Ohio State Buckeyes have a former transfer who might be finally breaking out to be the player he’s capable of
With more games than ever being played, it’s an important development.
Last year’s national championship run wouldn’t have happened for the Ohio State Buckeyes without their depth stepping up. With the new 12-team expanded College Football Playoff, teams are being tested more than ever in that area. More games mean more chances for injuries and fatigue to show, so depth has become a bigger factor than ever. Ohio State has already had to rely on several backups this season, and one player in particular is showing major growth.
Ryan Day points out former transfer is coming around for the Buckeyes
“I think his confidence is as high as it’s ever been,” head coach Ryan Day said of defensive tackle Tywone Malone Jr. on Tuesday. “He had some great plays — great effort plays. He’s thriving right now in this defense, and you’re seeing some bounce in his step. He’s getting better each week.”
Ohio State’s two starters at defensive tackle are Kayden McDonald and Eddrick Houston. Houston has been dealing with a minor injury and missed the last game against Illinois, so the Buckeyes needed someone to step up. Malone was that guy, recording four solo tackles — his most of the season. It was likely the best game of the Ole Miss transfer’s Buckeye career, as he finally put it all together in his third season in Columbus.
Malone spent his first two years at Ole Miss, where he also played baseball. Since transferring to Ohio State, the former Rebel has mostly been a rotational player, limited by the talent in front of him. The Buckeyes just sent Tyliek Williams and Ty Hamilton to the NFL back in April, which opened up the depth chart. McDonald looks like the next draft-caliber interior lineman, while the rest of the group — Malone included — continues to show flashes.
Now in his fifth and final season of eligibility, Malone seems to be putting it all together at the perfect time. He doesn’t need to start to make an impact, as shown by his strong performance around the goal line against Illinois. If Malone continues to progress as the season goes on, it will only mean good things for the Buckeyes’ defensive front.
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