Ohio State Football: Front seven showed up right on time
Ohio State’s defensive line and linebackers came ready to play against arch rival Michigan and were suffocating at the line of scrimmage.
Throughout this fast-paced 2018 season, Ohio State’s defense has constantly been belittled and disregarded by not only the media but other teams in the B1G, and rightfully so. However, the defensive line and linebackers showed up against their arch rivals with a chip on their shoulder and a purpose to play.
It seemed as if Malik Harrison and Pete Werner’s names were being called on every play. The linebackers combined for 13 total tackles, one sack and two TFL’s, according to NCAA.com. Sophomore, Tuf Borland, added to that with 10 total tackles, as well as outstanding instinct and gap discipline in the run game.
The defense did give up 39 points, which is still concerning, although the last two scores given up could have been considered “garbage time” points.
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Ohio State fans should be optimistic of the defense’s performance against a strong Michigan offense, which ranks 4th in Time of Possession and 8th in 3rd Down Conversion Percentage, according to NCAA.com.
Juniors Malik Harrison and Jonathan Cooper continuously amped up the pressure on Shea Patterson. Michigan’s offense was playing as if it were being suffocated most of the game rather than being loose.
Defensive linemen Dre’Mont Jones and Robert Landers quietly combined for six total tackles, but ate up blocks and double-teams when Michigan attempted to run the ball which freed up the linebackers to make plays.
Also, Chase Young had a tremendous edge rush and hit on QB Shea Patterson which led to Jordan Fuller’s interception. In fact, the entire front seven played as a unit and was fundamentally sound against the Wolverines. The Buckeyes must have another such effort on Saturday to have a chance at making the playoff.
Next. CFP for OSU and OU but not ND?. dark
A battle for the B1G Championship on the horizon against a tough Northwestern team will bring out the true demeanor of this team. And determine whether Ohio State will be playing Dec. 29, or in a bowl game on New Year’s Day.