Ohio State moves down multiple spots in ESPN’s post-spring power rankings

Ohio State moved down 3 spots in ESPN’s updated power rankings, which were released on Wednesday morning.

It’s the biggest drop of any team in the top 10. The Buckeyes fell from No. 2 in ESPN’s way-too-early power rankings all the way to No. 5.

Ohio State still has major question marks at quarterback and on the offensive line as the calendar moves toward the summer. The defense, especially in the secondary, will also need to make big strides in 2023.

Here’s some analysis from ESPN’s Mark Schlabach:

Junior Kyle McCord took the first step in taking over the reins from C.J. Stroud with a solid performance in the spring. Sophomore Devin Brown, another contender, missed the spring game with a finger injury. Coach Ryan Day won’t name a starting quarterback until preseason camp. The Buckeyes are loaded at running back and receiver (Carnell Tate, a freshman from IMG Academy, was a star in the spring), but the offensive line remains a work in progress. Senior Josh Fryar was the No. 1 left tackle in the spring; sophomore Tegra Tshabola was working on the right. After ugly performances in losses to Michigan and Georgia last season, the defense seemed to make some much-needed strides in the spring. Safety Cameron Martinez might help shore up a leaky secondary. Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau are going to be stars up front.

Ryan Day isn’t expected to name a starting QB until fall camp. Kyle McCord and Devin Brown competed for the job through the spring and will continue to do so in the coming months.

The Buckeyes do have a pair of potential difference-makers on their defensive front with Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau. That duo is expected to make a big leap in 2023.

Georgia, Michigan, Florida State and USC are the 4 teams ranked above Ohio State in ESPN’s updated rankings.

Spenser Davis

Spenser is the news manager at Saturday Road and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.