After the collapse against Texas in week two, it felt like this year's new defense was just going to need time to gel. Now, after giving up 30 points against USC and 41 against Oregon, they have turned into one of the biggest disappointments of this season.

The game against the Ducks, which was at home, by the way, proved exactly why this year's defense was the biggest thing holding the Buckeyes back from another successful season. They were up 14-0 early in that game against Oregon, and then they gave up 38 unanswered points, which led to another big loss in back-to-back weeks.

There is no difference-maker on this year's defense. They are missing a leader who can help get this team back on track, and it has led to quite a few tough losses for the Buckeyes.

Oct 17, 2026; Bloomington, Indiana, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes safety Earl Little Jr. (1) reacts after a defensive stop during the first quarter against the Indiana Hoosiers at Merchants Bank Field at Memorial Stadium.…