Ohio State football will be missing a key defensive player for their game against Northwestern at Wrigley Field. The player, who typically plays both linebacker and defensive end, is officially listed as unavailable on the team’s availability report. He is joined by several other teammates, including a tight end, a left tackle, and two defensive backs.
Entering this matchup, Ohio State is coming off a victory against Purdue, though this versatile player contributed only four snaps during that game. Despite limited playing time, his adaptability was evident whenever he was on the field. Although primarily listed as a linebacker, he has mostly taken on the role of an edge rusher, aligning with Ohio State’s strategy of using four linemen and two linebackers.
In the recent game against Purdue, the Buckeyes experimented with a “jack” position, which combines elements of both a defensive end and a linebacker, making this player a suitable fit for the role as envisioned by defensive coordinator Jim Knowles.
This versatile asset, who is in his fifth year with the program, has participated in all nine games this season. His name is Mitchell Melton.
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