Ryan Day Remains Undecided on Ohio State’s Spring Showcase Format: “We Have to See How the First Couple Weeks Go”
As Ohio State football gears up for its highly anticipated 2025 spring practice, head coach Ryan Day is still weighing his options for the Spring Showcase format. With new players stepping into key roles, a highly competitive quarterback battle brewing, and significant changes to the coaching staff, Day believes it’s essential to evaluate the team’s progress before finalizing the structure of the annual spring game.
“I think we have to see how the first couple weeks of spring practice go,” Day said when asked about the format. “It depends on where we are health-wise, depth-wise, and what we need to get out of it as a team.”
With Ohio State fans eager to get their first look at the 2025 Buckeyes, the decision on whether the Spring Showcase will feature a traditional game, a modified scrimmage, or a practice-style event will be one of the biggest storylines heading into the April event.
Why Day Is Taking a Wait-and-See Approach
Spring football is always about development, but this year’s camp is especially crucial for Ohio State. The Buckeyes are coming off a disappointing end to the 2024 season, with a loss to Michigan and a College Football Playoff miss that left fans frustrated. Now, heading into a critical 2025 campaign, Day and his staff are focused on finding answers at key positions and establishing the identity of this year’s team.
1. The Quarterback Competition Is Just Beginning
One of the biggest questions heading into spring practice is who will start at quarterback. With Kyle McCord transferring last year and Devin Brown struggling with consistency, all eyes are on:
- Will Howard – The Kansas State transfer, who brings experience and leadership.
- Devin Brown – A highly touted recruit who has yet to lock down the starting job.
- Julian Sayin – The five-star freshman who could push for playing time.
Because the quarterback battle is still in its early stages, Day may not want to put too much pressure on a full-game format in the Spring Showcase. Instead, a controlled scrimmage could allow him to evaluate different quarterbacks in specific scenarios rather than forcing them into a full-speed game environment.
“We want to make sure we’re putting these guys in the best situations to compete,” Day said. “That’s what spring ball is all about.”
2. Depth and Injuries Are a Factor
Another major concern is depth, particularly on the offensive and defensive lines. Injuries have already impacted some key contributors, and Ohio State doesn’t want to risk further setbacks in an exhibition game.
Last year, teams across the country had to adjust their spring game formats due to injuries limiting the number of available players at certain positions. Day has been clear that if depth becomes an issue, he may opt for a practice-style format instead of a traditional game.
“We have to be smart about it,” Day explained. “If we don’t have enough depth at certain spots, it doesn’t make sense to force a full-contact game.”
3. New Defensive System Under Matt Guerrieri
The 2025 Buckeyes will also have a new look on defense with Matt Guerrieri stepping in as co-defensive coordinator alongside Jim Knowles. With Guerrieri bringing a fresh perspective to the secondary, the coaching staff is still installing new concepts and evaluating personnel.
“We’re still figuring out how some of these pieces fit,” Day said. “The defense is evolving, and we want to see how guys respond to the new system.”
Because of this, Ohio State may choose to focus more on situational drills during the Spring Showcase rather than a traditional four-quarter game.
Potential Spring Showcase Formats Ohio State Could Use
Since Day remains undecided, there are a few possible directions the Spring Showcase could take:
Option 1: A Traditional Scarlet vs. Gray Game
- Pros: Gives fans a competitive game experience, allows players to simulate game situations, and builds excitement.
- Cons: Higher risk of injury, may not be ideal if depth is an issue at key positions.
Option 2: A Controlled Scrimmage
- Pros: Coaches can control the tempo, tailor reps for quarterbacks, and avoid unnecessary injuries.
- Cons: Less exciting for fans, but still provides valuable development opportunities.
Option 3: A Practice-Style Showcase
- Pros: Allows for specific drill work, situational scrimmages, and positional evaluations.
- Cons: Might not have the same competitive energy as a full scrimmage or game.
Ultimately, Day’s decision will depend on how the team looks in the first few weeks of practice.
“We’ll get a feel for where we’re at, and then we’ll make a decision that best helps the team prepare for the season,” Day said.
What This Means for Ohio State Fans
Buckeye fans always pack Ohio Stadium for the annual Spring Showcase, and anticipation is high for the 2025 team. Whether it’s a full game, a controlled scrimmage, or a structured practice, this will be the first chance to see:
- The new-look quarterback room
- How the defense is adjusting under Guerrieri
- Which young players are stepping into key roles
If Day opts for a full game, fans will get a more traditional game-day experience. If he chooses a scrimmage or practice, it will be a more technical evaluation of the roster.
Regardless of the format, the Spring Showcase will be a crucial milestone in setting the tone for the 2025 season. With high expectations and a fanbase hungry for a national title, Ohio State must use spring practice to build chemistry, answer key questions, and establish an identity heading into fall camp.
Final Thoughts: A Key Decision for Day
Ryan Day’s indecision on the Spring Showcase format isn’t a lack of preparation—it’s a calculated move to ensure Ohio State gets the most out of spring practice. By waiting to see how the first few weeks unfold, he’s putting the team’s development and health first.
Whether it’s a traditional game or a modified scrimmage, Ohio State fans will have plenty to watch when the Buckeyes take the field in April. The bigger question will be whether the 2025 squad can make the necessary strides to get back to the College Football Playoff and reclaim their spot at the top of the Big Ten.
For now, Buckeye Nation will have to wait and see what Ryan Day decides.