Talented But Young Defense
Posted by
Matt Finkes on 8/26/2013
Welcome to the Ohio State Huddle, Buckeye Nation!! We all know that Urban is known for his high powered offenses and how he never takes his foot off the pedal when it comes to scoring points, but let's talk about the side of the ball that REALLY matters! Everyone knows, “DEFENSE WINS CHAMPIONSHIPS”!
The Buckeyes definitely had some issues when it came to the defensive side of the ball last year. Luke Fickell and Everett Withers seemed to have some growing pains working together at points last season including blown coverages, missed assignments and poor tackling. Poor fundamentals were talked about throughout the Buckeye Nation during the season.
Depth at linebacker was so sparse that Zach Boren was moved from the offensive side of the ball to start at linebacker midway through the season. Though, as all great teams do, the Bucks found a way to make it work on their way to a, perfect, 12-0 season. This season, the depth is there, but the lack of experience at some positions could possibly slow the Silver Bullets down, if the young players can't get up to speed in time.
In the game of football, it all starts up front. For the Buckeyes in 2013, games started will be something this front four lacks in experience. The loss of Nathan Williams, John Simon, Johnathan Hankins and Garrett Goebel leave the Buckeyes with no returning starters, but fear not, the fresh crop of young d-lineman are loaded with talent.
Two guys who received a lot of playing time last season are sophomores, former 5-star recruits, Adolphus Washington and Noah Spence. Look for these two to make plays in bunches from the end positions this season. In 1994, the Buckeyes fielded two new starting sophomore ends, including freshman Orlando Pace, who played both sides of the ball. (added this as an interesting suggestion) Even with such a young d-line it worked out pretty well for the next 3 years! Defensive line coach Mike Vrabel is proving to be a rising star in the coaching ranks, and being the career leader in OSU history for sacks, he might have a few tricks up his sleeves to teach these youngsters. Look for Michael Bennett and Tommy Schutt to be the guys on the inside and young newcomer Joey Bosa to get on the field at some point.
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