Ohio State Defensive Line Performance Could 'Define' 2023 Season

ESPN believes that the Ohio State Buckeyes will need their defensive line to get back to their disruptive ways.

Putting aside the question mark of the quarterback battle that has kicked off with the beginning of spring practice, the Ohio State Buckeyes need more out of their defense in year two under defensive coordinator Jim Knowles.  

In a recent article, ESPN cited that the Buckeyes' defensive line could define the 2023 season. "Any group of Ohio State's defense could fit here, but the Buckeyes really need their defensive line to become a disruptive force again," ESPN said. 

The lack of disruption isn't because of a lack of talent; as ESPN notes, defensive line coach Larry Johnson has recruited just as well if not better than his other defensive line counterparts, landing top-rated edge rushers in J.T. Tuimoloau, who is heading into his junior season, and Jack Sawyer. 

Tuimoloau showed flashes of what made him the No. 4 overall prospect in the 2021 class, recording two sacks and two interceptions against Penn State. But he has failed to rack up more than 3.5 sacks in his first two seasons.

"Veteran line coach Larry Johnson has enough to mold a consistently productive group, which could go a long way toward helping the overall unit improve in the second season under coordinator and play-caller Jim Knowles," ESPN later added. 

Being more disruptive could be key to the Buckeyes' advancing to the national championship game.

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