UPDATE: As Ohio State gears up for the Cotton Bowl against Miami on January 1, 2026, strategic adjustments are crucial, with linebacker Arvell Reese poised to become a game-changing pass rusher. Recent analysis reveals that Reese’s potential has been largely overlooked, and it’s time for the Buckeyes to capitalize on this dynamic.
In a recent episode of the Buckeye Talk podcast, hosts discussed how Ohio State defensive coordinator Matt Patricia has primarily deployed Reese as a spy, limiting his impact on the field. This tactic could backfire against Miami quarterback Carson Beck, who struggles significantly under pressure.
Ohio State’s defense has been preparing meticulously for this matchup, with an emphasis on exploiting Beck’s vulnerabilities. The statistics are telling: when Beck faces pressure, his effectiveness plunges from 76.8% when kept clean to just 53.7% under duress. This dramatic drop highlights the urgency for Ohio State to unleash Reese as a relentless pass rusher.
“Carson Beck is not a runner by any means,” said podcast host Stephen Means. “He is significantly worse when pressured.”
Reese’s pass-rushing opportunities have dwindled, with only three pressures in the last five games, a stark contrast to his potential. The podcast hosts expressed their frustration, urging for a shift in strategy that allows Reese to attack rather than contain. “I think the time of not letting Arvell just go needs to be over with,” Means declared. “That’s my X factor.”
This adjustment aligns perfectly with Miami’s offensive struggles. With Beck’s tendency to make mistakes under pressure, Ohio State could seize the advantage by utilizing Reese’s skills more aggressively. The Hurricanes have shown a pattern of abandoning successful plays for riskier options, particularly when under pressure. The potential for turnovers could be significant if Reese is allowed to disrupt the pocket.
As the Cotton Bowl approaches, Ohio State’s defensive strategy is under the spotlight. Will Patricia continue to play it safe with a conservative spy role for Reese, or will he choose to unleash him against a quarterback who has proven to falter under pressure?
The time for action is now. Ohio State fans are eager to see if their team can harness Reese’s disruptive capabilities to turn the tide against Miami. With the clock ticking down to kickoff, the Buckeyes must make a decisive choice that could determine the outcome of the game.
This developing story has the potential to reshape the Cotton Bowl narrative, and fans are urged to stay tuned for updates as kickoff approaches.
