Lathan Ransom, a senior safety for Ohio State, expressed a wave of emotions upon arriving in California for the College Football Playoff quarterfinal against No. 1 Oregon. The game holds special significance for Ransom as it takes place close to his hometown in Arizona, allowing family and friends to attend.
Ransom’s journey has not been without challenges. He recalls a severe injury from three years ago when he broke both his left fibula and tibia during the Rose Bowl against Utah. This experience has added depth to his appreciation for the game. “It’s full circle for me to come back,” he stated, acknowledging the long and difficult road back to health and competitiveness.
Despite dealing with multiple injuries during his time at Ohio State, including a Lisfranc injury that cut short his 2023 season, Ransom has managed to stay healthy this year. He plays a critical role in a top-ranked Buckeyes defense, which has not allowed a passing touchdown since an earlier loss to Oregon on October 12, 2023.
Although Ransom’s achievements, including being named a first-team All-Big Ten player, have been somewhat overshadowed by teammate Caleb Downs, he remains focused on the team’s success over individual accolades. “All that matters to me is how the team does,” he remarked. “I came back for bigger reasons— to reach the Rose Bowl and keep playing.”
Ransom knows that Ohio State’s defense must be prepared to tackle Oregon’s dynamic offense headed by quarterback Dillon Gabriel. He emphasized the importance of teamwork, acknowledging that lessons learned from their previous encounters would inform their performance.
The upcoming game is particularly significant for Ransom, as the Rose Bowl holds deep emotional resonance for him. He shared his anticipation for the moment, describing it as déjà vu from his first experience. Ransom believes that his trials have allowed him to grow and understand himself better.
His contributions do not go unnoticed by those within the program. Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles praised Ransom as an incredible leader and a source of inspiration, reinforcing the respect he has earned from his teammates.
This game presents not only a chance for Ransom to confront his past but also an opportunity for him to shine on one of college football’s biggest stages. With his resilience and strong leadership, Ransom is set to make a lasting impact as he finishes his college career.
In summary, Ransom’s personal journey underscores the themes of determination and growth, proving that the road to greatness is often paved with adversity. As the Buckeyes prepare for a critical matchup against Oregon, fans can look forward to witnessing a player who epitomizes perseverance and teamwork.