Ohio State Buckeyes Start 2025 Season Ranked Below No. 1 in AP Poll, Facing Challenges and High Expectations
The Ohio State Buckeyes, one of college football’s most prestigious programs, entered the 2025 season with high hopes but were unable to secure the top overall spot in the first Associated Press (AP) Poll released ahead of the season. While the Buckeyes remain a powerhouse and a favorite to contend for championships, starting the year outside the No. 1 position presents both a challenge and motivation for the team, coaches, and fans. This situation sets the tone for a season filled with anticipation, scrutiny, and the pursuit of proving doubters wrong on the field. The dynamics surrounding Ohio State’s ranking reveal much about the state of college football today and the expectations placed on elite programs like the Buckeyes.
The AP Poll, a respected barometer of college football power rankings voted on by a panel of media members nationwide, is closely followed by fans, analysts, and teams. Securing the No. 1 ranking not only boosts morale but also sends a strong message about a team’s perceived strength heading into the season. For Ohio State, a program accustomed to competing for top spots and playoff appearances, missing out on that coveted position signals a competitive landscape where the margin between elite teams is razor-thin. The Buckeyes’ position below the top spot highlights how other programs have impressed voters and the challenges Ohio State faces in convincing the broader college football community that they are the team to beat.
Several factors contributed to Ohio State not landing the top overall ranking. First, the strength and performance of other teams in the preseason evaluations played a significant role. Programs such as Georgia, Alabama, and Michigan, among others, have showcased strong recruiting classes, returning talent, and coaching stability that make them formidable contenders. These programs received considerable support in the poll due to their recent success, consistent performance, and perceived readiness for the upcoming season. The Buckeyes, while still highly regarded, faced stiff competition from these programs, many of which have made deep playoff runs or secured conference championships recently.
Ohio State’s own offseason developments factored into voters’ decisions as well. While the team boasts a talented roster and a dynamic quarterback poised for a breakout season, there are questions about depth in certain key positions and how the team will handle the loss of star players who graduated or entered the NFL draft. Injuries during spring practices and uncertainties about how quickly some newcomers will adapt to the college level have tempered some expectations. Although these concerns are not unique to Ohio State, they contributed to a cautious approach by poll voters when placing the Buckeyes on the preseason ladder.
Additionally, coaching changes and adjustments have been closely watched. Ohio State has maintained stability at the head coach position, but shifts within the assistant coaching staff, particularly on offense and defense, have prompted analysts to wonder how the team’s schemes and execution might evolve. New coordinators bring fresh ideas, but also a period of transition that can impact early-season performance. While the coaching staff’s talent and experience remain strong, voters considered these transitions when ranking the team. Stability is often a key factor in preseason rankings, and changes in the coaching staff sometimes translate to skepticism about immediate success.
Despite not earning the No. 1 spot, Ohio State remains a top-tier program with significant strengths. The Buckeyes feature an explosive offense capable of putting up big numbers and a defense that has shown resilience and the ability to make crucial stops. The quarterback’s leadership and athleticism have generated excitement, and the receiving corps includes several dynamic playmakers. This offensive firepower, combined with a defensive unit that prides itself on physicality and discipline, positions Ohio State as a formidable opponent capable of competing against any team in the nation.
The team’s schedule also adds an element of intrigue and challenge. Ohio State faces a slate of games against ranked opponents and traditional rivals that will test the team’s mettle. These matchups provide opportunities to prove doubters wrong and climb the rankings through strong performances. Games against conference rivals and key non-conference opponents will be critical in determining whether Ohio State can assert itself as a national title contender. The pressure to perform consistently is heightened by the competitive nature of the Big Ten Conference and the strength of other programs nationally.
The Buckeyes’ start outside the top overall spot also serves as motivation for players and coaches. Often, teams in this position use perceived slights or skepticism as fuel to elevate their play. Ohio State has a history of responding to challenges with determination and grit, and the 2025 season is shaping up to be no different. The team’s internal culture emphasizes resilience, preparation, and execution—qualities essential to overcoming the hurdles that come with starting the season ranked below No. 1. This mindset can help turn early-season doubts into long-term success.
Fan reaction to the preseason AP Poll has been mixed. Some Buckeye supporters expressed disappointment that the team did not receive the top ranking, feeling the roster’s talent and coaching staff merit the highest position. Others see it as a realistic assessment that recognizes the competitiveness of college football and the need to prove dominance on the field. Social media conversations and fan forums are abuzz with debates over rankings, player readiness, and game predictions. This passionate engagement highlights the importance of the AP Poll as more than just a ranking—it influences fan expectations and team narratives.
Media coverage has reflected the broader college football landscape’s recognition of Ohio State’s talent while also highlighting the reasons for their placement. Analysts emphasize the program’s history of success and its potential for a strong season but caution that consistency and depth will be key challenges. Preseason features often focus on the Buckeyes’ quarterback and skill players as keys to the team’s fortunes. Discussions also include the strength of competition in the Big Ten and nationally, which frames Ohio State’s ranking as a product of a fiercely contested environment rather than a judgment against the program’s quality.
As the season begins, the AP Poll rankings are just one piece of the puzzle. The true test will come on the field, where Ohio State must demonstrate its capabilities against top opponents. Early games will be crucial in setting the tone, and strong performances can quickly shift perceptions and rankings. The team’s ability to execute its game plan, adjust to opponents, and maintain health will be vital. Coaches and players alike understand that rankings are fluid, and the goal is to earn respect through results rather than preseason polls.
Ohio State’s history provides confidence that the team can overcome the challenge of starting outside the No. 1 spot. The program has experienced similar situations in the past and used them as catalysts for motivation and improvement. Previous seasons have shown that the Buckeyes possess the talent, coaching, and resources to compete at the highest levels regardless of initial rankings. This resilience is part of what makes Ohio State a perennial contender and a program that opponents respect and fear.
Looking ahead, the Buckeyes have a clear path to reclaiming a top ranking through consistent success and signature wins. Achieving this will require focus, execution, and perhaps a bit of luck in avoiding injuries. The team’s leadership, from the coaching staff to senior players, will play a critical role in maintaining morale and discipline throughout the demanding season. Emphasizing teamwork and a balanced approach on both sides of the ball can help Ohio State navigate the ups and downs that come with a long campaign.
The 2025 season presents an opportunity for Ohio State to not only respond to the AP Poll ranking but to make a definitive statement about its place in college football’s elite. A successful season could culminate in a conference championship and a spot in the College Football Playoff, objectives that have been central to the program’s mission for years. For players, this season is a chance to showcase their skills on a national stage and build legacies. For coaches, it is an opportunity to further solidify their status and advance the program’s goals.
In conclusion, while the Ohio State Buckeyes did not secure the No. 1 spot in the initial AP Poll for the 2025 season, the team remains a powerhouse with the talent, leadership, and determination to compete at the highest level. The ranking reflects the competitive nature of college football and the respect afforded to other elite programs. Ohio State’s response on the field will ultimately define their season and prove whether they belong atop the national rankings. As the Buckeyes embark on the 2025 campaign, fans, analysts, and opponents alike will watch closely to see how this historic program rises to meet the challenge.
