At first glance, the defense for the Ohio State Buckeyes might not seem too familiar. Losing experience and leadership is expected when defensive back Malcolm Jenkins and linebackers James Laurinaitis and Marcus Freeman depart Columbus.I’m not sweating it, though. Defensive depth has always served as a strong point for Jim Tressel teams.
With Ohio State’s defensive strategies, everything begins and ends with the defensive line. Led by junior ends Thad Gibson and Cameron Heyward, the Buckeye’s youthful pass-rush should improve after finishing eighth in the Big 10 in sacks.
Junior defensive tackle Dexter Larimore weighs in at 300-pounds. Larimore’s ability to eat up blockers allows the new linebackers to roam free and get comfortable.
Defensive line is the only area not noticeably impacted by players moving on.
Linebacker Austin Spitler’s patience finally pays off with Laurinaitis’ graduation. The fifth-year senior gets his chance to play, but I see sophomore Etienne Sabino push for playing time right away. Sabino played well in limited action last year and the highly touted linebacker could play any of the three positions.
My darkhorse impact defender is junior Brian Rolle. The 5-foot-11, 220-pound linebacker has the intensity and determination to step right in and play well. Think of a bowling ball with arms.
The loss of Jenkins hurts the leadership in the defensive backfield. It also means both sides of the field will be open for business. Junior Chimdi Chekwa has the tenacity and confidence to become a Jenkins-clone. I see Chekwa becoming the vocal leader right away for Ohio State’s defense.
Anderson Russell and Kurt Coleman return to their safety spots as the lone seniors in the backfield. One thing I am worried about is the depth behind Chekwa as the Buckeyes are light at corner.
Moving Jermale Hines to safety provides Ohio State with a strong run-stuffer and big-hitter in the secondary.
I would never doubt the importance of Jenkins and Laurinaitis, but the talents that are waiting in line happen to be exceptional. After previous bowl game disasters, versatility and athleticism has quickly become an importance for the Buckeye defense.