Donovan Jackson, drafted by the Minnesota Vikings, attributes his growth as a player to his former Ohio State coach, Ryan Day, who instilled in him the mantra that 'pressure's always a privilege'. After a significant season marked by a national title victory over Notre Dame, Jackson chose to complete his college career rather than enter the NFL draft early, a decision supported by Coach Day and his teammates. Despite the pressures the Ohio State team faced, including a notable loss to Michigan, they achieved dramatic victories against Tennessee, Oregon, and Texas. NFL analyst Lance Zierlein notes Jackson's potential, highlighting his physical attributes and adaptability, though he acknowledges the typical challenges of transitioning to the professional level. As a testament to the Big Ten's depth of talent, Jackson’s future in the NFL remains a subject of anticipation and potential success.

Donovan Jackson, selected 24th overall by the Minnesota Vikings, credits his former coach, Ryan Day, for his development over recent seasons, particularly valuing the lesson that 'pressure's always a privilege'.

The Ohio State Buckeyes, after losing to Michigan, embarked on an impressive run defeating teams like Tennessee, Oregon, and Texas, culminating in a national title win over Notre Dame.

Lance Zierlein, an NFL analyst, highlights Jackson’s physical strengths and potential as a starting guard, though he points out Jackson’s need to refine his hand placement and edge maintenance.

Instead of entering the draft early, Jackson decided to return to Ohio State to complete unfinished business, a decision that was met with approval from Coach Day and his teammates.

Jackson's choice to stay at Ohio State proved advantageous, as it allowed him to further hone his skills, contributing to the Buckeyes' success and his subsequent draft position.

The transition from college to the NFL is noted as a challenging phase for Jackson, emphasizing the importance of time and adaptation in realizing his professional potential.

The article underscores the significant talent within the Big Ten conference, with Jackson exemplifying the caliber of players ready to make an impact at the professional level.

Donovan Jackson is soaking in the moment.

Meeting with media members Friday after getting selected No. 24 overall to the Minnesota Vikings, the offensive guard gave a shoutout to his former coach for making him a better player over the last few seasons en route to a national title in January as Ohio State beat Notre Dame 34-23.

"Pressure's always a privilege," Jackson recalled Ryan Day telling him.

Not just Jackson, but the Buckeyes were arguably under more pressure than anyone in college football. Following their loss to Michigan in the regular-season finale, the Buckeyes went on a run of epic proportions which included wins against Tennessee, Oregon and Texas before the inevitable conclusion.

Lance Zierlein has high expectations for Jackson, although transitioning to the pros can take some time.

"He’s long but punches with wider hands and struggles to consistently maintain his edges when mirroring," Zierlein wrote. "Overall, Jackson has the measurables, power and movement for any scheme as a starting guard."

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It remains to be seen whether Jackson works out, but it's clear the Big Ten has immense talent making the jump to the next level.

Only time will tell.