Sorting the Scarlet and Gray: Ohio State’s Depth Chart Firms Up After Spring Game with the dust settling from the annual Ohio State Spring Game, fans and analysts alike are getting a clearer picture of what the Buckeyes will look like heading into the 2025 season. While the Scarlet and Gray game is more of a showcase than a showdown, it provided plenty of insight into who’s rising, who’s solidified, and who still has work to do. After a spring full of competition, Ohio State’s depth chart is beginning to take shape—and it’s looking strong on both sides of the ball.Quarterback Battle: Air McCord Takes Flight the most anticipated storyline heading into spring was the quarterback competition. Kyle McCord entered the spring as the presumed starter after taking over in 2024, but Devin Brown didn’t make it easy. McCord looked sharp during the Spring Game, showcasing improved poise and accuracy. While Brown had flashes of brilliance, including a 40-yard strike that had fans buzzing, McCord’s consistency and command of the offense were evident. Unless something drastic changes in fall camp, it’s McCord’s job to lose.Backfield Depth and Talent the running back room continues to be one of Ohio State’s deepest units. TreVeyon Henderson looks healthy and explosive, reminding fans why he was a breakout star as a freshman. Behind him, Quinshon Judkins—an offseason transfer—turned heads with his blend of power and vision. Dallan Hayden and Chip Trayanum add veteran depth, giving the Buckeyes a stable of backs that rivals any in the nation. Expect a heavy rotation early in the season.Receivers Reloading, Not Rebuilding even with Marvin Harrison Jr. now in the NFL, Ohio State’s receiver room is reloaded. Emeka Egbuka returns as the leader of the group, but Carnell Tate stole the show in the Spring Game with a pair of touchdown grabs and slick route-running. Brandon Inniss and freshman phenom Jeremiah Smith also flashed big-play ability. Brian Hartline has this unit humming again—it’s business as usual in Columbus.Trenches Take Shape on the offensive line, the Buckeyes saw improved cohesion from a group that had its struggles in 2024. Left tackle Josh Simmons and guard Donovan Jackson are locked in as starters, and sophomore Luke Montgomery made a strong case for a starting spot with his spring performance. The coaching staff is still mixing and matching combinations, but the top five is nearly set.Defensively, the front seven was disruptive all game. J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer looked dominant off the edge, while Tyleik Williams anchored the middle. The linebacker corps, led by Tommy Eichenberg’s replacement—C.J. Hicks—is athletic and aggressive. Hicks, in particular, showed why the coaching staff has been raving about him all spring.Secondary Stepping Up with Denzel Burke returning to lead the secondary, the cornerback spot looks solid. Davison Igbinosun had a standout performance in the Spring Game, breaking up several passes and playing with confidence. The safety group is still sorting itself out, but Sonny Styles seems to have secured a starting role, bringing size and versatility.Final Thoughts while a lot can change between now and September, Ohio State’s post-spring depth chart shows a team with elite talent and growing chemistry. The Spring Game confirmed some assumptions, challenged others, and gave fans a lot to be excited about. The Scarlet and Gray are shaping up to be serious contenders once again.
