Of course, as is the case with any unit in football, the defense as a whole has been the beneficiary of several spectacular individual efforts to begin the season. “I do that as I kind of think weeks in advance … We’ve put things in now that you’ll see in the coming weeks.” “There are things that we have installed that we have not shown yet,” Knowles said. “We’re just starting to approach the level that we want to be at, but there is more that we can do in those two areas,” he said.Īs his players get increasingly comfortable in the scheme, and as the scouting report necessitates it in the weeks to come, Knowles said there is more the Ohio State defense can show that should make for an even more dynamic attack as the stakes ramp up. Knowles added that he is pleased with how his defense has been able to get off the field on third down. You feel good about not getting creased because guys are in the right place, which is always important, particularly with a new scheme.” Guys seem to know the scheme and where they fit and where the ball is going to come out. “We can be better, but I’m just pleased with the way we’re fitting things and the way that we’re playing fast. “I’m pleased with where we’re at in the run game,” Knowles said on Tuesday. Against the run, which was the doom of Ohio State’s season a year ago in losses to Oregon and Michigan, the Buckeyes are allowing just 93 rushing yards per game.Īlthough it would be fair to question the level of offenses Ohio State has faced through half the season - none rank in the top 60 in total offense - it must also be noted the struggles of the defense a year ago were hardly a result of its inability to withstand the attacks of prolific offenses.

Six weeks into the season, the Silver Bullets are right where they need to be as Ohio State enters its bye week.įollowing a 49-20 win over Michigan State on Saturday, Ohio State now ranks seventh nationally in total defense and is giving up an average of just 254 yards per game. 24 game against Wisconsin in Ohio Stadium.ĬOLUMBUS - Ohio State head coach Ryan Day stood before the media contingent at Big Ten Media Days in August and didn’t mince words about the lofty expectations for his revamped defense under coordinator Jim Knowles. (51) looks toward the sideline during the Sept. Ohio State defensive tackle Mike Hall Jr.

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