May 14–21, 2025 | FreeWire — Your News, Your Voice.
By Jordan Black, Senior Sports Writer | FreeWire Magazine
From front office shakeups to on-field fireworks, it’s been a busy week in Ohio sports. Here’s what you need to know — no fluff, just facts (with a bit of flavor).
🏈 Cleveland Browns: Quarterback Chaos, Ownership News, and a Stadium Fight Brewing
The Browns are officially in quarterback limbo. With Deshaun Watson out again after re-rupturing his Achilles, it’s open season for the starting job. Former Steeler Kenny Pickett seems to have a leg up in camp, but don’t count out Joe Flacco (yes, still) or rookie Dillon Gabriel. Also in the mix: Shedeur Sanders, son of Deion, who just signed his rookie deal. Ironically, his contract is smaller than the NIL money he made in college — a sign of the times.
Meanwhile, the Browns are making moves off the field too. NFL legend Charles Woodson just bought into the team as a minority owner. That news dropped the same week rumors exploded about the franchise potentially moving to a new domed stadium in Brook Park. Local leaders aren’t sold — and who can blame them? The price tag is north of $2 billion, and even with Roger Goodell hyping it up as a Super Bowl-worthy venue, public skepticism is high. Especially if taxpayers are footing the bill.
⚾ Reds Sweep the Guardians in the Ohio Cup
In what can only be described as a clean takedown, the Cincinnati Reds swept the Cleveland Guardians in their annual Ohio Cup series — the first time that’s happened since 2012. Will Benson hit not one but two home runs in the final game, sealing a 3-1 win and a whole lot of bragging rights. The Reds are now back at .500 (24-24), while the Guardians slide to 25-21 — still competitive, but licking their wounds.
🏈 Ohio State Buckeyes: Coaching Shuffle & QB Questions
Ohio State football is entering the 2025 season with more questions than answers, especially under center. Devin Kienholz and Julian Sayin are both talented but unproven, and the Buckeyes are still figuring out who’ll take the reins. On the sidelines, Brian Hartline is officially taking over play-calling duties, and former Patriots coach Matt Patricia is leading the defense. Say what you want about Patricia’s past, but his presence suggests the Buckeyes aren’t here to experiment — they’re going for dominance.
🥎 Ohio State Softball Stays Alive in NCAA Tournament
The Lady Buckeyes aren’t done yet. After taking a tough 4–2 loss to Tennessee, they bounced back in dominant fashion, crushing Miami (Ohio) 11–1 to earn a spot in the Knoxville Regional Final. It’s win-or-go-home from here: they’ll have to beat Tennessee twice to move on. But with the way they played against Miami, don’t count them out.
🏈 Bengals Ready for Week 1 — and Watching the Browns’ Stadium Drama Closely
The Bengals open their season in Cleveland and, according to oddsmakers, are slight favorites heading into Week 1. But that’s not the only thing they’re watching across the state. Team execs aren’t thrilled that Hamilton County hired a stadium consultant who also works with… the Browns. Conflict of interest? They think so. Add this to the growing list of stadium disputes across Ohio.
Final Whistle
Big storylines this week: the Browns’ quarterback mess, stadium showdowns, and a whole lot of Reds firepower. Ohio State’s football future remains murky, but their softball team is still swinging. And with the NFL season creeping closer, expect more fireworks — and controversy — in the coming weeks.
🗣 Got a tip, a rant, or a rally cry? Drop us a line — we’re listening.
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