Coach Matt Guerrieri and the safeties were on the mic today, discussing strategies, performance, and expectations for the upcoming season.

As the new season approaches, every football team faces the challenge of improving on last year’s performance, addressing weaknesses, and setting higher standards for the upcoming year. For the Ohio State Buckeyes, a team that has long been known for its impressive defense, the safeties play a pivotal role in ensuring the team remains one of the most formidable defensive units in the nation. This year, with a new season on the horizon, Coach Matt Guerrieri and the safeties took to the microphone to discuss their strategies, performance, and expectations for what lies ahead. Their insights provide a deep look into the mindset of a group that has been critical to Ohio State’s success in previous seasons and will continue to play a significant role in the team’s hopes for the future.

The Role of Safeties in Ohio State’s Defense

Before diving into the details of Coach Guerrieri’s and the safeties’ perspectives, it’s important to understand the key role safeties play in Ohio State’s defensive scheme. The safety position is often considered the backbone of a defense, and it’s no different for the Buckeyes. Safeties are the last line of defense, responsible for both stopping the run and covering the pass. Their versatility and ability to read the game are crucial in making sure the defense functions as a cohesive unit.

Ohio State’s defense under Coach Guerrieri has always been aggressive, and the safeties are expected to lead that charge. The team has a proud tradition of fielding standout safeties who have excelled in all aspects of the game, from creating turnovers to delivering big hits. This year, the safeties will need to continue that tradition while adjusting to the evolving challenges posed by high-powered offenses.

Coach Matt Guerrieri’s Philosophy

Coach Matt Guerrieri, who has been with Ohio State for several seasons, has developed a reputation for being a highly disciplined and detail-oriented coach. His approach to coaching the safeties reflects these qualities. Guerrieri believes that in order for the Buckeyes’ defense to succeed, every player must understand their role within the larger system. For the safeties, that means being versatile and well-rounded players who can read offenses, communicate effectively, and, most importantly, execute under pressure.

One of the key components of Guerrieri’s defensive philosophy is adaptability. The game of football is constantly evolving, and offensive schemes are becoming more complex and difficult to defend. As a result, Guerrieri emphasizes the importance of being able to adjust mid-game, particularly in the secondary. He has worked tirelessly to ensure that his safeties are prepared for any situation, whether they’re facing a run-heavy offense or a high-flying passing attack.

Guerrieri also stresses the importance of leadership within the defensive backfield. He expects his safeties to not only excel individually but to also lead by example. Their ability to communicate with the cornerbacks, linebackers, and defensive line is crucial to the success of the defense as a whole. When asked about the leadership role, Coach Guerrieri made it clear that he expects his safeties to step up and help guide the younger players, especially as Ohio State continues to recruit some of the most talented young defensive backs in the country.

Insights from the Safeties

In the media session, several of Ohio State’s key safeties also took the microphone to share their thoughts on the upcoming season. Each of them provided a unique perspective on the challenges they face and the expectations they have for themselves and their teammates.

1. Versatility is Key

One of the recurring themes in the safeties’ discussion was the importance of versatility. In today’s game, safeties are expected to be capable of playing multiple roles within the defense. They need to be effective in coverage, able to cover tight ends and running backs in the passing game, while also being stout in run support. Ohio State’s safeties have long been known for their ability to fill a variety of roles, and this year is no different.

Junior safety, Javon Williams, spoke about the importance of developing a diverse skill set. “In today’s game, you can’t just be a one-trick pony,” Williams said. “You’ve got to be able to play in coverage, come down in the box, and stop the run. It’s a challenge, but it’s also what makes the position so exciting.” Williams went on to emphasize the need for safeties to be able to read the quarterback’s eyes and anticipate where the ball is going, particularly in passing situations.

2. Creating Turnovers

Another key focus for the safeties in 2025 is creating turnovers. Turnovers are a critical component of any successful defense, and Coach Guerrieri’s safeties are expected to be playmakers who can change the course of a game. With the explosive offenses that dominate college football today, forcing turnovers is a must for any defense that hopes to stay competitive.

Senior safety, Jordan Mitchell, highlighted the importance of taking advantage of every opportunity. “We’ve got to make plays on the ball,” Mitchell said. “Whether it’s getting an interception, forcing a fumble, or just being disruptive, we need to create turnovers. That’s how we win games—by giving our offense more opportunities.” Mitchell’s words underscore the mentality of Ohio State’s defense: they’re not content with just stopping plays—they want to make game-changing plays.

3. Communication and Cohesion

Effective communication is another essential element of the safeties’ success. The safeties often work in tandem with the cornerbacks and linebackers, and being able to communicate clearly and quickly is vital to ensuring the defense stays organized and cohesive. Coach Guerrieri emphasizes the need for constant communication, especially in high-pressure situations where split-second decisions can make the difference between a stop and a touchdown.

Sophomore safety, Carter Davis, shared his thoughts on the matter. “We’ve got to talk to each other constantly, whether it’s during the play or in between plays,” Davis said. “When we’re all on the same page, that’s when we can really execute. It’s about trusting each other and doing our jobs, but also being aware of what’s going on around us.”

4. Adjusting to New Challenges

The 2025 season brings with it new challenges, particularly as offenses continue to evolve. With the rise of mobile quarterbacks and high-powered passing games, the safeties will need to adjust to new offensive trends. Coach Guerrieri spoke about how important it is for the safeties to remain adaptable and ready for whatever the offense throws their way.

“This year, we’re going to see a lot of different offenses,” Guerrieri said. “Some teams are going to try to spread us out, and others are going to try to pound the ball on the ground. It’s going to take a lot of preparation, and we need our safeties to be ready for all of it. They’re going to need to be mentally sharp and flexible in how they approach each game.”

Expectations for the Upcoming Season

With the 2025 season rapidly approaching, Coach Guerrieri and his safeties have high expectations for what lies ahead. They know that Ohio State’s defense will be under the microscope, especially after a strong showing last year. However, they also understand that their success will be determined by their ability to grow, adapt, and remain disciplined throughout the season.

For Coach Guerrieri, the goal is simple: to have his safeties playing at an elite level, ready to compete with the best teams in the nation. He’s confident in their ability to rise to the occasion, but he also knows that they’ll need to work tirelessly to reach their full potential. The key, as he emphasized, will be consistency. “We’ve got to bring it every single week,” Guerrieri said. “The margin for error is small, and we need our safeties to be ready to go from day one.”

As for the safeties themselves, they’re equally determined. With the leadership of Coach Guerrieri, they are focused on continuing the tradition of excellence at Ohio State. They know that the upcoming season presents an opportunity to prove themselves, not just as individuals, but as a unit. The challenges will be tough, but they are prepared to meet them head-on.