Key Ohio State defensive playmaker already benefitting from staff change in first spring practice
Monday marked the start of the 2025 college football season for the Ohio State Buckeyes. Spring practices are a key part of the early evaluation process for a staff that is easing in another new member after a flurry of departures. Because the Buckeyes are replacing so many coaches and a huge part of their National […]
Monday marked the start of the 2025 college football season for the Ohio State Buckeyes. Spring practices are a key part of the early evaluation process for a staff that is easing in another new member after a flurry of departures.
Because the Buckeyes are replacing so many coaches and a huge part of their National Championship talent core to the 2025 NFL Draft, even the little moments that attending media caught can be meaningful. The spring transfer window is coming sooner than later, so it's notable when coaches show special attention toward someone.
One of the top guys to watch this spring is CJ Hicks, who Ryan Day raved about on Monday after Hicks moved from linebacker to the EDGE room.
Hicks, a former 5-star recruit who has logged only 226 snaps over his first two years, was seen getting a lot of attention from new defensive coordinator Matt Patricia. This is great for the Buckeyes, who want the 6-foot-3, 233-pounder to become a big factor at a position with significant need.
Hicks' off-ball production certainly didn't inspire much confidence in his future with the program. His missed tackle rate of 14.8% and completion rate allowed (90.9%) were untenable numbers. They hoped Hicks would become an Isaiah Simmons-type player in space, but his instincts aren't tuned that way.
However, Hicks' limited opportunities as a pass-rusher were much different. His explosive first step and power were evident. Even on only 20 snaps as a defensive lineman in 2024, Hicks was more naturally productive and instinctive.
He racked up seven total pressures and three of those were sacks. Patricia's time with the New England Patriots and Detroit Lions wasn't always smooth, but his experience with versatile defenders and unleashing multiple fronts will benefit Hicks.
In turn, the defensive end will have the chance to at least play a large role on a young unit desperate for playmakers.
