Ohio State’s defense has yet to allow an opponent to reach double digits on the scoreboard this season, fueling conversations about whether this year’s squad might be even more dominant than the Buckeyes’ 2024 national championship defense.

Cardale Jones, co-host of THE SCRIPT: A Podcast on THE Ohio State Buckeyes alongside Beanie Wells and Dave Holmes, urged fans and analysts to stay grounded in their evaluations.

“The Buckeyes don’t rebuild, they reload,” Jones said, repeating a mantra he’s stood by since the summer. “No matter who you are, no matter what your playing experience is, when we put you in the game we expect you to perform.”

Cardale Jones, Beanie Wells debate where 2025 Ohio State defense ranks

Jones acknowledged the impressive talent and depth on the current roster but stopped short of declaring them better than last year’s historic unit.
“I’m not ready to stamp that yet,” he said. “Is this defense really good? I think they’re better through five games than last year’s team through five games. But last year’s defense did some historical-type things.”

Beanie Wells, however, didn’t hesitate to make his stance clear.
“When you look at the production we are getting from everybody at every position I think it’s worth having a discussion,” Wells said. “In my opinion I will go ahead and say this defense is better than last year’s defense.”

Wells pointed to standout linebacker Arvell Reese, who has climbed NFL draft boards and was recently named the nation’s top linebacker by ESPN’s Todd McShay. He also praised the defensive scheme improvements under new coordinator Matt Patricia, contrasting them with last year’s approach under Jim Knowles.

Jones agreed that Patricia’s system has brought noticeable improvements, but he wasn’t ready to crown the unit just yet, invoking Lee Corso’s iconic phrase —
“Not so fast!” — in response to Wells’ confident assessment.

The lingering question: Which team will be the first to break through and score double digits against Ohio State?

Cardale Jones at Ohio State

Cardale Jones etched his name into Ohio State football lore during the Buckeyes’ 2014 national championship run. Originally the third-string quarterback, Jones was thrust into the starting role late in the season after injuries to Braxton Miller and J.T. Barrett.

He led Ohio State to a stunning victory over Wisconsin in the Big Ten Championship, followed by wins over Alabama in the Sugar Bowl and Oregon in the national title game. His poise, arm strength, and leadership during that stretch earned him national recognition and cemented his legacy as one of the most clutch performers in program history.

Jones returned for the 2015 season amid high expectations but faced challenges in a crowded quarterback room. Despite the ups and downs, he finished his Ohio State career with an 11–0 record as a starter and declared for the NFL Draft in 2016. His time in Columbus remains a testament to perseverance and seizing the moment when opportunity strikes.

Beanie Wells at Ohio State

Chris “Beanie” Wells was a dominant force in the Buckeyes’ backfield from 2006 to 2008. After a promising freshman season backing up Antonio Pittman, Wells exploded onto the scene in 2007 as the team’s feature back. He rushed for over 1,600 yards and 15 touchdowns that year, helping lead Ohio State to a national championship appearance against LSU. Known for his blend of power and speed, Wells was a nightmare for defenders and a consistent game-changer.

Injuries hampered his junior season, but Wells still managed to rush for over 1,000 yards in just 10 games. He declared for the NFL Draft after his junior year and was selected in the first round by the Arizona Cardinals. His impact at Ohio State remains significant, as he’s remembered as one of the most physically gifted running backs to ever wear the scarlet and gray.

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