Buckeyes open the 2025 season with Longhorns rematch
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The last time Ohio State played Texas, it was for a trip to the National Championship Game. Photo: Jamie Squire/Getty Images
Ohio State football is back, but the Buckeyes aren't easing into their title-defending season.
Why it matters: No. 3-ranked OSU hosts No. 1 Texas in a blockbuster opening weekend matchup that also serves as a rematch of last year's College Football Playoff semifinal.
State of play: It's a baptism by fire for quarterback Julian Sayin.
- The Buckeyes' 20-year-old former five-star recruit has thrown just 12 career passes, and was only named a starter two weeks ago after a lengthy QB battle.
The other side: Texas has its own young superstar in Arch Manning, a fellow five-star recruit and heir to the legendary quarterback family name.
- Manning started twice last season and has finally been handed the reins full-time.
Yes, but: Neither team is dependent on its QB — these are two of the most talented rosters in the country.
- Both have had top-10 recruiting classes for three consecutive years.
- Superstars Jeremiah Smith, Caleb Downs, Anthony Hill and Colin Simmons are just a sample of the deep talent on both sides.
Stunning stat: This matchup marks the first time OSU has ever played the No. 1 team to start the season, per our review of past schedules at Sports-Reference.com.
The intrigue: When the Buckeyes face the No. 1 team in the AP poll, it's typically late in the season.
- Most recently, it was their win over Oregon in last year's Rose Bowl.
What they're saying: Head coach Ryan Day called the matchup "great for college football" and said the Buckeyes are "excited."
- "It's rare that you would play someone like this toward the end of the season and then start the regular season with them, but here we are. I think it's going to give us a great barometer."
Threat level: We've made an inter-Axios bet with our counterparts in Austin.
- If the Buckeyes win, they'll send us whatever "H-E-B churro-flavored almonds" are.
- If the Longhorns win, we'll send them some buckeyes.
What we're watching: Whether they win or lose this opener, both teams are expected to make this year's College Football Playoff.
- The Buckeyes' schedule eases up after Saturday, with Grambling State, Ohio University, Washington and Minnesota up next.
- They won't play another currently ranked team until Illinois Oct. 11.
📺 How to watch: The game (controversially) kicks off in Columbus at noon Saturday on Fox.