During Monday’s press conference, Ohio State coordinators discussed spring practice, team leaders, and other topics.

On Monday, Ohio State football coordinators took center stage during the team’s spring press conference, offering insights into their preparations for the 2025 season. With a focus on spring practice progress, the development of key players, and leadership roles within the team, the coordinators provided a comprehensive look at the current state of the Buckeyes. Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways from the discussion.

1. Spring Practice Overview: Ohio State’s spring practice is in full swing, and the team is making strides as they prepare for the upcoming season. Coordinators discussed how spring training serves as an essential time for players to refine skills, learn new systems, and compete for positions. Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles highlighted that this period is crucial for building the foundation of a defense that will be versatile, aggressive, and effective against Big Ten opponents. Offensive coordinator Brian Hartline echoed similar sentiments, noting that spring is not only a time for individual improvement but also a chance to solidify team chemistry.

• Key Topics in Spring Practice:
  • Position Battles: Both coordinators touched on ongoing position battles across various units. Knowles mentioned how certain defensive spots, like linebacker and cornerback, are wide open with several young players showing promise. Hartline pointed out the competition at wide receiver, where players like Emeka Egbuka and Julian Fleming are expected to lead, but newcomers are pushing hard for playing time.
  • Depth and Rotations: Rotational depth was also a topic of discussion. With Ohio State’s talent-rich roster, coordinators are exploring how to maximize depth while ensuring consistency in play. This is especially important as the Buckeyes gear up for a grueling season, with key games early in the schedule.

2. Leadership Development: With several standout players now in the NFL or graduated, Ohio State faces the challenge of identifying new leaders within the locker room. During the press conference, Knowles and Hartline discussed the importance of developing strong team leaders who will not only excel on the field but also serve as mentors to younger players.

• Defensive Leadership: Jim Knowles emphasized that leadership on defense is emerging from multiple sources. Senior linebacker Tommy Eichenberg is a key figure, providing a steady, dependable presence. Eichenberg’s ability to communicate with his teammates and make adjustments on the fly has been crucial in setting the tone for the defense. Alongside him, players like defensive back Jihad Carter and defensive lineman Michael Hall Jr. have stepped up as vocal leaders who hold their peers accountable.
• Offensive Leadership: Brian Hartline, in his first year as offensive coordinator, spoke about how leadership is evolving on the offensive side. Quarterback Kyle McCord is expected to assume a more vocal role, especially as the team navigates the development of its offensive unit. While McCord is still growing into the role, his natural leadership skills have impressed both coaches and teammates. Additionally, running back TreVeyon Henderson has shown signs of being an influential voice in the backfield, while wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. is already commanding respect with his elite talent and work ethic.

3. Quarterback Competition: As Ohio State enters a critical phase in their quarterback development, the battle between Kyle McCord and Devin Brown remains one of the most closely watched aspects of spring practice. Both coordinators were asked about the quarterback competition and their thoughts on the situation.

• McCord vs. Brown: Brian Hartline praised McCord’s maturity and poise in the pocket, noting that McCord has continued to progress since last season. However, Hartline also acknowledged that Devin Brown has been pushing hard for the starting role, bringing a different style of play with his mobility and playmaking ability. The coordinators expressed confidence that both quarterbacks are capable of leading the offense, and the team will continue to evaluate their performance in practices and scrimmages before making a final decision.
• Impact of the Competition: The competition has had a ripple effect on the entire team, with both quarterbacks pushing each other to elevate their games. Hartline and Knowles noted that the QB competition has also benefitted other positions, as the quarterbacks have been forced to develop stronger chemistry with their receivers and running backs. The level of intensity in practices has risen, creating a more competitive environment across the board.

4. Defensive Scheme and Improvement: Jim Knowles was asked about the progress of the Ohio State defense, particularly after last season’s strong finish. The Buckeyes’ defense, which has shown signs of dominance, is looking to build on its success and become even more disruptive.

• Adapting to New Challenges: Knowles spoke about his defense’s adaptability, noting that the team is working hard to be more flexible in its approach. While Ohio State has historically been known for a 4-3 defensive scheme, Knowles is integrating more 3-4 looks to confuse opposing offenses. This allows Ohio State to create mismatches and apply constant pressure on the quarterback.
• Improvement Areas: Although the defense is largely seen as one of Ohio State’s strengths, Knowles admitted that there are areas for improvement, particularly in the secondary. With a few key players in the defensive backfield, including Denzel Burke and Jordan Hancock, Knowles stressed the importance of improving communication and coverage schemes. The spring practices are seen as a critical time to fix these issues and build cohesion before the season.

5. Special Teams Focus: Special teams often fly under the radar, but Ohio State’s special teams unit is integral to its overall success. The coordinators addressed how they are working to ensure that special teams maintain a high level of performance. Special teams coordinator Parker Fleming pointed to the importance of refining the team’s kicking game, return units, and coverage teams.

• Kicking Game: Fleming discussed how the competition at kicker and punter will be one of the most scrutinized aspects of the spring. With Noah Ruggles departing, the Buckeyes are looking for a reliable option to step in and take over the kicking duties. The competition between various kickers is ongoing, with each player having a chance to prove themselves under pressure.

6. Recruiting and Development: Both coordinators also touched on the importance of recruiting in building depth and securing long-term success. Ohio State has established itself as a recruiting powerhouse, and the coordinators are focused on continuing to bring in top-tier talent to fill gaps across the roster.

• Player Development: Knowles and Hartline both emphasized the importance of player development, not only during spring but also throughout the year. Ohio State prides itself on helping players grow both on and off the field. The team is working on developing players into future leaders while simultaneously ensuring that they are prepared for the physical and mental demands of the college game.

7. Looking Ahead to 2025 Season: The final part of the press conference centered around expectations for the upcoming season. While both coordinators made it clear that the team still has a long way to go before reaching its peak, the overall feeling was one of optimism and confidence. Ohio State has the talent to contend for national championships, and spring practice is merely the beginning of that journey.

• Big Ten and National Expectations: The Buckeyes are always a contender in the Big Ten, and with Michigan continuing to be a formidable rival, Knowles and Hartline are aware that the season will be full of challenges. However, both coordinators are confident in their team’s ability to rise to the occasion and improve as the season progresses.

Ohio State’s spring practices are laying the groundwork for what promises to be an exciting 2025 season. From the ongoing quarterback competition to the development of new leaders on both sides of the ball, the Buckeyes are focused on building a well-rounded, competitive team. With spring practice still ongoing, there are plenty of opportunities for players to prove themselves, and Ohio State’s coordinators are optimistic about the team’s trajectory heading into the fall.