Eric Boggs
Ohio State’s defensive line is known for its depth and talent, and the addition of Logan George is proving to be an intriguing storyline this spring. Defensive line coach Larry Johnson spoke about the young lineman in his recent press conference, detailing what makes George a unique and valuable addition to the Buckeyes.
Johnson’s connection with George goes beyond just his on-field ability. The Ohio State coach had a prior relationship with George’s high school coach and athletic director, which helped facilitate the recruitment process. With George available and eager to join the program, the Buckeyes took a shot on him. So far, it appears to be paying off.
“He’s been a pleasant surprise to us all,” Johnson said, acknowledging that George has brought more to the table than initially expected. One of the standout qualities that Johnson noted was George’s quickness. While his game tape showed promise, seeing him in live action solidified the belief that he has strong hands and the ability to get off blocks and set the edge. These traits make him an asset to the defensive front and someone the coaching staff is excited to develop further.
When asked to compare George to Caden Curry, another defensive lineman on the roster, Johnson made it clear that the two are different players. Curry, having been in the program for four years, is more seasoned and familiar with Ohio State’s defensive schemes. George, on the other hand, is still adjusting to the nuances of the system but is making strides in his development.
The conversation shifted toward other defensive players, particularly CJ Hicks and his transition into the defensive end role. Johnson emphasized the importance of patience, noting that it’s still early in the process, but he is optimistic about CJ’s ability to play both the run and the pass effectively. The edge position demands versatility, and Johnson believes CJ has the technical ability to excel.
As the Buckeyes continue through spring practices, the development of the defensive line remains a top priority. Johnson praised the effort of the interior linemen, stressing that the key is playing hard and refining technique. The early returns are promising, but there is still work to be done to ensure they reach their full potential by the time the season kicks off.
Leadership is another area of focus following the departures of key players like JT Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer. Johnson pointed to multiple players stepping up, including Curry and Tywone Malone. He emphasized the importance of collective leadership, rather than relying on just one or two veterans to carry the load.
For Malone, the transition to a bigger role has been a work in progress. Having spent much of his athletic career in baseball, he’s had to make significant adjustments to focus solely on football. Johnson acknowledged the difficulty of that shift but expressed confidence that Malone is ready to make a significant impact this season.
Jason Moore was another name that came up during the discussion. A player with all the physical tools to be a dominant three-technique lineman, Moore still needs more reps to refine his game. Johnson hopes that by the end of spring ball, Moore will have logged a significant number of snaps, setting him up for a breakout season.
The Buckeyes are still evaluating the full scope of their defensive line heading into the season, and spring practices will be crucial in determining the final rotation. Johnson remains optimistic, noting that the early signs are positive. The energy and willingness to learn among the players have been key factors in their progress so far.
As Ohio State builds toward another championship-contending season, Logan George’s emergence is just one of many storylines to watch. With the guidance of Johnson and the support of his teammates, he has the potential to develop into a key contributor for the Buckeyes’ defensive front.
