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Ohio State’s Jim Knowles hints at a position change that could help a former five-star recruit’s career take off

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Brandon Little | Last updated Nov 20, 2024 12:43 PM ET

Ohio State is cruising along this season so far and one big part of their success has been the defense. In the third year under defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, a veteran-led Buckeye defense has really stepped up.

The Buckeyes will need them to be solid down the stretch run of the season if they want to accomplish their goals. We are going to see depth tested more than ever thanks to the College Football Playoff expanding to 12 teams.

One player we could see more of in a different role is current linebacker C.J. Hicks. Hicks recently expressed that he needs to be rushing the passer more and Knowles hinted that just may be happening. When asked if Hicks could come off the edge more, Knowles didn’t counter.

"C.J. has that talent and that skill," Knowles said Tuesday. "I think his future is gonna involve a lot more of that."

When asked if he has considered having linebacker C.J. Hicks come off the edge more often, Jim Knowles responded, "Always."

"C.J. has that talent and that skill," he said. "I think his future is gonna involve a lot more of that."
— Chase Brown (@chaseabrown__) November 19, 2024

There were high hopes for Hicks when he arrived at Ohio State. The linebacker was ranked No. 2 at his position in the class of 2022 and was the No. 10 overall player. Ohio State was lucky enough that he was an in-state kid at Archbishop Alter, which always helps the recruiting chances.

Since arriving at Ohio State, Hicks has appeared in 35 games over the last three years. The Ohio native has made 34 tackles and two sacks. Both of those sacks have come this season when Ohio State has allowed him to get downhill after the pass rusher more.

At linebacker, Hicks has just never been able to grab a starting job. Sonny Styles made the switch from safety to linebacker this year and that took a bunch of snaps away from Hicks. Styles has earned that spot and the Buckeyes are giving it up. However, if Ohio State can utilize Hicks as a pure pass rusher more, it could make sense for the team and his future football path.

Don’t be surprised if the Buckeyes allow Hicks to get after the passer more in the future, which is what he wants to be doing. It may just work out, too.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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