As the Ohio State Buckeyes gear up for the 2025 season, their offensive lineup is poised to showcase a blend of seasoned talent and promising newcomers. Here’s a comprehensive look at the projected depth chart ahead of spring ball.
Quarterback
- Starter: Julian Sayin
- First Backup: Lincoln Kienholz
- Second Backup: Tavien St. Clair
Julian Sayin, the top quarterback prospect from the 2024 class, impressed last fall while competing for the backup position. His pocket presence and arm talent make him the frontrunner for the starting role. Lincoln Kienholz, known for his athleticism and dual-threat capabilities, will challenge Sayin, adding depth to the quarterback room. Tavien St. Clair, a five-star early enrollee from the 2025 class, is expected to develop further before contending for starting duties.
Running Back
- Starting Running Back: CJ Donaldson
- Backup Running Back: James Peoples
The backfield is set to feature a dynamic duo. CJ Donaldson, a transfer from West Virginia with over 2,000 career rushing yards, brings power and experience. James Peoples, who showcased his potential in limited action last season, complements Donaldson with his agility and vision. This combination promises a balanced and formidable rushing attack.
Wide Receivers
- X Wide Receiver: Jeremiah Smith
- Z Wide Receiver: Carnell Tate
- Y Wide Receiver: Brandon Inniss
- Key Backup Wide Receivers: Bryson Rodgers, Mylan Graham
Under the guidance of wide receivers coach Brian Hartline, the Buckeyes’ receiving corps remains elite. Jeremiah Smith, entering his sophomore year, is widely regarded as one of the nation’s top talents, having recorded 76 receptions for 1,315 yards and 15 touchdowns in his freshman season. Carnell Tate and Brandon Inniss, both hailing from South Florida, are poised for breakout seasons, bringing versatility and depth to the lineup.
Tight Ends
- Starting Tight End: Max Klare
- Backup Tight Ends: Will Kacmarek, Jelani Thurman
Max Klare, a transfer from Purdue, is expected to elevate the tight end position with his pass-catching abilities. Will Kacmarek, known for his blocking prowess, and Jelani Thurman, a young talent with significant potential, provide valuable depth and versatility to the position.
Offensive Line
- Left Tackle: Ethan Onianwa
- Left Guard: Luke Montgomery
- Center: Carson Hinzman
- Right Guard: Tegra Tshabola
- Right Tackle: Phillip Daniels
- Key Backups: Austin Siereveld, Devontae Armstrong, Deontae Armstrong
The offensive line is undergoing a transformation with the addition of transfers Ethan Onianwa and Phillip Daniels at the tackle positions. Onianwa brings a polished skill set, while Daniels offers considerable potential. The interior line boasts returning starters, including Luke Montgomery, who emerged during the College Football Playoffs, Tegra Tshabola, and center Carson Hinzman, who admirably stepped in following an injury to the previous starter. Depth will be bolstered by the Armstrong twins, Devontae and Deontae, as they develop this offseason.
As spring practices commence, all eyes will be on how these projected starters and their backups gel under the coaching staff’s guidance. The infusion of new talent, combined with returning experience, sets the stage for a potentially explosive offensive performance in the upcoming season.
