Ohio State’s Quarterback Selection for 2025: Projected Starter Amid Latest Developments and Key Insights into the Program’s Future

The Ohio State University football program has long been known for its high level of competition at nearly every position, but one area that has consistently drawn the most attention is quarterback. With the 2025 season on the horizon, all eyes are on who will take the reins under center for the Buckeyes, continuing the legacy of Heisman Trophy winners and future NFL stars. As the spring and summer months unfold, the competition for the starting quarterback job intensifies, and Ohio State’s decision-makers are beginning to zero in on who will lead the team into the new campaign.

Ohio State has enjoyed a rich history of standout quarterbacks in recent decades. From the dazzling play of Heisman-winning quarterbacks like Troy Smith and Cardale Jones, to recent stars such as Justin Fields and C.J. Stroud, the Buckeyes have often been at the forefront of the quarterback conversation. With C.J. Stroud declaring for the NFL Draft and leaving behind big shoes to fill, the search for his successor is among the most highly anticipated storylines in college football. As spring practices draw to a close, several players are in the running to become Ohio State’s next starting quarterback. While speculation has been rife among fans and media, the latest developments provide a clearer picture of who might be the frontrunner.

A key aspect of this quarterback battle is the nature of Ohio State’s recruiting over the past few years. The Buckeyes have managed to recruit elite quarterbacks year after year, and the 2025 season is no different. The competition for the starting job is fierce, and fans are keen to know who will emerge as the leader of an offense that has consistently been among the best in the nation.

At the center of this race is Kyle McCord, a former 5-star recruit who has spent the past couple of years learning under the guidance of C.J. Stroud and Ryan Day, Ohio State’s head coach. McCord has been a highly regarded prospect since his high school days, and after spending two seasons as a backup to Stroud, he is poised to take over as the starter. During his limited playing time, McCord has showcased flashes of brilliance, throwing with accuracy and showing the ability to handle the pressure of high-stakes situations.

While McCord seems to be the frontrunner, he is not without competition. Devin Brown, another highly touted quarterback, is also vying for the starting job. Brown, who was a 4-star recruit in the 2023 class, has impressed coaches with his physical attributes, including his arm strength and mobility. His ability to make plays with his legs adds an additional dynamic to his game, which could be a crucial factor in Ohio State’s offensive system. Brown has the potential to give McCord a run for his money and could still emerge as the starting quarterback if he continues to progress during the offseason.

Ryan Day, known for his offensive genius, has a unique challenge ahead of him in selecting the starting quarterback. Both McCord and Brown have shown promise, but the decision ultimately comes down to which player best fits Ohio State’s system and can execute the offense with the precision and explosiveness that has become synonymous with Buckeye football. Day’s ability to develop quarterbacks has been well-documented, with Stroud being one of the most highly regarded passers in recent college football history. If McCord or Brown can emulate Stroud’s success, the Buckeyes will have another dynamic quarterback leading their charge.

One factor that could influence Ohio State’s decision is the team’s offensive line and overall skill position players. The Buckeyes have one of the most talented rosters in college football, with weapons at wide receiver, running back, and tight end. A quarterback’s success is often determined by the support he receives from the players around him, and Ohio State is loaded with talent at every position. McCord and Brown will have no shortage of playmakers to rely on, which should allow whichever player wins the starting job to settle in quickly and produce at a high level.

The competition for the starting quarterback job is not only about physical talent but also about mental toughness and leadership. Quarterbacks are the leaders of the offense, and Ohio State’s program demands a player who can handle the pressure of being under the microscope week in and week out. McCord and Brown both have the mentality to thrive in such an environment, but they will need to prove that they can command the huddle and perform when the lights are brightest.

In addition to McCord and Brown, Ohio State has a talented group of younger quarterbacks who could factor into the equation down the line. Players like Lincoln Kienholz, a 4-star recruit from the 2024 class, have the potential to develop into future stars for the Buckeyes. However, with McCord and Brown leading the charge, it is unlikely that any of the younger quarterbacks will crack the starting lineup in 2025 unless there is an injury or significant change in the team’s depth chart. Still, the competition within the program remains fierce, and the next few years could see another elite quarterback emerge from the Buckeye ranks.

As the summer approaches and fall camp looms on the horizon, Ohio State’s coaching staff will have to make a final decision on who will start at quarterback in 2025. The program’s success hinges in large part on this decision, as the quarterback is often the face of the team and is expected to lead the offense to victory in some of the biggest games of the season. The pressure is immense, but Ohio State has a long history of finding the right quarterbacks for the job.

The projected starter, whether it’s McCord, Brown, or another player who emerges, will be tasked with leading Ohio State to a possible College Football Playoff appearance and beyond. The Buckeyes are consistently in the hunt for national championships, and with the talent they have on both sides of the ball, the right quarterback could make all the difference in achieving that ultimate goal.

Fans of Ohio State are eagerly awaiting the announcement of the starting quarterback, but regardless of who gets the nod, one thing is clear: the future of the program is in good hands. Whether it’s McCord’s accuracy, Brown’s dual-threat ability, or the next wave of quarterbacks waiting in the wings, Ohio State will continue to be a contender for the national title year in and year out.

In conclusion, Ohio State’s quarterback competition for the 2025 season is one of the most intriguing storylines in college football. While Kyle McCord appears to be the projected starter, Devin Brown and other quarterbacks are also making their case for the role. Ultimately, the decision will come down to which player can best execute the offense and lead the Buckeyes to success. As spring practices wrap up and the summer months approach, Ohio State fans can expect this competition to intensify, with the final decision expected to come just before the start of the season. Whatever the outcome, Ohio State’s quarterback situation is one that will continue to draw attention and anticipation in the coming months. The Buckeyes are poised for another successful season, and their quarterback play will be a key factor in their championship aspirations.