We finally understood for this defense to function the way it should, our corners had to play well. With Springs and Howard, Pagac and his staff have been free to throw all kinds of tricks at the opponent. That approach is one of the main reasons the Buckeyes lead the Big Ten in total defense, rushing defense, pass efficiency defense and defense against the score going into the regular-season finale. Yet Howard has labored in the shadow of Springs for two years. But Howard, who missed most of four games this season with a sprained ankle, is second on the team in interceptions with four, one behind safety Damon Moore.
Springs has none.
One reason is teams rarely have challenged him. Howard just smiled and shook his head. The conversation took place last week, before OSU players were put off-limits to the media. Already Woodson was a topic of discussion. Springs always has seen himself in that mold and has lobbied Cooper for two-way action in the past, to no avail.