Expectations were for the Ohio State Buckeyes to be a powerhouse this fall. There have been impressive moments, especially for the offense, but the team's defense hasn't quite matched the hype. With a veteran-laden defense that returned all key players but Mike Hall, Oregon's 32-point explosion was far beyond acceptable.

The fallout won't be too severe just based on one road game where everything went wrong. However, now is the time for head coach Ryan Day and defensive coordinator to work with some younger talent and apply pressure to stars who are struggling. Waiting any longer could reinforce that poor play is accepted.

Here's why the Buckeyes must consider cutting the playing time of cornerback Denzel Burke and JT Tuimoloau. 

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Denzel Burke, CB

Burke, who championed this season as a national championship-winning year or bust, has endured a career-worst season thus far. Whether it's from internal pressure causing him to jump routes and be out of position or a draft prospect hoping to improve his stock, Burke is only a starter due to his pedigree right now. Oregon was just a tipping point.

After producing stellar coverage rates, limiting penalties, and creating the occasional turnover or pass breakup over his first three years, 2024 has been the complete opposite experience. Offenses have completed almost 86 percent of targets on Burke, and he's nearly given up a career-high in yards and touchdowns. 

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Obviously, his showing against Oregon may have ruined his reputation. There's no question his overaggressiveness on two double-moves contributed to Ohio State's loss. Oregon completed all eight targets on Burke, totaling 179 yards. 

While Davison Igbinosun and Jordan Hancock have had their questionable moments this season, Burke has been replacement-level when it matters most. With sophomore Jermaine Mathews Jr. possessing more athleticism, the Buckeyes should work the youngster in a rotation with Burke.

At best, Burke returns to star form. At worst, Mathews gets needed game reps, so he doesn't hit the field with only 40 coverage snaps played if an injury happens. 

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JT Tuimoloau, EDGE

The pass-rushing duo of Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer have received a lot of heat for their lack of effectiveness. While some of that is due to the scheme demanding them to prioritize run keys and lane fills, the criticism is fair. There are not nearly enough impact plays from this pairing.

Tuimoloau's absence is especially frustrating. He has only 16 pressures created in 114 pass-rush snaps, winning only 15.6 percent of attempts. Those rates are well below his 2023 numbers and about on par with his sophomore season stats.

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The lack of development under defensive line coach Larry Johnson has permeated the unit. But someone has to be able to light a fire for the group. While Tuimoloau was credited with seven pressures against Oregon, it never felt like he was on the field.

Whether it's Mitchell Melton, C.J. Hicks, Kenyatta Jackson, or Caden Curry, there's available talent with more explosiveness than what Tuimoloau brings to the table. That doesn't mean Tuimoloau won't ever play, but he should be considered an early-down specialist and potential 3-tackle on third and long situations.

The alternative of giving him the bulk of edge-rush snaps just isn't a viable strategy if this team wants to win in the conference and in the Playoff.