THE BUCKEYES’ SECONDARY SHUFFLE: HOW WILL OHIO STATE’S DEFENSIVE BACKS MATCH UP AGAINST TOP OPPONENTS?”

 

 

“THE BUCKEYES’ SECONDARY SHUFFLE: HOW WILL OHIO STATE’S DEFENSIVE BACKS MATCH UP AGAINST TOP OPPONENTS?”

 

The Ohio State Buckeyes’ secondary has been a strength of the team for years, with a legacy of producing top-notch defensive backs who can shut down opposing receivers. But this season, the Buckeyes are facing a unique challenge: how to replace the production of departed cornerback Sevyn Banks.

 

Banks, who started 10 games for the Buckeyes last season, was a key component of the team’s pass defense. His departure has left a void that the Buckeyes are still working to fill.

 

One player who is expected to step up and fill the void is sophomore cornerback Denzel Burke. Burke, who started 5 games for the Buckeyes last season, has been impressive in his limited action, showing a level of physicality and ball skills that is rare for a player of his age and experience.

 

“Denzel is a talented player who has a lot of potential,” said Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles. “He’s got a great combination of size, speed, and agility, and he’s always around the ball. We’re expecting big things from him this season.”

 

Another player who is expected to play a key role in the Buckeyes’ secondary is senior safety Ronnie Hickman. Hickman, who started 12 games for the Buckeyes last season, is a physical player who can provide support in the run game and also cover receivers in the passing game.

 

“Ronnie is a leader on our defense,” Knowles said. “He’s a smart player who understands the game, and he’s always in the right position. We’re counting on him to be a key player in our secondary this season.”

 

The Buckeyes’ secondary will face a stiff test this season, with a schedule that includes matchups against top opponents like Michigan, Penn State, and Notre Dame. But with players like Burke and Hickman leading the way, the Buckeyes are confident that they can shut down opposing receivers and help the team win.

 

“We’re excited about our secondary,” Knowles said. “We’ve got a talented group of players, and we’re confident that they can make plays and help us win.”

 

“Ohio State’s Secondary Depth Chart”

 

– Cornerbacks: Denzel Burke, Cameron Brown, Lloyd McFarquhar

– Safeties: Ronnie Hickman, Tanner McCalister, Kourt Williams

 

“What the Experts Are Saying About Ohio State’s Secondary”

 

– “Ohio State’s secondary is one of the most talented in the country,” said ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit. “They’ve got a great combination of size, speed, and agility, and they’re always around the ball.”

– “The Buckeyes’ secondary is a key component of their defense,” said CBS Sports analyst Gary Danielson. “They’ve got a talented group of players, and they’re always making plays.”