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Downs' Defense: SEC Frosh Star to Buckeye Legend
15 Apr
Summary
- Earned SEC Freshman of the Year honors at Alabama.
- Became two-time unanimous All-American at Ohio State.
- Won Lott and Jim Thorpe Awards for defensive excellence.
Downs' college football journey saw him first play under Nick Saban at Alabama, where he immediately impacted the team. As a freshman, he secured a starting position and was recognized as the SEC Freshman of the Year. This early success highlighted his potential within a complex defensive scheme.
Upon Nick Saban's retirement, Downs entered the transfer portal and moved to Ohio State. With the Buckeyes, his performance escalated, earning him two unanimous All-American selections. He was also honored as the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, underscoring his dominance. His exceptional skills were further recognized with the Lott Trophy and the Jim Thorpe Award, marking him as one of the nation's top defensive players.
