Despite how the Jim Knowles' first defense finished the season, there's reason for optimism heading into 2023.
Knowles' track record indicates his defenses get better over time, as he installs the full package and the program attracts players that best fit the system.
The Buckeyes ranked No. 26 in both pass defense (200.5) and rush defense (121.1 ypg) while slotting No. 24 in scoring defense allowing 21.0 points per game.
Big plays haunted the Buckeye defense however, especially down the stretch, and most of those came via the air. Ohio State ranked just 66th in yards per attempt allowed (7.2) and 50th in completion percentage allowed (58.9%).
This year, quite a bit if talent returns in the secondary including names like Denzel Burke, Lathan Ransom, Jordan Hancock, Sonny Styles, Cameron Martinez, Jyaire Turner and Kye Stokes. Augmenting those guys, key transfers include safety Ja'Had Carter and cornerback Davison Igbinosun while OSU also welcomes true freshmen such as Calvin Simpson-Hunt, Jermaine Mathews and Jayden Bonsu.
All that considered, I've got two questions for you as we head into the 2023 season..
- What are your expectations for the Ohio State pass defense from a statistical perspective?
- Who is your "starting five" in the secondary?
