The Jackson Impact

Ohio State doesn't often dip into the Junior College ranks, but saw an opportunity when a former priority target in the 2016 class was back on the market. That of course was Brenham (Texas) Blinn J.C. defensive tackle Antwuan Jackson. The 6-foot-2, 305-pound former Rivals100 member became commitment No. 18 for the Buckeyes not long after picking up offers from both Ohio State and Alabama.

When Auburn blocked Ohio State as a possible transfer destination for Jackson, it actually helped the Buckeyes figure this situation out. Instead of taking a blind flyer on a kid that they recruited two years ago, Ohio State was able to re-evaluate Jackson at Blinn Junior College and get important feedback from the coaches there, not only about Jackson's ability as a player, but about his attitude and work ethic.

This helped Ohio State make a more informed decision on what to do about Jackson than it would have otherwise been able to make in a straight transfer situation. Jackson's commitment came on the heels of the Ohio State staff being able to evaluate two full games of tape. Putting all of the pieces together, Ohio State was able to push for, and land, Jackson's commitment.

Jackson's strengths have always been his quickness and his power. For such a broad-framed and stout kid, Jackson has always had a very quick first step and quick hands. Getting that initial edge off the line and then following through with that type of power and strength, made Jackson an excellent run-defender but also a prospect with some ability as a pass rusher.

After a year at Auburn and a year at one of the nation's top junior colleges, Jackson should be able to come in next fall and provide immediate depth for the Buckeyes and perhaps compete for a starting job as both defensive tackle spots could be up for grabs this spring.

Without any transfers or medical hardships, Ohio State could still be in position to lose three defensive tackles from its roster after the season. Michael Hill and Tracy Sprinkle will have exhausted their eligibility and redshirt sophomore Dre'Mont Jones has catapulted himself into first round draft pick discussions.

So a three defensive tackle class is now a very distinct possibility. The initial reaction to Jackson's pledge will be wanting to know what it means for Rivals250 product Tommy Togiai, a player the Buckeyes just had on campus this past weekend for an official visit.

Togiai is still very much in the plans for Ohio State and a commitment would undoubtedly be accepted at any point that the four-star prospect would want to give it. Ohio State looks to be in strong shape with Togiai but if things hold up as they are, the Buckeyes will need to survive official visits to Washington and USC who are both serious contenders there.

But with Jackson now in the fold officially, Ohio State can really zero in on Togiai for that final defensive tackle spot. A few other prospects such as Thomas Booker and Miami commit Nesta Silvera will continue to get looks, but with those situations looking grim for the Buckeyes right now, expect most of the focus to be placed on Togiai moving forward.