Jim Knowles describes Jack Sawyer as the ultimate team guy for Ohio State
Jim Knowles is grateful for Jack Sawyer, and it’s not just because of Sawyer’s legendary scoop-and-score in the Cotton Bowl that will become a staple in Ohio State football history. No, Knowles’ affinity for Sawyer is about so much more.
Asked about Sawyer at his Tuesday press conference, Knowles said the defensive stalwart has been doing it all ever since the defensive coordinator arrived in Columbus. Jim Knowles described a versatile individual who’s willing to do it all for the team.
“He’s done it since I’ve gotten here, just a great young man, personality, respect, work, smiles, can be tough when it’s time to be tough. Can have fun when it’s time to have fun. He’s the kind of guy you want to coach, that you can always count on,” Knowles said.
“If it’s a fist-fight, he’s going to fight. If it’s a finesse, he’ll finesse. If somebody needs to be talked to on the team or in the locker room, he’ll do that. He is just the consummate team guy.”
After coming to Ohio State as a 5-star recruit, Sawyer has been a 4-year contributor but truly began his ascension up front during the 2023 season. Now, he’s found another level down the stretch of his senior season.
It all even started with an interception against Michigan that should have swung momentum for the Buckeyes. The offense couldn’t live up to its end of the bargain, but Sawyer’s Playoff performance has been uncanny.
In 3 Playoff games, Sawyer has 4.5 sacks and 7 pass breakups while terrorizing opposing passers. Against Texas, it was Sawyer’s sack and scoop-and-score against former roommate Quinn Ewers that clinched the game for good and cemented his mark as an Ohio State legend.
Now, there’s one more game for Sawyer to further carve out his legacy with a national title. Just know whatever the Buckeyes need, Sawyer is ready to get it done.