Lots of top-tier college football programs have elite competition behind the scenes, intense workouts and even more intense practices. But two of Ohio State's veteran transfers from other heralded programs – Alabama, namely – see another level of intensity in Columbus.
New defensive tackle James Smith played three seasons at Alabama. New safety Earl Little Jr. spent two seasons with the Crimson Tide and two at Florida State. Both are experiencing a level of competition they view as greater within the halls and fields of the Woody Hayes Athletic Center.
"The level of competition, day in and day out," Little said of the differences between Ohio State and Alabama. "At Alabama, we didn't compete in the weight room how we do here. So it's literally like, everything you're doing at Ohio State, you're gonna compete and you have to bring your best every single day."
Smith couched his statements about the differences in intensity, but still indicated that they're there.
"I feel like the intensity is different," Smith said. "I don't want to even say the intensity, it's just like, everything's so intentional. Everybody's already laid out – you know, they have a new coaching staff at Alabama, so it's like, they're still trying to learn and stuff. Here it's already stable, and like, they already know (what to do)."
In fact, for Smith, Ohio State's level of competition and intensity reminds him of an older Crimson Tide team, that of his freshman year. One coached by seven-time national champion head coach Nick Saban. It's why the Buckeyes attracted him in the transfer portal.
"It gave me that feeling back from when I visited as a freshman with (Nick) Saban," Smith said. "It felt like that. I came here, they didn't lie to me, not one time. Nothing they told me. Coach (Larry) Johnson told me, 'It's gonna be hard.' So, I was OK with that."
Another difference Smith noted is a difference in speed. Long from the days of broadcasters and media personalities using the term "SEC speed," the Big Ten has won three consecutive national championships, including Ohio State in 2024. For Smith, it's Big Ten speed that's been an adjustment.
"When I was there, it was like, 'We're working hard at this, that.' Here it's the same, but it's like the intensity is, it's almost – everything is so much faster," Smith said. "I feel like it's the Big Ten. SEC, we're big and slower. Here's it's more fast, more speed, just trying to wear an opponent down."
Smith noted there's no animosity he holds toward Alabama, and his transfer wasn't sparked by a feeling that the program wasn't good enough. It was just time for something new.
"I just feel like I needed a new start," Smith said. "Nothing against Bama, great program, just need a fresh start. I'd like to say again, another two great programs, but there's some differences."
A higher level of competition and intensity matches Little's play style. Ohio State cornerbacks coach Tim Walton called him a "fireball" on Wednesday.
"I'm a very physical player," Little said. "I just play with a chip on my shoulder every play. I love what I do, I love how I play and I just wanna be that presence. (Make) that offense feel, that they have the quarterback scanning the field and all that, I wanna be that dude like, 'OK, where's (No.) 1?' So that's just my approach."
Now, Little and Smith are hoping the intense competition at Ohio State translates to winning a national championship as Buckeyes.
