It’s no secret the back end of the defense was an issue for Ohio State last season, especially when it comes to giving up big plays against the best teams on the schedule.
That figures to be different this season with more depth, some reinforcements via the transfer portal, and a second year in the Jim Knowles’ defense. But don’t take it just from us because the folks that hand out the Jim Thorpe Award seem to agree, naming two OSU defensive backs on the 2023 preseason watch list.
Cornerback Denzel Burke and safety Lathan Ransom were among 35 names identified as players to watch by the screening committee because of their performance last year in addition to expectations for this season. The Thorpe has been around since 1987 and recognizes the best defensive back in the country yearly.
We’re watching. Let’s get this ‘23 season started. #ThorpeAward 🏆 pic.twitter.com/kG53doV2rL
— Paycom Jim Thorpe Award (@jimthorpeaward) August 10, 2023
Two Ohio State players have won the award with Antoine Winfield receiving the honor in 1998 and Malcolm Jenkins winning it ten years later in 2008.
Contact/Follow us @BuckeyesWire on X (formerly Twitter), and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Ohio State news, notes, and opinion. Follow Phil Harrison on X.
