Linebacker Sonny Styles, the Block O recipient this season, was projected to go to the Buccaneers with the 25th overall pick. That scenario would reunite Styles with former OSU receiver Emeka Egbuka who was taken by Tampa Bay in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith is widely regarded as the best player in college football heading into the 2025 season. That shouldn't be surprising, either, because the Buckeyes' star is coming off a freshman season that saw him catch 76 passes for 1,315 yards and 15 touchdowns. Again, he was a freshman when he put up those numbers.

Ohio State's secondary coaches are confident they have enough players to fill spots left by graduations from their 2024 national championship defense.

Smith, in a recent interview, added some fuel to the rivalry's fire by taking his first shot at Michigan of the 2025 campaign. Smith made an appearance in an Aug. 20 episode of "The Triple Option" podcast, which is hosted by FOX Sports personalities Urban Meyer, Mark Ingram and Rob Stone.

Ohio State football coach Ryan Day explains the Captains selection process during news conference August 18, 2025 at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center

The Buckeyes’ cupboard though is far from empty. Sophomore Jeremiah Smith established himself as one of the top wide receivers in college football last year and safety Caleb Downs is projected as a top five pick in next year’s draft.

The Ohio State Buckeyes were one of the finalists for Savion Hiter, and without him coming to Columbus, here's where they should turn.

Who are the best of the best in college football? We reveal our preseason USA TODAY Sports All-America team recognizing the top players in country.

Ohio State star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith was not friendly in his evaluation of the Michigan Football program this week

Ohio State cornerback Jermaine Mathews was a top backup last year. Now he's ready to become a starter and a leader for the Buckeyes.