In 2021, he recorded 54 tackles for 2.5 losse, a sack and an interception. In 2022, Simon totaled 32 tackles for 5.5 losses, two sacks, a deflected pass and a forced fumble. In Week 4 of the 2023 season, Simon made two tackles, including an important one on fourth down to prevent quarterback Sam Hartman from getting a first down, helping the Buckeyes beat Notre Dame 17-14. In Week 8, Simon made eight tackles in the win over Purdue. Full Story: Simon’s Key Contributions to Ohio State’s Defense Through the Seasons

In 2021, he recorded 54 tackles for 2.5 losse, a sack and an interception. In 2022, Simon totaled 32 tackles for 5.5 losses, two sacks, a deflected pass and a forced fumble.

In Week 4 of the 2023 season, Simon made two tackles, including an important one on fourth down to prevent quarterback Sam Hartman from getting a first down, helping the Buckeyes beat Notre Dame 17-14. In Week 8, Simon made eight tackles in the win over Purdue.

Full Story: Simon’s Key Contributions to Ohio State’s Defense Through the Seasons

In the ever-evolving world of college football, players who consistently make impactful plays stand out, and one such player who has been steadily building his reputation as a defensive force is Ohio State linebacker Simon. Over the past few years, Simon’s impressive on-field performances have helped solidify his place in the Buckeyes’ defensive lineup, making crucial plays that have contributed to the team’s success.

A Strong Start: 2021 – Setting the Stage

Simon’s journey began to gain attention in 2021, where he showcased his talents with an eye-catching season. During that year, he recorded 54 tackles, including 2.5 tackles for loss. His ability to disrupt plays and be a consistent presence in the backfield earned him praise from coaches and analysts alike. Additionally, Simon’s ability to get to the quarterback was evident, as he also recorded a sack and made an interception—a testament to his versatility and ability to contribute in different facets of the game.

His standout performances in 2021 set high expectations for the following year, as he continued to develop into one of the core pieces of Ohio State’s defense.

2022: More Disruptive Plays and a Key Defensive Presence

In 2022, Simon’s role evolved, and he maintained his high level of play. While his tackle total dipped slightly to 32, his impact on the field was still undeniable. He recorded 5.5 tackles for loss, which highlighted his ability to get into the backfield and disrupt offensive plays. His two sacks on the season were crucial, demonstrating his skill as a pass rusher. Additionally, Simon was a playmaker in other areas of the defense, deflecting a pass and forcing a fumble—further proving his ability to impact games in multiple ways.

Though the numbers were slightly lower than in 2021, Simon’s growth as a well-rounded defensive player was clear. His leadership and ability to play effectively in various defensive schemes became integral to Ohio State’s defensive strategy.

2023: Simon Comes Up Big in Key Moments

By the time the 2023 season rolled around, Simon had established himself as one of the top linebackers in the country. His consistency and ability to rise to the occasion in big moments were evident early in the season, particularly in Ohio State’s Week 4 victory over Notre Dame.

In that crucial matchup, Simon made two tackles, including a game-changing stop on fourth down to prevent Notre Dame quarterback Sam Hartman from converting and keeping the drive alive. This pivotal stop helped secure the Buckeyes’ 17-14 victory in a hard-fought battle, showcasing Simon’s knack for coming up with big plays when his team needed it most. It was a prime example of his impact on the game and his ability to step up in clutch situations.

Simon continued his strong play throughout the season. In Week 8, during a dominant performance against Purdue, Simon registered eight tackles, helping the Buckeyes secure another important victory. His ability to rack up tackles while maintaining a disciplined, aggressive style of play has made him a key player for Ohio State’s defense, and his steady presence on the field has been a crucial element of the team’s success.

What’s Next for Simon?

Looking ahead, Simon’s continued development as a linebacker and playmaker could make him one of the most sought-after players in the upcoming NFL Draft. His versatility, strong tackling skills, and ability to make big plays in crucial moments have made him a standout for Ohio State, and his future in football is bright.

Whether he continues to build on his career at Ohio State or moves on to the next level, Simon’s journey from a strong freshman year to a crucial role as a senior speaks to his work ethic and growth as a player. With his combination of size, speed, and football IQ, Simon will likely be a player to watch for both Ohio State and NFL scouts alike.

Conclusion

Simon’s impressive track record from 2021 through 2023 showcases his growth and development as a key figure on the Ohio State defense. From a solid start in 2021 to becoming a game-changer in critical moments in 2023, Simon’s contributions have helped Ohio State remain a powerhouse in college football. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Simon to see how he continues to evolve and impact games, cementing his legacy as one of Ohio State’s standout defensive players.