Jim Knowles explains how Reid Carrico fits in to Ohio State defensive plan

Reid Carrico didn’t get much of an opportunity to contribute for Ohio State this past season, but first-year Buckeyes defensive coordinator Jim Knowles sees that changing in 2022. In a recent interview from spring practice, Knowles talked about getting the linebacker more involved.

“Reid has a chance,” he said. “He’s a quiet guy, but he’s definitely determined. I see him making progress every day. We had Cade (Stover) — when he was with us — kind of working that Sam position. I put Reid in there today and I thought he did a great job. I think he’s got a chance to really contribute in that area.”

Reid Carrico joined Ohio State in 2021 as the No. 84 overall recruit and No. 10 linebacker in the class according to On3 Consensus, a complete and equally weighted industry-generated average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. In addition to the Buckeyes, he also held offers from Alabama, Clemson, Oklahoma and many others.

The 6-foot-2, 230-pound Carrico appeared in just two games for Ohio State this past season, totaling three tackles. Although Knowles didn’t promise him a starting position, it sounds like he will at least be more involved in 2022. The Buckeyes also return linebackers Tommy Eichenberg and Teradja Mitchell, who combined for more than 100 tackles in 2021.

Knowles is entering his first season as the Buckeyes defensive coordinator after four seasons in the same role at Oklahoma State. He helped the Cowboys to a 12-2 finish this past season as they led the nation in sacks (57) and fifth in rushing defense (87.6 yards allowed per game). The Philadelphia native now has his sights set on a similar turnaround at Ohio State, which ranked 59th in total defense this past season.

The Buckeyes are coming off of an 11-2 finish to 2021 that included a victory in the Rose Bowl against Utah. They return starting quarterback and Heisman finalist CJ Stroud, so once again have a trip to the College Football Playoff on their minds. Ohio State will host its annual spring game on April 16.