As Ohio State football prepares for a defensive overhaul, a major transition is underway. With the departure of defensive coordinator Jim Knowles to Penn State, head coach Ryan Day faces the challenge of replacing a key figure in the Buckeyes success. Whether the new coordinator is promoted from within or brought in from outside, they’ll be stepping into a program with both young talent and high expectations.
A New-Look Defense
Ohio State will return only three defensive starters in 2025, all in the secondary. Of the 36 scholarship players who took defensive snaps last season, 24 will be back. This presents an opportunity for many players who have spent their early years waiting behind experienced veterans to finally make their mark.
Here’s an early look at how the lineup might shape up:
Defensive Line
Defensive Ends: Kenyatta Jackson, Caden Curry
Key Depth Players: C.J. Hicks, Zion Grady
After biding their time behind standout players like Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau, Jackson and Curry will step into starting roles. The big question will be whether they can maintain consistency while filling the shoes of a duo that combined for over 20 sacks last season.
The departure of Ohio State’s top defensive ends could also signal a shift in scheme. The incoming coordinator may introduce a more flexible defensive front, giving Hicks a chance to showcase his skills as a pass rusher rather than a traditional linebacker.
Defensive Tackles: Eddrick Houston, Kayden McDonald
Key Depth Players: Tywone Malone, Jason Moore
Houston’ s transition to defensive tackle has unlocked new potential in his game. He could become Ohio State’s most disruptive interior lineman in years. Paired with McDonald, the duo has the potential to minimize the impact of losing key veterans like Ty Hamilton and Tyleik Williams.
Depth could be a concern, however, especially after the transfer of Hero Kanu. This puts pressure on Malone and Moore to step up and solidify the rotation.
Linebackers
Middle Linebacker (MIKE): Arvell Reese
Key Backup: Payton Pierce
Reese is poised for a breakout season. Last year, he made the most of his opportunities, registering over 40 tackles in limited snaps. With veteran Cody Simon moving on, Reese has the potential to be a key playmaker under linebackers coach James Laurinaitis.
Pierce, a highly regarded recruit, is entering his first full offseason after missing his senior year of high school due to injury. His development will be worth monitoring as the Buckeyes build depth at linebacker.
Weak-Side Linebacker (WILL): Sonny Styles
Key Depth Players: Garrett Stover, Riley Pettijohn
Stylesdecision to return is a game-changer for the Buckeyes. He was a key contributor last season with over 100 tackles, several sacks, and multiple pass breakups. As a leader on defense, he’ll be expected to elevate his game even further.
Behind him, Pettijohn ”a highly rated freshman “has the potential to develop into the future of the position. His first year will likely be spent learning from Styles before stepping into a bigger role.
Secondary
Cornerbacks: Jermaine Mathews, Davison Igbinosun
Key Depth Players: Aaron Scott Jr., Devin Sanchez
The cornerback group remains one of the most stable positions on the defense. Igbinosun, a multi-year starter, returns to provide veteran leadership, while Mathews is expected to take a big step forward in his third season.
Depth at cornerback is also a major strength. Scott has been developing steadily, and Sanchez, a highly touted freshman, has the potential to contribute immediately.
Looking Ahead
While Ohio State’s defense will look vastly different in 2025, there’s no shortage of talent waiting to emerge. The incoming defensive coordinator will have the challenge of developing young players, implementing a new scheme, and maintaining the high standards expected in Columbus. With the right leadership, this unit could evolve into another dominant force for the Buckeyes.
