Linebacker CJ Hicks made his debut at defensive line and was already on the second-team unit and took some first-team reps. The Dayton, Ohio, native is entering his fourth year at Ohio State and early observations indicate he’ll compete for reps right away at defensive end.

Ohio State opened spring practice on Monday with the first six periods open to reporters. Below are notes and observations from the Buckeyes handful of drills at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center. * Julian Sayin,

Less than two months after winning a national championship, Ohio State’s road to a repeat began Monday morning with the opening day of spring practice. “I’m never happy coming out of the first day,” coach Ryan Day said.