The college football season is just over 100 days away from starting for the Ohio State football team. They will kick off the season against Texas in the Shoe on Labor Day weekend. They are looking to defend the national championship that they won a year ago.
They were able to win that national title on the strength of multiple great players. Two of those great players have already been named to the first preseason award watchlist of the 2025 season. The list for the Lott Impact Trophy has already released their preseason watchlist.
Two of Ohio State's best players on the defensive side of the ball are on that list. The Lott Impact Trophy is given to the nation's best defensive player. Considering two of the country's best players are with the Ohio State Buckeyes, it makes sense that two players make the preseason watch list.
Ohio State football players Caleb Downs and Sonny Styles appear on Lott Impact Trophy preseason watch list
Caleb Downs is widely considered the best defensive player in college football. The safety has already shown the ability to not only help in the run game but make plays in the passing game, as well. Downs should thrive in Matt Patricia's defensive system.
Sonny Styles is also on the preseason watch list. Styles really came on as a linebacker during the run in the College Football Playoff. It was only his first season as a linebacker, so he needed time to learn how to play the position. He should be one of the best linebackers in the country.
There will be several other Buckeyes who appear on other preseason watchlists this season. They are one of the most talented teams in the country. There should be multiple Buckeyes who win awards this season once it's all said and done.