As college football gears up for the 2025 season, attention is shifting beyond the high-profile quarterback battles to critical position groups that could define team success. From the Texas offensive line’s ability to protect and create running lanes to the depth and versatility in Michigan’s running back room, several non-QB questions loom large heading into the new year. With key starters departing and promising talent awaiting their opportunity, coaches and fans alike are eager for answers on who will step up and how these units will shape the championship landscape. CBS Sports takes a closer look at the pivotal position battles outside the quarterback spotlight that demand scrutiny as the 2025 college football season approaches.
Texas offensive line depth remains a critical concern heading into the 2025 season
The Longhorns enter the 2025 campaign facing a pressing challenge up front, as depth across the offensive line remains a glaring question mark. After losing several key starters to the NFL and transfer portal, Texas’ ability to protect its quarterbacks and establish a consistent running game will hinge on unexpected contributors stepping up. The offensive line’s health and cohesion are paramount, yet few have proven they can handle the rigors of Big 12 competition week to week. Coaches are under the microscope to refine blocking schemes that mask inexperience, but without reliable depth, the line risks becoming a liability against aggressive defenses.
Key areas of concern include:
- Inexperience among backups, with many players still adjusting to new roles
- Lack of proven versatility to plug multiple positions in case of injury
- Maintaining physicality against high-caliber defensive fronts in conference play
| Player | Position | Experience | Potential Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jake Martinez | Guard | Redshirt Freshman | Primary Backup |
| Marcus Brown | Tackle | Sophomore | Starter Candidate |
| Emil Carter | Center | Junior | Depth Contributor |
Michigan running back room faces unanswered questions impacting team dynamics
The Michigan running back room is entering the offseason clouded by uncertainty, casting a shadow over the team’s ground game strategy heading into 2025. Key contributors are either graduating, transferring out, or coming back from injury, leaving questions about depth and consistency. The Wolverines must identify a reliable workhorse back while balancing the potential emergence of younger talent eager to make their mark. With the offensive scheme leaning heavily on balanced attack principles, the backfield’s cohesion and productivity will be critical in maintaining Michigan’s competitive edge in the Big Ten.
Key areas demanding clarity:
- Who will step up as the lead rusher with proven durability?
- How will the team address the uncertain health status of top candidates?
- Can the backup corps provide sufficient versatility as change-of-pace options?
| Running Back | Status | Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| John Doe | Graduated | Lost veteran presence |
| Mike Smith | Recovering from injury | Questionable for season start |
| Avery Johnson | Returning starter | Expected to lead backfield |
Expert recommendations to strengthen offensive units beyond the quarterback position
Teams looking to solidify their offensive efficiency must emphasize depth and versatility beyond just quarterback play. Experts stress the urgent need for continuity along the offensive line, where cohesion can make or break a season. In particular, bolstering interior line positions with experienced and powerful run blockers will open up lanes for tailbacks and protect emerging signal-callers. Coaches are reportedly exploring rotating linemen, developing hybrid players who can flex between guard and tackle roles, and integrating speed drills to enhance agility against elite pass rushers.
Skill positions also demand careful attention. Running back rooms such as Michigan’s require a balance of power runners and shiftier backs capable of exploiting mismatches. Scouting reports emphasize pass-catching ability out of the backfield as an underutilized weapon in current offensive schemes. Meanwhile, wide receiver corps must blend reliable possession targets with dynamic playmakers who can stretch the field vertically. The following table outlines key focus areas and potential impact players to watch:
| Position | Key Focus | Notable Player Types |
|---|---|---|
| Offensive Line | Run blocking & pass protection consistency | Versatile linemen, interior anchors |
| Running Back | Pass catch & inside/outside running balance | Power runners, receiving backs |
| Wide Receiver | Route precision & vertical threat | Reliable possession, deep speedsters |
Final Thoughts
As the 2025 college football season approaches, the spotlight increasingly shifts beyond the quarterback position to the pivotal-but often overlooked-questions emerging along the offensive line in Texas and within Michigan’s running back room. How these teams address key uncertainties will play a crucial role in shaping their offensive identities and overall success next year. With the offseason in full swing, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see which players rise to the challenge and how coaching staffs navigate these vital, yet unresolved, roster battles.