Is Defensive Tackle a Problem for the Buckeyes?

Is defensive tackle a legitimate concern for Ohio State heading into the 2026 season?

Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr examine the biggest questions surrounding the Buckeyes’ interior defensive line, beginning with the expected step back at nose tackle following the departure of Kayden McDonald.

Can Will Smith Jr. and UCF transfer John Walker provide enough disruption in the middle? Does Ohio State have the depth necessary to play its preferred fronts? And can Jason Moore finally establish himself as a dependable member of the rotation?

Tony and Tom also discuss the possibility of one of the true freshmen earning meaningful snaps and explain why the development of Eddrick Houston could determine the ceiling of the entire position group.

Houston has shown flashes, but after battling a knee injury last season, Ohio State needs the former five-star prospect to become a more consistent and disruptive presence. The arrival of James Smith may ease some of that pressure, but the Buckeyes still need answers throughout the defensive tackle room.

Are these concerns justified, or does Ohio State already have enough talent and experience to remain strong up front? Let us know in the comments.

0:00 — Introducing Ohio State’s defensive tackle concerns
0:23 — The expected step back at nose tackle
1:59 — Comparing Will Smith Jr. and John Walker to Caden McDonald
4:09 — Does Ohio State have enough defensive tackle depth?
5:30 — What can the Buckeyes expect from Jason Moore?
8:20 — Can Ohio State survive with a four-man rotation?
10:15 — Why Eddrick Houston must take the next step
11:19 — Reasons for optimism about Houston
14:00 — Final thoughts on the defensive tackle room

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