Skull Session: Phil Steele labels Ohio State “a legitimate threat to repeat as national champions” despite significant roster turnover, while both former and current Buckeyes shower Gee Scott Jr. with congratulations following his engagement announcement.
When it comes to preseason college football insight, there are few voices more respected than Phil Steele. Year after year, his comprehensive previews are not only a staple in the hands of dedicated fans but also referenced by analysts, coaches, and insiders across the country. So when Steele offers a bold take on the upcoming season, especially involving a powerhouse program like Ohio State, it draws attention. This year, despite all the changes and questions surrounding the Buckeyes’ roster, Steele didn’t hold back in expressing confidence in what they could accomplish. He believes Ohio State is a legitimate threat to repeat as national champions, even in the face of roster turnover that would derail most programs.
That kind of endorsement doesn’t come lightly. Ohio State enters the 2025 season having lost key contributors on both sides of the ball. The NFL Draft pulled away household names who helped push the Buckeyes to the national title last season. From dynamic playmakers to rock-solid veterans, there’s been a clear shift in personnel. Yet Steele sees something deeper than the roster churn—a foundation built on elite recruiting, excellent coaching, and a culture of winning that’s been carefully cultivated in Columbus for decades. His assessment reflects both an understanding of the program’s pedigree and a belief in its ability to reload rather than rebuild.
A central part of that reload will hinge on how quickly new faces rise to the occasion. Whether it’s younger players stepping into starting roles or transfers being asked to deliver right away, there’s no time for a learning curve. That’s where Ohio State’s infrastructure gives them an edge. Year after year, the Buckeyes bring in top-tier recruiting classes stacked with four- and five-star athletes who are not only physically prepared but also mentally equipped to handle the demands of big-time football. It’s not just about talent; it’s about readiness, and Ohio State has proven time and time again that it develops players who can contribute early.
There’s also the leadership factor—something Steele pointed to as a reason for optimism. Even with roster changes, the program returns several key veterans who have been through the battles and know what it takes to win on the biggest stages. They’ve felt the sting of close losses, experienced the euphoria of victory, and understand the grind of a championship chase. That internal leadership will be vital as Ohio State navigates the early parts of the schedule, especially when facing tough opponents or dealing with the pressure that comes from being a defending champion.
Off the field, the Buckeye family showed this week just how connected and close-knit it remains, regardless of whether players are still suiting up or have moved on to the next chapters of their lives. That sense of community was on full display when Gee Scott Jr., a veteran tight end for Ohio State, announced his engagement. The news spread quickly among current teammates, former players, and Buckeye fans, sparking a wave of congratulatory messages and heartfelt reactions. It wasn’t just a celebration of a personal milestone; it was another reminder of the brotherhood that defines the Ohio State program.
Scott, known for his physical playing style and steady presence in the locker room, has grown into a respected figure in Columbus. His transition from wide receiver to tight end earlier in his career reflected a team-first mentality and a willingness to do whatever was needed to help the Buckeyes win. That same selfless attitude earned him the admiration of coaches, teammates, and fans alike. So when he shared his engagement news, the outpouring of support was immediate and sincere. Former players reached out to offer their congratulations, sharing stories and memories of their time together. Current teammates posted celebratory messages, emphasizing how happy they were for their brother and expressing pride in seeing him take this next step.
Moments like this reinforce what makes Ohio State more than just a football program. It’s a family. That bond stretches across generations of Buckeyes and transcends wins and losses on the field. From locker rooms to alumni events to social media, the connections forged in Columbus are lifelong. Players support each other through the highs and the lows, whether that’s a touchdown on Saturday night or a major life event like a proposal. For fans, it’s a powerful reminder that the players they cheer for are human beings with stories, dreams, and relationships that matter deeply.
As Scott continues preparing for his final season at Ohio State, he does so with the kind of perspective that only life’s big moments can bring. An engagement offers a new sense of responsibility, purpose, and joy—qualities that will likely be reflected in his approach on the field as well. There’s a maturity that comes with committing to someone else, and for an athlete already praised for his character and work ethic, it’s yet another layer that strengthens his leadership role within the team.
On the field, Scott’s presence will be important for an Ohio State offense looking to find continuity with new pieces in play. The quarterback situation remains one of the biggest storylines heading into the fall, with competition heating up and no clear starter named yet. Whoever wins the job will benefit from having a dependable tight end like Scott—someone who can block, catch, and create mismatches with his size and athleticism. He may not lead the team in receptions, but his role as a security blanket and versatile contributor could prove invaluable, especially in close games where execution matters most.
Beyond Scott, the entire roster is filled with players ready to prove that last year’s title was no fluke. There’s a hunger to silence doubters who might point to the departures and question whether Ohio State has enough left in the tank to run it back. But internally, that skepticism only fuels motivation. The Buckeyes are used to pressure, used to expectation, and used to being in the spotlight. That’s where they thrive.
The coaching staff also deserves credit for putting the pieces in place to make another run. Ryan Day, who has now fully embraced the leadership mantle in Columbus, understands what’s at stake. He’s not only guiding a talented team but managing the psychology of success—keeping players grounded, focused, and aware of how difficult it is to win at the highest level. Under his leadership, Ohio State has remained a model of consistency, and his commitment to excellence is a major reason why Phil Steele and others continue to believe in the Buckeyes.
The defense, which took significant strides last season, will also be critical to Ohio State’s chances in 2025. With key returners anchoring the unit and young talent waiting in the wings, there’s optimism that this group can become even more disruptive and dynamic. They’ll need to be, especially in high-stakes games where a single stop can mean the difference between a playoff berth and a missed opportunity. The defensive identity forged last season—tough, aggressive, and disciplined—will need to remain intact even as new leaders emerge.
Special teams, often overlooked in preseason forecasts, could also be a game-changer. Close games often come down to field position, clutch kicks, and punt coverage. The Buckeyes have made it a point to value special teams as a vital phase of the game, and that attention to detail could pay off in key moments throughout the year.
Ultimately, the road back to the top won’t be easy. The Big Ten continues to evolve, with new contenders and plenty of depth across the conference. Michigan, Penn State, and now programs like Oregon and USC are expected to be formidable. Non-conference matchups will also test Ohio State early, exposing weaknesses or revealing just how ready this group is for another championship push. But if there’s one thing history has taught us, it’s never to count out the Buckeyes. They’ve built something special in Columbus, and even when the names on the jerseys change, the standard remains the same.
Phil Steele’s confidence in Ohio State isn’t just about past success—it’s about believing in the infrastructure, the culture, and the relentless pursuit of greatness that defines the program. And as Gee Scott Jr. receives love and support from the Buckeye brotherhood during one of the most joyful times in his life, it serves as a reminder of what makes Ohio State unique. It’s not just about football. It’s about commitment, on and off the field. It’s about striving for excellence while supporting one another as people. And it’s about continuing to chase championships, together, no matter the challenges ahead.
