Jim Knowles understands Tommy Eichenberg is not your average, everyday linebacker. With his career production and elite leadership, Eichenberg brings a different level and edge to Ohio State’s defense.

While at Tuesday’s press conference, Knowles was asked about the possibility of getting Eichenberg back from injury for The Game. The defensive coordinator admitted it would mean “everything” to get the LB back and said he’s the kind of individual the Buckeyes want standing on the wall in defense of the program.

“Everything. Everything. Tommy will bring every single ounce of his person to this game, and he will fight to defend our honor,” explained Knowles. “That’s just the kind of guy he is. He’s the kind of guy we all want on that wall.”

The good news for Ohio State and Knowles’ defense is that Ryan Day said Eichenberg could have gone against Minnesota. Day admitted the LB was struggling with not playing on Senior Day, but the head coach said the team wanted to give him an extra week to be full strength for The Game.

Hopefully, Eichenberg is available because he is a true leader for the Buckeyes. His 73 total tackles lead the Buckeyes, and Eichenberg posted 120 total tackles last season.