Former five-star recruit appears to have lost his job early in the season with Ohio State

Ohio State took it to Western Michigan in the second game of the season and moved to 2-0 in the process. Now, the Buckeyes will turn their focus to a week off and will continue to practice.

Early in the season, we learn things about the team that we did not really know before. Things were definitely learned in the 56-0 win by the Buckeyes on Saturday . We have an idea of the depth chart but things change when actual football is being played.

Ohio State’s defense is going to be very good in 2024 and is off to a hot start after two games against much lesser opponents. Following those two games, it appears that the Buckeyes have a former five-star recruit who has lost his job.

Linebacker C.J. Hicks was the No. 7 player in the 2022 recruiting class, according to the 247 Sports Composite. Hicks is now in his third season with the Buckeyes and started the season as the third linebacker for Ohio State. Sonny Styles beat out Hicks for the weak side linebacker job and Cody Simon was the known starter as well for the unit. Now, it appears that sophomore Arvell Reese has passed up Hicks on the depth chart.

The versatility that Reese brings allows him to stand out and is likely one big reason that he is in for a breakout year. Against Western Michigan, Reese recorded three tackles, which was tied for second in the game. Hicks finished the game with two tackles but was on the field less than Reese and Reese made his presence made first.

In Week 1, Reese made his first impression of the season and it was a strong one with four tackles (one TFL). Reese’s speed and ability to read and react stand out and could be the best out of the linebacker room in terms of doing just that.

“It's kind of scary for me because that guy when he starts getting more and more seasoned and into his roles, he's going to be a monster,” Simon explained after the game. “I'm just excited for his future and what he can do here. I’m really proud of him.”

When Ohio State uses three linebacker sets, the best trio looks to be Simon, Styles, and Reese. Reese was on the field at times with just Simon and just Styles.

Now in his third season and yet to have a starting role, it is safe to say that things have not gone exactly to plan for Hicks. He is playing and he is making an impact, but he is at best the fourth linebacker right now in the room and that is something that was not expected at all heading into the season .

Related: Ohio State DE Jack Sawyer reveals true feelings on how the Week 2 blowout win over Western Michigan felt