With one of the most formidable rosters in collegiate football, Ohio State is brimming with high expectations. While the Buckeye offense has garnered considerable attention early on, it’s the defensive side of the ball that Coach Ryan Day highlights as a crucial factor in their status as serious contenders.
“Yeah, the first priority is getting the right players in the right positions, and I believe we’ve achieved that,” Day remarked during a recent interview on 97.1 The Fan. “It all began with the return of Cody Simon, followed by Jack Sawyer, Tyleik Williams, J.T. Tuimoloau, Denzel Burke, Lathan Ransom, and then Caleb Downs joining the mix.”
This defensive lineup is poised to rank among the nation’s elite, boasting a talent pool that easily ranks within the top five.
“There’s a lot of enthusiasm surrounding the defensive unit,” Day emphasized. “We’ll need to utilize our depth throughout the long season. But for me, it all boils down to mindset. The talent is there, and our focus now shifts to individual improvement during spring training. We aim to refine players technically and fundamentally, and as we transition into the summer, it’s about cultivating chemistry and forging a collective identity as a defensive force.”
The foundation is set with Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau anchoring the Buckeyes’ defensive line, ensuring a well-rounded unit under Jim Knowles. This season promises to feature Ohio State’s most formidable secondary in years, bolstered by the addition of standout defensive players from the transfer portal and the return of key talents like Denzel Burke.
The star-studded cornerback trio of Burke, Davison Igbinosun, and Jordan Hancock positions Ohio State’s secondary as one of the premier units in both the Big Ten and the nation. Additionally, the recent acquisition of Keenan Nelson Jr., a projected starter from South Carolina, adds valuable depth to the team’s defensive roster.
During spring drills, the Buckeyes’ veteran secondary demonstrated its prowess, holding the first-team offense scoreless during last month’s final scrimmage.
“It’s now become an expectation for our defensive backs — BIA, the best in America,” Knowles remarked, highlighting the competitive spirit and high standards that have propelled Ohio State’s pass defense to the forefront of collegiate football.
