Predicting how every single game will go for the Ohio State Buckeyes during the 2025 regular season
Ohio State finally got over the hump it hadn’t cleared in a decade—winning a National Championship. Now, the Buckeyes face the challenge of trying to do it again, this time without the 14 players they lost in the 2025 NFL Draft. Spring practices have wrapped up in Columbus, and we won’t see the Buckeyes on […]
Ohio State finally got over the hump it hadn’t cleared in a decade—winning a National Championship.
Now, the Buckeyes face the challenge of trying to do it again, this time without the 14 players they lost in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Spring practices have wrapped up in Columbus, and we won’t see the Buckeyes on the field again until fall camp. With that in mind, here’s an early prediction for Ohio State’s 2025 regular-season schedule:
Game 1: vs. Texas
This game means a lot to Texas and probably not quite as much to Ohio State coming off a National Championship. The Longhorns will be hungry for revenge after falling to the Buckeyes in the College Football Playoff semifinal. It marks the beginning of the Arch Manning era at Texas—and perhaps the Julian Sayin era for Ohio State.
Prediction: Texas 31, Ohio State 28
Game 2: vs. Grambling
After a tough loss to open the season, the Buckeyes will be eager to bounce back. This game provides a chance to rotate in depth and regain momentum.
Prediction: Ohio State 58, Grambling 7
Game 3: vs. Ohio
The Buckeyes face in-state opponent Ohio for another non-conference tune-up. Expect plenty of opportunities for backups to see extended playing time.
Prediction: Ohio State 54, Ohio 10
Game 4: at Washington
Ohio State’s first road test takes them all the way to the West Coast. This will be their first opportunity for a true “quality” win and a good measuring stick early in the season.
Prediction: Ohio State 38, Washington 24
Game 5: vs. Minnesota
The Big Ten home opener should give fans a clearer picture of this team’s identity. The Buckeyes should handle Minnesota without too much trouble.
Prediction: Ohio State 40, Minnesota 21
Game 6: at Illinois
Illinois has become one of the more improved teams in the Big Ten and could again be solid in 2025. This is no longer the cakewalk it used to be.
Prediction: Ohio State 34, Illinois 21
Game 7: at Wisconsin
If Wisconsin’s smart, they’ll make this a night game. Luke Fickell facing his alma mater adds some intrigue, and the Badgers have a history of pushing Ohio State.
Prediction: Ohio State 28, Wisconsin 17
Game 8: vs. Penn State
The biggest test since Week 1 and maybe the toughest game of the year. Penn State returns Drew Allar and has Jim Knowles running the defense. Playing this one at home is a big advantage—and it’s one Ryan Day will desperately want to win.
Prediction: Ohio State 31, Penn State 28
Game 9: at Purdue
This has all the makings of a trap game, coming right after an emotional win over Penn State. Purdue has surprised Ohio State in the past, but they’ll need to be much improved to keep up.
Prediction: Ohio State 42, Purdue 14
Game 10: vs. UCLA
Not having to travel to the West Coast is a win in itself. The Bruins added Tennessee transfer QB Nico Iamaleava, which adds some intrigue, but the Buckeyes should be too much at home.
Prediction: Ohio State 38, UCLA 17
Game 11: vs. Rutgers
With The Game looming, this is a classic look-ahead spot. But Ohio State can’t afford to take Rutgers lightly. Handle business and stay healthy.
Prediction: Ohio State 37, Rutgers 9
Game 12: at Michigan
This is the one Ryan Day has to win. The Buckeyes have lost four straight to Michigan. On paper, Ohio State is once again the more talented team—but can they finally get it done?
