Ohio State Football 2025 Schedule: Buckeyes Gear Up for a Gridiron Gauntlet in the Expanded Big Ten
Columbus, OH – May 10, 2025
As the 2025 college football season approaches, Ohio State fans are already buzzing with anticipation. The Buckeyes, a perennial powerhouse in the Big Ten and a national championship contender nearly every season, have officially released their week-by-week schedule for the upcoming season. With high-stakes matchups, key road tests, and the added complexity of a now-expanded Big Ten Conference that includes schools like UCLA and USC, the path to the College Football Playoff is as treacherous as ever.
Let’s break down the Ohio State Buckeyes’ 2025 football schedule week by week, and explore what each matchup means for a team with championship aspirations.
A Quick Overview
Ohio State’s 2025 football schedule is as formidable as they come. With two scheduled bye weeks in Weeks 4 and 9, the Buckeyes will have periodic opportunities to rest and regroup, which could be crucial given the high level of competition they’ll face throughout the season.
Here’s a look at the complete 2025 slate:
- Saturday, Aug. 30: vs. Texas
- Saturday, Sept. 6: vs. Grambling
- Saturday, Sept. 13: vs. Ohio
- Saturday, Sept. 20: BYE
- Saturday, Sept. 27: at Washington*
- Saturday, Oct. 4: vs. Minnesota*
- Saturday, Oct. 11: at Illinois*
- Saturday, Oct. 18: at Wisconsin*
- Saturday, Oct. 25: BYE
- Saturday, Nov. 1: vs. Penn State*
- Saturday, Nov. 8: at Purdue*
- Saturday, Nov. 15: vs. UCLA*
- Saturday, Nov. 22: vs. Rutgers*
- Saturday, Nov. 29: at Michigan*
* denotes Big Ten Conference games.
Week 1: vs. Texas (Aug. 30)
The season opens with a blockbuster matchup against the Texas Longhorns at home in Ohio Stadium. This game is more than just a non-conference showdown—it’s a statement opportunity. Texas, now a member of the SEC, is looking to prove it belongs among the elite, while Ohio State aims to start its season with a top-tier win on national television. Both programs have storied histories and rabid fanbases, making this one of the most anticipated opening-week games of the season.
Key storyline: Will Ohio State’s quarterback room, potentially led by Julian Sayin or Lincoln Kienholz, be ready to face an elite SEC defense in Week 1?
Week 2: vs. Grambling (Sept. 6)
A much-needed breather after the intensity of the Texas game, this matchup allows Ohio State to rotate younger players and tune up their execution on both sides of the ball. Grambling, while historically significant in HBCU football, will be overmatched physically.
Key focus: Sharpen fundamentals and avoid injury.
Week 3: vs. Ohio (Sept. 13)
A battle of in-state foes, Ohio University heads to Columbus to face the Buckeyes. While not viewed as a threat, the Bobcats always bring grit. The Buckeyes should use this game to solidify offensive rhythm and defensive depth ahead of Big Ten play.
Watch for: How Ohio State’s secondary handles Ohio’s passing game.
Week 4: BYE (Sept. 20)
An early-season bye week comes at a strategic time, offering the team a chance to regroup and heal before heading into a challenging road stretch.
Week 5: at Washington (Sept. 27)*
This is Ohio State’s first Big Ten game in the expanded conference. The trip to Seattle introduces logistical hurdles, including time zone changes and travel fatigue. Washington boasts a strong home-field advantage and a potent passing game.
Key challenge: Keeping focus and energy high after travel.
Week 6: vs. Minnesota (Oct. 4)*
Back in the Horseshoe, the Buckeyes face Minnesota, a team in transition but still dangerous. This game could be a trap if Ohio State is looking ahead to tougher opponents.
Key to victory: Control the line of scrimmage early.
Week 7: at Illinois (Oct. 11)*
Illinois has been steadily improving and plays a physical brand of football. Traveling to Champaign means the Buckeyes must bring their A-game. Weather could also play a role in mid-October.
Impact player: Ohio State’s running backs—grinding it out may be the winning formula.
Week 8: at Wisconsin (Oct. 18)*
Camp Randall Stadium is one of the most hostile environments in the country. Wisconsin’s defense is typically top-tier, and this could be a slugfest. Expect a classic Big Ten battle.
X-Factor: Can Ohio State’s offensive line win the trenches?
Week 9: BYE (Oct. 25)
A second bye comes after two tough road games—a perfect reset before the Buckeyes’ most pivotal stretch of the season.
Week 10: vs. Penn State (Nov. 1)*
One of the season’s marquee matchups. Penn State is likely to be ranked in the top 10, and this clash could have major College Football Playoff implications. The white-out game in Columbus will test both strategy and stamina.
Key match-up: Quarterback play—whichever team gets more from their signal-caller could win.
Week 11: at Purdue (Nov. 8)*
This game might appear simple on paper, but history warns otherwise—Purdue has often played spoiler for Ohio State. Expect the Buckeyes to approach this game with intensity.
Warning sign: Avoid looking ahead to UCLA.
Week 12: vs. UCLA (Nov. 15)*
The Bruins come to the Big Ten with high hopes. Their speed and tempo contrast sharply with Ohio State’s physicality, making for an intriguing style clash. Expect a high-scoring affair.
Deciding factor: Red-zone efficiency.
Week 13: vs. Rutgers (Nov. 22)*
This late-season matchup should be manageable, but injuries and fatigue could make this more complicated than expected. Ohio State will likely rest key players if the Big Ten Championship berth is locked.
Goal: Stay healthy and sharp for Michigan.
Week 14: at Michigan (Nov. 29)*
The Game. This rivalry, arguably the greatest in all of sports, needs no introduction. After back-to-back losses in 2021 and 2022 and wins in 2023 and 2024, the 2025 edition will be crucial for playoff positioning, bragging rights, and legacy.
Everything on the line: Big Ten title chances, national title implications, and pride.
Final Thoughts
Ohio State’s 2025 schedule is one of the most demanding in recent memory. From opening against Texas to traveling cross-country for conference games, the Buckeyes must navigate a complex mix of high-stakes games, road challenges, and rising conference depth. With an experienced coaching staff, a deep roster, and a culture built on excellence, Ohio State is poised to make another run at championship glory.
But as every Buckeye fan knows, each week is a battle—and only consistent dominance will get them to the Big Ten Championship and beyond.
