Is Ohio State's Linebacker Depth a Plus?

Is Linebacker Depth a PLUS?

Ohio State may have more options at linebacker than expected — and that could become a major advantage for Matt Patricia's defense in 2026.

In this episode of The Buckeye Weekly Podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr break down the Buckeyes' linebacker room and what Ryan Day had to say about the group's progress during fall camp. Peyton Pierce appears locked in as a centerpiece, while Christian Alliegro brings experience and versatility after arriving through the transfer portal.

But the real intrigue may be behind them. T.J. Alford and Riley Pettijohn are both pushing for meaningful roles, Ohio State could use more three-linebacker looks this season, and Qua Russaw gives the defense another unique option as an edge-rushing weapon.

So just how deep can this linebacker rotation go — and could that depth become one of the strengths of the defense?

0:00 — Welcome to the Buckeye Weekly Podcast
0:17 — Breaking down Ohio State's linebacker room
0:41 — What Ryan Day said about the young linebackers
1:03 — T.J. Alford and Riley Pettijohn earning opportunities
1:48 — How close are the young linebackers to being ready?
2:29 — Finding the best role for Riley Pettijohn
3:16 — Mike, Will and Sam linebacker roles explained
3:55 — Peyton Pierce and Christian Alliegro atop the depth chart
4:14 — Where does Qua Russaw fit?
4:47 — Russaw's role in Ohio State's Okie front
5:24 — Why Russaw is more pass rusher than off-ball linebacker
5:57 — Christian Alliegro's versatility at Will and Sam
6:34 — Could Riley Pettijohn handle some of the same responsibilities?
6:56 — Ryan Day expects to rotate more linebackers
7:11 — Why Ohio State may need four linebackers playing regularly
8:03 — Could a fifth linebacker earn meaningful snaps?
8:30 — A freshman linebacker getting opportunities in a package
8:48 — Final thoughts and BuckeyeInsiders.com

How deep do you think Ohio State should go at linebacker this season? And which player outside the projected starters are you most interested in seeing? Let us know in the comments.

For more Ohio State football coverage, fall camp intel, practice reports and discussion, visit BuckeyeInsiders.com and join us on The Insiders Board.

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