Jim Knowles confirmed on Monday that Sonny Styles will be starting at nickel safety on the Ohio State defense. However, there is a battle going on for one of the other safety spots.

Knowles was asked if Styles and Ja’Had Carter had solidified themselves as starters. Styles has, but there is a position battle for the other safety alongside Styles.

The Ohio State DC stated that Carter has been dealing with injuries. Lathan Ransom will be at what Knowles described as the “high safety area”. However, Malik Hartford, Josh Proctor, and Carter are fighting for the other safety position.

Between the three DBs Knowles named, the Ohio State DC mentioned they can play at safety or back up Ransom.

“Ja’Had’s doing well. Been banged up a little bit. In that high safety area, you’re looking at Lathan Ransom for sure. He’s had a great camp. You’re looking at Josh Proctor, Malik Hartford, and Ja’Had Carter. Really those three are fighting it out for that other position. Between the three of them, they’ll play there and also back up Lathan.”

Carter transferred to Ohio State during the offseason from Syracuse. He’s bringing his veteran experience with him to Columbus.

Knowles still has time to make a decision on where to play Proctor, Hartford, and Carter. The season opener is not until Sept. 2 against Indiana.

Kickoff will be at 3:30 p.m. ET on CBS.