Two buckeyes land on 2025 lost IMPACT Trophy watchlist
Two Ohio State Buckeyes have been named to the 2025 Lott IMPACT Trophy watchlist, recognizing their exceptional performance and character on and off the field. The Lott IMPACT Trophy honors college football players who exemplify the acronym IMPACT: Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community, and Tenacity. The watchlist includes 42 candidates, highlighting standout defensive players nationwide.(SI, Eleven Warriors)
Caleb Downs: A Rising Star in the Secondary
Caleb Downs, a sophomore safety for the Buckeyes, has quickly established himself as a formidable presence in the defensive backfield. After transferring from Alabama, where he earned SEC Freshman of the Year honors and was named an AP second-team All-American, Downs led the Crimson Tide with 107 tackles, becoming the first true freshman since at least 1970 to do so. His performance included 3.5 tackles for loss, two interceptions, four pass breakups, and one forced fumble. Known for his versatility, Downs played over 265 snaps both in the slot and at deep safety, showcasing his adaptability and football IQ. His transition to Ohio State has been seamless, and he is expected to start at free safety in the upcoming season.(On3)
Sonny Styles: A Defensive Force
Sonny Styles, a sophomore linebacker, is another Buckeye making waves on the defensive side. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 225 pounds, Styles combines size with speed, making him a versatile asset in both pass coverage and run defense. His ability to cover ground quickly and his physicality allow him to be a disruptive force on the field. As he continues to develop, Styles is poised to become a key player in Ohio State’s defensive lineup.(Buckeye Sports)
Overview of the Lott IMPACT Trophy Watchlist
The Lott IMPACT Trophy is named after Pro Football Hall of Famer Ronnie Lott, who was known for his leadership and excellence both on and off the field. The award is unique in that it considers a player’s character and contributions to the community, in addition to their athletic performance. The 2025 watchlist features a diverse group of players from various conferences, with Ohio State being one of the few programs to have multiple representatives.(Buckeye Sports)
The selection process for the Lott IMPACT Trophy involves a national panel of voters, including former winners, media members, coaches, and members of the Board of Directors of The IMPACT Foundation. The winner will be announced in December and will receive a $25,000 donation to their university’s general scholarship fund.(On3, SI)
Ohio State’s Defensive Outlook
With Caleb Downs and Sonny Styles on the Lott IMPACT Trophy watchlist, Ohio State’s defense is garnering national attention. Their inclusion underscores the program’s commitment to developing players who excel in all facets of the game. As the season approaches, the Buckeyes’ defense is expected to be a formidable unit, with Downs and Styles playing pivotal roles in its success.(Buckeye Sports)
In conclusion, the recognition of Caleb Downs and Sonny Styles on the 2025 Lott IMPACT Trophy watchlist highlights their outstanding contributions to Ohio State’s football program. Their dedication to excellence, both on the field and in their communities, exemplifies the values the award seeks to honor. As the season unfolds, both players will be key figures to watch in the Buckeyes’ pursuit of success.(247 Sports)
