Caleb Downs, a highly sought-after five-star safety, had his pick of top college football programs before ultimately choosing to play for Ohio State. Head coach Ryan Day had a unique vision for Downs that included utilizing his talents on offense, a plan that was first discussed during Downs’ initial recruitment process. Despite ultimately committing to Alabama, the unexpected retirement of head coach Nick Saban led Downs to enter the transfer portal and end up at Ohio State, where Day’s two-way plan resurfaced.
Day’s vision for Downs to contribute on offense was not far-fetched given his family’s football pedigree. Downs’ father, Gary Downs, had a successful career as an NFL running back and passed on his football knowledge to his sons. Caleb Downs, who initially started playing football as a running back at the age of 6, displayed exceptional talent and versatility on the field, excelling in multiple positions throughout his youth and high school career.
While Downs made the transition to safety in high school due to team needs, he continued to make an impact on both sides of the ball, showcasing his athleticism and football IQ. Despite the depth at running back on Ohio State’s roster, Day expressed interest in incorporating Downs into the offense, possibly providing a change of pace and unexpected plays for opponents.
With the combination of Downs’ skill set and experience playing multiple positions, Day sees the potential for Downs to make an impact on offense, even if it’s in a limited capacity. Downs’ ability to contribute on special teams, defense, and potentially offense adds another dimension to Ohio State’s game plan and could give the team an edge in certain situations.
As the season progresses, it remains to be seen how Downs will be utilized on offense and the extent of his role in the running back rotation. While Day acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding Downs’ offensive contributions, he is confident in Downs’ capabilities and athleticism to excel in any role given to him. Ultimately, Downs’ versatility and football acumen could prove to be a valuable asset for Ohio State as they aim to bounce back from a three-game losing streak to Michigan and make a strong push in the upcoming season.