Ohio State Football: 6 players who will determine OSU’s success
By Alex Austin
![NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 14: (L-R) Finalists for the 85th annual Heisman Memorial Trophy, quarterback Joe Burrow of the LSU Tigers, quarterback Justin Fields of the Ohio State Buckeyes, quarterback Jalen Hurts of the Oklahoma Sooners and defensive end Chase Young of the Ohio State Buckeyes pose for a picture on December 14, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images) NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 14: (L-R) Finalists for the 85th annual Heisman Memorial Trophy, quarterback Joe Burrow of the LSU Tigers, quarterback Justin Fields of the Ohio State Buckeyes, quarterback Jalen Hurts of the Oklahoma Sooners and defensive end Chase Young of the Ohio State Buckeyes pose for a picture on December 14, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/0f7e85dcd516ce96b22437d5d7045adfa9a8e4d39de0d4611493d7c41e8d5aef.jpg)
Ohio State needs their Rushmen to step up this year
Last year, Ohio State had a strong defensive line. From top to bottom there was a lot of talent and the unit played well together. The element this team was lacking was the one-player defenses had to plan around. Chase Young and the Bosa brothers set high bars in what it means to be an Ohio State defensive lineman, but this year the Buckeyes need a player to fill that role.
My guess for who steps up is Zach Harrison. Harrison will get the starting role with all that goes with it. The expectations will be high for Harrison but for good reason. He should be able to take the next step this year and become a candidate for the best defensive lineman in the country.
This is something that would be huge for the Buckeyes as they go throughout the year. Especially when they get to the playoffs, Ohio State will want to have a player that causes the opposing team fits all on his own. This allows his teammates more opportunities and elevates the team as a whole. If Ohio State is to win against the best teams in the country, Harrison will need to become a household name.
Harrison won’t be the only defensive end to make an impact on this team either. Javontae Jean-Baptiste has looked great in camp. The two stud freshmen, Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau, have also had some really good moments early. All should make an impact.
The next person on this list is someone who could break a record for the Buckeyes.