Jim Knowles addresses challenges of preparing for JJ McCarthy, potential status of Blake Corum

Jim Knowles knows the pressure facing Ohio State’s defense this weekend. In 2021, it was largely the defense that let the Buckeyes down in key moments against Oregon and Michigan.

In 2022, Knowles has done his best to turn the unit around. Now, everything hinges on how Ohio State can match up with Michigan in The Game.

One key Knowles is getting his unit ready to face is QB JJ McCarthy. In particular, Knowles noted the scrambling ability of McCarthy and how that can pose problems for the aggressive front of the Buckeyes.

Jim Knowles on J.J. McCarthy, preparing for his ability to scramble:

“We have a hard-charging, aggressive defensive line,” he said. “Anytime you have players that can get after (the quarterback), scrambling can be an issue. We continue to work on it, and we’ll practice on it.”

— Chase Brown (@chaseabrown__) November 22, 2022

As for star running back Blake Corum, Knowles said the defense isn’t spending any time trying to figure out of Corum will be available on Saturday. Corum was injured against Illinois and was severely limited after halftime.

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According to Knowles, the Buckeyes are just rolling with the assumption Corum will be on the field no matter what.

Jim Knowles on Blake Corum: “We’re not spending any time investigating whether he’s going to play or not. We’re just assuming he’s going to play.”

— Griffin Strom (@GriffinStrom3) November 22, 2022

With or without Corum — or fellow running back Donovan Edwards — funny stuff can always pop up in rivalry games. The Buckeyes will need to be at their best in The Game.