The 197-pound weight class is expected to be a fun and competitive tournament at the 2025 NCAA Wrestling Championships. Jacob Cardenas of Michigan is looking strong after a comprehensive body of work, including finishing third at the Big Ten championships.
However, Buchanan’s ability to ride and turn will serve him well as he moves through the rounds. The two have a long history, with Ferrari having won their last matchup 9-4 for third at last year’s nationals.
Barr fell to Buchanan in the dual and to Cardenas at Big Tens but tore through most of his opponents. Beard suffered an 11-3 loss to Barr on Dec. 8, 2024, but has 20 season wins.
Ferrari hasn’t faced high-level competition this season like others, but that makes him dangerous. He’s a proven winner and the only returning NCAA champion in the field. Cardenas is wrestling better than ever, and his explosive takedown game will come in handy if he faces Ferrari in the finals. Expect one of these three to win the title.
The predicted order for the top spots are:
1. AJ Ferrari
2. Jacob Cardenas
3. Stephen Buchanan
4. Josh Barr
5. Michael Beard
Source: https://www.flowrestling.org/articles/13915796-2025-ncaa-wrestling-championship-preview-predictions-197-pounds