The glow from Ohio State ’s football national championship hadn’t even worn off when Jermaine Mathews Jr. turned his thoughts to the 2025 season.

The junior cornerback from Cincinnati played 396 snaps last year, the most of any Buckeye non-starter on defense. He knew he was in line to take over for Denzel Burke this season opposite senior Davison Igbinosun .

“I’m ready,” Mathews said.

Like Igbinosun, Mathews plays and carries himself with plenty of swagger.

“I think he’s probably a little more over the top than me, but we both have got that fire,” Mathews said.

Ohio State coach Ryan Day said Mathews has learned to channel that passion.

“I see so much growth in Jermaine in terms of maturity,” he said. “He’s a very emotional player, but he’s learned to keep those emotions in check.

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