As the Ohio State football team gears up to face Marshall on September 21st in a Big Noon Kickoff showdown, the Buckeyes’ linebacker rotation remains a hot topic of discussion. With depth at the position, Ohio State linebackers coach James Laurinaitis has the luxury of rotating talent, but who will emerge as the starters in this pivotal game? Using player snap counts, key stats, and insights from Laurinaitis, we can begin to decipher who will take the field first, and who will provide critical depth off the bench.

The Likely Starters

Cody Simon
Snaps:
– Vs. Akron: Did not play
– Vs. Western Michigan: 31 snapsCody

Cody Simon, the experienced leader of this linebacker group, is the top candidate to start at Mike linebacker. After missing the Akron game for precautionary reasons, Simon returned with a strong performance against Western Michigan. In just 31 snaps, he recorded three total tackles, one solo, one sack, and a pass deflection—a stat line that showcases his versatility and ability to make impact plays when needed.

Styles’ ability to adjust to the linebacker role has been remarkable, and Laurinaitis continues to trust him in key situations: “When you’re in that box closer to the line of scrimmage, it is more difficult trying to read and react, but Sonny has been reacting well.”

With his speed, tackling ability, and adaptability, Styles has solidified himself as one of the most important pieces in Ohio State’s linebacker corps, and he’s expected to start once again versus Marshall.

Key Depth Players

Arvell Reese
Snaps:
– Vs. Akron: 32 snaps
– Vs. Western Michigan: 20 snapsCody

Sophomore Arvell Reese has been one of the more intriguing storylines in Ohio State’s linebacker rotation. Reese has accumulated 52 snaps so far, with 32 against Akron and 20 against Western Michigan. A hard-hitting linebacker with excellent blitzing ability, Reese has 7 total tackles this season and 1 QB pressure.