Ohio State didn’t rely on just one player to replace Lathan Ransom in the lineup against Nebraska.
With Ransom out for the game because of an injury he suffered in practice during the bye week, Ohio State moved Jordan Hancock from his usual position of slot cornerback to play alongside Caleb Downs at safety in the Buckeyes’ base defense. With Hancock moved back to safety, Lorenzo Styles Jr. and Jermaine Mathews Jr. split playing time at nickel.
When Ohio State put its 4-3 defense in the game, however, Jaylen McClain entered the game alongside third linebacker Arvell Reese to match up with Nebraska’s heavier personnel.