Ohio State’s second spring practice of 2025 offered a glimpse into the evolving dynamics of the reigning national champions. Under the guidance of head coach Ryan Day, the Buckeyes showcased both continuity and strategic experimentation across various positions.
Quarterback Rotation:
The quarterback competition remains a focal point, with Lincoln Kienholz, Julian Sayin, and Tavien St. Clair each vying for the starting role. Kienholz initiated drills with the first-team offense, followed by Sayin, indicating a deliberate rotation strategy. Observers noted that while none of the quarterbacks had a particularly sharp start, the limited viewing window—restricted to the first hour—means assessments are preliminary.
Offensive Line Adjustments:
In a notable shift, Austin Siereveld, previously a guard, took first-team reps at left tackle. This move underscores the coaching staff’s emphasis on versatility, especially given the integration of transfer players like Ethan Onianwa and Phillip Daniels, who are currently with the second-team offensive line.
Receiver and Running Back Dynamics:
The wide receiver corps displayed depth and flexibility. Mylan Graham and Brandon Inniss rotated into the first-team offense, temporarily replacing Carnell Tate, while Bryson Rodgers took reps in the slot. At running back, James Peoples led drills, with walk-on TC Caffey returning to practice after previous individual rehab sessions.
Defensive Observations:
The defense maintained consistency, with Malik Hartford practicing alongside Caleb Downs as the first-team safeties. This pairing mirrors the setup from the initial practice, suggesting a potential starting alignment.
Coaching Staff and Cultural Shifts:
The offseason saw strategic additions to the coaching roster, most notably defensive coordinator Matt Patricia. Head coach Ryan Day expressed enthusiasm about Patricia’s intellectual approach, stating, “You love being around smart guys. And he’s smart.” This hire aligns with Day’s commitment to reinforcing a culture that propelled the Buckeyes to their recent national title.
Special Teams and Individual Highlights:
Special teams drills featured coaching insights from former Buckeyes Nate Ebner and James Laurinaitis, emphasizing the program’s dedication to leveraging alumni expertise. Freshman cornerback Devin Sanchez’s athleticism stood out during cornerback drills, hinting at his potential impact in the upcoming season.
Conclusion:
Ohio State’s second spring practice reflected a blend of strategic experimentation and established routines. As the Buckeyes progress through spring drills, the development of key position battles and integration of new coaching philosophies will be pivotal in shaping their title defense strategy.
For a visual recap of the practice, you can watch the highlights below:
