Three Ohio State football backups who should see significant playing time

2. Jermaine Mathews Jr.

As a freshman, Jermaine Mathews Jr. got thrust into some tough situations. He had to start a couple of games despite not having any experience. He thrived in those games and showed that he has what it takes to be the next great Ohio State cornerback once he is a starter.

With Denzel Burke and Jordan Hancock returning Mathews will still be a backup. He's still too good to sit on the bench though. He was one of the winners of the Spring Game. I think Mathews will get a shot to rotate in at the nickelback spot that Hancock occupies currently.

Once Burke leaves for the NFL after the season, Mathews is going to be a starter on the outside. He'll likely start opposite of Davison Igbinosun. He still wants to play this year though. Last season, he showed that he can create big plays. He had a 58-yard pick-six against Western Kentucky.

With someone who has so much poise at such a young age, it's important to make sure he gets playing time. Jim Knowles understands that and will make sure that Mathews sees the field in more than just blowout situations. He can make a positive impact on the Ohio State football team.

While Mathews will be a stud next season when he's a starter, he's still going to be a good backup. That's the case for the last person on this list as well who is forcing himself onto the field the more that the coaches see of him.