OHIO BUCKEYES

Ohio State linebackers coach James Laurinaitis impressed with Improvement of his players

Published

3 months ago

April 5, 2024

As linebackers coach for the first time, James Laurinaitis has a big order to fulfill during the offseason.

Former safety Sonny Styles is one of the Ohio State Buckeyes whose progress the player-turned-coach has supervised. Styles, according to Laurinaitis, is starting to grasp the fundamentals of linebacker play, especially in terms of footwork.

“I think Sonny has made a really smooth transition to linebacker,” Laurinaitis said. “He’s so used to breaking and going from safety, you have to slow him down. He’s so explosive. He’s really gotten his footwork under control, but it’s a never-ending process…It’s been a really smooth transition for Sonny.”

C.J. Hicks is another player Laurinaitis is happy with. The sophomore for the Buckeyes has struggled to get playing time, but Laurinaitis believes Hicks is eager to provide his team valuable minutes this season.

“I believe C.J. recognizes the chance,” Laurinaitis remarked. “He’s undoubtedly arguing for himself to play this autumn.He’s had days where you have to push him a little bit and days when he’s had some really great days. I believe C.J. has improved significantly as a football player between now and last fall.

It goes without saying that Laurinaitis enjoys a good, traditional rivalry. Regardless of their level of linebacker experience, the new coach had two recommendations for all of his players.

“I tell the guys all the time, ‘You have to control the things that take no talent,'” said Laurinaitis. “All loafers must be eliminated. You should just go play for the opposing team because you are a traitor if you slack off on the field. You can’t make mistakes in thought and we can’t be coaching each other.Football is that. Everyone is receiving financial aid. However, you have daily control over those two factors.