Fourth down: Jamal Marcus progressing
The Buckeyes seemingly could use all hands on deck to sort through their situation at linebacker. But they shipped Jamal Marcus off to help on the defensive line instead, and it appears to be the right move for the rising sophomore.
Marcus isn't on the same level as classmates Noah Spence or Adolphus Washington on the edge at this point, but he's got a high-end motor, the ability to deliver some punishment and a chance to possibly contribute as a pass-rusher if he continues developing.
He showed a brief glimpse at what he's capable of providing on the line when he sliced into the backfield during one team period, beating a block up front and blowing up a running back who tried to pick up his blitz and completely disrupting the play. Marcus still has plenty of work to do, but he seems to have the tools to be a factor at a new position.