding year is ahead. However, Ohio State remains the favorite to win the 2025-26 national championship. The team’s future is promising with Julian Sayin taking over at quarterback and the return of wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. Despite the upheaval, teams like Penn State and Oregon are expected to challenge the Buckeyes in the upcoming season.
