Ohio State football: Six Buckeyes who intrigue me
By Del Barris
Palaie Gaoteote – The former USC transfer linebacker got off to a slow start last season thanks to the NCAA dragging its feet on his eligibility. He played in just eight of OSU’s thirteen games, totaled only 78 plays for the year (according to snap counts compiled by Eleven Warriors), had nine tackles, and got in on a sack.
Because of his size (6’2”, 248 pounds), he was used here and there in goal-line situations. That size combined with the fourteen games he started in his time at USC is what intrigues me about him. My hope is going through an entire off-season with the Buckeyes will allow him to show off what made him a regular for the Trojans.
Jacolbe Cowan – When I say this you’re going to immediately want to send me a nasty message, but hear me out. Whenever I saw him in 2021, he reminded me of Chase Young early in his Ohio State football career. Why? Because Young had an unbridled athleticism when he first joined the program.
He never quite looked like he knew what he was doing, but was flying around and having fun. You knew if that athletic ability could be harnessed and aimed in the right direction, Young was going to be something special. I’m not saying Cowan is going to be Chase Young someday or he has THAT kind of athleticism. I’m simply saying that’s who he reminded me of when I saw him.
Very athletic, but barely under control. The 6’4”, 273-pound redshirt sophomore played in five games last year and made three tackles. I’m very interested to see what he looks like physically and on the field as the 2022 season-opening game approaches in seven months.
Mike Hall, Jr. – The redshirt freshman defensive tackle has the look of someone who is just plain ornery on the football field. Maybe it is because he picked up two penalties, including a personal foul for a throat slash, in his debut against Akron.
Maybe it is because he reminds me of former Buckeye BB Landers (they’re nearly identical in size). Regardless of the reason, he looks like he has a motor and personality that never stops. Being limited to just four games last season allowed him to preserve his redshirt.
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A few of those I mention will see significant playing time in 2022. Some might not see much playing time at all. The off-season development of all intrigues me. Are there a few Buckeyes who pique your interest? If so, let me know.