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College Football Playoff preview: Ohio State defense
Urban Meyer’s teams are known for their ability to run the football and play sound defense. Nothing has changed in Meyer’s time in Columbus. This Ohio State defense is one of the best in the country.
Key players
Ohio State’s defense is chock-full of blue chip recruits, but there are a few players that are particularly important against Clemson.
Jerome Baker (So) Linebacker: Baker does not get as much attention as Raekwon McMillan OSU’s middle linebacker, however, that does not take away from the impact he has on the game. Baker is Ohio State’s most athletic linebacker and I expect him to be used in an attempt to spy Deshaun Watson.
Gareon Conley (Jr) Corner: Conley is the leader of Ohio State’s secondary who will likely shadow Clemson’s Mike Williams. This match-up is paramount as Williams has yet to be stopped all season long.
Malik Hooker (RSo) Safety: Hooker is an absolute ball-hawk in the Buckeyes secondary, currently holding six interceptions on the season, three of which were returned for touchdowns. I expect to see Hooker used to combat the size and speed of Jordan Leggett. Hooker is also big enough to play down in the box in run support. I expect the talented safety to be very active at the line of scrimmage.
Key features
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Ohio State is ranked third in scoring defense allowing just 14.2 points per game and fourth in total defense giving up 281.6 yards per game. This young Buckeyes unit does a good job of stopping the run which could spell trouble for Clemson. The Tigers offensive line has been soft at times this season, they cannot afford to lose the battle upfront in this one.
This Ohio State defense is not afraid to play man-to-man. With the skill and size they have in the secondary the Buckeyes are match-up nightmares for nearly any receiving core. One on one match-ups are going to be pivotal in this game as Clemson is equally talented at wide receiver. Deshaun Watson will have ample opportunities to take shots down the field, as well as run the football himself.
Ohio State defensive coordinator, Luke Fickell loves to rotate players in packages. Ohio State’s defense is deep at every level. If Clemson can ramp up their tempo it could keep Ohio State from subbing as often which could tire the Buckeyes out.
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