Eric Boggs
Ohio State’s linebacker room is buzzing with talent, but one name that’s starting to rise above the rest is sophomore Arvell Reese. After a solid summer and an impressive showing in fall camp, Reese is making the most of every opportunity—especially with team captain Cody Simon sidelined due to injury.
Reese’s journey to this point hasn’t been straightforward. Last season, he played in eight games as a true freshman, primarily contributing on special teams. However, this year has been different. In Ohio State’s recent 52-6 victory over Akron, Reese made his defensive debut with authority, recording four tackles and a tackle for loss. His performance was a key part of a Buckeyes’ defense that held Akron to just 47 rushing yards.
With Simon out, Ohio State made some adjustments, moving junior Will linebacker Sonny Styles to the middle and slotting junior C.J. Hicks into Styles’ spot. This opened the door for Reese to step in as the backup middle linebacker, and he seized the opportunity. Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles and linebackers coach James Laurinaitis have both taken notice, praising Reese’s athleticism and ability to cover ground from sideline to sideline.
“Arvell has really impressed us,” Knowles said. “His athleticism is something special, especially given his size. He’s been picking up the defense well, and he’s a guy we think is going to flash even more as the season progresses.”
Reese’s summer wasn’t without challenges, but he responded by putting in the work and showing he could handle the pressure. Head coach Ryan Day highlighted Reese’s preparation as a key factor in his recent success.
“There was a moment last week where his preparation was just okay, and then he really dug in and did a great job,” Day said during a press conference back during fall camp. “That allowed him to play fast, and when you see that athletic ability combined with his effort, it’s really exciting.”
Reese’s transition from playing defensive end in high school to middle linebacker at Ohio State has been a learning curve, but one that he’s handled with poise. He’s grown into the role of the “Mike” linebacker, a position that requires not only physical skill but also a strong understanding of the game and the ability to lead the defense.
“You have to be the general at Mike, getting everyone lined up and making sure everything’s right,” Laurinaitis said. “Arvell has done a nice job studying the playbook and getting it down. He’s had a really strong fall.”
As Reese continues to develop, the pressure is on for Simon to return to the field quickly. If not, Reese may cement himself as the permanent starter at middle linebacker. His combination of size, speed, and growing football IQ makes him a formidable presence on the field, and the Buckeyes are eager to see just how high his ceiling can be.
Reese’s emergence is a testament to the depth and talent Ohio State has at linebacker. With each passing week, he’s proving that he’s ready to step up and take on a bigger role. If his recent performances are any indication, the future looks bright for Arvell Reese in scarlet and gray.
