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Ohio State football has a semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe Award: Buckeye Breakfast

Ohio State Football Has a Semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe Award: Buckeye Breakfast

Meet Lathan Ransom, the Safety Leading the Charge

Ohio State football has a semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe Award, which is given to the nation's top defensive back. Lathan Ransom, a junior safety, has been a key part of the Buckeyes' success this season. He leads the team with four interceptions and has also recorded 34 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, and two pass breakups.

Ransom's Journey to Success

Ransom was a three-star recruit out of Toledo, Ohio. He redshirted his first year at Ohio State and then played in a reserve role for the next two seasons. In his junior season, Ransom earned a starting spot and has quickly become one of the best safeties in the country. Ransom is a physical and instinctive player. He is excellent in coverage and has a knack for making big plays. He is also a leader on the Buckeyes' defense and is always willing to put his body on the line.

Ohio State's Defensive Success

Ransom is a big reason why Ohio State has one of the best defenses in the country. The Buckeyes are allowing just 15.3 points per game, which is the second-lowest mark in the nation. They are also holding opponents to a completion percentage of just 55.9%, which is the fourth-lowest mark in the country. Ransom's play has been a major factor in Ohio State's defensive success. He is a versatile player who can play both safety and cornerback. He is also a leader on the defense and is always willing to do whatever it takes to win.

Ransom's Chances of Winning the Jim Thorpe Award

Ransom is one of five semifinalists for the Jim Thorpe Award. The other semifinalists are Alabama's Jordan Battle, Georgia's Kelee Ringo, Penn State's Joey Porter Jr., and Wisconsin's John Torchio. Ransom has a good chance of winning the award. He is one of the best safeties in the country and has been a key part of Ohio State's defensive success. If he continues to play at a high level, he could be the first Buckeye to win the Jim Thorpe Award since Malcolm Jenkins in 2008.