Ohio State Buckeyes Spring Game Preview: Top Five Players to Watch

Jan 12, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes defensive lineman Tommy Schutt (90) and linebacker Cam Williams (55) react to their victory over the Oregon Ducks in the 2015 CFP National Championship Game at AT&T Stadium. Ohio State won 42-20. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

5. Replacing Michael Bennett

Ohio State has a large void in the middle of the defensive line with defensive tackle Michael Bennett preparing for the NFL Draft later this month. The Buckeyes defensive line was a big reason they’re the defending national champions, but the player in line to replace Bennett in the starting lineup is one who has struggled to carve out a role in his first three years in Columbus.

Tommy Schutt came to Ohio State as a four-star recruit out of Glen Ellyn, IL but has been stymied by the injury bug that has kept him off the field and when he was able to play, he often at less than 100 percent. He has 17 combined tackles in his first three years, but if he can stay healthy, he’ll have his best opportunity to make an impact for Ohio State this year.

Playing next to Joey Bosa will make anyone better and I’m anxious to see how Schutt responds to the opportunity presented before him and how disruptive he will be in the middle of the defensive line.

Next: Raekwon McMillan's Time to Shine