Ohio State’s football team might have found its next breakout linebacker in C.J. Hicks. While Tommy Eichenberg and Steele Chambers are great talents and both are back to strengthen the team, Hicks has the potential to be the next star. Hicks was the 7th overall recruit in the country in the 2022 class and 2021 saw him accumulate only six tackles primarily playing on special teams. However, Hicks could find himself in the running for the “Jack” position, previously being held by Jack Sawyer, who’s now a full-time defensive end.
Hicks stands out from the rest in natural ability. No one else possesses the combination of size and speed that he does. If he could get on the field, he could be an asset to Jim Knowles’ defense. However, Cody Simon and Gabe Powers could also contend for the position. The team would be foolish not to put Hicks in a position to compete for playing time.
Knowles mentioned that he wanted to rotate linebackers more this season, which could lead to more playing time for Hicks. He will have to impress in practice if he wants to make the field for the Buckeyes.
Hicks’ talent alongside Sonny Styles is a source of excitement for Ohio State fans. Both players possess natural ability and could form a strong tandem for the team’s defense in the future. We’ll have to wait and see if they can earn some playing time this season.
Ohio State carries high expectations every year, but a lack of playtime for promising young players in the past has hindered their progress. The team needs to rotate players and give the talented Hicks a chance to prove himself. If they do, he could emerge as one of the breakout stars of the season.