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Caden Curry weighs in on the Ohio State backup defensive tackles

Caden Curry weighs in on Ohio State's backup defensive tackles after stepping up in Tyleik Williams' absence. Did they meet the challenge, or is there room for improvement? Find out Curry's take on their performance.

By Jon Rhoades

Oct 21, 2023; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes defensive lineman Kayden McDonald (56) celebrates during the second half of the NCAA football game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State won 20-12.
Oct 21, 2023; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes defensive lineman Kayden McDonald (56) celebrates during the second half of the NCAA football game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State won 20-12. / Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
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Ohio State's defense faced a unique challenge in their recent game against Marshall with standout defensive tackle Tyleik Williams sidelined. The Buckeyes were forced to rely heavily on their backup defensive tackles, and according to defensive end Caden Curry, those players more than rose to the occasion.

"All of them stepped up," Curry said, reflecting on the game. "They all filled that role for Tyleik. It was a shame that he couldn’t play, but I feel like all of our tackles took on that responsibility, knowing they had to step up. And they all did."

The backups, including Ty Hamilton, Tywone Malone, Kayden McDonald, Hero Kanu, Jason Moore, and others, saw increased snaps and were tasked with maintaining the standard set by Williams. Here’s a breakdown of their contributions with stats from ESPN and snaps from PFF:

  • Ty Hamilton: Played 34 snaps and recorded three tackles. As one of the more experienced backups, Hamilton’s presence was vital in holding the defensive line together.
  • Tywone Malone: In his 28 snaps, Malone registered three tackles and one tackle for loss (TFL), showcasing his ability to penetrate the offensive line and make key plays. “Tywone has really gotten out of that baseball body,” Curry said, alluding to Malone’s past as a two-sport athlete. “He’s gotten into that violent hands, bigger body role, and is making great plays.”
  • Kayden McDonald: The freshman impressed with two tackles over 22 snaps, further bolstering Ohio State’s depth at the position.
  • Hero Kanu: Kanu played 26 snaps and managed to create pressure on the quarterback, adding another layer to the Buckeyes’ pass rush.
  • Jason Moore: In his limited time on the field, logging 14 snaps, Moore helped maintain a strong rotation up front.
  • Will Smith Jr.: Played 7 snaps, contributing reps in relief.
  • Eric Mensah: Got his feet wet with 3 snaps, adding depth to the rotation.

Curry praised the entire group for their ability to adapt, especially given the physical demands of playing on the interior defensive line. "Definitely, we’re going to need those backup D-tackles later in the season," Curry explained. "You can’t just bank on Tyleik all year. So, giving them that role early and often helps put it in perspective for them. It could happen in big games."

Ohio State’s defensive tackles were able to clog up gaps and apply pressure, ensuring Marshall’s offense couldn’t get into a rhythm. Although no one had any flashy stats, it's important to remember that stats aren't everything. The depth of Ohio State's defensive line will be a a crucial factor as the season progresses.

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In the absence of their leader, it was a performance that bodes well for the future, as Curry summed up: "Our bar is set really high... and those guys played their part."

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