By: Doug Lesmerises (Cleveland Plain Dealer) –

Jermale Hines called the position he played against Navy on Saturday the “hangover” at first, describing his duties against the triple option when he was neither a safety nor a linebacker, but instead was tasked with following the slotback on his side wherever he went. Minutes later, Hines corrected himself. “Overhang” was actually what the coaches called it.

Either way, he was on the field a lot Saturday. And you have to wonder if he’ll be on the field against USC a lot at safety. I questioned during the preseason whether Hines was pushing senior Anderson Russell for a starting safety job after what sounded like a hint from coach Jim Tressel that those safety jobs were in play.

Against the Midshipmen, it was Russell who was beaten on both Navy touchdown passes by slotback Marcus Curry, one for 16 yards and the other for 85. Both times, Russell was lined up 1-on-1 on that slot receiver and lost position on a move.

Hines’ greatest skills aren’t in coverage, either, so that change isn’t obvious. But during the preseason, the Buckeyes did work some with Hines at safety and Russell at Hines’ usual position as the fifth defensive back in the nickel look. The Buckeyes could go to three true corners — Chimdi Chekwa, Andre Amos and Devon Torrence — anytime USC puts three receivers on the field. The Buckeyes have used that look in the past.

But that would hurt Ohio State’s run defense, and the Trojans can really run. Maybe nothing will happen, but it’s something the Buckeyes at least have to think about.

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