Ohio State’s **Caleb Downs** has officially been crowned the **best defensive back in college football**, according to ESPN [A](https://www.espn.com/college-football/player/_/id/4870706/caleb-downs?copilot_analytics_metadata=eyJldmVudEluZm9fY2xpY2tTb3VyY2UiOiJjaXRhdGlvbkxpbmsiLCJldmVudEluZm9fY29udmVyc2F0aW9uSWQiOiJ3VkN2SFhyaGc5UzQ2Um9nUlR3bjQiLCJldmVudEluZm9fbWVzc2FnZUlkIjoiaHAzREZDUldDOXNIVGV4aTQ4R3Z0IiwiZXZlbnRJbmZvX2NsaWNrRGVzdGluYXRpb24iOiJodHRwczpcL1wvd3d3LmVzcG4uY29tXC9jb2xsZWdlLWZvb3RiYWxsXC9wbGF5ZXJcL19cL2lkXC80ODcwNzA2XC9jYWxlYi1kb3ducyJ9&citationMarker=9F742443-6C92-4C44-BF58-8F5A7C53B6F1). Downs, a standout safety, has solidified his reputation as one of the most dominant defensive players in the nation, earning recognition over top competitors such as **Leonard Moore of Notre Dame, Jermod McCoy of Tennessee, and D’Angelo Ponds of Indiana**.
### **A Defensive Force**
Downs has been a game-changer for Ohio State’s defense, showcasing elite **instincts, tackling ability, and coverage skills**. His ability to read plays before they develop has made him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. Whether it’s breaking up passes, making clutch interceptions, or delivering hard-hitting tackles, Downs has proven to be a complete defensive back.
In the **2024 season**, Downs recorded **48 solo tackles, two interceptions, and six pass deflections**, cementing his status as a defensive leader [A](https://www.espn.com/college-football/player/_/id/4870706/caleb-downs?copilot_analytics_metadata=eyJldmVudEluZm9fY2xpY2tTb3VyY2UiOiJjaXRhdGlvbkxpbmsiLCJldmVudEluZm9fY29udmVyc2F0aW9uSWQiOiJ3VkN2SFhyaGc5UzQ2Um9nUlR3bjQiLCJldmVudEluZm9fbWVzc2FnZUlkIjoiaHAzREZDUldDOXNIVGV4aTQ4R3Z0IiwiZXZlbnRJbmZvX2NsaWNrRGVzdGluYXRpb24iOiJodHRwczpcL1wvd3d3LmVzcG4uY29tXC9jb2xsZWdlLWZvb3RiYWxsXC9wbGF5ZXJcL19cL2lkXC80ODcwNzA2XC9jYWxlYi1kb3ducyJ9&citationMarker=9F742443-6C92-4C44-BF58-8F5A7C53B6F1). His ability to shut down elite receivers and provide run support has made him an invaluable asset for the Buckeyes.
### **Recognition and Rivalry**
ESPN’s ranking of Downs as the **top defensive back** comes after a season filled with intense competition. Players like **Leonard Moore, Jermod McCoy, and D’Angelo Ponds** had stellar performances, but Downs’ consistency and impact on Ohio State’s championship-contending defense set him apart.
His dominance was particularly evident in **high-stakes matchups**, where he played a crucial role in securing victories for Ohio State. His ability to perform under pressure has made him a favorite among analysts and fans alike.
### **Ohio State’s Defensive Legacy**
Ohio State has a long history of producing elite defensive backs, and Downs is the latest in a line of legendary players. His recognition as the **best defensive back in college football** further strengthens the Buckeyes’ reputation for developing top-tier talent.
With Downs leading the secondary, Ohio State’s defense has been one of the most formidable units in the country. His leadership and skill set have helped the Buckeyes maintain their dominance in the **Big Ten Conference**.
### **Looking Ahead**
As Downs prepares for the **2025 season**, expectations are higher than ever. With his talent
