If any coach carries himself as capable of not allowing a veteran unit to rest on past achievements, it's OSU defensive coordinator Jim Knowles. And Akron will be the first victim.
From every position group to quarterback leadership to play calling, the Buckeyes won't look like the 2023 unit that that sputtered through a season of inconsistent performances that ended in disappointment.
A spark every time he got on base in 2024, utility man Nick Giamarusti hopes to expand his role come fall practice as a player to build around in 2025.
Will Howard has pocket presence and looks better throwing the football in preseason camp than he did in spring practice. But talk of tucking the ball and running more than any quarterback since Justin Fields, ought to make some old-school fans happy.
The promise of early-season victories hasn't had the staying power Ohio State football needs to be relevant at the end of recent seasons. Can that change this year? Only if the Buckeyes find a way to be the hardest playing and toughest team in the nation. Read Jeff Gilbert in Friday Press Pros.
