NOT THE STANDARD: Ohio State Defense Faces PRESSURE—Defensive Line Must DELIVER — Locked On Buckeyes - Daily Podcast On Ohio State Buckeyes Football & Basketball

Ohio State Buckeyes' defense faces mounting questions as Ryan Day demands higher standards and hints at lineup changes. Can emerging young stars spark a turnaround up front, or will the run defense woes continue against Iowa’s old-school, play-action-heavy attack? Jeremiah Smith draws Saquon Barkley and Randy Moss comparisons as Kirk Ferentz and Matt Fontana spotlight his generational talent and rare playmaking ability.

Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick break down defensive rotations, linebacker struggles, and how injuries to Jay Timmons might impact the secondary. The conversation shifts to the offensive line, where Gabe VanSickle and Austin Siereveld are taking on larger roles, and the Legend Bey mystery deepens amid trust and discipline concerns. Get ready for a preview of the Iowa Hawkeyes’ disciplined, run-first style and its implications for Ohio State’s quest to reestablish dominance in the Big Ten.

Episode Timestamps

00:00 Ohio State Defense Changes
Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick analyze Ryan Day's comments on the defense, potential lineup changes, and struggles stopping the run.
12:13 Offensive Line Update
Discussion of Ryan Day’s remarks on the evolving offensive line rotation, Gabe VanSickle’s emergence, and Kirk Ferentz’s high praise for Jeremiah Smith.
22:15 Legend Bay Situation & Iowa Preview
The hosts break down the mystery around Legend Bay’s playing time, then shift to preview the Iowa matchup, including Iowa's play-action-heavy offense.

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Photo credit: Adam Cairns via Imagn Images

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