Ohio State Football: Brendon White gives defense an attitude lift
A disappointing aspect of this year’s Ohio State football team has been the lack of intensity on defense. That changed when Brendon White came into the game.
Ohio State’s Brendon White is a popular man this week. He should be after his performance against Nebraska.
The Buckeyes’ defense has been inconsistent and underperforming, and picked apart on the field by opponents and off the field by fans and media. They earned it.
Many were hopeful that the off week would give this unit a chance to regroup after getting blasted by Purdue.
Fans wanted to erase their memories of a lousy defensive performance where it appeared that the defense quit. At best they wore out.
Against the Cornhuskers, the miscues and mistakes that have plagued the defense all season continued early in the game. There could be all kinds of reasons for the mediocre play. None of it matters.
Ohio State should be setting the bar of excellence in college football, not getting into close battles with the likes of Purdue, Indiana, Minnesota and a 2-6 Nebraska team.
Related story: Ups and downs in win over Nebraska
More from Ohio State Football
- Ohio State Football: How Denzel Burke has bounced back so far this season
- Ohio State Football rolling into form at the perfect time
- How Ohio State football has done historically versus new Big 12
- Ohio State Football: We need to see “Killer Ryan Day” at South Bend
- Ohio State Football vs. Notre Dame Prediction, Odds, Spread and Over/Under for College Football Week 4
I have said many times that the Buckeyes have two peers, Alabama and Clemson. Neither program would allow what is happening on the defensive side of the ball this year.
Getting better really comes down to leadership, instinct, determination and attitude. That’s where White comes into the picture.
Forced into the Nebraska game after Jordan Fuller was ejected for targeting, White displayed the qualities of a Silver Bullet. His impact was immediate and he finished with 13 tackles. That’s called getting the job done.
After Nick Bosa’s departure, the defense has been void of anyone taking charge. Some players have played well, but the defense has not put a complete game together.
Right now, it looks like White could be that guy to coalesce this unit. His play will be contagious and others will rise to his level. He must be on the field.
The Spartans are gearing up for a fight. White’s play against Nebraska gives me faith that he is not only ready for the fight, he’ll be the one continuously punching Michigan State in the mouth until it submits.
I think his teammates will join him and make a statement that Ohio State is ready to defend its crown.