Since defense wins championships, it’s safe to say it will decide the Ohio State Buckeyes’ 2013 season.
There are few areas of concern for the offense, even with the suspension of Carlos Hyde for the first three games.
The question mark will be the defense. Urban Meyer will be relying on a lot of new players stepping up, many of whom are sophomores. Ohio State only has four starters coming back from last year’s team.
You might be worried as a fan if it wasn’t for the sheer amount of talent on that side of the ball. The Buckeyes are loaded with blue-chip prospects who are looking at their first opportunity to start. If those players fulfill their potential, this will be the best defense in the Big Ten.
Of those first-time starters, these three players need to have the biggest seasons.
DE Noah Spence
Although the Buckeyes have four new starters on the defensive line, there’s reason for optimism in Columbus. You cannot immediately replace the leadership of John Simon and Nate Williams on the edge. What you can replace is their production.
Part of that starts with sophomore Noah Spence. At 6’3″ and 247 pounds, Spence is built to get after the passer.
He’s big enough and fast enough to get by just about any offensive lineman. Although still a bit raw, Spence has enough technique and ability with his hands to be more than just an athletic pass-rusher who just relies on his physical gifts.
Continue Reading: Ohio State Football: Defensive Players Who Must Break out in 2013
