Javontae Jean-Baptiste spoke highly of the impact that DC Jim Knowles has had on the Buckeye defense.

Jean-Baptiste categorized a typical Knowles defense as “strategic, fast, and physical.” Jean-Baptiste also said the Buckeyes are “trying to play offense on defense”, and praised the added leadership in the DL room.

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Jean-Baptiste might just have a point. After finishing 59th in total defense in 2021, the Buckeyes are currently 2nd in the category.

Oklahoma State, Knowles’ previous team, was 4th in total defense in 2021. Without Knowles in 2022, the Cowboys are currently 117th. The Cowboys have still managed to go 6-1 in Knowles’ absence.

Jean-Baptiste is 2nd on the team in sacks, with 3. Jean-Baptiste only garnered 1.5 sacks in the 2021 season.

The Buckeyes’ defense will get their next test in Week 9, when they travel to Happy Valley. Kickoff is scheduled for noon ET on FOX this Saturday.

Here’s everything Jean-Baptiste had to say about Knowles’ defense: