UPDATED NEWS : It’s Going to Be War as Schedules Read 2025, Ohio State Football Head Coach Pronounces… see more

As the countdown to the 2025 college football season intensifies, the world of college football is preparing for one of its most highly anticipated and fiercely contested eras. The spotlight has never been brighter on Ohio State football, and their head coach, known for his bold pronouncements and intense leadership, has just declared that the upcoming season will be “war.” With a schedule that is a who’s who of elite programs, 2025 promises to be a year of incredible competition, high stakes, and unparalleled excitement for Ohio State, its players, and its passionate fanbase.

The Context: Ohio State Football’s Legacy

Before diving into the specifics of the 2025 season, it’s essential to understand the legacy and the expectations surrounding Ohio State football. The Buckeyes are one of the most storied programs in the history of college football, with eight national championships, a long tradition of producing NFL talent, and an unmatched fanbase. The team is a perennial powerhouse in the Big Ten Conference and has consistently competed for national titles. Ohio State’s program is one of the most successful in college football history, often featuring a dynamic offense, a hard-hitting defense, and a relentless work ethic that echoes the Midwest’s blue-collar roots.

With legendary coaches such as Woody Hayes, Earle Bruce, and Jim Tressel guiding the program to greatness, Ohio State has become synonymous with dominance in the sport. Under current head coach Ryan Day, the team has continued to uphold its winning tradition. Known for his offensive brilliance, Day has taken the Buckeyes to multiple college football playoff appearances and has maintained the high level of success that has come to define Ohio State football in the modern era.

The 2025 Schedule: A Gauntlet of Powerhouse Programs

Looking at the 2025 Ohio State football schedule, one thing is clear: it’s going to be war. The team will face off against a brutal slate of opponents, including some of the top programs in the nation. Every week will feel like a playoff game, and the Buckeyes’ quest for a national title will be put to the ultimate test.

The schedule is a perfect storm of in-conference rivalries, non-conference powerhouses, and national title contenders. While the Big Ten remains a tough, competitive conference, Ohio State has always prided itself on scheduling tough non-conference opponents to prepare for the postseason. The 2025 schedule is no different, as Ohio State will face several high-profile teams that will challenge every aspect of their game.

1. The Big Ten Gauntlet

The Big Ten Conference is historically known for its physical brand of football. For Ohio State, every matchup against conference rivals is critical for both playoff positioning and securing a spot in the Big Ten Championship Game. But in 2025, the stakes will be higher than ever.

Michigan Wolverines

The Ohio State-Michigan rivalry is one of the most storied in all of sports. For decades, the annual “The Game” has been a battle of epic proportions, with both teams competing for supremacy in the Big Ten and the right to play in the College Football Playoff. In 2025, Michigan will once again provide Ohio State with one of its toughest tests.

Under head coach Jim Harbaugh, the Wolverines have become a national contender, and their rivalry with the Buckeyes has only gotten more intense in recent years. The 2025 matchup is expected to be one of the most highly anticipated in recent memory, as both teams will have loaded rosters and the national title picture will likely depend on the outcome of this game. For Ohio State, this rivalry will be a war that will test every ounce of their preparation, resolve, and talent.

Penn State Nittany Lions

Penn State has long been one of the toughest teams in the Big Ten, and in 2025, James Franklin’s Nittany Lions will be a serious challenge. Known for their defensive prowess and disciplined play, Penn State is a team that can control the line of scrimmage and disrupt an offense’s rhythm. Ohio State’s offense, led by Ryan Day’s high-powered attack, will have to overcome one of the best defenses in the conference.

The Buckeyes will also need to match Penn State’s physicality in the trenches, as both teams will look to assert dominance on the ground. With both teams vying for a shot at the Big Ten Championship, this matchup will be an absolute war in every sense of the word.

Other Big Ten Challenges

Beyond Michigan and Penn State, Ohio State will also face tough competition from teams like Iowa, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. These teams consistently field tough, gritty squads that can pose challenges for any team. Ohio State’s ability to win these conference battles will be critical to securing a spot in the College Football Playoff.

In addition to the physical nature of Big Ten football, Ohio State will have to be ready for the ever-changing dynamics of the conference. Teams like Rutgers, Maryland, and Indiana may not have the same tradition or talent as the big names, but they are improving rapidly, and any of them could play spoiler to Ohio State’s championship hopes.

2. Non-Conference Showdowns

While the Big Ten is the heart of Ohio State’s schedule, the 2025 season will also feature intense non-conference matchups that will further fuel the war-like atmosphere.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish

One of the most anticipated games of the 2025 season is Ohio State’s non-conference showdown with the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. The Irish, led by head coach Marcus Freeman, are expected to be one of the top teams in the nation. With a tradition of excellence and a roster full of future NFL stars, Notre Dame is always a tough opponent for any team.

This game will not only have national title implications, but it will also have a unique storyline, as the two schools share a history of competition on the national stage. Ohio State will have to be ready for a battle on both sides of the ball, as Notre Dame’s defense is one of the best in the country and their offense is dynamic and explosive.

Alabama Crimson Tide

If you want to talk about a war, there’s no better example than a matchup between Ohio State and Alabama. The Crimson Tide, led by head coach Nick Saban, are one of the most successful programs in college football history. With a roster stacked with talent, Alabama will provide Ohio State with one of the biggest tests of the season.

This game will likely be a battle of two heavyweight offenses, with Ohio State’s high-powered attack going up against Alabama’s elite defense. Expect fireworks in this one, as both teams will pull out all the stops to secure a marquee victory. The national title picture will hinge on this non-conference showdown, and it will undoubtedly be one of the most talked-about games of the year.

USC Trojans

In addition to the traditional powerhouse teams, Ohio State’s schedule will also include exciting matchups with other elite programs, such as the USC Trojans. Under head coach Lincoln Riley, USC has become a dangerous force in the Pac-12 and on the national stage. With their explosive offense and strong recruiting classes, USC will be a formidable opponent for the Buckeyes.

This matchup will provide Ohio State with an opportunity to prove themselves against a team that will likely have national title aspirations of its own. The high-profile nature of the game will only add to the intensity and excitement of the 2025 season.

The Road to the Playoffs

Given the strength of their 2025 schedule, Ohio State’s road to the College Football Playoff will be far from easy. In fact, every game will feel like a playoff game in its own right, with the margin for error razor-thin. With so many powerhouse teams on the schedule, the Buckeyes will have little room for mistakes.

The importance of winning every game, both within the Big Ten and against non-conference rivals, cannot be overstated. Ohio State will have to perform at the highest level week in and week out to ensure they secure a spot in the College Football Playoff. Additionally, they’ll need to make sure they have the depth and mental fortitude to survive the inevitable injuries and challenges that will come with such a demanding schedule.

Head Coach Ryan Day’s Leadership

With so many obstacles and challenges ahead, Ohio State’s head coach, Ryan Day, will be the key to the Buckeyes’ success in 2025. Day’s leadership will be tested like never before, as he guides the team through a schedule that is packed with fierce competition. Known for his offensive ingenuity and calm demeanor, Day has already proven himself as one of the brightest minds in college football.

However, leading a team through a season that has the potential to shape the future of Ohio State football will require more than just a great game plan. Day will need to motivate his players, keep them focused, and make critical decisions in high-pressure moments. His ability to adapt, respond to adversity, and keep the team on track will determine whether the Buckeyes emerge as national champions or fall short of their ultimate goal.

Conclusion: A Season of Battle Awaits

The 2025 Ohio State football season is shaping up to be an unforgettable ride. With a schedule that features some of the toughest opponents in college football, the Buckeyes will be tested in every possible way. As head coach Ryan Day aptly put it, it will be “war.” Every game, every play, every moment will carry weight as Ohio State battles its way through a relentless slate of games.

For the Buckeyes, 2025 is more than just a season—it’s an opportunity to solidify their legacy as one of the most dominant programs in college football history. The war has begun, and only the strongest will survive.