3 takeaways from Ohio State Football’s thrashing of Indiana
By Riley Thomas
3. The linebackers are playing very free and decisive
Since Matt Barnes took over play-calling duties, the linebacker unit is the most improved unit on the defense. They had another good game at Indiana on Saturday.
Barnes opting for more zone defense has allowed these athletic backers, like Cody Simon and Steele Chambers, to roam the field and look to create chaos. They are flying to the ball, making much quicker decisions.
The biggest complaint about the linebackers earlier in the season was how hesitant they were. Most agree that it is better to fly to the ball and make mistakes instead of simply sitting back and making mistakes. The Buckeye LBs are not perfect, but at least they are playing freely. The unit has made dramatic improvements in about only one month.
On this current trajectory, the linebackers could end being a good unit. Chambers is progressing at an insane pace and is consistently making plays, as seen in his tackle for loss leading to a fumble versus Indiana. Both Simon and Teradja Mitchell are playing well, making far fewer mistakes.
One player that could take this unit to the next level is Palaie Gaoteote. His situation has been difficult since he was not even granted eligibility until Week 2, but he still contains massive potential. Gaoteote has a big, lengthy frame complimented by being uber-athletic.
It is unlikely he starts getting meaningful reps this late into the year, but it is possible still. If Gaoteote makes jaw-dropping plays in very few snaps against someone like Penn State, he will be rewarded.
Ohio State’s linebackers were a clear liability through three weeks of play, which has rapidly changed. The linebacker unit now has a chance to become an advantage instead of a problem thanks to improved coaching.
Next. Ohio State Football: Big Ten East turning into carnage. dark
The Ohio State football team is off and running at the right time. We all know how much talent is on this team, finally seeing that come to fruition is very enjoyable. The Buckeyes will look to tear through Penn State this weekend on their path of destruction, proving they are a title contender.