Lathan Ransom’s Fearless Playstyle: A Legacy from Pop Warner to Ohio State
Ohio State safety Lathan Ransom has built a reputation as one of the Buckeyes’ most reliable and hard-hitting defenders. As he prepares to take the field against Notre Dame in the national championship on Monday, Ransom will have the opportunity to bring his storied college career full circle. Known for his relentless and fearless style of play, Ransom credits much of his approach to lessons instilled by his father during his early football days in Pop Warner.
Growing up in Tucson, Arizona, Ransom was introduced to football at a young age. His father, Marcus Ransom, played a pivotal role in shaping his approach to the game. From the very beginning, Marcus emphasized toughness, discipline, and a fearless mindset, teaching his son to embrace challenges rather than shy away from them.
“I remember my dad always telling me, ‘If you play scared, you’ll get hurt. But if you play fearless, you’ll be unstoppable,’” Ransom recalled. “He taught me to go full speed every snap, no matter who I was up against.”
Those lessons stuck with Lathan as he worked his way through the youth football ranks. While his physical gifts were apparent early on, it was his mental edge that set him apart. By the time he reached high school at Salpointe Catholic, Ransom had developed into a dominant safety, known for his ability to deliver bone-crushing hits and patrol the secondary with confidence.
Ransom’s playstyle caught the attention of college recruiters nationwide, but it was Ohio State’s storied program and history of producing elite defensive backs that drew him to Columbus. Since arriving on campus, Ransom has thrived under the tutelage of Buckeyes defensive coordinator Jim Knowles and safeties coach Perry Eliano.
“Lathan is one of the toughest and most fearless players I’ve ever coached,” Eliano said. “He has this incredible ability to play fast and physical while staying disciplined. That’s not something you can teach – it’s something that’s been ingrained in him.”
Over the past four years, Ransom has become a cornerstone of Ohio State’s defense. Whether he’s making open-field tackles, breaking up passes, or blitzing off the edge, his impact is undeniable. In 2024, he posted career highs in tackles (89), tackles for loss (9), and pass breakups (6), earning first-team All-Big Ten honors in the process.
Ransom’s Buckeye career reaches a poetic conclusion on Monday, as Ohio State faces Notre Dame in the national championship. The matchup carries special significance for Ransom, who strongly considered Notre Dame during his recruiting process. Instead, he chose Ohio State, a decision that has led him to this moment.
“It’s crazy how things come full circle,” Ransom said. “Notre Dame is a great program, and I have a lot of respect for them, but I made the right choice coming to Ohio State. To play my final game against them, for a national championship, feels like it was meant to be.”
Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman, a former Buckeye himself, knows the challenge his offense will face when lined up against Ransom.
“Lathan is one of the smartest and most physical safeties in the country,” Freeman said. “He’s the type of player who can change a game with one play. We have to account for him every snap.”
As Ransom prepares to don the Scarlet and Gray one final time, he reflects on the journey that brought him to this point. From Pop Warner fields in Arizona to the national stage, his fearless mindset has remained a constant.
“I wouldn’t be the player I am today without my dad,” Ransom said. “He taught me what it means to play with heart and to never back down. I carry that with me every time I step on the field.”
Win or lose on Monday, Ransom’s legacy at Ohio State is secure. His fearless playstyle, forged in his youth, has left an indelible mark on the Buckeyes program – and it will undoubtedly inspire future generations of players to follow in his footsteps.