Ohio State's defense is in good hands with the emergence of Earl Little Jr. and Terry Moore, who are stepping up to fill the void left by Caleb Downs. Little, a fifth-year senior safety, has already made a rapid impression, losing his black stripe after just five practices and earning high praise from his peers. Moore, a second-team All-ACC safety at Duke, also made a strong start, although he began the spring with the second-team defense. The competition for starting spots is fierce, with Little, Moore, and Jaylen McClain all vying for key roles. McClain, a quiet star last season, is now expected to take on a bigger role, while Roker III and Moore are also in the running. The projected depth chart suggests a strong safety unit, with McClain, Little, and Moore all bringing unique skills to the table. However, the absence of Downs will be felt, and the depth behind Roker III is a concern. Overall, Ohio State's safety unit could be one of the best in the country this season, but it will take a collective effort to fill the shoes of one of the greatest safeties in program history.
