Ohio State Football: Where do the Buckeyes go from here?

How will Ohio State Football bounce back in the offseason?

We all know what absolutely must be addressed in the offseason, the defense.

The way the Wolverine offensive line dominated the Buckeyes from start to finish was embarrassing. OSU takes pride in its defensive line, and they turned in a pitiful performance. Larry Johnson, the Defensive Line coach, has done remarkable things for Ohio State. Johnson cannot and will not be let go after one poor season unless he decides to retire.

Everyone outside of Johnson on the defensive staff is fair game. More than likely, Ryan Day will have a defensive overhaul ahead of next season. This needs to happen as this staff through two seasons has shown the inability to adjust mid-game, and poor schemes and decisions continue to be present.

For example, why in the world would the Bucks roll with two linebackers and five defensive backs against a run-reliant offense like the Wolverines? This was certainly puzzling since four linebackers were capable of playing: Steele Chambers, Cody Simon, Tommy Eichenberg, and Teradja Mitchell.

Instead of enforcing one particular defensive scheme, Day needs to be open to a new defensive play-caller implementing their own system. Becoming multiple defenses with better decisions on the fly is a must. Matt Barnes leaned towards multiple defenses mid-season but making that change during the year is too difficult. Day has at least shown he is willing to do whatever it takes to fix the defense.

Once the coaching staff is addressed, the impact of new players will be interesting. Hitting the transfer portal will be key. Ohio State reeling in the LSU cornerback transfer Elias Ricks would be massive. They may want to add more defensive tackles and linebackers too.

Overall, the offense under Day will be fine. C.J. Stroud will be back and the receiving and running back rooms are still loaded. Turnover on the offensive line could be good. Transitioned tackles playing guard led to poor run blocking at times this season.

Next year, traditional guards like Matthew Jones and Donovan Jackson could add the nastiness needed in the interior, while Dawand Jones and Paris Johnson are two uber-talented offensive tackles.

Yes, the season has ended up disappointing. But Ohio State football remains a powerhouse with immense potential. National championship goals will be put in place again for next season.