For years, Ohio State has been the gold standard in the Big Ten, boasting elite talent, dominant recruiting classes, and a coaching staff that has kept the Buckeyes at the forefront of college football. However, as the 2025 season approaches, the winds of change are blowing through Columbus, and they may not be favorable.

The Buckeyes have suffered major coaching losses this offseason, with key assistants departing for other programs or the NFL. While Ohio State has historically been able to reload rather than rebuild, the sheer magnitude of these changes raises questions about whether their reign atop the Big Ten is truly secure. Could this be the moment when other programs—namely Michigan, Penn State, or even newcomers like Oregon and USC—seize control of the conference?

The Coaching Carousel Hits Columbus

Every elite program deals with coaching turnover, but this year’s exodus from Ohio State feels different. When a program loses multiple high-level assistants in one offseason, continuity becomes a challenge. Coordinators are responsible for implementing schemes, managing in-game adjustments, and, perhaps most importantly, recruiting top talent. If Ohio State can’t maintain stability in these areas, cracks could begin to form in their Big Ten armor.

While Ryan Day remains at the helm, his ability to replace key staff members quickly and effectively will be tested like never before. And let’s be honest—Day is already under pressure after failing to beat Michigan in recent seasons. If his new staff doesn’t produce immediate results, the calls for change could grow even louder.

Big Ten Rivals Ready to Pounce

Ohio State’s vulnerability opens the door for other programs looking to stake their claim as the new Big Ten powerhouse.

• Michigan: Jim Harbaugh’s squad has proven it can go toe-to-toe with the Buckeyes, having won multiple matchups in recent years. With a physical style of play and a strong recruiting pipeline, Michigan may be in the best position to take advantage of Ohio State’s instability.
• Penn State: The Nittany Lions have recruited exceptionally well but have struggled to break through against top-tier opponents. If they can capitalize on Ohio State’s staff losses and finally solve the Buckeye puzzle, they could emerge as the biggest threat in the East.
• Oregon & USC: The Big Ten’s expansion means new challengers are entering the fray. Oregon, with its high-powered offense, and USC, with its deep talent pool, have the potential to shake up the conference landscape. A weakened Ohio State could provide the perfect opening for one of these programs to make an immediate impact.

The Buckeyes’ Recruiting Edge at Risk?

One of Ohio State’s greatest strengths has been its ability to recruit at a national level. However, when assistant coaches who build relationships with top recruits leave, it creates uncertainty. Other programs can use this instability against the Buckeyes, pitching their own schools as more stable and reliable options.

Additionally, the transfer portal has changed college football. If Ohio State stumbles early in 2025, don’t be surprised if players begin looking elsewhere. Programs like USC, Alabama, and Georgia will be more than happy to poach top-tier talent.

Is This the End of Ohio State’s Dominance?

Not necessarily. Ohio State has faced adversity before and remained a force in college football. However, the 2025 season feels like a true turning point. If the Buckeyes can overcome these staff losses and continue their dominance, it will further cement their status as the Big Ten’s premier program.

But if they falter? The door will be wide open for Michigan, Penn State, or even an upstart like Oregon to claim the throne. One thing is certain—this is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing seasons in recent Big Ten history. Buckle up.