Ohio State Star Delivers All-Time Claim on Buckeyes’ Defense

As Ohio State football prepares for a pivotal 2024 season, there’s a growing sense of excitement around the program. The Buckeyes have a storied tradition, known for both explosive offenses and dominating defenses that have consistently made them one of college football’s top programs. This year, Ohio State’s defense has taken center stage in the conversation about the team’s chances for a national title. With several key players returning, including some top-tier talents who will have a significant impact, the Buckeyes’ defense has quickly become one of the most highly anticipated units in all of college football.

One player who is particularly excited about the potential of Ohio State’s defense is star safety Lathan Ransom. Known for his leadership, consistency, and knack for making big plays, Ransom has been one of the defensive cornerstones for the Buckeyes over the past few seasons. This year, however, he has raised the stakes with a bold declaration: Ohio State’s 2024 defense could be one of the best in school history. Ransom’s claim is sure to make waves, but his confidence is rooted in years of hard work, preparation, and the unique blend of talent the Buckeyes have assembled on defense.

In this article, we will dive into the context of Ransom’s statement, break down the defensive unit’s strengths and key players, and explore how the Buckeyes’ defense could indeed become an all-time great. Furthermore, we’ll look at what it means for the Buckeyes’ chances in the 2024 season and their ultimate aspirations for a College Football Playoff berth and a potential national title.

Ransom’s Bold Statement: Ohio State’s Defense Could Be All-Time Great

When Lathan Ransom was asked about Ohio State’s defense ahead of the 2024 season, his response was unequivocal. “This defense is special,” Ransom said. “When I look at the talent, the depth, and the mentality we have this year, I truly believe this could be one of the best defenses Ohio State has ever had.”

For many, hearing such a statement from a player who has experienced the ups and downs of Big Ten football is eye-catching. After all, Ohio State has had some incredible defensive units in the past, including the 2002 national championship team and the 2019 squad that was a few plays away from a College Football Playoff appearance. But Ransom’s assertion that the 2024 defense could be better than these units shows the high level of belief he has in the team’s capabilities.

While it’s bold to make such an all-time claim, Ransom isn’t speaking out of turn. Ohio State’s defense has steadily improved over the past few years under defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, who has brought a more aggressive and complex scheme to the team. The 2024 squad is filled with elite-level talent, players who have a track record of performing on the big stage and a collective mentality that could push the defense to new heights.

Ransom’s confidence in the unit stems from several factors, not the least of which is the personnel Ohio State has at its disposal. The Buckeyes’ defense features a mix of returning veterans and incoming stars, each of whom will play a critical role in elevating the program’s defensive performance.

The Defensive Line: A Force to Be Reckoned With

One of the most significant factors contributing to Ransom’s optimism about Ohio State’s defense is the strength of the team’s defensive line. The Buckeyes’ defensive front has been a point of pride for the program for years, and in 2024, it could be one of the most dominant in the country.

The defensive line is led by Jack Sawyer and JT Tuimoloau, two of the most highly regarded pass rushers in college football. Sawyer, a former five-star recruit, has already shown flashes of brilliance, and his game is continuing to evolve as he matures. Meanwhile, Tuimoloau, who is coming off an impressive 2023 season, is a matchup nightmare for opposing offenses. His ability to rush the passer while also being a stout defender in the run game makes him an all-around force.

In addition to these two standout players, Ohio State’s depth along the defensive line is another reason for optimism. Players like Tyleik Williams, Ty Hamilton, and Caden Curry provide the Buckeyes with a rotation that is both deep and talented. This depth allows Knowles to keep his defensive line fresh throughout the game, which is crucial in the high-tempo Big Ten environment.

The Buckeyes’ defensive line is not just about raw talent, though; it’s also about the mentality that Ransom alluded to in his statement. With a unit this talented, the expectation is that the defensive line will disrupt opposing offenses, generate sacks, and put pressure on quarterbacks throughout the season.

The Linebackers: Experience and Versatility

Ohio State’s linebacking corps has been a critical piece of the defense for several years now, and the 2024 season is no different. The Buckeyes have a mix of experienced players and versatile athletes who can play multiple roles in Knowles’ defensive scheme. Steel Chambers, a veteran linebacker, is expected to anchor the middle of the defense, providing stability and leadership. His ability to cover ground quickly and make plays both in the running game and in pass coverage will be crucial for Ohio State in 2024.

Another key player in the linebacking group is Cody Simon, who has made significant strides in his development and could play a more prominent role in 2024. Simon, alongside Chambers, gives Ohio State two linebackers who are capable of covering ground quickly and playing both sideline to sideline and in space. Their versatility allows the defense to stay multiple, adjusting to the needs of different opponents and formations.

The linebacking unit will also benefit from the presence of some younger, highly-talented players who could make an immediate impact. Players like Dallan Hayden and Palaie Gaoteote could see significant playing time, providing the defense with even more depth and flexibility.

The experience of the linebackers, combined with their ability to handle various responsibilities, will be a crucial factor in whether Ohio State’s defense can live up to Ransom’s bold prediction.

The Secondary: Ball Hawks and Playmakers

Ohio State’s secondary is another unit that will be critical to the defense’s success in 2024. With Lathan Ransom leading the charge at safety, the Buckeyes boast one of the best defensive backs in college football. Ransom, known for his playmaking ability and leadership, has the instincts to make critical plays when it matters most. Whether it’s intercepting a pass, making a key tackle, or breaking up a pass, Ransom has the ability to change the game in a split second.

Alongside Ransom is Jahsen Wint, a fellow veteran who brings experience and a physical presence to the defensive backfield. Together, the two safeties form one of the most formidable duos in the country, capable of locking down opponents and providing support in both the passing and running games.

The cornerback position is also well-stocked for Ohio State in 2024. Denzel Burke has developed into one of the best cover corners in the Big Ten, and his ability to shut down receivers on the outside will be key for the Buckeyes’ defense. Jordan Hancock and Jyaire Brown are both expected to contribute heavily this season, providing depth and ensuring that the Buckeyes’ secondary remains elite.

Ohio State’s defensive backfield is a well-rounded group of athletes who can change the momentum of a game with a timely interception, a pass breakup, or a key tackle in the open field. The ability to defend against the pass will be critical in the Big Ten, especially with high-powered offenses on the schedule. The playmaking ability in the secondary will be a key to the defense’s success in 2024.

The Mentality: Ready for Championship Glory

In the end, Ransom’s bold claim about Ohio State’s defense is as much about mindset as it is about talent. Ohio State’s defense in 2024 is not only physically gifted, but it is mentally prepared for the rigors of a championship season. Ransom’s leadership, combined with the leadership of players like Sawyer, Tuimoloau, and Chambers, gives the Buckeyes a mental edge that many teams might lack.

There’s a real sense that this defense is poised to make a statement. Whether it’s the dominance of the defensive line, the versatility of the linebackers, or the playmaking ability of the secondary, the 2024 Buckeyes’ defense is primed to be special. With a mentality focused on winning championships, Ohio State’s defense is ready to prove that it belongs among the best in college football history.

 The Buckeyes’ Defense is Set for Greatness

Lathan Ransom’s claim that Ohio State’s 2024 defense could be one of the best in program history is not a statement made lightly. It reflects the confidence he and his teammates have in their abilities, as well as the incredible talent that has been assembled on that side of the ball. With a dominant defensive line, experienced linebackers, and a ball-hawking secondary, the Buckeyes’ defense has all the ingredients necessary to make history.

If Ohio State’s defense lives up to Ransom’s bold prediction, the Buckeyes will have a legitimate chance at securing a spot in the College Football Playoff and competing for a national championship. With the strength of the defense leading the charge, Ohio State is primed for another season of championship aspirations—and possibly an all-time great defense in the process. The 2024 season could very well be the year that the Buckeyes’ defense cements its place in college football lore.