The Ohio State Buckeyes are poised to have one of the best defenses in the nation.
Last season, they were good, and this season, they’re expected to be even better. Ohio State is returning many key starters, including safety Lathan Ransom, who was among the key secondary leaders.
While he and Caleb Downs will main the free and strong safety position, the depth behind them should injuries set in throughout the long season is what is on defensive coordinator Jim Knowles’ mind.
Knowles sat down with the Columbus Dispatch’s Bill Rabinowitz and spoke on everything defense. Here’s an interesting part where he touched base on where the weakness of this formidable unit could lie.
“No. I think depth at safety − it’s going to be a long season − and development of those linebackers that have not played a lot of that position (is an issue),” Knowles said. “Sonny is making the transition. C.J. has been developing for two years and has to be the guy this year along with Sonny, so we need to get those guys on the field and going. Then who’s next at linebacker − Gabe Powers, Arvell Reese – already capable guys. And then the depth of safety. We’ve got Caleb Downs, who’s a great player with a great football mind and football intelligence. And Lathan (Ransom) is back. Who’s going to step up behind them? Malik Hartford, (Jayden) Bonsu, Keenan (Nelson Jr.) our transfer from South Carolina. So the depth at safety and linebacker (is a concern) because it’s a long season.”
Ohio State defense chasing 'perfection' and more observations from football training camp day 2 https://t.co/hQ7gEN1pfy
— Columbus Dispatch (@DispatchAlerts) August 2, 2024
Overall, Ohio State, who sat atop the nation in opponents passing yards last season, don’t have a ton to worry about. The defensive unit is strong, and the front should allow little time for receivers to get open regardless.
However, if there is one weak point, it’ll be safety depth. That said, let’s hope that isn’t one tested this upcoming season.