Breaking news: In 2025, three Ohio State Buckeyes have the potential to emerge as defensive standouts.

In 2025, three Ohio State Buckeyes have the potential to emerge as defensive standouts.

Breaking News: In 2025, Three Ohio State Buckeyes Have the Potential to Emerge as Defensive Standouts

As the 2025 college football season approaches, all eyes are on the Ohio State Buckeyes, one of the most storied programs in college football. With a rich history of producing elite talent, Ohio State’s defense is poised to be a major strength this year, and three players, in particular, have the potential to emerge as standouts on that side of the ball.

1. Jack Sawyer – Defensive End

One of the most highly anticipated players entering the 2025 season is Jack Sawyer. The 6-foot-4, 270-pound defensive end has been a standout in spring practices, showing the kind of burst and power that has many scouts predicting a breakout year for the junior. Sawyer has already flashed his pass-rushing ability in previous seasons but will now be tasked with taking on a leadership role within the defensive line. With the departure of several key defenders to the NFL, Sawyer is expected to be a dominant force off the edge, wreaking havoc in opposing backfields and helping to solidify Ohio State’s defensive line as one of the most feared in the Big Ten.

Sawyer’s ability to get to the quarterback and disrupt the pocket will be critical for Ohio State, especially against high-powered offenses like Michigan and Penn State. His combination of size, speed, and technique could make him one of the best pass-rushers in college football in 2025, putting him on the radar for NFL scouts and potentially positioning him as a top draft pick next year.

2. Lathan Ransom – Safety

Lathan Ransom is entering his fourth year with the Buckeyes, and after a stellar 2024 campaign, he is poised for a massive 2025 season. The safety has been a steady presence for Ohio State’s secondary, showcasing his ball-hawking skills and ability to play in both the box and deep coverage. In 2024, Ransom made significant strides in his ability to read offenses and make critical plays at crucial moments.

With Ohio State’s defense potentially facing some early-season challenges due to youth in the secondary, Ransom’s leadership and experience will be invaluable. His instincts and ability to make plays on the ball—whether it’s coming up for a big tackle or intercepting a pass—could make him one of the top safeties in the nation. He’s been compared to past Ohio State legends like Malik Hooker and could emerge as the team’s leader in the back end, setting the tone for the defense throughout the 2025 campaign.

3. Sonny Styles – Linebacker

Sonny Styles has been a rising star since arriving in Columbus, and 2025 looks to be the year he truly breaks out. The sophomore linebacker is a physical specimen at 6-foot-4 and 220 pounds, with the ability to play multiple roles in the Buckeyes’ defense. Whether it’s rushing the passer, covering tight ends, or plugging gaps in the run game, Styles has the versatility and athleticism to be a game-changer.

His potential to be a key player for Ohio State is undeniable, and with another year of experience under his belt, he is expected to take on a larger role within the defense. Styles’ combination of size and speed allows him to be effective in both coverage and as a pass-rusher, making him a nightmare for opposing offenses to account for. Look for Styles to emerge as one of the top linebackers in the Big Ten and nationally as he becomes a more prominent figure on Ohio State’s defense.

Conclusion

As the 2025 season unfolds, Ohio State fans should keep an eye on these three players—Jack Sawyer, Lathan Ransom, and Sonny Styles—who have all the tools to become defensive standouts. With a mix of experience, talent, and potential, they could help the Buckeyes return to the top of the college football rankings, providing key contributions to one of the nation’s best defenses. The 2025 season is shaping up to be a pivotal one for these defensive stars, and their performances could be the difference between a championship run and another near-miss for Ohio State.