Ohio State Football: Setting the tone on defense starts up front

The Ohio State football team had some problems stopping the run last season, especially in the two losses they had. They got bullied right from the snap as opposing teams imposed their will on the game. Once that happened, the Buckeyes then lost their ability to set the tempo of the game.

Stopping the run helps set the tone on the defensive side of the ball. That starts with the defensive line and the point of attack. Ohio State has to have better play on the defensive line to set the tone. It’s not just about stopping the run though.

Getting push on pass plays up front helps set the tone too. Ohio State needs to be the more physical team on the field in each game they play. That’s part of what Ryan Day and Jim Knowles are trying to fix on defense. The defense was too soft last season.

That softness is something the Buckeyes can’t repeat if they are looking to get back on top of the Big Ten. The Big Ten is known for having some of the toughest teams in the country. No one is going to back down when they’re facing the Buckeyes. They have targets on their backs every game.

The Ohio State football team will need the new defensive line to show the strength that last year’s line couldn’t. We know that it’s still a relatively young defensive line, but players like Zach Harrison and Javontae Jean-Baptiste are still there and have been around the block.

Toughness is built in the offseason and during summer workouts. The Buckeyes will certainly be working on that as the months approach and the season gets closer.