Skull Session: Jim Tressel Compares Ohio State’s 2024 Team to Its 2002 Team, Lathan Ransom Calls the Buckeyes’ 2024 Defense “The Best Goal-Line Defense Ever”
In a recent discussion, former Ohio State head coach Jim Tressel drew parallels between the 2024 Buckeyes and his 2002 national championship team. Tressel highlighted the 2024 squad’s resilience and defensive prowess, reminiscent of the 2002 team’s characteristics.
The 2002 Buckeyes, under Tressel’s leadership, achieved a perfect 14-0 season, culminating in a double-overtime victory against Miami in the Fiesta Bowl to secure the national title. That team was renowned for its stout defense, clutch performances, and an unyielding will to win close games. Similarly, the 2024 Buckeyes have showcased a formidable defense and a knack for rising to the occasion in critical moments.
A pivotal aspect of the 2024 team’s success has been its exceptional goal-line defense. Safety Lathan Ransom, a key defensive leader, lauded this unit, stating, “It shows you that there’s a grit, there’s a toughness, there’s a, ‘Never give up, give me an inch, I’m going to defend it’ type of mentality.” This mindset has been evident throughout the season, with the Buckeyes consistently denying opponents in crucial goal-line situations.
Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles has been instrumental in molding this defense. He emphasized the importance of preparation and execution, noting, “You’ve got to give Jim and the entire staff credit on defense for the preparation going into this game.” The defense’s ability to anticipate and counteract offensive schemes has been a cornerstone of their success.
The defensive line, featuring standouts like Jack Sawyer, J.T. Tuimoloau, and Kayden McDonald, has been particularly effective in goal-line scenarios. Their ability to penetrate the offensive front and disrupt plays has been crucial. For instance, during a critical sequence against Penn State, the defensive line stifled multiple attempts from the 3-yard line, culminating in a turnover on downs.
The secondary, anchored by Ransom and freshman sensation Caleb Downs, has complemented the front line’s efforts. Their versatility allows the defense to employ various schemes, keeping offenses off balance. Knowles highlighted this flexibility, stating, “It starts with the guys up front… then it’s this next level of guys… And then as the pile is there, you’ve got to push that pile back.” This layered defensive approach has been effective in neutralizing both the run and pass in tight situations.
The 2024 season has been marked by significant challenges. An early loss to Oregon served as a catalyst for defensive adjustments. Post-game analyses revealed vulnerabilities, particularly in handling RPO (run-pass option) offenses. In response, Knowles implemented a hybrid defensive scheme emphasizing three-safety looks and dynamic linebacker roles. This strategic shift paid dividends in subsequent games, notably in a rematch against Oregon during the College Football Playoff, where the Buckeyes secured a decisive 41-21 victory.
Offensively, the 2024 Buckeyes have been bolstered by transfer quarterback Will Howard and standout freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. Smith’s record-breaking performances have provided the offense with a dynamic edge, complementing the defense’s stout efforts. This balance between a high-powered offense and a resilient defense has been a hallmark of the team’s success.
Reflecting on the season, Tressel’s comparison underscores the timeless football adage: defense wins championships. The 2024 Buckeyes, much like their 2002 predecessors, have embodied this principle, using defensive tenacity as a foundation for their championship run. As the season culminated in a national title victory over Notre Dame, the team’s defensive legacy was firmly cemented, drawing well-deserved parallels to the storied 2002 squad.
