Ohio State Spring practice is here. For the first time in 10 years, the Buckeyes get to kick off a season as defending champions. Ryan Day decided to shorten Spring practice due to the length of the 2024 season. Finally, the Buckeyes are back in action. With a fresh “National Champions 2024” banner up in the WHAC, the Buckeyes get their 2025 started.

Ohio State Spring Practice Kicks Off Title Defense

A Real Quarterback Battle

There are plenty of questions surrounding the Buckeyes. All eyes will be on the quarterback battle. Julian Sayin, Lincoln Kienholz, and Tavien St. Clair are fighting to succeed Will Howard. Day said that all three quarterbacks will have an equal opportunity to win the job. Day said in his presser earlier this week that there was no official pecking order among the trio.

Through two practices, it seems he was being truthful. Kienholz has been the number-one quarterback through the rotations though Sayin has had plenty of reps with the first-team receivers. As the Buckeyes have been working with the new offensive coordinator (for real this time), all three quarterbacks have been working out with receivers running routes on air.

All three have had misses and successes, as to be expected in the first week of Spring. However, when the the Buckeyes have three receivers run the route concept on air and the three quarterbacks throw to the different players, Sayin has begun to stand out. His release is quicker and more decisive than Kienholz and St. Clair.

A slight concern from last year regarding Sayin was his arm strength after skipping a few passes in the Spring Game and in early-season relief. It seems those concerns can be put to bed. Already, the sophomore has a zip to his passes that takes the eyes off the other two quarterbacks. Time will tell, but it appears that it’s Sayin’s battle is to lose. However, knowing Day, he’s not going to name a starter until August.

Offensive Line Shake Up

A weakness that turned into a strength despite adversity, the offensive line is going to look a bit different this year. This Spring, Day and new offensive line coach Tyler Bowen has been making the most of the shortened practice period by making sure all linemen are cross-trained.

Last season, Austin Siereveld came in and played both guard positions due to injuries to Donovan Jackson and Josh Simmons. He played quite admirably and looks to be one of the leaders in the clubhouse this year. However, he’s been getting some work in at left tackle instead of his usual guard position.

Notable absences from the first practice were the two book-end transfers, Ethan Onianwa and Phillip Daniels. The idea is that Onianwa, “Big E” as Day called him, will be the go-to left tackle for the Buckeyes while Phillips is the favorite to anchor the right side. The pair were in town and suited up for practice on Wednesday, but played with the second-team rotation.

There is a logjam. The most likely line from left to right should be Onianwa, Siereveld, Carson Hinzman, Luke Montgomery, and Daniels. Tegra Tshabola got plenty of playing time last year and will likely factor into the discussion as well.

The Buckeyes love to play “the five best” on the offensive line, so there could certainly be a shakeup if Tshabola or someone like Ian Moore steps up.

Leadership Change

How does a team replace well over a dozen starters including the entire captain lineup? Well, Day and staff have identified leaders in each position group and have been working with each on how to move forward.

Perhaps the most striking bit of leadership to this point has been their attitude toward all of the new national championship decor. It’s easy to look up and see the brand-new banners and all of the shiny trophies and feel like the mission was accomplished. Fighting complacency is a new thing for Day and it was something his predecessor preached about following the 2014 title. If we remember, that 2015 team was loaded with top-end NFL talent but never looked like a team that was poised to repeat as champions.

Day remarked that he is focused on reinforcing the Buckeyes’ culture. That culture, he believes, is vindicated due to winning the title a year ago and he’s “never happy” at the end of the first Spring practice. He is “more relaxed” but is hungry for more after getting a taste.

His leaders have the same mentality. The new crop of leaders on the team actually told Day that they wanted to remove some of the national championship stuff around the facility. They believe “this year’s team didn’t win that championship, last year’s team did.” Needless to say, it doesn’t look like the Buckeyes are resting on their laurels. The team is hungry to prove that last year wasn’t a fluke. Plus, there isn’t a single member of this team that has beaten Michigan.

The goals remain the same. Ohio State Spring practice is just the first step in the 2025 season.

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What could Nebraska’s offense look like in 2025? The Huskers have a lot of young talent that they have to develop. In addition, the program also brings back returning production. Who could make an immediate impact? Let’s take a look.

Key Players: Nebraska’s Offense

 Dylan Raiola

It’s obvious that Raiola will be Nebraska’s starting quarterback. As a freshman, he was able to lead the Huskers to a 7-6 record and a bowl victory over Boston College. In addition to this, he was the Cornhusker’s most accurate quarterback. Raiola was able to complete 67% of his passes while throwing for 2,819 passing yards. This allowed him to make program history as a freshman. We should see him level up as a sophomore in 2025. The former five-star will only grow more comfortable inside Dana Holgorsen’s offense.  He also has elite wide receivers around him. Former Kentucky Wildcat Dane Key serves as an excellent example. Last season at Kentucky, the junior had 47 receptions for 715 yards. This type of production will set him up for future success at Nebraska. His ability to lead is surprising as well. In the short time he’s been in Lincoln, Key praised Rhule for allowing him to “see who wants to be part of the team.” It’s pretty clear he wants to help the Cornhuskers reach new heights.

Emmett Johnson

The Minnesota native provided explosiveness to Nebraska’s offense. His elusive running style allowed him to gain 598 yards on the ground and touchdowns. He also had an excellent performance in the Pinstripe Bowl. Against Boston College, Johnson rushed for 75 yards in Yankee Stadium. In addition, he had a touchdown on a screen pass. His role should expand under EJ Barthel in 2025. He’ll now get a chance to be Nebraska’s top back. After a strong season with the Cornhuskers in 2024, Dante Dowdell transferred to Kentucky. New arrivals Conor Booth and Jamarion Parker could try to take his spot. But it’s not very likely. They’ll have to develop in Spring practice. The only dark horse would be Kwinten Ives. The New Jersey native had a two-yard touchdown against Boston College. This could set him up for more playing time in the Spring.

Nyziah Hunter

The 210-pound wideout made an immediate impact for the Cal Golden Bears. This is largely because Hunter was able to develop chemistry with ex-Cal quarterback Fernando Mendoza. On only 40 receptions, he had 578 yards and five touchdowns. These are great numbers, but it seems that Key will be the Husker’s top wideout in the Spring. The sophomore could find his calling as a slot receiver. This strategy worked well for Jahmal Banks and Isaiah Neyor in 2024. This could be where Holgorsen puts him. But if he doesn’t make the field, he’ll be a valuable mentor under Daikiel Shorts. Cortez Mills and Isaiah Mozee need to adjust to Nebraska’s offense.

Carter Nelson

The tight end room is a bit of a mystery under Marcus Satterfield. Thomas Fidone decided to spread his wings outside of Nebraska’s offense.  The Council Bluffs native tested well at the NFL Combine in February. Hopefully, Nelson can try to recreate his numbers. After all, he does have the most experience in the position group. Last season, the freshman from Ainsworth had 10 catches for 86 yards and a touchdown. We should see him leap in his sophomore season. Luke Lindenmeyer played a handful of games in a Husker uniform. And after playing quarterback for three seasons in Lincoln, Heinrich Haarberg will make the move to tight end. This should be a smooth transition. Haarberg was able to play tight end against Boston College in the Pinstripe Bowl. Granted, he had one catch for eight yards. But this doesn’t bother the coaching staff. With the start of Spring football near, Matt Rhule said that he will “have a chance to play at the next level via this position”.

Read more about Thomas Fidone’s performance at the NFL Combine in The NFL Combine: How Did Nebraska Fare?

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In the days following Washington’s loaded Junior Day recruiting event, the Husky staff landed the commitment of two class of 2026 recruits. Cornerbacks Ksani Jiles and Elijah Durr pledged to Washington, growing the class to six commits as the calendar works towards Spring practice. 

Washington’s 2026 Recruiting Taking Shape

Jiles Commits to Washington

The day after Washington’s recruiting event, Jiles took to social media to announce his decision to commit to Washington. He was one of about 40 recruits on campus during the weekend of March 8th. Prior to Junior Day, Jiles visited Washington for the UCLA game last November. Jedd Fisch and four other members of the Husky coaching staff then visited Jiles at his high school in January during the recruiting contact period. Fisch offered the California native back in February of 2024. At the time, Jiles was committed to Miami, FL. Just two days after the offer, the cornerback de-committed from the Hurricanes, reopening his college search. He’s now pledged with the Huskies.

Originally from Southern California, Jiles plays high school football in Bradenton, FL, at IMG Academy, one of the nation’s top high school football programs. At 6’-0”, Jiles is a physical cornerback who plays with great anticipation in the secondary. He’s quick to recognize underneath routes or run plays and can quickly crash down on the formation to make a play. Jiles’ physicality can allow him opportunities at either slot cornerback or outside corner. The three-star is inside the top 75 at his position nationally and one of two current cornerback commits for Washington.

Durr Commits to Washington 

The other cornerback commit is Durr, who was also on campus during Washington’s recruiting weekend in early March. Two days after the event, he announced his pledge to the Huskies on social media. Durr is a three-star local product from Mount Tahoma High School in Tacoma, Washington. He’s the seventh-ranked player in the state, according to 247Sports. Durr finds himself inside the top 70 at his position nationally. Washington offered Durr last June amidst offers from other schools, including Cal, Michigan State, Wisconsin, and Arizona. 

Durr is a two-way player in high school, lining up at both wide receiver and cornerback. Last Fall, as a junior at Mount Tahoma, Durr broke up five passes, hauled in three interceptions, and picked up two fumble recoveries at cornerback. On offense, he caught eight touchdowns with 445 yards on 26 receptions. Durr is a versatile player at 6’-1” and is currently the third-highest rated player in the Huskies 2026 class and third in-state commit.

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Washington will begin Spring practice on April 1st. With 85 scholarship players expected to participate, there are three position groups we expect to take a step forward. It begins with the interior defensive line, where transfers will bolster the depth and size up front. At offensive tackle, Washington returns three players with starts and added a veteran in the transfer portal. The running backs were strong a year ago. But with an improved offensive line and a clear one-two punch at tailback, the position group figures to take yet another step forward this year.

Three Husky Positions To Step-Up

Interior Defensive Line

The Huskies utilized the transfer portal to shore up their interior defensive line heading into 2025. Last season, the defense allowed over 160 rush yards per game, ranking in the bottom half of the sport. Much of that had to do with the lack of depth and size at the position. Three transfers will bolster the interior including Anterio Thompson, Ta’ita’i Uiagalelei, and Simote Pepa.

Thompson brings a unique athleticism to the interior as a fourth-year player. He plays with speed at 293 pounds, and describes himself as someone who can generate havoc. Thompson tallied 34 tackles and two tackles for loss at Western Michigan last season. Uiagalelei is also in his fourth season. The former Arizona Wildcat is a versatile player on the defensive line, starting all 12 regular season games last year at either defensive end or defensive tackle. Pepa will be a fifth-year player and weighs in at 340 pounds. He’ll likely become the primary run-stuffer in the middle of Ryan Walters’ defense.  

When you factor in the returning presence of a healthy Jayvon Parker and Logan Sagapolu, the interior starts to shape up with depth and strength. Parker is recovering from his Achilles injury he sustained at Rutgers in late September. Jedd Fisch is optimistic that he’ll be fully cleared by August 1st. Sagapolu weighs in at close to 370 pounds and will now be able to rotate as a run-stuffing defensive tackle with Pepa, adding to the depth inside. Walters plays his defensive line aggressively. With the increase in depth expected this Fall, the interior defensive line should take a step forward.

Offensive Tackle

Washington will return 1,417 snaps from last season at tackle. Drew Azzopardi started all 13 games for the Huskies at right guard, tallying 852 of those snaps. Maximus McCree and Soane Faasolo started a combined eight games last season at left tackle. In addition to the returning production, Washington added Kansas State transfer Carver Willis over the Winter. Willis has started 18 games at right tackle in his career. He brings 1,295 career snaps to Washington at the tackle position. 

A season ago, the Huskies were limited at the position. With an early season injury to McCree and a rotation between redshirt freshmen Kahlee Tafai and Faasolo, the left tackle spot was inconsistent at best. Left tackle allowed 40 quarterback pressures in 2024 with eight sacks. That’s compared to 27 pressures and five sacks on the right side. Tafai transferred to Minnesota, but McCree will be a sixth-year senior and Faasolo now has a year under his belt at the position. Introducing Willis to the equation leaves the Huskies with options at left guard, something that they did not have at this time last Spring. We anticipate Fisch and staff to rotate the three, along with Azzopardi, at both tackle spots for Washington at Spring practice.

If you look deeper into the position, some other young players will have the opportunity to take strides in April. This includes 6’-7” redshirt sophomore Elishah Jackett who has yet to see the field. 6’-8” and 323 pound redshirt freshman Justin Hylkema and 6’-6” and 320 pound true freshman John Mills are two others we’ll be tracking this Spring. Hylkema was a highly-regarded three-star in 2024. Mills had a four-star rating in the 2025 class and a former top 40 tackle in the country.

Running Back

The running back room a year ago was one of the strengths of the team. Jonah Coleman eclipsed the 1,000 yard mark on 193 carries a year ago, averaging 5.5 yards per attempt. He was aided by Cam Davis and Adam Mohammed who posted nearly identical numbers. Davis had 44 carries for 190 yards and Mohammed tallied 42 carries with 193 yards. Davis transferred to Minnesota this offseason, leaving Mohammed as the clear number two tailback.

Mohammed is one of the most intriguing players on this Husky roster. At 6’-0” and 212 pounds, the true sophomore runs with intent. He compliments Coleman’s powerful, agile running style with a larger frame and equally difficult body to bring down. We saw glimpses of Mohammed’s shiftiness, strength, and top speed a year ago. 

Coleman proved what he can do as the team’s premier back running behind an offensive line that wasn’t fully constructed until Fall camp. Mohammed took advantage of his opportunities as a freshman to solidify himself as number two in the rotation. This season, Washington expects 18 offensive line participants in Spring practice – twice what it had a year ago. When you factor in the running threat of quarterback Demond Williams Jr., things figure to open up for the running back room in 2025. We’ll be tracking the progression of Coleman and Mohammed this Spring. Because even though it was a productive position last year, the Washington running backs are trending towards another step forward this Fall. 

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The Ohio State Buckeyes were crowned national champions for the ninth time in program history. Ryan Day’s squad has a chance to do something Ohio State has never done, which is win back-to-back titles. The closest the program has come was back in 1969 when an end-of-the-season loss to Michigan messed up what could have gone on to be three in a row as Woody Hayes’ teams won it all in 1968 and 1970. With what looks like to be well over a dozen NFL Draft picks now gone, the Buckeyes will look quite different, especially on defense. Ohio State freshmen just might have the opportunity to make their names known as soon as possible.

Spring practice is set to kick off Monday, and the Buckeyes are welcoming 21 early enrollees, led by a trio of five-star athletes. ESPN‘s Tom Luginbill and Craig Haubert looked at some of the top recruits and highlighted a few players who have a legitimate shot to make an early impact.

ESPN Expects a Few Ohio State Freshmen to Compete Quickly

Best In America

Between the three starting corners and two safeties, only Davison Igbinosun and Caleb Downs are set to return. Both are leaders and will likely end up playing on Sundays in 2026 (with Downs garnering serious top-10-pick hype). One safety and two cornerback spots are open for the new defensive coordinator, Matt Patricia.

At the corner position, Devin Sanchez could be the defense’s Jeremiah Smith with how he can step right up and make an impact. Luginbill and Haubert laud him for his confidence and how he shines in man coverage. The six-foot-two, 185-pound corner was widely considered the top corner in this recruiting class and a top-five talent regardless of position.

Faheem Delane was the other secondary piece mentioned and his positional flexibility will be intriguing. He can play both slot corner and safety and could take on that Jordan Hancock role with a strong Spring. He’s also six-foot-two and plays with the physicality of a scrappy vet already. If Patricia needs a guy who can come from the secondary to defend the run or surprise on a blitz, Delane may have packages tailored for him.

If there is a room that will be as competitive as the receivers, it’s the cornerbacks. Each year, the Ohio State freshmen corners come to town to compete. Sanchez and Delane have to battle it out with other top-rated players from their classes.

Big Shoes to Fill

For the first time since 2020, TreVeyon Henderson will not be on the roster. He and Quinshon Judkins are on their way to making NFL teams rather happy through the draft. With their exit, it leaves a massive hole at running back. As of now, it looks like James Peoples and West Virginia transfer CJ Donaldson are expected to lead the way. However, the Buckeyes took in a few talented running backs.

ESPN starts strong by comparing Anthony Rogers to Ezekiel Elliott. They go on to say his power and stature will allow him to grind out those tough, downhill yards. He has the talent, patience, and vision to excel as a counter runner for the Buckeyes this fall. However, one thing that may work against him for 2025 is the fact that he is not enrolling early.

In addition to Rogers, Bo Jackson, Jr. will compete for carries this Fall. Unlike his running mate, Jackson will be on campus for Spring practice. He’s a do-it-all kind of back insofar as he can hit the home run explosive play and churn out those tough, short-yardage/red zone carries.

Time will tell how similar the Brian Hartline-run offense is to Day’s or Chip Kelly’s. Oddly enough, the Buckeyes hovered around the 33 rushes per game mark over the last four seasons, regardless of who was calling plays. Kelly’s offense was a bit more efficient, earning about 30 more yards per game on the ground. Last year, three players ran the ball over 100 times, and one was a quarterback. So unless Julian Sayin turns into Justin Fields overnight, there may be plenty of opportunities for a third running back. Rogers and Jackson have the talent to shake things up from the jump.

Unlikely But Exciting to Think About

There is going to be an open quarterback battle kicking off this Spring. Redshirt freshman Sayin likely has the inside track based on the fact that he was the third quarterback last year, and both players ahead of him are gone. Coaches raved about his accuracy last Spring, and he evidently developed throughout the season. Lincoln Kienholz is the grizzled veteran of the group who has the benefit of being in the system the longest. However, Ohio State’s incoming freshman at the position could be the wild card.

Tavien St. Clair has been a Buckeye through and through ever since Day offered. He is a six-foot-four, 225-pound natural athlete who could make things very interesting with a strong Spring. Luginbill and Haubert compare the Bellefontaine standout to Anthony Richardson, but actually good at playing quarterback. We joked about Sayin turning into Fields, but St. Clair could be the closest. He’s a very different player than Sayin and Will Howard which could provide the Buckeyes with a fresh look at the position.

ESPN notes that St. Clair is a big, athletic quarterback who can make all of the throws. However, for as exciting of a prospect as he is, he is raw. At Bellefontaine, he was the definition of a big fish in a tiny pond. He did take a massive step forward in his senior season, so Day may have a true battle on his hands.

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It’s not one of the more glamorous positions for the Ohio State Buckeyes, but the tight end group was an underrated part of last year’s national championship run. From Gee Scott Jr., kicking off the Rose Bowl with a 30-yard catch off a fake screen, to Will Kacmarek, being an impressive run blocker, the tight ends are often underappreciated. Considering that since Ryan Day took over as head coach, only one tight end managed more than 400 yards (Cade Stover, 2022 and 2023), it’s obvious the Buckeyes don’t utilize the position as receivers. At the same time, why throw to tight ends when you have a wide receiver room of four and five-star freaks of nature?

Heading into Spring practice, the tight ends will look a little different.

A New Face is Set to Lead the Ohio State Tight Ends

To the Max

With Scott off to the NFL, Day and company decided to bring home Cincinnati native, Max Klare. After three seasons with Purdue, Klare jumped into the portal with the firing of the Boilermakers’ head coach. Last year, he broke out to the tune of 685 yards and four touchdowns off 51 catches. He led Purdue in all three and was the offense. Remember the last time an Ohio State tight end put up 685 yards in a single season? Probably not, considering it’s never happened. Two tight ends eclipsed 600 yards: Billy Anders in 1966 and John Frank in 1941.

Expecting Klare to put up 600 yards in an offense with Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate would be the dictionary definition of optimistic. At the same time, Klare offers something that the Ohio State tight ends haven’t had in some time. He’s a matchup nightmare, is patient when running his routes, and can get a good chunk of YAC. Klare isn’t just a big-bodied receiver ala Mike Gesicki for the Cincinnati Bengals, he is a willing and able blocker.

He earned the respect of Buckeye defenders in the 45-0 win over Purdue. Lathan Ransom encouraged the staff to target Klare, who he believes can be the best tight end in football. Tight ends coach, and now co-offensive coordinator, Keenan Bailey did not take that lightly. He went so far as to ask Kacmarek and Bennett Christian whether or not the Buckeyes should add. Neither player batted an eye, and both were fully on board. Last year, Day asked TreVeyon Henderson of the program’s pursuit of Quinshon Judkins and the rest is history.

All Hands on Deck

Last year, seven tight ends got on the field at any point. Four of those Ohio State tight ends amassed at least 165 snaps. Scott’s departure frees up nearly 550 snaps. Meanwhile, Patrick Gurd transferred out to Cincinnati.

Klare and Kacmarek will likely lead the Buckeye tight ends this year. Kacmarek has emerged as a leader and a guy willing to do whatever it takes to get onto the field. He’s the unit’s go-to run blocker, and he’s one of the better tight ends the Buckeyes have had in that regard.

From there, it gets muddy. Jelani Thurman has been right there, chomping at the bit. The son of a former NFL player is incredibly talented and is a legitimate receiving threat. He only managed four catches for 42 yards and a score. His 19-yard bobbled catch against Penn State on fourth down looked like it was going to set up a touchdown drive before Will Howard fumbled at the one.

Christian was the fourth tight end last year and notched 235 snaps. Of those, he hauled in a pair of passes for 61 yards and caught Julian Sayin‘s first career touchdown.

Max LeBlanc was a true freshman and preserved his redshirt. The expectations are still there for the former four-star recruit. He was the 15th-best tight end in the class and could very well be molded into a Klare successor. Both players are six-foot-four and 225 pounds, and both are effective receivers.

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There is no doubt that the Penn State Nittany Lions are a team built to win NOW.  The heat is on head coach James Franklin, between seasoned starters that are returning and transfers that will be depended on to contribute.  Advancing to the College Football Playoffs (CFP) semifinals has left the team and fans wanting more.  A key determining factor in winning the title next season will be the performance of quarterback Drew Allar.  Regarding contingency planning, offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki needs to consider the backup quarterback spot, and importantly, who is the QB2 behind Drew?

Who is the QB2 Behind Drew Allar?

Not As They Drew It Up

While Drew Allar can be described as a successful Penn State quarterback overall, his performance in big games has made him an enigma.  His statistics are great against most teams.  Seeing Ohio State, Michigan, and other big-time programs (most recently Notre Dame) across the line of scrimmage turns Allar into a quarterback that is average at best.  Those performances are certainly not how Franklin, Kotelnicki, and Allar drew it up.  Following last season, despite NFL Draft rumors, he stuck with his original plan of returning for his senior season.  The trio will have one more chance to win it all.

Last season, Allar completed 66.5% of his passes for 3,327 yards with 24 touchdowns and eight interceptions.  However, for both Allar and the team, it is imperative that he performs well in the biggest spots this coming season.  To help him get over some of the big game struggles, Penn State recently hired Trace McSorley as an assistant coach.  Additionally, Allar works with arguably the best running back tandem in the country, which is Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen.  However, Allar will be breaking in a new set of receivers, with Kyron Hudson and Devonte Ross replacing Trey Wallace and Omari Evans.  These players’ ability to quickly mesh will be needed to replace the production of tight end/running back/quarterback Tyler Warren.

Success is there for the taking for Allar and the Nittany Lions.  However, what if Allar gets injured or struggles mightily?  The key question then revolves around the backup.  Who is the QB2 behind Drew?

The Pribula Problem

The least popular person on the roster is the backup quarterback.  Nobody really wants to see him play.  He is not an important part of the team until he is.  In one play, the backup quarterback easily moves from the least important to the most important player on the entire team.  For Penn State, the hope is that Allar makes it through the whole season and performs up to his vast potential.  However, hope is not a strategy.  If Allar gets injured or underperforms, there needs to be a Plan B.  That is where it gets interesting.

Entering last season, Penn State had Beau Pribula on the roster.  A change of pace from Allar, Pribula is a dual-threat quarterback who could both throw and run the football.  There were plays that were designed for him in Kotelnicki’s offense, so he got to see the field.  However, playing behind Allar meant Pribula had to wait his turn for the starting job.  When the signs started pointing to Allar returning to Happy Valley, Pribula faced a tough decision.  He ultimately decided to enter the transfer portal before the end of the season.  In doing that, he missed the playoffs but got an early start on the process that ultimately landed him at Missouri.

With Pribula leaving, Franklin and Kotelnicki were put in a tough spot.  There was no experienced backup behind Allar for the playoff run.  It was a conundrum that is similar to what they face in this off-season.  While there are options on the roster, they lack experience.

A Lot To Figure Out This Spring

Heading into Spring practice, determining the backup quarterback will be an important task.  The options currently on the roster have a combined two pass attempts.  Allar will be focused on building a rapport with his new receivers.  Other than that, he should not see too many reps.  That should open the door for Ethan Grunkemeyer and Jaxon Smolik to make their cases to be QB2 behind Drew.

Grunkemeyer, a true freshman last season, ended up being the backup quarterback for Penn State during the playoff run.  Luckily for Allar and the Nittany Lions, Grunkemeyer did not see the field for meaningful snaps in the playoffs.  He did enter the SMU game, which Penn State handily won.  His first pass attempt was intercepted, though he completed the second attempt for a nine-yard gain.

Smolik, a redshirt freshman last year, was injured and missed the entire season.  Smolik entered one game in 2023 against Delaware.  However, he did not throw a pass.  After missing all of last season, he will look to reestablish himself in the offense.  The good news is that Penn State has options.  The challenge is that the options do not come with much experience.  This will be a big storyline to watch through Spring practice.   However, it is unlikely to have an announced winner any time soon, for fear of the quarterback not chosen as the QB2 behind Drew to follow Pribula to the transfer portal.

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Will Rogers and Jeremiah Hunter each transferred to Washington prior to the 2024 season with similar trajectories. Rogers was off of a four-year run at Mississippi State where he set numerous passing records in the SEC. Hunter led Cal in receiving yards in back-to-back seasons before heading up the coast to Washington. But both players’ seasons didn’t quite meet the expectations set upon arrival. Nonetheless, Rogers and Hunter each played critical roles for the program throughout the season that translated to victories. On March 10th, the two had their opportunity to showcase their talents in front of NFL scouts and personnel at Washington Pro Day. In doing so, Rogers and Hunter both ended their Husky careers on high notes.

Former Transfers Impress at Washington Pro Day

Rogers’ Outlook At The Next Level

“For sure it’s hard,” Rogers began. “If anybody tells you that you’re not doing a good enough job… yeah it’s hard.” After his Pro Day, the former Washington quarterback described what it was like to lose the starting quarterback role. He was ultimately replaced by Demond Williams Jr. late in the season. But there was never any inkling of controversy between the two. Rogers’ relationship with Williams was strong, and it contributed to the younger quarterback’s smooth transition into the starting job. “Even if you’re not taking the snaps every day, you still have to add value to the room.”

Rogers said that became his focus late in the season after falling down the depth chart. Rather than taking an observatory role, he remained an active leader as the second-string. Rogers compared that experience to what he might be able to provide at the next level. “I feel like my job at the end of the season could kind of be my job in the NFL, maybe like a backup quarterback.” 

The former Husky quarterback stands out because of his leadership and locker room presence. His ability to encourage and support teammates even from the background was apparent in the final few weeks of the season. “My biggest argument for myself is whatever team or organization decides to take me, that team is going to be better off for it,” Rogers said. “I’m optimistic about any chance that I get.” During his throwing session, Rogers made the most of the chance he had in front of NFL scouts, throwing with quality timing and accuracy. 

Pro Day Passing Results

The five-year starting quarterback in the SEC and the Big Ten measured at 6’-2” and 207 pounds with 8 ⅝” hands. Rogers’ vertical leap of 33 ½” was the third-highest of Husky participants at Pro Day. The throwing session was the last session of the morning, and Rogers supported his teammates who worked out before him in individual position drills. Rogers threw to four Husky pass-catchers including Giles Jackson, Keleki Latu, Daniyel Ngata, and Hunter. Each one of them caught around a dozen passes from their quarterback. 

Rogers had been working out with a private quarterback coach this Winter in Scottsdale, Arizona. He said his goals were to get his body back healthy and dissect ways to, “Get more into the ball,” as he described it. “Really just trying to get a little more zip on the ball,” Rogers said, “Which I felt like I have.” It certainly looked that way during Pro Day. Rogers was on time and on target for nearly every throw he made. There was a good amount of zip on the football, and he connected on several deep throws, hitting his receivers in stride. “I thought it went good, it went smooth. And I’m excited to see what’s next.” 

Hunter Takes Advantage of Opportunity

In his final season of college football, Hunter hauled in just one touchdown catch on 36 catches for 490 yards. “On the field,” Hunter recalled, “It was kind of ‘iffy’ I guess you can say. I was trying to make everything perfect instead of playing.” The former Cal pass catcher had just seven receptions in non-conference play to begin the season. But as the year progressed, he settled in and began finding his comfort zone. “After the first few weeks I felt like it was smooth,” he said. “I didn’t have the season that I wanted based on production. But I can control what I can…It was a blessing overall.”

Despite the numbers on the field, Hunter made an impression during Pro Day at Washington. He measured in at 6’-1 ⅜” and 208 pounds, posted 11 reps on the bench press, and recorded a 28 ½” vertical leap. Hunter then moved into the throwing session where he was crisp with his route running and displayed sticky hands. He hauled in some quality hands catches on throws from Rogers, including one over the middle that was slightly behind him. Hunter was running to his left on a slant, jumped, and spun away from his momentum to haul in the catch. He landed the spinning catch and cut upfield. Hunter’s presence over the middle of the field had been a strength his entire career. That catch embodied his skillset.

“Coming here just shows that I can make the most out of my opportunities,” Hunter said after Pro Day. “I feel like I’m a reliable receiver, I’m going to make the tough catches.” He did just that in front of NFL scouts on Monday. “In my head I feel like I’m a top 15 receiver with the ability I have.” While his name might not be swirling at the top of NFL Draft boards, Hunter is a receiver who’s confident in his skillset and backs it up when given opportunities on the field.

Photo courtesy: Nick Lemkau

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Giles Jackson went out with an exclamation point in his final collegiate game. Against Louisville in the Sun Bowl, Jackson hauled in 11 catches for 161 yards and four touchdowns. “We’ve been doing this,” Jackson told the assembled media at Washington’s Pro Day Monday. “We’ve been playing like that all year at practice…nothing new I felt like.” At Pro Day he continued to impress, standing out in his individual testing and as a pass catcher during the throwing session. 

Giles Jackson’s Pro Day

Individual Testing Numbers

“I surprised myself with the bench,” he said. “[I] honestly didn’t know I was going to hit that many reps, but happy about it.” Jackson charted 12 reps at the bench press at the beginning of the day, and it set the tone for what his performance would be the rest of the morning. During the testing period, he was measured at 5’-8 ⅛” and 187 pounds. Jackson sprung 37.5” into the air in his vertical jump, the highest of all 14 Huskies participating.

“I ran slow,” Jackson began somewhat jokingly. He said afterwards that his goal was a 4.3-second 40-yard dash time. But the number he clocked was still impressive. “They said 4.42, 4.41,” he said. That time would have been tied for eighth-fastest at this year’s NFL Combine out of over 30 wide receivers that participated. 

Position Group Drills

The last session of the morning was the throwing session, where Jackson caught passes from quarterback Will Rogers. He hauled in around a dozen catches during the drill. That included an impressive diving catch on a deep ball from Rogers. It was a pass that traveled around 50 yards in the air. Jackson’s post route took him from the far side of the field to the near side, where he caught the football over his left shoulder as he dove to the turf. The catch received a roar from his teammates in attendance, and left scouts and members of the media impressed. 

Afterwards, Jackson said he felt good about his performance during the throwing session. “I ran good routes I felt like…I’m happy with it.” The six-year collegiate player logged just 26 catches in two years as a Michigan Wolverine. After transferring to Washington, he never surpassed 30 receptions in a season until 2024. This past season was the year it all changed.

“I can play football, I’ve been doubted a lot,” Jackson said after Pro Day. His utilization as a receiver had been limited during his career until last Fall. Jackson removed all doubt that he can play the position, and play it well. His 2024 campaign included 85 receptions, 893 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns. All three metrics were career highs for Jackson. His pitch to organizations at the next level is,  “I can do it all.” Jackson continued, “Running back, receiver, kick return, kickoff, whatever you need me to do, I can do it.” 

Main Image: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

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Just over a month since leaving Virginia Tech to be the new Ohio State offensive line coach, Tyler Bowen has secured his first win on the recruiting trail. In terms of the 2026 class, it was a massive win for the Buckeyes. In-state tackle recruit Maxwell Riley announced his commitment on Monday. Riley is considered to be the second-best overall recruit in Ohio and seventh-best tackle in the country. He is the fifth pledge to the Buckeyes’ 2026 class and the first on the offensive line.

This comes at a perfect time for Ohio State’s efforts on the trail. This, after Clemson just came into Ohio and plucked another top lineman from the Buckeyes’ backyard. With Spring practice just around the corner, Ryan Day and company have begun to get a little momentum for the quest to bag the program’s first back-to-back national championship.

New Ohio State Offensive Line Coach Gets First Recruiting Win

A Short 131-mile Drive

There’s something about Clemson and Ohio-born offensive linemen. After locking up Adam Guthrie, the Tigers looked in prime position to poach another. Riley was reportedly torn between the two for a while, but Bowen was able to close the deal despite Justin Frye’s departure.

The six-foot-five, 280-pound tackle has experience on both sides of the line. As a talent of his caliber, he naturally slots in at left tackle for the Avon Lake Eagles. 247Sports‘ Ohio State recruiting expert Bill Kurelic sees a bright future for Riley. Kurelic notes that while it may be difficult for the highly rated tackle to get playing time as a true freshman in 2026, he projects to fight for playing time in his second season. Kurelic goes on to predict that Riley could develop into an All-Big Ten player for the Buckeyes.

Riley’s high school coach gushed over Riley in an interview with Eleven Warriors. He claimed that his star tackle had “some of the best footwork [he’s] seen out of a kid his size.” When Frye established the relationship, he asked the coach what he thought of his stud, to which he responded that he could finally run outside zone concepts. Riley gives his team the stability and confidence to run to his side.

All in all, the Buckeyes are getting a guy who gets Ohio State football and will be able to develop into a player the Buckeyes won’t feel they need to upgrade via the transfer portal.

Passing Early Tests

Being the Ohio State offensive line coach comes with pressure that not many coaches can handle. There’s a certain prestige to the role. If a coach is not perceived to be up to snuff, the fanbase will let that coach know. Frye was a solid coach and developer but lacked in the realm of recruiting. That much was evident last year. Now, Bowen must keep that momentum going while replacing four NFL-bound players, two of which could be first-round selections.

What is the silver lining of all of those injuries from last year? A handful of depth players got plenty of playing time, setting them up for success in 2025. Guys like Luke Montgomery, Carson Hinzman, and Austin Siereveld stepped up when the Buckeyes needed and will be leaned upon this year. The Buckeyes’ coaching staff met with beat writers last week, and Bowen was a popular figure. He commented on the uniqueness of the job:

“Being here the last three-and-a-half, four weeks, whatever it’s been, and diving into the cut-ups and seeing how many different guys came in and played integral roles on the way to the championship, I think it’s a very unique situation. We got a lot of guys, particularly on the interior, that have played a lot of football, rotated through. So that should help us as we go into spring.”

The Comparative

To put into perspective the difference in jobs, Riley’s 247Sports‘ rating is low compared to some of the talents the Buckeyes have signed over the last decade alone, never mind all-time. He could be considered a top-five signee on the offensive line in Hokie history ever since 247Sports started tracking recruiting.

In a short time, Bowen has been impressing Day and the established players with his personality, which “jumps out at you,” according to the head coach.

Season Is Just Around the Corner

Bowen and the Buckeyes are gearing up for an interesting 2025 season. With so much change on the offensive line, Bowen knew he had to get started quickly. He noted that getting to know players and recruits was paramount:

“The most important thing is to try to build trust with a group and you’ve got to do it in a short amount of time,” Bowen said. “And trust, it’s not easy to build. It’s very easy to lose. So the first thing that I tried to attack here, before you even get into the X’s and O’s and talking about inside zone and gap schemes and all the things that go into it, six-man protection, is I wanted to meet with each player individually and get an idea of their story.”

Time will tell if Bowen was the right man for the job. Thus far, he’s been passing tests. Of course, the first real, massive test will be on August 30. That Texas defensive line looks as stout as it has been.

The Buckeyes are still in the mix for a number of top-end offensive line recruits. Bowen has a big summer ahead of him.

Main Image: Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

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