Devin Sanchez, Jay Timmons, QB recruit Christopher Vargas and SEC shenanigans: Doug Rants

10 rants and thoughts after the first day of Ohio State preseason practice

Is sophomore cornerback Devin Sanchez engaged in one of the best Ohio State practice battles in recent history? (Photo by Doug Lesmerises)

COLUMBUS — Ten thoughts on the Buckeyes and more as college football is back.

1. The transformation of Devin Sanchez is complete. The cornerback played a lot as a freshman, with moments both good and bad. We asked him during bowl practice if he’d be ready for more as a sophomore. We asked him during spring practice if he’d be ready for more this season. And we asked him again after the first day of preseason practice on Thursday. Maybe we’re not that good at asking original questions. Or maybe the progress of Sanchez is among the most crucial aspects of Ohio State’s 2026 season. Or both.

Sanchez, who said again that he wants to win the Thorpe Award as the best defensive back in the games, was pushed by cornerbacks coach Tim Walton to get to this point.

“He’s been on me hard,” Sanchez said. “Really hard, to where sometimes it’s uncomfortable. Coach Walt is being a hard coach on me. He’s not being afraid, he’s being that coach that I need. I respect it, I know where it’s coming from. I just gotta go out there and compete, and if I make a mistake he’s gonna get on me and I gotta go out there and fix it.

“He makes it very uncomfortable. That’s what I like. Because if I’m comfortable, then this is not the place for me.”

Compared to seven months ago at bowl prep, Sanchez (bigger, stronger, swaggier) looks like his own older brother. Watching guys grow into their game is one of the most fascinating parts of covering college sports, but it feels like Sanchez hit fast forward. We talked a bit after his interview session, and he repeatedly said the elevation in his game is all about confidence. That brings us to a new freshman in the secondary.

2. Ohio State didn’t run a nickel defense, which was their primary defense a year ago, on Thursday. Three linebackers were the typical look on Day 1. But when the Buckeyes do show nickel, and they will, freshman Jay Timmons should be part of it.