Jack Sawyer came to Ohio State as a 5-star prospect. Unfortunately, he has bounced around a bit defensively and struggled to make a major impact a season ago in a hybrid role for Jim Knowles’ defense.

However, heading into 2023, Sawyer is back to focusing on his natural defensive end position in training camp. That’s a move that Knowles says Sawyer is thriving in over the last 2 days.

According to Knowles, Sawyer was already having a strong camp but has been dominant in recent practices:

“Last 2 days actually, Jack (won) Silver Bullet of the Day the last 2 days. I felt like he was at a high level during camp and the last 2 days he just kind of vaulted himself into being a dominant guy, so a lot of growth,” said Knowles. “I think that’s been a good move to just have him concentrate on (defensive end).”

If Ohio State is hoping to compete on its league-best Big Ten Championship odds, a major performance from Sawyer would help the defense dominate. Interested fans can take part in our BetMGM Ohio promo code to get in on all the action.

While Sawyer is thriving, he’s not the only one from the defensive end group that Knowles highlighted. The DC believes Ohio State has 4 players at the position that are either elite or potentially elite entering the season.

“Our Rushmen have had a great camp. We have four ends there that I think are as good as anyone in the country,” said Knowles. He specifically referenced Sawyer, JT Tuimoloau, Kenyatta Jackson and Caden Curry. “I think the depth there is fantastic, I think you have elite players and potentially elite players.”

Ohio State’s defense took one step forward in Knowles’ first year at the helm last year. Now, it looks like the defensive ends are primed to help the defense take an even bigger leap this fall.

(H/T Eleven Warriors)