Lathan Ransom injury update: Ohio State safety's status revealed vs. Nebraska

Lathan Ransom has been dealing with an undisclosed injury suffered during Ohio State’s bye week, and his status against Nebraska in Week 9 was up in the air until Saturday morning.

Now, it’s been revealed Ransom will be out, according to On3’s Pete Nakos. He’ll miss this weekend’s clash against the Cornhuskers, but he’s considered day-to-day, so it doesn’t sound like the Buckeyes are worried about any long-term ramifications, at least.

Ransom has been having a tremendous season for Ohio State, and he was hoping to return to the field after missing three tackles at Oregon, per Pro Football Focus. Prior, he had missed only three others all season. 

Moreover, Ransom has allowed just 7.5 yards reception and just one touchdown this year, according to PFF. His 4.5 tackles for loss are tied with sophomore safety Caleb Downs for the second most on the team. Ransom’s forced a pair of fumbles, one against Marshall and another at Michigan State, and he notched a scoop-and-score touchdown in the opener versus Akron.

Additionally, Ransom has dealt with various injuries throughout his Buckeyes career. He broke his leg on kick return coverage during the Rose Bowl at the end of the 2021 season. He broke a thumb during the 2022 season. Then, last season, he missed the final five games of the year after suffering a Lisfranc tear in his foot. But, according to Ryan Day, whatever Ransom’s dealing with now isn’t long term.

As for who will be elevated on Saturday for the Buckeyes, Day was asked earlier this week who the next man up would be at safety.

“Jaylen McClain’s done a nice job. Malik Harford’s done a nice job,” he said. “Malik’s played some before, and Jaylen’s a good young player. So I’d probably say those guys, if you’re looking at some backups there.”

Ohio State is back in action on Saturday at Noon ET, and they’ll be looking to get a victory over Nebraska in Week 9. They’ll have to get the job done without one of their best defensive players though, as Lathan Ransom is out.

On3’s Andy Backstrom contributed to this article.