Ohio State defense faces challenges ahead of 2026 college football season

Ohio State's defense, under new coordinator Matt Patricia, has key personnel losses and a tougher schedule for the upcoming season. The team lost several top players to the NFL Draft, including defensive tackle Kayden McDonald and linebacker Arvell Reese. Despite adding experienced transfers, questions remain about whether the defense can maintain its previous year’s performance. They opened last season strongly, allowing only minimal points in their first games, but struggled against Miami in the postseason. The upcoming schedule includes challenging matchups against Texas and Big Ten opponents like USC and Nebraska, raising concerns over their ability to limit opposing offenses.

• 3:01 PMYahoo Sports — Biggest Concerns: The Ohio State defense will take a step back this year