Ohio State Buckeyes 2025 Football Schedule: Game-by-Game Breakdown with Two Bye Weeks
The Ohio State Buckeyes’ 2025 football schedule presents a compelling mix of high-profile non-conference matchups and a challenging Big Ten slate. With two strategically placed bye weeks, the Buckeyes aim to navigate this demanding schedule in pursuit of another College Football Playoff appearance.
Week 1: Saturday, August 30 – vs. Texas (Home)
The season opener features a marquee matchup against the Texas Longhorns. This game marks the second meeting between the two programs in Columbus, following their 2005 encounter. Texas enters the game with a strong roster, making this a critical test for Ohio State’s national title aspirations .Ohio State News
Week 2: Saturday, September 6 – vs. Grambling State (Home)
Originally scheduled to face UConn, Ohio State replaces them with Grambling State, a prominent FCS program from the Southwestern Athletic Conference. This game offers the Buckeyes an opportunity to showcase their depth and provide valuable playing time to younger athletes .FBSchedules.com
Week 3: Saturday, September 13 – vs. Ohio (Home)
The Buckeyes host the Ohio Bobcats, marking the first meeting between the two teams since 2010. Ohio University, the 2024 Mid-American Conference champion, presents a formidable challenge, and this game serves as a final tune-up before the onset of Big Ten play .Ohio State News
Week 4: Saturday, September 20 – BYE
A well-timed bye week allows Ohio State to rest and recover following the non-conference schedule. This break provides an opportunity for the coaching staff to evaluate the team’s performance and make necessary adjustments before entering the rigors of Big Ten competition.Toxigon
Week 5: Saturday, September 27 – at Washington (Away)
The Buckeyes travel to Washington for a significant road game. Facing a formidable opponent in a hostile environment, this matchup will test Ohio State’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure. The outcome of this game could have implications for the College Football Playoff race .Off Tackle Empire
Week 6: Saturday, October 4 – vs. Minnesota (Home)
Returning to Columbus, Ohio State hosts Minnesota in their Big Ten opener. The Golden Gophers are known for their physical play, and this game will be a crucial early test in the conference schedule. A strong performance here is essential for setting the tone for the remainder of the season.Times News Global+6Toxigon+6Ohio State News+6
Week 7: Saturday, October 11 – at Illinois (Away)
The Buckeyes make their first trip to Champaign in a decade to face Illinois. This road game presents unique challenges, including travel fatigue and the need to adapt to different playing conditions. Securing a victory here is vital for maintaining momentum in the Big Ten standings .Ohio State News
Week 8: Saturday, October 18 – at Wisconsin (Away)
Ohio State travels to Wisconsin for another challenging road matchup. The Badgers are traditionally strong at home, and this game will test the Buckeyes’ ability to execute their game plan in a tough environment. A win here would bolster Ohio State’s position in the conference .
Week 9: Saturday, October 25 – BYE
A second bye week provides the Buckeyes with an opportunity to rest and recuperate before the final stretch of the season. This break is crucial for addressing any injuries and refining strategies for the upcoming games.Toxigon
Week 10: Saturday, November 1 – vs. Penn State (Home)
The Buckeyes host Penn State in what is expected to be a high-stakes Big Ten showdown. Both teams are anticipated to be contenders for the conference title, and this game could have significant implications for the College Football Playoff race .
Week 11: Saturday, November 8 – at Purdue (Away)
Ohio State travels to Purdue for a critical conference matchup. The Boilermakers have the potential to be a formidable opponent, and the Buckeyes must remain focused to avoid any upsets. A victory here is essential for maintaining their position in the Big Ten standings.
Week 12: Saturday, November 15 – vs. UCLA (Home)
The Buckeyes face UCLA in a non-conference game that adds an interesting dynamic to their schedule. The Bruins bring a different style of play, and this game provides Ohio State with an opportunity to prepare for diverse competition in the postseason .Off Tackle Empire+1Off Tackle Empire+1
Week 13: Saturday, November 22 – vs. Rutgers (Home)
Ohio State hosts Rutgers in their penultimate game of the regular season. While the Scarlet Knights are not expected to be a major threat, the Buckeyes must remain disciplined to avoid any potential pitfalls. A strong performance here sets the stage for the season finale.
Week 14: Saturday, November 29 – at Michigan (Away)
The season concludes with the highly anticipated rivalry game against Michigan in Ann Arbor. This matchup is always a marquee event, and the outcome could determine the Big Ten champion and have significant implications for the College Football Playoff .Times News GlobalOhio State News
The Ohio State Buckeyes’ 2025 football schedule is both challenging and strategically structured. With two bye weeks and a mix of high-profile non-conference games and tough Big Ten opponents, the Buckeyes have the opportunity to prove themselves as national contenders. Success will depend on consistent performance, effective coaching, and the ability to adapt to the demands of a rigorous schedule.
