Ohio State Football 2015 [Defending National Champions]

[gonelong]

2015 OSU Recruiting class wrap-up (http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-state-football-recruiting/2015/01/49122/meet-the-ohio-state-football-recruiting-class-of-2015)

Once again a real nice class put together by Meyer and crew. Weber, Prince, Hill, and Gibson all signing was a nice suprise for me ... I didn't anticipate getting all 4 of them.

This group has a number of guys that can press for immediate playing time. There are a number of interesting Redshirts and guys that sat out due to injury from the 2014 class that will be available this year. 2015 should be a year in which OSU builds a significant amount of depth for a number of the units.

I will also be interested to see how roster management (http://www.cleveland.com/osu/index.ssf/2015/02/urban_meyers_explanation_on_ho.html) is handled this year. It sounds benign at this point, but I will want to see how it all goes down. I am not in favor of pushing kids out, however, I have no issue in laying the cards on the table and letting kids know where they stand with anticipated playing time, etc. as long as the kids is not pressured to leave, transfer, etc.

GL

2014 OSU Thread (http://www.redszone.com/forums/showthread.php?104469-Ohio-State-Football-2014&p=3035674&viewfull=1#post3035674)
2013 Recruiting Class (http://www.elevenwarriors.com/2013/02/19278/meet-the-ohio-state-football-recruiting-class-of-2013)

2014 Class


Sean Nuernberger was 89-89 on extra points and was 13-20 on field goal attempts with a season long 49-yard field goal.
Raekwon McMillan. 30 tackles (30), 6.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, and an interception (returned it 24 yards for a TD).
Curtis Samuel scored ran for 383 yds and 6 TDs 383 yards. He had 11 receptions and returned 20 kickoffs.
Noah Brown played in 11 games, almost completely in a blocking role. He had 1 catch, and 1 carry. (He may get snaps at TE next year)
Erick Smith had 13 tackles (mostly special teams) and an interception
Jalyn Holmes had 11 tackles/one tackle for loss
Damon Webb had 3tackles and a forced fumble
Dante Booker seven tackles on the season.
Jamarco Jones got some Playing Time on the OL
Marcelys Jones also got some Playing Time on the OL



Injured:


Kyle Berger: torn ACL & broken kneecap
Marshon Lattimore: torn ACL
Johnnie Dixon: tendonitis-related issues in both of his knees
Darius Slade: broken toe
Brady Taylor: torn labrum
Parris Campbell, shoulder surgery


Redshirts


Sam Hubbard
Demetrius Knox
Stephen Collier
Malik Hooker
Terry McLaurin
Kyle Trout

[BuckeyeRed27]

Stan Drayton is leaving to go be the RB coach for the Chicago Bears. That is great, except he was pretty instrumental in the recruitment of Weber who was the last commitment in this class. He basically announced the day after signing day that he was leaving, but didn't give Weber any kind of indication that might be happening. The player and his HS coach are fairly rightfully pissed about this. Now I suppose it is possible that Drayton really didn't know, but I find it unlikely that he would have been interviewed out of the blue on Thursday and hired same day.

I know there is an ugly side to the recruitment game, but I really don't like how this story is coming out.

[LoganBuck]

Commit to the school, and the head coach. Assistant coaches worth anything should always be looking to move on.Ed Warriner will be the hottest assistant coach in the country next year. Chris Ashe, Tim Beck, and Luke Fickell could all be head coaches somewhere next year. Quality coaches move on, and you can bet that there are guys begging Urban Meyer to get that RB coaching gig.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Commit to the school, and the head coach. Assistant coaches worth anything should always be looking to move on.Ed Warriner will be the hottest assistant coach in the country next year. Chris Ashe, Tim Beck, and Luke Fickell could all be head coaches somewhere next year. Quality coaches move on, and you can bet that there are guys begging Urban Meyer to get that RB coaching gig.

I don't blame Drayton for taking the job and of course it's part of the deal. The timing is bad and I'm sure wasn't disclosed to the kid what might be happening. He also comes from a big school that I'm sure Meyer will want to go back to in the future and stuff like this doesn't help.

[LoganBuck]

If the entire state of Michigan wasn't in an uproar over losing Mike Weber, no one would be talking about this. Seriously most of the outrage is coming from scorned Michigan fans, and if the rumors are true, the HS head coach was trying to push him to scUM just as hard as Harbaugh. Fake outrage everywhere.

[RedTeamGo!]

It's not fake outrage, Weber tweeted something along the lines of "I ain't gonna like, I feel hurt."

I'm a big Osu fan, but that was pretty shady by the Osu coaching staff.

[LoganBuck]

Yes, and the entire Michigan media apparatus is stirring the pot. Fake outrage. I have been watching his Twitter account he has been adding Ohio State follows, and Ohio State followers, since that tweet. This is a tempest in a teapot.

[traderumor]

I'm thinking I would need to know some important facts before I took sides. When did the coach know? "Hey, recruit, I just want you to know that I am in the running for an NFL gig, but I haven't heard back yet." That seems out of order to me. The assumption is that the info. was suppressed, even though no one outside of the coach and his boss knows that at this point. It is a pretty quick jump to "I feel lied to." Well, great, I feel a sore throat coming on. I'm sure its throat cancer. Another possibility is that the kid is having buyer's remorse on his decision and this is a convenient excuse. Or, Ohio State could have conveniently not disclosed something they knew. Drama, drama, drama. Hard to believe dealing with kids, ya know?

[BuckeyeRed27]

Sounds like Notre Dames RB coach Tony Alford has been hired to replace him. From reports sounds like a great hire both from recruiting and coaching.

[traderumor]

Sounds like Notre Dames RB coach Tony Alford has been hired to replace him. From reports sounds like a great hire both from recruiting and coaching.That was another thing I would add to my post. If the kid signed on with Ohio State for the right reasons, he would trust them to make a great hire for his position coach that might be better for him than the guy he had. I'm still not on Twitter. I have a tendency to shoot from the hip at times. A lot of people should probably make similar decisions.

[Todd Gack]

If the entire state of Michigan wasn't in an uproar over losing Mike Weber, no one would be talking about this. Seriously most of the outrage is coming from scorned Michigan fans, and if the rumors are true, the HS head coach was trying to push him to scUM just as hard as Harbaugh. Fake outrage everywhere.

It's Urban Meyer. He's one of the scummiest recruiters out there so I'm tending to believe what Meatchicken fans are saying.

[traderumor]

It's Urban Meyer. He's one of the scummiest recruiters out there so I'm tending to believe what Meatchicken fans are saying.Is there a ranking service for recruiting scumminess? It is a pretty sordid business for any major program, so how does one verify your claim that Meyer is, what, top 5 on the recruiting scum scale?

[LoganBuck]

It's Urban Meyer. He's one of the scummiest recruiters out there so I'm tending to believe what Meatchicken fans are saying.

I don't care, what you think. They are wrong, just like Ohio State fans were wrong a decade ago with Fred Davis to USC.

[Todd Gack]

Is there a ranking service for recruiting scumminess? It is a pretty sordid business for any major program, so how does one verify your claim that Meyer is, what, top 5 on the recruiting scum scale?

Urban's a great coach. One of the best to ever lace 'em up. And you're right, recruiting is very sordid. But it doesn't take away from the fact that Urban is scum with the type of players he recruited to Gainesville, the way he left Gainesville, and now the way he's continuing to do the same things he's always done. Don't worry, there will be more trouble in Columbus in the years to come and he'll have another fake heart attack before he leaves for an NFL job and you guys will root him and Mo Clarett on as long as they win you national championships.

- - - Updated - - -


I don't care, what you think. They are wrong, just like Ohio State fans were wrong a decade ago with Fred Davis to USC.

Wow. I forgot about the Fred Davis debacle.

[traderumor]

Urban's a great coach. One of the best to ever lace 'em up. And you're right, recruiting is very sordid. But it doesn't take away from the fact that Urban is scum with the type of players he recruited to Gainesville, the way he left Gainesville, and now the way he's continuing to do the same things he's always done. Don't worry, there will be more trouble in Columbus in the years to come and he'll have another fake heart attack before he leaves for an NFL job and you guys will root him and Mo Clarett on as long as they win you national championships.



This was very enlightening. I am convinced.

[Redsfaithful]

I still root for Maurice Clarett.

[bucksfan2]

I still root for Maurice Clarett.

Apparently he is on pace to get his degree. I am happy that Clarett has turned his life around and has become a positive and contributing member of society.

[Todd Gack]

This was very enlightening. I am convinced.

Avery Atkins says "Hi"

[Todd Gack]

Apparently he is on pace to get his degree. I am happy that Clarett has turned his life around and has become a positive and contributing member of society.

Who isn't earning a degree these days?

[BillDoran]

Avery Atkins says "Hi"

College football is rather unsavory right now, all big time programs have their bad apples. Not sure what you're trying to prove by bringing up a particular example.

And just a general comment on your posts, there's a difference between being strident and being right.

[Todd Gack]

College football is rather unsavory right now, all big time programs have their bad apples. Not sure what you're trying to prove by bringing up a particular example.

And just a general comment on your posts, there's a difference between being strident and being right.

My point is Urban isn't the saint OSU fans want to claim he is. Florida's program was run by criminals. Murderers. But if they could play the game, it didn't matter. Urban gave 2nd, 3rd. . multiple chances to guys who didn't deserve it. I followed SEC recruiting/ state of Florida recruiting for about 10 years. I basically stopped because it was getting so bad with the stories of negative recruiting you heard and the tactics people like Urban did. Was he the only one? Nah, but he was certainly one of the best at those tactics. Great coach, but terrible person. He's basically on the same level as Bobby Petrino.

[BillDoran]

My point is Urban isn't the saint OSU fans want to claim he is. Florida's program was run by criminals. Murderers. But if they could play the game, it didn't matter. Urban gave 2nd, 3rd. . multiple chances to guys who didn't deserve it. I followed SEC recruiting/ state of Florida recruiting for about 10 years. I basically stopped because it was getting so bad with the stories of negative recruiting you heard and the tactics people like Urban did. Was he the only one? Nah, but he was certainly one of the best at those tactics. Great coach, but terrible person. He's basically on the same level as Bobby Petrino.

I'd largely agree. I think a considerable portion of the OSU fanbase misses the avuncular James Tressel, but, frankly, he wasn't able to compete with the LSUs, Floridas and Alabamas of the world. So, AD Gene Smith went out and got someone who had proven he could compete on that level (and dive into the mud).

But let's not kid ourselves, big time college football is not a morality competition and hasn't been for a while. If you're going to field a D1A/FCS football team, it seems to me you should either play for keeps or fold it up like the Chicago Maroons. That purgatory in the middle is for the glibly righteous, like the Domers (and even they have their black eyes).

[RedTeamGo!]

My point is Urban isn't the saint OSU fans want to claim he is. Florida's program was run by criminals. Murderers. But if they could play the game, it didn't matter. Urban gave 2nd, 3rd. . multiple chances to guys who didn't deserve it. I followed SEC recruiting/ state of Florida recruiting for about 10 years. I basically stopped because it was getting so bad with the stories of negative recruiting you heard and the tactics people like Urban did. Was he the only one? Nah, but he was certainly one of the best at those tactics. Great coach, but terrible person. He's basically on the same level as Bobby Petrino.

I know a lot of Osu fans and literally none of them think Meyer is a saint.

[LoganBuck]

I think most people view Urban Meyer as a big dog. No moral victories are awarded for losing to Urban Meyer, Nick Saban, etc.

If you follow recruiting, you know that this is piddlywinks, penny ante stuff.

[traderumor]

My point is Urban isn't the saint OSU fans want to claim he is. Florida's program was run by criminals. Murderers. But if they could play the game, it didn't matter. Urban gave 2nd, 3rd. . multiple chances to guys who didn't deserve it. I followed SEC recruiting/ state of Florida recruiting for about 10 years. I basically stopped because it was getting so bad with the stories of negative recruiting you heard and the tactics people like Urban did. Was he the only one? Nah, but he was certainly one of the best at those tactics. Great coach, but terrible person. He's basically on the same level as Bobby Petrino.So, other than the whining when Urban nabbed a few decommits from Wisconsin and MSU when he took the job, this Weber deal is the first sniff of questionable recruiting tactics currently being used, and that is turning out to be little more than High School melodrama. That seems relevant at this point, more than your ranting about his Florida days.

BTW, your argument about how Ohio State fans feel is at the level of the recruiting scum rankings as far as being supportable. It appears to be barstool rambling to me.

[Kingspoint]

Someone should change the thread title to "(Current National Champions)" instead of "(defending National Champions)". Looks and sounds better.

[traderumor]

I was thinking about this some more, and one thing that occurred to me is how many issues there are at whatever program is in control in Florida. Whichever program is on top seems to have a lot of issues in and around the program. Currently it's Florida St. It has been Florida, Miami. Seems to be the cost of doing business. Perhaps Urban couldn't do it anymore.

[villain612]

But it doesn't take away from the fact that Urban is scum with the type of players he recruited to Gainesville, the way he left Gainesville, and now the way he's continuing to do the same things he's always done.

I've lived in Florida for 7 years now and I am comfortable in saying that Gator fans do not deserve someone with Meyer's talent at their school. Most obnoxious and unappreciative fanbase I've ever seen. Not sure how you could have ill will towards a guy who won you two national championships, recruited a Heisman trophy winner, and left you a top ten recruiting class on his way out the door in 2011.

Meyer could retire tomorrow and Buckeye fans would be grateful for what he's done here in 3 seasons. I don't know any Ohio State fans who would call him a "saint" but as others have stated, he plays for keeps - like all big time FBS programs must do.

[gonelong]

Toledo Blade (http://www.bcsn.tv/news_article/show/481383?referrer_id=986280)/David Briggs


Miller recently began throwing a football for the first time since undergoing surgery in August. Twice a week, he sends Whitfield video of his throwing sessions, which have advanced to include long toss. <emphasis mine>

Asked if Miller would be full strength by the start of fall camp in August — a timetable widely considered ambitious — Whitfield said, “Oh, yeah, that’s very realistic. When the summer hits, and those guys begin summer workouts [in June], he'll be 100 percent.”

“He's looking stronger, getting more and more fluid,” Whitfield said. “I just love the progress he's making.”

[BuckeyeRed27]

Even if Braxton gets healthy I don't see him being the full time starter, but he also will play a lot in some capacity. Too talented and athletic to keep off the field.

Between Braxton, JT, Cardale, Jalin, Zeke and Dontre....OSU is going to be really good on 3rd down next year.

[gonelong]

I think more than anything the strength of the OF line will be a detriment to Miller's chances at being the starting QB (assuming he is completely healthy). The OF line is very solid, so Miller's inhuman ability to avoid 4 tacklers in a phone booth is not as valuable/necessary as it was earlier in his career.

Jones is not nearly the weapon either Miller or Barrett is with the read option so his chances to be the starting QB may rely on one of the receivers ability to step up as a consistent downfield threat.

Of the 3, I prefer Barrett. I think week in and week out he would be the steadiest of the three options and give tOSU the highest chance of returning to the playoff. I also think he is probably not the starting quarterback in 2015.

I am going to be very disappointed for two of these guys come the fall. If they are all healthy, one of these guys will be told he is a 3rd stringer. If you put yourself in any of their shoes that has to be disappointing (and particularly crushing to Miller and Cardale).

I really wonder if Meyer will pick a 1A and 1B and give them both significant playing time?



Passing
NAME CMP ATT YDS CMP% YDS/A TD INT RAT
J.T. Barrett 203 314 2834 64.7 9.03 34 10 169.8 (2014)
Cardale Jones 56 92 860 60.9 9.35 7 2 160.2 (2014)
Braxton Miller 162 255 2094 63.5 8.21 24 7 158.1 (2013)

Rushing
NAME CAR YDS AVG LONG TD
J.T. Barrett 171 938 5.5 86 (TD) 11 (2014)
Cardale Jones 72 296 4.1 27 1 (2014)
Braxton Miller 171 1068 6.2 70 (TD) 12 (2013)

[jimbo]

I'm still of the belief that Miller will never play another game in a Buckeye uniform.

[BillDoran]

I'm still of the belief that Miller will never play another game in a Buckeye uniform.

Agreed. Miller will go through spring camp and if he doesn't like his chances at seeing the field at QB, he'll bolt. Russell Wilson didn't announce his transfer to Wisconsin until late June.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Agreed. Miller will go through spring camp and if he doesn't like his chances at seeing the field at QB, he'll bolt. Russell Wilson didn't announce his transfer to Wisconsin until late June.

He won't be able to participate in spring camp though, so what is he going to glean from that that he doesn't already know?

[villain612]

Didn't Miller reinjure the shoulder last year during a simple throwing exercise in practice?

Going forward, it just seems his ability to keep that shoulder healthy is going to be shaky. I dunno though, I'm not a doctor.

If he has any aspiration to play in the NFL, shouldn't he begin a position-change now?

[gonelong]

Apparently, Georgia don't want none. (http://www.macon.com/2015/04/28/3718645_georgia-eyeing-more-high-profile.html?rh=1)



Georgia and Ohio State had a memorandum of understanding to play in 2020 and 2021. But that was canceled by Ohio State, and McGarity said it will not be revived.

"Once Urban came in that was off the table," McGarity said of Urban Meyer, hired as Ohio State coach in 2012.


I am not surprised that he would think it, but I am surprised he would say that out loud.

OSU asked out of the 20/21 GA games due to the B1G partnering with the Pac12 to have home/away games. The GA game was replaced by a home/away with Oregon.

GL

[gonelong]

Bucks pick up a nice verbal for the 2016 class over the weekend, 4-star WR Austin Mack. He is a good sized receiver, 6'2" 205 lbs.

GL

[sonny]

I think JT takes a medical redshirt this year. Just a feeling.

[bucksfan2]

I think JT takes a medical redshirt this year. Just a feeling.

He already redshirtted his true freshman year. I think they would have to file for a special exemption to get another one.

I think Barrett is Urban's guy, but I also think that Cardale brings something that few players in football do, an absolute cannon of an arm.

[BillDoran]

I think JT takes a medical redshirt this year. Just a feeling.

It's a possibility, but it doesn't seem to serve much of a purpose. He's already burned his traditional redshirt and were he to lose out on the starting spot in 2015-2016, he's the odds on favorite to start the following two seasons. The medical redshirt would add yet another year. I'd think it's more likely he'll have proven himself and be ready for the NFL at that point or not met expectations/been passed by a younger QB.

That's assuming they don't need him this season. Even if he loses out on the starting bid, QBs are fragile (as we well learned last year). He'll want to play if there's an injury.

[medford]

Since he was recovering from an ACL his frosh season, he may be able to seek out a 6th year, using that as a medical redshirt. I don't think you can even apply until your thru with your 5 seasons, by that point, a shot at the NFL draft may be calling more than a 6th season at OSU. Seems like a guy, that if he continues on the path he set forth last season would end up as a mid round selection in the draft. Not a cannon for an arm, but pretty accurate, smart football player and decent wheels. A speedier version of AJ McCarron if you will, who went in round 5 to the Bengals.

[villain612]

The 2016 recruiting class is gonna be a monster.

Nick Bosa hasn't even committed yet.

[jimbo]

I'm kind of surprised that Miller hasn't transferred by now. He has to realize that he probably isn't at the top of the depth chart, at least I wouldn't think he would be. Admire his loyalty, but I think he is hurting his NFL chances by not finding an opportunity where he would be the guy.

[gonelong]

I will also be interested to see how roster management (http://www.cleveland.com/osu/index.ssf/2015/02/urban_meyers_explanation_on_ho.html) is handled this year. It sounds benign at this point, but I will want to see how it all goes down. I am not in favor of pushing kids out, however, I have no issue in laying the cards on the table and letting kids know where they stand with anticipated playing time, etc. as long as the kids is not pressured to leave, transfer, etc.

Rumor has it Marcelys Jones is leaving Ohio State (looking at KY).

It was reported last week incoming commit Mirko Jurkovic wouldn't enroll due to academics.

This leaves Ohio State at 84 scholarships for the 2015 season.

GL

[bucksfan2]

Rumor has it Marcelys Jones is leaving Ohio State (looking at KY).

It was reported last week incoming commit Mirko Jurkovic wouldn't enroll due to academics.

This leaves Ohio State at 84 scholarships for the 2015 season.

GL

Eleven Warriors reported Jones was leaving. Said he had yet to crack the two deep at OL. UK was mentioned as the landing spot for him.

[BuckeyeRed27]

This happened today:

http://www.elevenwarriors.com/college-football/2015/07/55358/jim-harbaugh-just-hilariously-bombed-an-interview-on-colin-cowherds-radio-show

[gonelong]

Laughable how quick the narrative changes after the dust has settled when they are always so sure of themselves before hand.


- http://www.foxsports.com/college-football/story/ohio-state-buckeyes-auburn-tigers-sec-starting-talent-test-071615
How many starters on the SEC's top team - Auburn, according to the league's media - would start for the Buckeyes this year?



- http://www.foxsports.com/college-football/story/ohio-state-buckeyes-auburn-tigers-sec-starting-talent-test-071615
Auburn should replicate how Ohio State used Cardale Jones, says Gary Danielson



- http://www.foxsports.com/college-football/story/ohio-state-buckeyes-auburn-tigers-sec-starting-talent-test-071615
Pollack believes defending national champion Ohio State, which beat Alabama, 42-35, in the College Football Playoff semifinals, is still the best team in college football.


Last year I said this:

- http://www.redszone.com/forums/showthread.php?107328-2015-NCAA-Football-Playoffs-Oregon-Alabama-Ohio-St-and-Florida-St&p=3211726&viewfull=1#post3211726
Weak or strong is only a perception until the dust settles. You, nor I, nor anyone has shown the ability to consistently determine when a conferences has stepped ahead of, or behind another.


I am still in favor of a 8 team playoff with the 5 power conferences each sending their league champ.

GL

[gonelong]

Bucks pick up a nice verbal for the 2016 class over the weekend, 4-star WR Austin Mack. He is a good sized receiver, 6'2" 205 lbs.

GL

Mack was invited to play the Army All American bowl and the Under Armour All American Game.

GL

[gonelong]

I missed this little nugget while I was on vacation ...


- http://collegespun.com/big-ten/ohio-state/nick-saban-flew-in-former-ohio-state-assistant-tom-herman-to-ask-him-how-the-buckeyes-dominated-the-tide

So what does a loss like that in the first-ever, four-team playoff do to a perennial program like the Crimson Tide? It forces it to call former Ohio State offensive coordinator Tom Herman, who is now the head coach of the Houston Cougars, and bring him to Tuscaloosa for a visit to pick his brain.


Good on Alabama, that is how you make hay. (Similar to OSU going to Oregon last season). I have no issue with Herman talking to Alabama ... coaches share. OSU just has to be aware of this (and I am sure they are) if/when a rematch occurs.

GL

[Kingspoint]

Based on what we saw last season, the returning players and the rest of the NCAA, Ohio State is in a class all by themselves going into this year in the same way the very best of the Alabama teams were a few years back.

[gonelong]

Nick Bosa has committed to tOSU.

https://twitter.com/nbsmallerbear/status/624242345966481408/photo/1


- From another article ...
Bosa is the 18 commitment in Ohio State's 2016 recruiting class and becomes the third defensive end in the class, joining Jonathon Cooper and Terrell Hall. Each player is ranked in the top 10 at the position nationally.


That doesn't suck.

GL

[cincrazy]

Braxton Mill tells Pete Thamel of SI.com he's moving to H-back for the 2015 season. WOW. Selfless move on his part, and also the right decision IMO. That OSU offense will be DEADLY.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Rumors started coming out last week about this. Basically Braxton's arm isn't healthy enough to compete, but this move makes a lot of sense either way.

[villain612]

What a great time to be a Buckeye fan.

This 2016 class may rival the 2013 one. Great job Urban and company.

[bucksfan2]

What a great time to be a Buckeye fan.

This 2016 class may rival the 2013 one. Great job Urban and company.

For my money the best talent I have seen on OSU probably was from about 2002-2007 when they were turning out draft picks after draft picks. I think this next years team may have the best collection of overall talent in my memory, surpassing Tressel's glory years.

[Sea Ray]

Braxton Mill tells Pete Thamel of SI.com he's moving to H-back for the 2015 season. WOW. Selfless move on his part, and also the right decision IMO. That OSU offense will be DEADLY.

What's taking Urban so long to confirm this?

[RiverRat13]

There are other rumors floating around that at least two WR will be suspended for the first couple of games.

[RiverRat13]

What's taking Urban so long to confirm this?

http://www.cleveland.com/osu/index.ssf/2015/07/urban_meyer_on_braxton_millers_1.html

[BuckeyeRed27]

What's taking Urban so long to confirm this?

Also the coaches aren't allowed to watch any practice at the moment. Like the article says, they have talked about it, but haven't had any type of practice yet.

[villain612]

For my money the best talent I have seen on OSU probably was from about 2002-2007 when they were turning out draft picks after draft picks. I think this next years team may have the best collection of overall talent in my memory, surpassing Tressel's glory years.

1996-98 was pretty darn great too but I don't disagree with you.

Meyer is in a perfect situation. Ohio is a top ten state for high school football and OSU dominates it in recruiting. He can nab 80% of his guys from Ohio at relative ease and then fill the gaps with kids from Georgia, Florida, Texas, etc. Quite different from his days in Florida when he had dozens of schools poaching top talent in his state. It also helps that the Big Ten is about the 3rd or 4th best power conference too, making the season not such a grind (not that I think they'd have any more losses in a tougher conference per se).

With what happened last year, even with one loss during the season, if the Bucks win the Big Ten title game, hard not to see them in the playoffs again. I like our chances.

[bucksfan2]

In regards to expanding the playoff, right now I think 4 is the perfect number. IMO in order to go to 8 you would have to shorten the regular season by one game. Last year OSU played 15 games, a tremendous load on college players. I also think that the season ended at about the right time. I think had their been another game it would have seed like a drag. You can only expect so much out of 18-22 year old kids, expecting them to play the equivalent to more than half of the NFL teams is a little much.


1996-98 was pretty darn great too but I don't disagree with you.

Meyer is in a perfect situation. Ohio is a top ten state for high school football and OSU dominates it in recruiting. He can nab 80% of his guys from Ohio at relative ease and then fill the gaps with kids from Georgia, Florida, Texas, etc. Quite different from his days in Florida when he had dozens of schools poaching top talent in his state. It also helps that the Big Ten is about the 3rd or 4th best power conference too, making the season not such a grind (not that I think they'd have any more losses in a tougher conference per se).

With what happened last year, even with one loss during the season, if the Bucks win the Big Ten title game, hard not to see them in the playoffs again. I like our chances.

Cooper's teams were loaded, too bad he couldn't coach!

I think OSU will always do ok in Florida, even better with Urban at the helm. I think Florida is such a transient state that a team like OSU still gets some eyeballs in the state. What too often gets overlooked with Bosa and his brother committing to OSU is their uncle played at OSU. It isn't like there wasn't a connection with the school to start with. Urban at the helm and Miami being down will increase OSU's success in that state. Now if Urban begins to draw kids out of Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana I will think he has some greater powers.

[Eric from NC]

Others might have mentioned this, but the book coming out next month The Chase , recapping last years championship season, by Rabinowitz of the Columbus Dispatch sounded like it might be promising. I ended up catching him the CBS National Radio Show The DA show last night. Sounds like it could be quite good.

[cincrazy]

Urban and the gang landed Isaiah Pryor today, a top 50 safety from Georgia, yet another player taken from under the nose of Georgia and Mark Richt, and the rest of the south. As sick as the recruiting's been since Urban came aboard, it's only getting better. And that's a terrifying thought for the rest of the conference I imagine.

[gonelong]

http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-state-football-recruiting/2015/07/56319/four-star-2017-defensive-back-isaiah-pryor-commits-to-ohio-state

Meyer dipping into Georgia as 4-star Isaiah Pryor commits to 2017 tOSU class.



The 6-foot-2, 195-pound Pryor is the 10th commitment in Ohio State's 2017 recruiting class and becomes the third defensive back in the class, joining Marcus Williamson and Shaun Wade. Each player, like Pryor, is ranked in the top 10 at their position nationally.


GL

[gonelong]

Urban and the gang landed Isaiah Pryor today, a top 50 safety from Georgia, yet another player taken from under the nose of Georgia and Mark Richt, and the rest of the south. As sick as the recruiting's been since Urban came aboard, it's only getting better. And that's a terrifying thought for the rest of the conference I imagine.

Rated (currently) as the 36th best player in the 2017 class, #2 among safeties. Also he is reportedly a very good student which never hurts.

GL

[Reds Fanatic]

They have just announced Joey Bosa and three others are suspended for the season opener at Virginia Tech for violating some athletics department policy

[BuckeyeRed27]

They have just announced Joey Bosa and three others are suspended for the season opener at Virginia Tech for violating some athletics department policy

The others are Jalin Marshall, Donte Wilson and Corey Smith...so pretty big losses.

Rumors the policy was smoking weed....or more specifically getting caught doing it.

[bucksfan2]

The others are Jalin Marshall, Donte Wilson and Corey Smith...so pretty big losses.

Rumors the policy was smoking weed....or more specifically getting caught doing it.

Well that makes the Va Tech game more interesting.

The loss of Bosa will hurt, but I think the bigger loss is Marshall, he is a matchup nightmare. Wilson is Marshall light, and Smith has always seemed to disappoint.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Well that makes the Va Tech game more interesting.

The loss of Bosa will hurt, but I think the bigger loss is Marshall, he is a matchup nightmare. Wilson is Marshall light, and Smith has always seemed to disappoint.

It's a big drop off from Bosa to whoever is the back up there.

I really hope Braxton Miller is ready to be an H back, because he is now the Va Tech starter. Those 3 out just hurt receiver depth. Also makes it more likely that Barrett is going to start since he is much better at the read option game and I would think this would put a focus on the run.

[villain612]

I'm just gonna pretend I never read this.

[RedTeamGo!]

Perhaps Bosa doesn't want to be drafted one overall.

[bucksfan2]

It's a big drop off from Bosa to whoever is the back up there.

I really hope Braxton Miller is ready to be an H back, because he is now the Va Tech starter. Those 3 out just hurt receiver depth. Also makes it more likely that Barrett is going to start since he is much better at the read option game and I would think this would put a focus on the run.

There is a big drop off with Bosa. However the defense is loaded this year, they probably have one of the more impressive LB corps in the country. I think Marshall's versatility on offense will sorely be missed.

[gonelong]

My neighbor and I were just discussing how quiet the off-season had been for tOSU. At least this was typical college kid stuff (academics and MJ) and not more major transgressions such as fights/altercations/domestic issues, theft, DUI and the like.

Bosa is a huge loss for the VaTech game, as are 3 of primary receivers in a 5/6 man rotation.

GL

[Eric from NC]

Did enjoy Jason Whitlock's line from PTI that if you added beer to the Joe Schadd article as in bad grades, weed and beer, he would have never gotten into a game.

[Roy Tucker]

I knew things were lining up too well for the Buckeyes. 18-22 year olds aren't the most dependable people in the world.

If I were to get penalized in college for beer and weed, I probably would have gotten sent all the way back to kindergarten.

[Chip R]

Urban Meyer has been trademarked by tOSU.

http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/ncaaf-dr-saturday/ohio-state-trademarks-urban-meyer-s-name-141913142.html

[gonelong]

http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-state-football/2015/07/56837/video-joshua-perrys-speech-at-the-big-tens-kickoff-luncheon

Buckeye fans and cynics of college football. Well worth 7 minutes of your time.

GL

[gonelong]

4-star DE Hall de-commits from tOSU: http://www.landgrantholyland.com/2015/8/4/9093853/ohio-state-recruiting-state-secrets-terrell-hall-decommits-one-new



247Sports Crystal Ball seems to favor Penn State, Alabama, Ohio State, and Maryland.


Hall is a top10 at his position player, so a potentially big loss. Obviously having two other 10 DEs may have played a part in his de-commit, but it sure would be nice to get this guy in the long run as you cannot have too much DE depth.

GL

[Reds Fanatic]

Noah Brown out for the year with a broken leg. WR is really thin now for the Virginia Tech opener. 3 WRs already suspended and now Brown out.

[RedTeamGo!]

Noah Brown out for the year with a broken leg. WR is really thin now for the Virginia Tech opener. 3 WRs already suspended and now Brown out.

They still have their best WR, Thomas and approx 57 other 4 and 5 star receivers to choose from. They will be ok.

[bucksfan2]

Noah Brown out for the year with a broken leg. WR is really thin now for the Virginia Tech opener. 3 WRs already suspended and now Brown out.

Yea I am starting to worry about the Va Tech game right now. Right now they have Michael Thomas, Zeke, QB, and then a bunch of question marks. What will Braxton do? Who will line up at the opposite WR? Who will be the total team player that Spencer was?

[gonelong]

Yea I am starting to worry about the Va Tech game right now. Right now they have Michael Thomas, Zeke, QB, and then a bunch of question marks. What will Braxton do? Who will line up at the opposite WR? Who will be the total team player that Spencer was?

I wouldn't go as far as "worry", but losing Brown on top of Marshall, Smith, and Wilson is definitely not good. Miller on a slant is a play that has a chance to get housed each and every time, that guy is ridiculous in heavy traffic, I can't even imagine tackling him in the open field.

This season I can see why most major programs open with a cup-cake. A program is inevitably going to have suspensions over the off-season and have a player or two (or four) missing the first game. I'd much rather that be NE Podunk St. than a serious opponent.

Pending any other injuries, I still think the Bucks win, and win big.

GL

[MWM]

I think it being Cardale Jones surprised a lot of people.....including me.

[19braves77]

I honesty believe that OSU could read option all night long and never throw a pass and win this game. It is this insistence on throwing the ball that has got them in trouble.

[MWM]

Yeah, I've been wondering why they aren't running the ball. Doesn't make a lot of sense to me.

[Roy Tucker]

They got a little too clever on offense. I kept saying "where's Zeke?" And the VT 2 misdirection wrinkles have caught the Bucks by surprise. And now they've let VT back in the game. It's a dog fight now.

[kaldaniels]

Sloppiness costing the Bucks so far. I expect that will be tidied up a bit in the second half.

[Roy Tucker]

That didn't take long.

[Larkin Fan]

This is an ugly game. Where the heck is JT Barrett?

[Larkin Fan]

I'm loving Braxton Miller in his new role. Explosive!

[Roy Tucker]

Bucks miss Tom Herman.

[kaldaniels]

This is an ugly game. Where the heck is JT Barrett?

On the bench where I'd like him to be.

Not a knock on JT...just a big Cardale fan.

[Larkin Fan]

On the bench where I'd like him to be.

Not a knock on JT...just a big Cardale fan.

I like Cardale too. I just prefer the versatility of Barrett.

[RiverRat13]

I like both guys but if they were going to run the QB that much, I'm surprised J.T. didn't get the call. He's a much bigger threat.

[Cedric]

On the bench where I'd like him to be.

Not a knock on JT...just a big Cardale fan.

Cradle played really well tonight. JT will be the starter next year. I hope people don't annoy everyone with the backup qb stuff all year.

[HeatherC1212]

Go Buckeyes!!!! :jump:

[traderumor]

The good news now is that the Bucks have five well-rested and surely hungry players in a short week against Hawaii.

[RedTeamGo!]

I think Barrett is the better college QB, Cardale takes unnecessary risks. Urban was not happy about that td throw to samuel.

[CarolinaRedleg]

Hokie fan here. Heck of a team up there in Columbus that looks about as good as advertised. Would have loved to have seen a full second half with Brewer under center. Not sure how much of a difference it would have made in the grand scheme of things, but it might have made that second half a little more watchable. :bang: (then again, given our preference of baseball teams, you'd think I'd be accustomed to unwatchable)

Make this loss look really good for me, OK?

[traderumor]

I think Barrett is the better college QB, Cardale takes unnecessary risks. Urban was not happy about that td throw to samuel.

They both have their strengths and weaknesses. I have no idea what problem there would be on the Miller TD. He was one on one deep??????

[cumberlandreds]

From this neutral fan perspective and watching other teams play over the weekend, Ohio State has the best team by far in the nation. Offense looks unstoppable and the defense will be good enough. I am guessing Michigan State is the only real obstacle in OSU's way to the playoffs. They should roll into the playoffs as the prohibitive favorite and unless someone else really rises up I expect them to roll through that too.

[RedTeamGo!]

They both have their strengths and weaknesses. I have no idea what problem there would be on the Miller TD. He was one on one deep??????

I said the wrong name, I meant the samuel td.

My friend texted me a clip of Meyer yelling at Cardale after the TD throw to samuel and the during post game Meyer saying they can't be making throws across the body on back foot.

I love Cardale, I just think Barrett is a better college QB, people seem to forget he set the B1G record book on fire last year. What are Barrett's weaknesses? I don't see any. Dude is a born leader with loads of talent.

[bucksfan2]

I said the wrong name, I meant the samuel td.

My friend texted me a clip of Meyer yelling at Cardale after the TD throw to samuel and the during post game Meyer saying they can't be making throws across the body on back foot.

I love Cardale, I just think Barrett is a better college QB, people seem to forget he set the B1G record book on fire last year. What are Barrett's weaknesses? I don't see any. Dude is a born leader with loads of talent.

Arm strength. The difference between Cardale Jones and JT Barrett is Jones is a top tier NFL Draft pick, Barrett has the makings of a great college QB. Jones takes risks, makes some poor decisions, but makes some great plays. Jones looks a lot like Big Ben to me, a young Big Ben, makes some plays that will make you tear hair out of your head. The play where he was scrambling for what looked like a 2 yard gain and then all of a sudden stopped, switched hands, and threw a pass for 20+ yards to a wide open WR is something very few people on this planet can do.

OSU's best competition for the next few months will be in practice. You saw guys running wild all over the field last night, what IMO got overshadowed this off season was Michael Thomas and how good of a player he is. Not only do you have weapons all over the field, you have two of your most dynamic HB/Slot guys coming back next week in Marshall and Wilson as well as your #2 WR Corey Smith. What the big key will be over the next two months is getting depth at the DL and getting your DB's experience.

[traderumor]

I said the wrong name, I meant the samuel td.

My friend texted me a clip of Meyer yelling at Cardale after the TD throw to samuel and the during post game Meyer saying they can't be making throws across the body on back foot.

I love Cardale, I just think Barrett is a better college QB, people seem to forget he set the B1G record book on fire last year. What are Barrett's weaknesses? I don't see any. Dude is a born leader with loads of talent.I'm not taking sides on this, they are both superior talents with different skills sets. As for Meyer, he is a coach and would be negligent not to call out poor technique. But I did not see him asking the refs not to count the TD. It was playmaking and athleticism. I also think Meyer is going to err on the side of being critical to keep the guys grounded, which will be a challenge this season.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Jones is going to be the better choice in most games, but I think last night Barrett would have been better against that defense. He would have broken some big runs and given the play calling that seemed to be what they wanted to do. Jones played well enough, but I would have liked to have seen more throws if he is going to be the guy.

That Miller TD run is one of the coolest plays I have ever seen.

[villain612]

Welcome back, sir.

http://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--othaY2wV--/1420789360338886575.gif

[BillDoran]

My biggest concern with this year's team is trying to appease everybody on offense. You could see them forcing the ball to Braxton last night (to very positive results), but with all the deserving weapons on the offense, I hope they let things unfold naturally and don't go all Bryan Price and insist on getting different guys going.

Eze obviously needs a healthy amount of touches. Braxton will get a fair amount due to the respect he's garnered around the program. Jalin Marshall may be one of the few players in the country as explosive as Braxton. Mike Thomas deserves touches. Curtis Samuel looks very dangerous. The offense needs a running threat at the QB position, there's another 8-12 carries. The TE is clearly not a priority in this system, but you'd think Vannett is good for a few looks a game.

Dontre Wilson may be the odd man out, but at this time two years ago, folks were wetting themselves in anticipation, including some flattery from Urban himself. They looked Paris Cambell's way a number of times last night. There are a bevy of young receivers looking to get on the field (James Clark, Terry McLaurin, Johnnie Dixon). Corey Smith has never done himself a single favor, but you continue to hear optimism about him.

That second group are the likely losers of the battle for touches, but even that first cut is short on footballs. Spreading the ball around and keeping everyone happy - and internal strife at bay - all while maintaining offensive flow is going to take a fine touch from Urban and Ed Warinner, but that, I suppose, is why they get the big bucks.

[traderumor]

My biggest concern with this year's team is trying to appease everybody on offense. You could see them forcing the ball to Braxton last night (to very positive results), but with all the deserving weapons on the offense, I hope they let things unfold naturally and don't go all Bryan Price and insist on getting different guys going.

Eze obviously needs a healthy amount of touches. Braxton will get a fair amount due to the respect he's garnered around the program. Jalin Marshall may be one of the few players in the country as explosive as Braxton. Mike Thomas deserves touches. Curtis Samuel looks very dangerous. The offense needs a running threat at the QB position, there's another 8-12 carries. The TE is clearly not a priority in this system, but you'd think Vannett is good for a few looks a game.

Dontre Wilson may be the odd man out, but at this time two years ago, folks were wetting themselves in anticipation, including some flattery from Urban himself. They looked Paris Cambell's way a number of times last night. There are a bevy of young receivers looking to get on the field (James Clark, Terry McLaurin, Johnnie Dixon). Corey Smith has never done himself a single favor, but you continue to hear optimism about him.

That second group are the likely losers of the battle for touches, but even that first cut is short on footballs. Spreading the ball around and keeping everyone happy - and internal strife at bay - all while maintaining offensive flow is going to take a fine touch from Urban and Ed Warinner, but that, I suppose, is why they get the big bucks.

I'm sure there will be plenty of opportunities to go around. You want the ball, run your route and get open.

[bucksfan2]

My biggest concern with this year's team is trying to appease everybody on offense. You could see them forcing the ball to Braxton last night (to very positive results), but with all the deserving weapons on the offense, I hope they let things unfold naturally and don't go all Bryan Price and insist on getting different guys going.

Eze obviously needs a healthy amount of touches. Braxton will get a fair amount due to the respect he's garnered around the program. Jalin Marshall may be one of the few players in the country as explosive as Braxton. Mike Thomas deserves touches. Curtis Samuel looks very dangerous. The offense needs a running threat at the QB position, there's another 8-12 carries. The TE is clearly not a priority in this system, but you'd think Vannett is good for a few looks a game.

Dontre Wilson may be the odd man out, but at this time two years ago, folks were wetting themselves in anticipation, including some flattery from Urban himself. They looked Paris Cambell's way a number of times last night. There are a bevy of young receivers looking to get on the field (James Clark, Terry McLaurin, Johnnie Dixon). Corey Smith has never done himself a single favor, but you continue to hear optimism about him.

That second group are the likely losers of the battle for touches, but even that first cut is short on footballs. Spreading the ball around and keeping everyone happy - and internal strife at bay - all while maintaining offensive flow is going to take a fine touch from Urban and Ed Warinner, but that, I suppose, is why they get the big bucks.

Corey Smith will get touches because he is their only #2 WR with experience. Smith is a physical WR who isn't afraid to throw a block. Urban and his staff tend to love the WR's who do the simple things. They stuck with Evan Spence for years, started him every game last season, even though there were more dynamic WR's at his disposal. It did pay off on the Elliot run against Alabama, when Spencer threw his body at two bama defenders and sprung Elliot.

Elliot will get touches, but if you recall he never really took off last season until the B1G title game. He was a very good RB but became a superstar over the last 3 games. I think he will be find with limited touches, and it may pay off down the stretch and into the NFL.

I have a feeling Wilson is the odd man out. He came in with a ton of hype but has seemed to be a step behind his entire career. He barely knew the playbook his freshman year, then had inconsistency issues last season. I think you will see Miller, Marshall, and Samuel get the majority of the snaps in the H-Back/Slot WR.

If there is anyone who can balance the talent and keep everyone happy its Urban. He just has to keep reminding them what it felt like last season after beating Oregon.

[BillDoran]

I'm sure there will be plenty of opportunities to go around. You want the ball, run your route and get open.

Which is all well and good when you're dealing with adults getting paid hundreds of thousands in the NFL. It's a little different working with 18-22 year-olds, accustomed to being the star, with people whispering in their ears about getting respect and a shot at playing pro football. I'd love to think Urban's got a mature squad of unselfish players united around a singular goal, repeating as national champions. You and I know kids can be problematic. It'll take some massaging of egos is all.

[krm1580]

Welcome back, sir.

http://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--othaY2wV--/1420789360338886575.gif

Most impressive thing on this play that gets completely overlooked was Zeke Elliott. He was the lead blocking back on the play and completely blew up the defender coming free, then he rolls back and makes that crushing block on #40, who probably would have made the play. That is pretty unselfish stuff for a "star"

[Redsfaithful]

The anticipation, vision, balance, and athleticism required for that spin move is just breathtaking. Mercy.

[Chip R]

Fascinating how not just a few years ago, tOSU and other Big Whatever fans were lamenting the lack of athleticism of their teams - at least compared to the SEC. Not so much anymore.

[bucksfan2]

Fascinating how not just a few years ago, tOSU and other Big Whatever fans were lamenting the lack of athleticism of their teams - at least compared to the SEC. Not so much anymore.

Right now I think the B1G has two of the best teams in college football, OSU and MSU. I also think they have a few other quality programs who lost this past week, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and maybe Nebraska and Northwestern. Other than that PSU and TSUN being down hurt the B1G. Purdont and Illinois are dumpster fires, Rutgers maybe a step below that dumpster fire, Maryland hasn't been good in a decade now, Iowa is stuck in neutral, and the others are pretty forgettable.

I do think the OSU has the best overall talent in college football and I don't see it stopping as long as Meyer is at the helm.

[villain612]

I'm just gonna go ahead and say that this Buckeye team will probably go down as the best one of my lifetime (born in 84). For the longest time, I've considered the 96-98 squads to have the most raw talent in the coffers.....but not anymore. The guy who finished 5th in Heisman voting last year is our backup QB. Braxton Miller is about to pull a Percy Harvin on the Big Ten and the rest of the country. Not to mention, the best defensive player in America wasn't even playing on Monday night.

I live in SEC-country, so this is even all the more sweeter. I've been waiting for this season my entire life.

[gonelong]

I wouldn't go as far as "worry", but losing Brown on top of Marshall, Smith, and Wilson is definitely not good. Miller on a slant is a play that has a chance to get housed each and every time, that guy is ridiculous in heavy traffic, I can't even imagine tackling him in the open field.
..
Pending any other injuries, I still think the Bucks win, and win big.
GL

A good showing by the Bucks. I was certain JT would be the starer, so that was a surprise.

Major positives include Miller's play and IMO, Conley playing a very solid CB, and depth, depth, and more depth.

Other positives include Hubbard and Lewis filled in quite nicely for Bosa giving the Bucks some depth at DE, and the OL being light years ahead of were they were this time a year ago.

Minor concerns to me: Boren didn't have his best game at C and special teams was not special (missed a FG, fumbled, KO out of bounds).

Concerning: Turnovers - Frankly, they are the only thing I see realistically leading to a loss prior to the playoffs.

GL

[gonelong]

https://ohiostate.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1800661

More good news! - Malik Barrow to enroll early (Jan 2016). Early into the playbook and weight room will give him a head start on contributing his freshman year ... not to mention you have one less guy to fight to keep.

tOSU will need a good DT with Washington moving on after this year.

GL

[bucksfan2]

A good showing by the Bucks. I was certain JT would be the starer, so that was a surprise.

Major positives include Miller's play and IMO, Conley playing a very solid CB, and depth, depth, and more depth.

Other positives include Hubbard and Lewis filled in quite nicely for Bosa giving the Bucks some depth at DE, and the OL being light years ahead of were they were this time a year ago.

Minor concerns to me: Boren didn't have his best game at C and special teams was not special (missed a FG, fumbled, KO out of bounds).

Concerning: Turnovers - Frankly, they are the only thing I see realistically leading to a loss prior to the playoffs.

GL

Concerning special teams, I am not really that worried. Zeke should never have been back there returning kicks. I am more curious why a guy like Samuel wasn't or even just a mandatory fair catch.

The kickoff OB is more of a design than anything else. OSU tries to kick the ball into a small corner while keeping it in the field of play. They are willing to give up the occasional penalty and start from the 35 because they feel more often than not they can stop the returner before he gets to the 25 yard line.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Turnovers should be concerning with this team. Going back to the playoffs last year they have a major problem giving up the ball. Yet they keep beating good teams despite losing the turnover battle.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Put. In. Barrett.

[RedTeamGo!]

Put. In. Barrett.

Completely agree. JT is a better college QB.

[MWM]

I can't imagine Jones starts the whole year.

[Roy Tucker]

I can't imagine Jones starts the whole year.

Agree. Offense is clanking and limping along. Best play is Zeke up the middle.

[JaxRed]

I heard the Browns are going to Fail for Cardale.

[Kilgore_Trout]

It was ugly, but it could've been worse. The offensive line play certainly didn't help.

Cardale had some bad luck with dropped passes, though he was certainly shaky at times. He's still the guy if it were up to me.

[traderumor]

Put. In. Barrett.He really did nothing either. They looked like a team that had played Monday/Saturday to start the season. In fairness, Hawaii's D was looking pretty quick and appeared to be doing well on their assignments. The D was the bright spot in this one. The offense needs to go establish power run, then start playing with the bells and whistles.

[redrum]

He really did nothing either. They looked like a team that had played Monday/Saturday to start the season. In fairness, Hawaii's D was looking pretty quick and appeared to be doing well on their assignments. The D was the bright spot in this one. The offense needs to go establish power run, then start playing with the bells and whistles.

I think tOSU badly misses Tom Herman

[RiverRat13]

I think tOSU badly misses Tom Herman

You could be right, but it's early. Alabama beat their cupcake today by a similar score. Plus, the short turnaround can't be discounted.

[GAC]

It was ugly, but it could've been worse. The offensive line play certainly didn't help.

Even Myers acknowledged that they had trouble, need to make some adjustments, with the 3-4 defense. They were rushing 3 guys, for the most part, but giving our QBs fits, and it was a combination (IMO) of our offensive line not playing well, getting hit with stupid penalties at critical times, and the quickness/speed of their defenders. And hats off to Hawaii too... they were playing their hearts out, and we did terrible at making adjustments.


Cardale had some bad luck with dropped passes, though he was certainly shaky at times. He's still the guy if it were up to me.

There was some terrible communication, not only with receivers, but also in the back field ... who gets the hand-off? Guys running into each other!.... I was shakin' my head in unbelief laughing at the miscues.

And whenever Miller was QBing it was either him keeping the ball (run) or handing off. I kept waiting for them, at some point during the game, to let him throw a few passes, give their D a different look.

Our defense excelled... but offensively it wasn't a pretty game. Jones looked lost and rattled a lot.

[traderumor]

I think tOSU badly misses Tom Herman
I don't. Maybe for continuity, but he was being criticized prior to the championship run. I think a little patience may be needed. Every season is different in college football, so expecting them to have it all figured out in game 2 is unrealistic.

[Assembly Hall]

Didnt watch the game, but how is your run defense looking so far?

[RedTeamGo!]

Didnt watch the game, but how is your run defense looking so far?

Excellent. Linebacker corps is elite.

[BillDoran]

I don't. Maybe for continuity, but he was being criticized prior to the championship run. I think a little patience may be needed. Every season is different in college football, so expecting them to have it all figured out in game 2 is unrealistic.

I know this is knee-jerk and I'm entirely willing to let this play out, but after two games it'd be tough to say that the QB position hasn't regressed a bit under Tim Beck. They just don't look as sharp in their decision-making or accuracy. It's easy to write off struggles against Virginia Tech and Bud Foster, but really difficult to ignore the lack of crispness against a historically very bad defense that Football Outsiders called ranked 109 of 128 last season. Throw in the fact that Herman has Greg Ward Jr. playing good football in Houston and it's an easy explanation.

Mind you, we're kvetching about a 38-0 win. I think given time, the QBs will return to their 2014 caliber play, but it is something worth monitoring going forward.

[LoganBuck]

I listened to the game, after the second series, the went to the radio sideline reporter Marty Bannister, and his comment was how flat the team was, on the bench and the field. None of the usual hijinks etc. His immediate take was this was a team that got back into Columbus Tuesday at 4am, and was tired. What ensued was one of the weirdest 38-0 clown show victories, you have ever seen. They stunk the stadium up, on short rest, and still won 38-0. Think about that.

I stick with Cardale.

[Assembly Hall]

I listened to the game, after the second series, the went to the radio sideline reporter Marty Bannister, and his comment was how flat the team was, on the bench and the field. None of the usual hijinks etc. His immediate take was this was a team that got back into Columbus Tuesday at 4am, and was tired. What ensued was one of the weirdest 38-0 clown show victories, you have ever seen. They stunk the stadium up, on short rest, and still won 38-0. Think about that.


That is exactly what my Ohio St. buddy told me last night on his take on the performance...short rest. But I would throw in that alot of times it is just hard to get up for an inferior opponent at this level as well......check with Auburn on that one.

[traderumor]

The scheduling is really the only issue here. No football team should ever be expected to play a game within that timeframe...at any level. They are so concerned about injuries in the game, taking all these precautions with concussions and various other "safety" rules, yet they allow TV to dictate that a team play Monday, then Saturday of the same week. That is very dangerous for the players and glad it did not result in any injuries due to fatigue.

[gonelong]

The kickoff OB is more of a design than anything else. OSU tries to kick the ball into a small corner while keeping it in the field of play. They are willing to give up the occasional penalty and start from the 35 because they feel more often than not they can stop the returner before he gets to the 25 yard line.

Understood on the design, two more OOB against Hawaii. I am pretty sure 1.5 a games is not what Meyer would consider occasional and I hope they get that cleaned up in the early going.

GL

[gonelong]

https://ohiostate.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1800661

More good news! - Malik Barrow to enroll early (Jan 2016). Early into the playbook and weight room will give him a head start on contributing his freshman year ... not to mention you have one less guy to fight to keep.

tOSU will need a good DT with Washington moving on after this year.

GL


Barrow hurt his knee (details sketchy yet - ACL?) and is out for the year. Haven't heard if this affects his decision to enroll early or not.

GL

[BillDoran]

Barrow hurt his knee (details sketchy yet - ACL?) and is out for the year. Haven't heard if this affects his decision to enroll early or not.

GL

On Eleven Warriors, it was stated that he still plans to graduate early and enroll in January.

[gonelong]

On Eleven Warriors, it was stated that he still plans to graduate early and enroll in January.

Good to hear.

[GAC]

OSU's schedule (IMO) this year (next 8 games) is pretty week until the last two games of the season .... MSU at home, and then on to Ann Arbor. They play everyone in their division (East), but face off against only two teams in the West (Illinois, Minnesota). No Wisconsin, Northwestern, Iowa, Nebraska, Purdue.

I've always had pretty mixed feelings on the addition of Maryland and Rutgers to the B10. I realize that's the way things are going in college football with split divisions within a conference, and then a championship game; but I wish team's would play less non-conference (cupcake) games and face off against more teams within their conference. It seems more about avoiding losses, getting bowl eligibility then anything else. It's a trade-off with these smaller schools..... "We'll throw big money at your institution, you'll get some national exposure for your program/kids... and we'll beat the hell out of you (LOL).

But the first month of the season, with a few exceptions obviously, it's hard to get excited and sit back and watch some of these completely imbalanced match-ups in all the conferences across this country where the odds of these smaller schools competing, let alone winning, are a long shot. Of course I realize, this past weekend, that Auburn and Arkansas were the exceptions (LOL). But still, overall, it's not fun IMO.

I realize OSU faces off this week vs N. Illinois, who is 2-0 and leading the MAC West, but we're 33 pt favorites (and for sound reasons). The only way it will be a close game (IMO) is if OSU's offense, at home, puts up another sub-par performance and plays below the level that is expected of them.

[bucksfan2]

Monday Night to Saturday Afternoon is a stupid idea. It is basically the same rest time as NFL Thursday night games, and those are awful.

Tom Herman was ripped at times, and IMO he deserved at times. Herman got too predictable and boring at times during the last two seasons. I still think the play call was stupid in the B1G title game against MSU. Herman really opened it up late last season and everything clicked.

Cardale will have more clunkers than Barrett will, I think that is just his game. However I do think his arm will mean less people in the box than Barrett. When you have one of the best backs in the game and two dynamic H-Backs, that is a good thing.

BTW I think Minnesota maybe #1 or #2 in the West. They don't have historic name recognition, but they will be a top 25 ranked team.

[gonelong]

On Eleven Warriors, it was stated that he still plans to graduate early and enroll in January.

Barrow becomes the fourth Ohio State commit in the 2016 class to sign his financial aid agreement — fully guaranteeing his scholarship with the Buckeyes — joining wide receiver Austin Mack, linebacker Tuf Borland and defensive end Jonathon Cooper.

Nice group to have (for all intents and purposes) locked up.

[RedTeamGo!]

linebacker Tuf Borland

Best name for a linebacker ever?

[gonelong]

Tuf is a pretty good one. How about Hardy Nickerson, AJ Hawk, or Takeo Spikes?

[BillDoran]

Tuf is a pretty good one. How about Hardy Nickerson, AJ Hawk, or Takeo Spikes?

In the mid-90s, Michigan had a linebacker tandem of Jarrett Irons and Sam Sword.

There hasn't been a ton of talk on this board about Ohio State's schedule this year, but it's quite the national story. I'm a bit confused by the perceived weakness of the schedule. The B1G portion is certainly a little disappointing, but I understand this to be largely outside of the school's control. The non-conference schedule, I think, is fairly formidable. Virginia Tech at Blacksburg is far from a gimmee. Hawaii was blah, but the two MAC schools are far from pushovers. I think the Buckeyes will have little trouble with them, but both Northern Illinois and Western Michigan are potential MAC champions. I think these are the types of games that have little payoff for a big program like Ohio State. Neither school impresses Joe in California or Phyllis from Mulga, but both present a real competitive challenge.

That's why I think all this scheduling talk is premature. I believe both the Huskies and Broncos will have successful seasons, and provided a competent quarterback, the Hokies should be good. Who knows what Hawaii is. I do think, ultimately, the computers will vindicate Gene Smith and Ohio State's schedule will reveal itself to be competitive at season's end. The SEC West it is not, but it isn't the cakewalk most are suggesting.

[RedTeamGo!]

It isn't OSU's fault their big ten schedule is awful, but it is.

A ridiculously weak schedule.

[RedTeamGo!]

I mean. At this point, something is wrong. Are they partying too much?

Michigan State is going to roll this team if they keep playing like this.

[Roy Tucker]

I believe we'll see Barrett shortly.

[RedTeamGo!]

Beautiful pass by Barrett. I bet Cardale is wishing he had gone pro right about now.

[BuckeyeRed27]

So the defense is really good. Mike Thomas is really good. That is about all the positives.

The offense just has to take care of the ball, it's a trend now. Need a lot more Elliot. A lot more.

[RedTeamGo!]

Cardale Jones is not a good QB. Makes horrible decisions. He made a huge mistake not going pro when he was the talk of the town. He's about to start being the talk of the town for negative reasons. Those INTs were horrendous and inexcusable.

[Kilgore_Trout]

Cardale Jones is not a good QB. Makes horrible decisions. He made a huge mistake not going pro when he was the talk of the town. He's about to start being the talk of the town for negative reasons. Those INTs were horrendous and inexcusable.

I don't think someone who "is not a good QB" puts up those numbers against Wisconsin, Alabama and Oregon. Cardale has played poorly, but he's better than this. JT hasn't exactly been a breath of fresh air, either. It's been a weird start to the season.

[RedTeamGo!]

This is not even remotely the best team in the country. I think LSU beats this OSU team by 21-28 points right now.

[RedTeamGo!]

I don't think someone who "is not a good QB" puts up those numbers against Wisconsin, Alabama and Oregon. Cardale has played poorly, but he's better than this. JT hasn't exactly been a breath of fresh air, either. It's been a weird start to the season.

I think it's starting to look like those three games were a fluke for Cardale and he was heavily dependent on the deep ball to Devin Smith. This OSU team doesn't have a deep threat like Devin and Cardale is a bad short to mid range passer that makes a lot of really stupid decisions.

I agree Barrett is not playing well either. This is a gigantic issue.

[RedTeamGo!]

Honestly, I think they should drop in the rankings after that piece of **** performance.

[BuckeyeRed27]

This is not even remotely the best team in the country. I think LSU beats this OSU team by 21-28 points right now.

Dude. Deep breath.

That wasn't a great offensive performance. No team in the country blows out this team because that defense is lights out good. The offense needs to get going, but it is better than it was exactly 12 months ago and that turned out ok.

[Assembly Hall]

Wow.......NIU takes you to the limit in your own house?

[traderumor]

After the last two seasons, seeing the D keep us in games and hold a win when the offense is playing poorly...well its about time.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Wow.......NIU takes you to the limit in your own house?

That is what happened, yes.

[Kilgore_Trout]

I think it's starting to look like those three games were a fluke for Cardale and he was heavily dependent on the deep ball to Devin Smith. This OSU team doesn't have a deep threat like Devin and Cardale is a bad short to mid range passer that makes a lot of really stupid decisions.

I agree Barrett is not playing well either. This is a gigantic issue.

I'm more apt to believe that Cardale's poor start is the fluke, not the other way around. He's made his share of bad decisions. I can't argue with that. But a lot of people aren't holding up their end of the bargain-- the o-line is crapping the bed, and the receivers are prone to drops (at least the first two games). These things tend to work themselves out.

At the end of the day, I don't care who the starting QB is. I pulled for Cardale, but I still think they're both very capable. I have no doubt this will pass. Someone will see themselves apart.

[Kilgore_Trout]

Wow.......NIU takes you to the limit in your own house?

This is nothing new for Buckeyes fans. We still remember Tressel ball...

[_Sir_Charles_]

Honestly, I think they should drop in the rankings after that piece of **** performance.

2 things.

1. Yes it was a bad performance by the Buckeyes. The play calling, the QB play, penalties, turnovers. Bad games happen. Defense, however, looked solid.
2. People were assuming the opponent was a cupcake. They are NOT. NIU is a very good team and has been for several seasons now. (they beat Purdue & Iowa on the road in 2013 and Northwestern last year)

[RedTeamGo!]

2 things.

1. Yes it was a bad performance by the Buckeyes. The play calling, the QB play, penalties, turnovers. Bad games happen. Defense, however, looked solid.
2. People were assuming the opponent was a cupcake. They are NOT. NIU is a very good team and has been for several seasons now. (they beat Purdue & Iowa on the road in 2013 and Northwestern last year)

I get NIU is a good MAC team. But, they are a MAC team. A completely healthy best team in the country with stars all over the field should whoop on NIU. Remember when NIU went to the Orange bowl and got whipped on by Florida? That's what OSU should do to NIU. Purdue, Iowa, and Northwestern should not even remotely compare to this Ohio State team.

[BillDoran]

2 things.

1. Yes it was a bad performance by the Buckeyes. The play calling, the QB play, penalties, turnovers. Bad games happen. Defense, however, looked solid.
2. People were assuming the opponent was a cupcake. They are NOT. NIU is a very good team and has been for several seasons now. (they beat Purdue & Iowa on the road in 2013 and Northwestern last year)

Agree on all points here, especially the underestimation of NIU.

Still worry about trying to feed too many mouths on offense. For me the top of the food chain is Eze and Michael Thomas. I'm working the ball to them early and often, then distributing the remaining touches according to what's available.


I get NIU is a good MAC team. But, they are a MAC team. A completely healthy best team in the country with stars all over the field should whoop on NIU. Remember when NIU went to the Orange bowl and got whipped on by Florida? That's what OSU should do to NIU. Purdue, Iowa, and Northwestern should not even remotely compare to this Ohio State team.

I know knee-jerk reactions are your thing, but take a couple deep breaths. This is how college football works. Even the best teams will struggle mightily in a couple contests each year. Last year that resulted in an L to Va Tech. In 2002, it necessitated Holy Buckeye to take out a putrid Purdue squad, before dethroning Miami

Obviously, the offense isn't where anybody outside of Ann Arbor would like it to be, but I think we'll see improvement ahead. And, frankly, it doesn't need to be hitting on all cylinders for another seven weeks.

[RedTeamGo!]

Agree on all points here, especially the underestimation of NIU.

Still worry about trying to feed too many mouths on offense. For me the top of the food chain is Eze and Michael Thomas. I'm working the ball to them early and often, then distributing the remaining touches according to what's available.



I know knee-jerk reactions are your thing, but take a couple deep breaths. This is how college football works. Even the best teams will struggle mightily in a couple contests each year. Last year that resulted in an L to Va Tech. In 2002, it necessitated Holy Buckeye to take out a putrid Purdue squad, before dethroning Miami

Obviously, the offense isn't where anybody outside of Ann Arbor would like it to be, but I think we'll see improvement ahead. And, frankly, it doesn't need to be hitting on all cylinders for another seven weeks.

That 2002 team doesn't really compare. This year OSU is Miami. OSU is the most talented team by far in the country. I'm not going to lose any sleep over it or anything, but that performance was pathetic and they need to figure out the offense immediately. They also need to figure out who the starting QB is. If it's Cardale make a decision and role with it. Are they splitting time with the first team offense at practice? Might be why they aren't sharp.

[BuckeyeRed27]

That 2002 team doesn't really compare. This year OSU is Miami. OSU is the most talented team by far in the country. I'm not going to lose any sleep over it or anything, but that performance was pathetic and they need to figure out the offense immediately. They also need to figure out who the starting QB is. If it's Cardale make a decision and role with it. Are they splitting time with the first team offense at practice? Might be why they aren't sharp.

They don't need to figure it out immediately. They probably need to have a better idea on October 17 when Penn St tools in and they need to have it locked in 8 weeks from now against Sparty and in every game after. And they will.

[RedTeamGo!]

They don't need to figure it out immediately. They probably need to have a better idea on October 17 when Penn St tools in and they need to have it locked in 8 weeks from now against Sparty and in every game after. And they will.

Let's not forget they have a new offensive coordinator. I think they need to get it figured out before then. Pretty crazy they went from so good to so bad this quickly. I really do think Urban needs to name a starting QB and just role with him. What he is doing cannot be good for morale. In fact, Cardale changed his Twitter profile to the following a couple hours ago:

9852

Not good. Starting to show cracks. Pick a QB and run with him.

[Redsfaithful]

https://twitter.com/CJ12_/status/645416698758230016


Stop tweet watching, Bio been the same for days

[GAC]

I get NIU is a good MAC team. But, they are a MAC team. A completely healthy best team in the country with stars all over the field should whoop on NIU. Remember when NIU went to the Orange bowl and got whipped on by Florida? That's what OSU should do to NIU. Purdue, Iowa, and Northwestern should not even remotely compare to this Ohio State team.

This OSU team, as it's playing right now, shouldn't be remotely compared to Ohio State (LOL).

And MAC teams have given good Buckeye teams trouble, solid games in the past, and almost came close to beating us. ;)

If I had to put my finger on what's going on right now with this team I'd point my finger at two things (primarily)....

1) Just like last year, this offensive line is getting off to a bad start, playing terribly. If you can't control the line of scrimmage then your running/passing game isn't going to find any consistency.

2) This is a very talented team with lots of weapons. But the offensive coaches are out thinking themselves trying to spread it around. And like last week, in numerous situations, they made some simply terrible play calls. When you're down inside the opponent's 10 yd line, needing 3-4 yards, you pound the ball with 'Zeke.

[Assembly Hall]

Hopefully, the Bucks take this game and learn from it.

[RedTeamGo!]

https://twitter.com/CJ12_/status/645416698758230016

He had the third string QB bit up before but added the "oh wait, 2nd string" last night and then removed it after realizing he made a mistake.

[villain612]

Play calling is a real problem right now. Offense is just not in any rhythm at all.Not a fan of this new offensive coordinator.

Trying to get too cute when running between the tackles is working well. And then the clock management was terrible yesterday. Why do you run a hurry up offense when you're trying to kill the clock late in the 4th quarter?

I think at the end of the day, they will be okay. Urban may need to pick his QB and go with them though.

[Assembly Hall]

Anybody here have the feeling that Sparty might be ranked #2 this week?

[bucksfan2]

Play calling is a real problem right now. Offense is just not in any rhythm at all.Not a fan of this new offensive coordinator.

Trying to get too cute when running between the tackles is working well. And then the clock management was terrible yesterday. Why do you run a hurry up offense when you're trying to kill the clock late in the 4th quarter?

I think at the end of the day, they will be okay. Urban may need to pick his QB and go with them though.

I watched the first half and followed the second half on twitter. One thing I noticed was the bad play calling, but I think that will get better with time. OSU's main problem that I see is their #2 WR went down for the year in the preseason. Once that happened they have Michael Thomas, Corey Smith, and a bunch of H-Backs they want to get the ball to. When you watch the team Marshall, Wilson, Samuels, and Miller all resemble the same player. I think the OC's right now are too worried about getting everyone touches instead of blowing the doors open. Miller is electric, but so is Marshall, so is Wilson, so is Samuels. Playing laterally goes against the strength of this OLine. They no longer have Spencer out there as a great blocking WR. Their left side is going to be playing on Sundays, their RB is going to be playing on Sundays, at some point they need to get into the ground and pound that beat the heck out of Oregon and beat Alabama. You get the ground and pound figured out and everything will open up for the QB.

One thing to note, I don't have a problem with Zeke not taking a beating early in the season. A RB only has a limited number of hits, I would much rather see him tote the ball 30 times against MSU, Michigan, and going forward than wearing him out early.

[LoganBuck]

Despite the constant stream of commentary about Billy Price being a pro quality player at LG, he like last season is slow and gets beat when he has to think. The 3-4 defenses make him pick a guy to block instead of playing straight assignment football. He gets beat over and over. Play someone else.

Pick a QB. Give him the reps. It doesn't really matter which one, just give them a defined role.

Enough of the running east and west. Also where are the deep throws? Back the safeties off a little. I noticed especially with Cardale, that he would audible to a run on several plays when the defense was showing blitz. Then they would run right into the blitz. Yuck.

Does the Ohio State offense score on the defense during practice?

[villain612]

On a positive note, the defense has come a long way in 2 years. Remember how lousy they were in 2013?

This unit looks pretty stout. Bell and Lee are the real deal.

[traderumor]

Alright, my turn. The announcer on the game was arrogant and sounded like the guy with season tickets that knows it all and makes you wonder why he is not on the sideliine with his vast and superior knowledge of the game.

While it may seem as simple as just "line up and power run Elliott," seriously, if they did that, "boy, they really need to mix up the play calling. They are predictable"

That NIU was a 34 point underdog ought to make you never bet your hard earned money again. Yet, that is why everyone thinks Ohio State is now not a good team.

If Ohio State is not playing its best football in September, and you know they have a butt load of talent, aren't you excited about watching them improve and what will happen when they do?

[BillDoran]

Alright, my turn. The announcer on the game was arrogant and sounded like the guy with season tickets that knows it all and makes you wonder why he is not on the sideliine with his vast and superior knowledge of the game.

Announcers rarely bother me, but Ed Cunningham's armchair coaching was painful. He had all the answers for the Ohio State offense and was really critical of NIU's clock and down-and-distance management. It came off haughty, like traderumor said.

[traderumor]

Ah Ed Cunningham. I know that name and I bet a search would find me expressing similar thoughts when I've heard him call a game. Poster child for pompous ass.

[RedTeamGo!]

Cunningham has never seen a 4th down a team should punt on. It was getting ridiculous during the game Saturday.

[cumberlandreds]

Anybody here have the feeling that Sparty might be ranked #2 this week?

They are. Should set up a good showdown later this season.

[RiverRat13]

Cunningham has never seen a 4th down a team should punt on. It was getting ridiculous during the game Saturday.

He was absolutely right about NIU in the 1st half. When you're the decided underdog, you have to take those chances.

[traderumor]

He was absolutely right about NIU in the 1st half. When you're the decided underdog, you have to take those chances.They lost by 7 and had the ball with a chance to win. Perhaps the coach did not see them as "a desperate decided underdog" and coached the game in a way that he is comfortable with and had success with. The presupposition "decided underdog" was based on a Las Vegas line and Ohio St. tradition. He's won a lot of games and was in position to win this game. I'll go with his style over the pompous announcer's, who had obviously read the "never punt" philosophy of football and, since he is a devotee, now everyone should be since he's the smartest guy around.

[bucksfan2]

They lost by 7 and had the ball with a chance to win. Perhaps the coach did not see them as "a desperate decided underdog" and coached the game in a way that he is comfortable with and had success with. The presupposition "decided underdog" was based on a Las Vegas line and Ohio St. tradition. He's won a lot of games and was in position to win this game. I'll go with his style over the pompous announcer's, who had obviously read the "never punt" philosophy of football and, since he is a devotee, now everyone should be since he's the smartest guy around.

They lost. A one loss NIU is a good club, but probably on the outside looking in for the big bowls. A one loss NIU with a victory over OSU is a lock for a BCS (if that is what they are called) bowl.

I think NIU's coach played it close to the vest, not to lose, instead to win. Would it have mattered, I don't know. But they had a couple of chances in the middle of the field in 4th and short and they bled the clock or punted. Playing close to the vest is the best way to beat an inferior team, not a superior team.

[traderumor]

They lost. A one loss NIU is a good club, but probably on the outside looking in for the big bowls. A one loss NIU with a victory over OSU is a lock for a BCS (if that is what they are called) bowl.

I think NIU's coach played it close to the vest, not to lose, instead to win. Would it have mattered, I don't know. But they had a couple of chances in the middle of the field in 4th and short and they bled the clock or punted. Playing close to the vest is the best way to beat an inferior team, not a superior team.

Exactly the opposite. A one loss NIU club that wins the MAC and has a 7 point loss to Ohio State is playing in a significant bowl game. He played to win, just not how you would play to win.

[Boston Red]

Exactly the opposite. A one loss NIU club that wins the MAC and has a 7 point loss to Ohio State is playing in a significant bowl game.

No, they won't. They'll be in the GMAC Bowl or whatever bowl the MAC champ is locked into. It will take a miracle for them to get the non-power 5 spot in one of the major bowls.

[traderumor]

No, they won't. They'll be in the GMAC Bowl or whatever bowl the MAC champ is locked into. It will take a miracle for them to get the non-power 5 spot in one of the major bowls.

Even if that is what happens, it is a red herring to say "the coach doesn't go for it on 4th down at some field position, therefore the coach wasn't 'playing to win.'" As if NIU is where they are by playing "upset" minded football. That is the primary issue in this line of the discussion. And that is supported because someone thinks that an overall success percentage on down/distance/field position makes the decision all about probability.

[Assembly Hall]

No, they won't. They'll be in the GMAC Bowl or whatever bowl the MAC champ is locked into. It will take a miracle for them to get the non-power 5 spot in one of the major bowls.

That is speculative. If NIU runs the table and Ohio St. gets into the "Final Four", then I think they would get into a formidable bowl.

[Boston Red]

That is speculative. If NIU runs the table and Ohio St. gets into the "Final Four", then I think they would get into a formidable bowl.

There's only one spot in a "formidable bowl" available to non-power 5 teams. That spot is not going to a MAC team with a loss unless the AAC, MWC and C-USA all implode.

[Assembly Hall]

There's only one spot in a "formidable bowl" available to non-power 5 teams. That spot is not going to a MAC team with a loss unless the AAC, MWC and C-USA all implode.

Perhaps, but I dont see it that way. Implode? Tell me who your choices are coming out of your mentioned conferences.

[Boston Red]

Houston and Boise State. Houston has to lose twice, and Boise has to lose again for NIU to even get close to the conversation.

[villain612]

I think BYU has a much better shot at a major bowl than NIU.

[Boston Red]

I don't think BYU is eligible for the "access bowl" spot, so they were pretty much playoffs or bust. They were a FG away from being right in the playoff mix Saturday night, but sadly for them they are now relegated to the Las Vegas Bowl or the Hawaii Bowl whether they end up 11-1 or 6-6.

[Assembly Hall]

I think BYU has a much better shot at a major bowl than NIU.

We shall see come Saturday.

[Assembly Hall]

Houston and Boise State. Houston has to lose twice, and Boise has to lose again for NIU to even get close to the conversation.

Good choices, you left out Temple. But you also mentioned C-USA?

[Boston Red]

Temple has to play Notre Dame, so.....

Same for Middle Tennessee. Otherwise they'd also be a good choice. Sorry, think I meant Navy. Not Middle.

I'd forgotten just how bad C-USA is now. Oof.

Also, Memphis would be a candidate, but they have a date with Ole Miss.

[Assembly Hall]

Temple has to play Notre Dame, so.....

Same for Middle Tennessee. Otherwise they'd also be a good choice. Sorry, think I meant Navy. Not Middle.

I'd forgotten just how bad C-USA is now. Oof.

Also, Memphis would be a candidate, but they have a date with Ole Miss.

Yeah, C-USA is horrid.

[bucksfan2]

http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-state-football/2015/09/59982/film-study-whats-wrong-with-the-ohio-state-offense

Enjoyed this breakdown of OSU. It essence it boils down to sloppy play.

[GAC]

http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-state-football/2015/09/59982/film-study-whats-wrong-with-the-ohio-state-offense

Enjoyed this breakdown of OSU. It essence it boils down to sloppy play.

I think their offensive line is still the main culprit .... and this new offensive coordinator is trying to do too much, spread it around.

[Assembly Hall]

All I can say is that I feel sorry for Western Michigan this week-end. I have the feeling the Bucks are gonna be taking out a lot of frustration on them.

[Roy Tucker]

http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-state-football/2015/09/59982/film-study-whats-wrong-with-the-ohio-state-offense

Enjoyed this breakdown of OSU. It essence it boils down to sloppy play.

Meyer's teams have always gained steam as the season goes by. Did it last year and I remember his Florida teams doing it.

He'll get them there. Every season is a new one and it takes time for teams to take shape.

[traderumor]

So here's one for you. Just looking at Western Michigan's results. They start off with Mich. St., score is a respectable 37-24. Next week, they get massacred by Georgia Southern, 43-17. Then they beat up on Murray St. last week, 52-20. I did note that Georgia Southern, who must run option, ran for 414 yards, they were 1 of 4 passing.

"Zeke, get warmed up, buddy, you're the man this week" would be my simple game plan. But based on the first three weeks, we'll show them all of our offensive talent and how well they can run parallel to the line of scrimmage before a two yard gain.

[RedTeamGo!]

I would run Zeke about 20 times so he can score 3 TDs, and then just run Dunn, Samuel and Braxton for the rest of the game. Let Caedale throw 5-7 times so we can limit his interceptions to 2.

[villain612]

Jones to remain the starter.

http://www.landgrantholyland.com/2015/9/23/9385587/ohio-state-football-cardale-jones-j-t-barrett

[Kilgore_Trout]

Jones to remain the starter.

http://www.landgrantholyland.com/2015/9/23/9385587/ohio-state-football-cardale-jones-j-t-barrett

Maybe I'm in the minority, but I like it. I've favored Jones throughout the battle, and I'm glad to see him get another chance to prove himself. Playcalling has to get better, though.

[villain612]

Maybe I'm in the minority, but I like it. I've favored Jones throughout the battle, and I'm glad to see him get another chance to prove himself. Playcalling has to get better, though.

Both guys have their strengths. I like them both.

I put my trust in Meyer. Whatever he and the coaching staff think is best.

[GAC]

All I can say is that I feel sorry for Western Michigan this week-end. I have the feeling the Bucks are gonna be taking out a lot of frustration on them.

I thought that last week though (LOL)

[Assembly Hall]

I thought that last week though (LOL)

I think most did!!!!!!!!

[jimbo]

Maybe I'm in the minority, but I like it. I've favored Jones throughout the battle, and I'm glad to see him get another chance to prove himself. Playcalling has to get better, though.

I don't think you are in the minority. I agree. I just hope that at some point, it no longer becomes a controversy. Pick a guy, and stick with him. While on the surface, this sort of thing seems like a blessing, it often becomes a problem. It has to put a QB on edge by constantly having the possibility of being pulled whenever he makes a mistake, and never getting into a groove because you are sharing practice reps. I hope Urban has it figured out by Big 10 play.

I also think fans need to chill. Too many expected this team to pick up exactly where they left off from the championship game. In no way was that going to happen. It had been a long time in between, and it's a different team. They were playing at a high level at the end of last season, it'll take some time to get back to that level. I'm not worried at all. Coach Meyer will have this team playing it's best ball at the right time.

[bucksfan2]

I don't think you are in the minority. I agree. I just hope that at some point, it no longer becomes a controversy. Pick a guy, and stick with him. While on the surface, this sort of thing seems like a blessing, it often becomes a problem. It has to put a QB on edge by constantly having the possibility of being pulled whenever he makes a mistake, and never getting into a groove because you are sharing practice reps. I hope Urban has it figured out by Big 10 play.

I also think fans need to chill. Too many expected this team to pick up exactly where they left off from the championship game. In no way was that going to happen. It had been a long time in between, and it's a different team. They were playing at a high level at the end of last season, it'll take some time to get back to that level. I'm not worried at all. Coach Meyer will have this team playing it's best ball at the right time.

I don't think its the fans per say. I was driving home from Hilton Head late last Sat night and early into Sunday morning. I was having a good ol time listening to Ole Miss trying their best to lose to Alabama. But at time I would flip on ESPN radio and see what they were bantering about. The gist of the conversation was whether or not OSU was the #1 team in the country. 3 games into the season and people are wondering what happened? It was like the panic button was being hit in Columbus but the rest of the country was saying "you stink OSU." Granted it was talk radio and done for rankings, and none of it holds water, but the national conversation was about OSU and their performance.

I thought Barrett was going to get the gig because he was Urban's guy. I still think over the course of a season Barrett, as the starter, will be more consistent. With Cardale I though you would see games like that against NIU (I can't really hold Barrett's feet to the fire if he was getting ready like the backup), I just thought he would be more inconsistent. I do think that Cardale's arm is what separates him from most of the QB's in college football, he has a cannon and that was on full display in the biggest games he has played. I think what goes unnoticed too much is Cardale's first start in Ohio Stadium was against Hawaii. It feels like he has been the starting QB at OSU for years now, but he has only started 6 games now.

From reading OSU sites and listen to the talk, it appears as if the problems stem from the OLine not doing their job more than anything else. Personally I think the lack of a legit #2 WR and too many HBacks is an issue. I would almost be inclined to use Marshall or Miller solely as a WR and the other Wilson and Samuel as HBacks. I just don't know if either Marshall or Miller would be physical enough blockers to make Urban happy.

[gonelong]

I also think fans need to chill. Too many expected this team to pick up exactly where they left off from the championship game. In no way was that going to happen.

Agreed. I fully expected this team to go on a Championship run, however, they realized that Championship a year early. I feel like this season is absolute gravy and have enjoyed all 3 victories without any of the usual angst with *how* they performed in those victories.

GL

[traderumor]

Both guys have their strengths. I like them both.

I put my trust in Meyer. Whatever he and the coaching staff think is best.Meyer had some awful funny looks caught on camera that seemed to be directed at the play caller. I'm guessing they may have had a serious discussion about offensive coordinating this week.

[traderumor]

The biggest red flag I have seen so far this year is poor fundamentals from the QBs, and it was reported that Herman was the QB whisperer in Columbus. Then you have the Oline seemingly taking a step backward. Is it because their position coach is now the O coordinator? Those are what I think are at the root of the lackluster performance so far.

[BillDoran]

The biggest red flag I have seen so far this year is poor fundamentals from the QBs, and it was reported that Herman was the QB whisperer in Columbus. Then you have the Oline seemingly taking a step backward. Is it because their position coach is now the O coordinator? Those are what I think are at the root of the lackluster performance so far.

That's certainly a concern. With Warinner moving up the food-chain to think of the offense more holistically, has he given less attention to his line coaching duties? No doubt his line is bit more devoted, but with Meyer's focus on nine (11, can't remember) units strong, I'd have to imagine he's an offensive line coach first, coordinator second. Guess that's hard for us to know.

One thing that really perplexes me is Urban's continued talk about running a more pro-style offense. A few weeks ago, he mentioned going away from the option-read play, but he's been insistent lately on being more pro-style in alignment and play-calling.

If it wasn't broke - and Ohio State's late-season offense may have been the least broken thing I've ever witnessed - why fix it?

Anyway, damn you, Tim Beck!!!

[BuckeyeRed27]

That's certainly a concern. With Warinner moving up the food-chain to think of the offense more holistically, has he given less attention to his line coaching duties? No doubt his line is bit more devoted, but with Meyer's focus on nine (11, can't remember) units strong, I'd have to imagine he's an offensive line coach first, coordinator second. Guess that's hard for us to know.

One thing that really perplexes me is Urban's continued talk about running a more pro-style offense. A few weeks ago, he mentioned going away from the option-read play, but he's been insistent lately on being more pro-style in alignment and play-calling.

If it wasn't broke - and Ohio State's late-season offense may have been the least broken thing I've ever witnessed - why fix it?

Anyway, damn you, Tim Beck!!!

I think he wants to keep the QB from getting hit. He has had to deal with QB injuries every year at OSU and not running the QB as much and keeping him in the pocket will hopefully help with that.

[BillDoran]

I think he wants to keep the QB from getting hit. He has had to deal with QB injuries every year at OSU and not running the QB as much and keeping him in the pocket will hopefully help with that.

I'm really not criticizing Urban and the offensive braintrust - I know they're eight steps ahead of me in understanding football philosophy - but it seems like a strange year to worry about your QB going down. He's got three legitimate ones, and this is the year you put them in bubblewrap.

I tend to believe that the zone-read probably isn't as effective and defenses are better prepared for it, or that moving away from it sets up concepts or plays I can't conceive of, but, man, it sure was effective last year.

[traderumor]

I'm really not criticizing Urban and the offensive braintrust - I know they're eight steps ahead of me in understanding football philosophy - but it seems like a strange year to worry about your QB going down. He's got three legitimate ones, and this is the year you put them in bubblewrap.

I tend to believe that the zone-read probably isn't as effective and defenses are better prepared for it, or that moving away from it sets up concepts or plays I can't conceive of, but, man, it sure was effective last year.I don't know, the zone read still seems to be very difficult to defend, and with the talent they have, I do not see this being a good year to go "pro style" either. But then, if that is pro style, they better reread that chapter, since a pro style would be getting the ball to a feature back more than we have seen so far.

[GAC]

I also think fans need to chill. Too many expected this team to pick up exactly where they left off from the championship game. In no way was that going to happen. It had been a long time in between, and it's a different team. They were playing at a high level at the end of last season, it'll take some time to get back to that level. I'm not worried at all. Coach Meyer will have this team playing it's best ball at the right time.


Agreed. I fully expected this team to go on a Championship run, however, they realized that Championship a year early. I feel like this season is absolute gravy and have enjoyed all 3 victories without any of the usual angst with *how* they performed in those victories.

GL

I wholeheartedly agree with you gentlemen. I didn't like what I saw, overall, the first three games, did some heading shaking, and yelled at the TV a few times myself. But through it all I've still maintained that this team, very, very talented, will get it together.

My brother is another story though. He's been pretty much going nuts, get Cardale out of there, saying this team doesn't deserve to be #1, yada, yada, yada. He gets upset at me because I'm not going ballistic over this team (LOL). I told him "It's like we're watching the 2014 season all over again because they weren't playing great ball the first couple of months, very uneven, got beat by Va Tech, and it was mainly due to the O-line needing to get their act together. But they then turned it on. Meyer's staff knows they have some work to do, and I think they'll get it straightened out.

And their schedule is pretty light until the last two games of the season. ;)

[Assembly Hall]

I know I might sound like a "homer" here to a degree. But I am really curious as to how the Bucks will do against the Hoosiers in Bloomington next Sat. I say this because IU has given up massive yardage to SIU and WKU. Conversely, IU can put up yardage themselves.

[RedTeamGo!]

i know i might sound like a "homer" here to a degree. But i am really curious as to how the bucks will do against the hoosiers in bloomington next sat. I say this because iu has given up massive yardage to siu and wku. Conversely, iu can put up yardage themselves.

osu 56
iu 10

[Assembly Hall]

osu 56
iu 10

I have no doubt the Bucks win. I was just using the match-up as to judge OSU's offense and defense.

[BillDoran]

I have no doubt the Bucks win. I was just using the match-up as to judge OSU's offense and defense.

While it probably wasn't as close as the score indicates (52-49, with IU putting up two touchdowns in the last 1:40), Ohio State got more than they bargained for last team they went to Memorial Stadium. Any team that can move the ball like the Hoosiers do with Sudfield leading them should make any team a bit wary.

[Assembly Hall]

While it probably wasn't as close as the score indicates (52-49, with IU putting up two touchdowns in the last 1:40), Ohio State got more than they bargained for last team they went to Memorial Stadium. Any team that can move the ball like the Hoosiers do with Sudfield leading them should make any team a bit wary.

And once again, the Hoosiers have an NFL caliber running back.

[redsfanmia]

osu 56
iu 10

It won't be 56-10, the Hoosiers can score

[villain612]

I wholeheartedly agree with you gentlemen. I didn't like what I saw, overall, the first three games, did some heading shaking, and yelled at the TV a few times myself. But through it all I've still maintained that this team, very, very talented, will get it together.

My brother is another story though. He's been pretty much going nuts, get Cardale out of there, saying this team doesn't deserve to be #1, yada, yada, yada. He gets upset at me because I'm not going ballistic over this team (LOL). I told him "It's like we're watching the 2014 season all over again because they weren't playing great ball the first couple of months, very uneven, got beat by Va Tech, and it was mainly due to the O-line needing to get their act together. But they then turned it on. Meyer's staff knows they have some work to do, and I think they'll get it straightened out.

And their schedule is pretty light until the last two games of the season. ;)


Indeed.

Us fans tend to have tunnel vision when it comes to dissecting our own teams. Truth is, no one in the top ten has looked great so far.

College football has no preseason so September is all about getting the gears moving.

[RedTeamGo!]

Barrett looked terrible when he came in.

I guess it's Cardale or bust at this point.

[traderumor]

I know I might sound like a "homer" here to a degree. But I am really curious as to how the Bucks will do against the Hoosiers in Bloomington next Sat. I say this because IU has given up massive yardage to SIU and WKU. Conversely, IU can put up yardage themselves.

From a very surface look, IU's hope will be turnovers, as with any big underdog type game. Those wins are pretty shaky against some pretty shaky opponents (Ohio State has been challenged, but most of that has been unrealistic expectations of 75-0 wins every week). It looks like the D is a sieve and is relying on turnovers. IU did have OSU on the ropes last year, but a bad defense is good news for the Buckeyes.

[Assembly Hall]

From a very surface look, IU's hope will be turnovers, as with any big underdog type game. Those wins are pretty shaky against some pretty shaky opponents (Ohio State has been challenged, but most of that has been unrealistic expectations of 75-0 wins every week). It looks like the D is a sieve and is relying on turnovers. IU did have OSU on the ropes last year, but a bad defense is good news for the Buckeyes.

That is what intrigues me about the game. I want to see the Bucks D against a potent offense. And I want to see their O against a very porous defense, particularly in the secondary. IIRC, last year the Hoosiers tore them up on the ground and played with like their 3rd or 4th string QB. IU still has the ground game, but this time the Bucks will have to face Sudfeld.

[traderumor]

That is what intrigues me about the game. I want to see the Bucks D against a potent offense. And I want to see their O against a very porous defense, particularly in the secondary. IIRC, last year the Hoosiers tore them up on the ground and played with like their 3rd or 4th string QB. IU still has the ground game, but this time the Bucks will have to face Sudfeld.
The thing that I see is that the Bucks D will be able to contain the IU offense and your D will not be able to stop Ohio State. Turnovers are always a wildcard.

[Assembly Hall]

The thing that I see is that the Bucks D will be able to contain the IU offense and your D will not be able to stop Ohio State. Turnovers are always a wildcard.

Pretty much the way I see it too. I just hope to get a "moral" victory!!!!! LOL

[dabvu2498]

No, they won't. They'll be in the GMAC Bowl or whatever bowl the MAC champ is locked into. It will take a miracle for them to get the non-power 5 spot in one of the major bowls.

Sorry to dredge this back up, but that dream died this past weekend.

[traderumor]

Turnovers, the great equalizer. Indiana certainly does give the Buckeyes fits. Knocked out their first team and the second stringers almost pulled it off.

Jalen Marshall may be talented, but his carelessness with the ball makes him a liability.

Can someone please draw up some downfield routes for this new OC? He doesn't seem to have any of those in his playbook.

[Assembly Hall]

osu 56
iu 10

Care to re-think that?

[Assembly Hall]

Turnovers, the great equalizer. Indiana certainly does give the Buckeyes fits. Knocked out their first team and the second stringers almost pulled it off.

Jalen Marshall may be talented, but his carelessness with the ball makes him a liability.

Can someone please draw up some downfield routes for this new OC? He doesn't seem to have any of those in his playbook.

Yeah, those turnovers were huge. It just seems to me they(coaching staff) dont have any confidence in Jones ability to read things. I dunno.

[traderumor]

Care to re-think that?That would have been pretty close if Jalen Marshall takes care of the ball.

[Assembly Hall]

That would have been pretty close if Jalen Marshall takes care of the ball.

"If's and But's, Candies and Nuts...we would all be happy come Christmas morning."

I will take my moral victory and wish you guys the best for the rest of the season.

[traderumor]

"If's and But's, Candies and Nuts...we would all be happy come Christmas morning."

I will take my moral victory and wish you guys the best for the rest of the season.Speaking of Christmas, the gifts from your Head Coach, saving up his timeouts for a rainy day, and the center botching the snap on the biggest play of the year, were much appreciated.

[Assembly Hall]

Speaking of Christmas, the gifts from your Head Coach, saving up his timeouts for a rainy day, and the center botching the snap on the biggest play of the year, were much appreciated.

You are welcome. Wilson just making sure the B1G gets it's just due. You guys go win another championship and we go 6-6 and make it to a bowl. Win-win for the conference. Of course that is contingent on us winning 2 more games!!!!!!

[RedTeamGo!]

Ohio State is not making the playoff if they keep playing like this. Absolute garbage.

I bet Cardale is really kicking himself for not going pro after the championship game when there was some mystery about him.

Each game he plays at this point his stock falls more and more.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Ohio State is not making the playoff if they keep playing like this. Absolute garbage.

I bet Cardale is really kicking himself for not going pro after the championship game when there was some mystery about him.

Each game he plays at this point his stock falls more and more.

Cardale had a really bad interception and a pretty bad miss of Michael Thomas on the potential TD throw. Outside of that he had a pretty solid game. No worse than a B overall. There was a lot of stuff wrong offensively, particularly in the first half, but that didn't have much to do with Cardale Jones.

I was happy to see the O line put together a good second half and make some adjustments after what was a very very very poor first half.
They have to stop turning the ball over. It is a huge issue that is eventually going to cost them. We can talk all we want about QB, o line, play calling, lack of identity and those are all issues, but they pale in comparison to turnovers. They can spend the rest of the season not figuring out any of those other issues and still might win a national championship on talent alone if they can figure out how to hold onto the ball.

[Assembly Hall]

Ohio State is not making the playoff if they keep playing like this. Absolute garbage.

I bet Cardale is really kicking himself for not going pro after the championship game when there was some mystery about him.

Each game he plays at this point his stock falls more and more.

You know who he reminds me of? Byron Leftwich.

[RedTeamGo!]

You know who he reminds me of? Byron Leftwich.

Do you mean like they have similar faces? I don't think they play much alike.

[RedTeamGo!]

Cardale had a really bad interception and a pretty bad miss of Michael Thomas on the potential TD throw. Outside of that he had a pretty solid game. No worse than a B overall. There was a lot of stuff wrong offensively, particularly in the first half, but that didn't have much to do with Cardale Jones.

I was happy to see the O line put together a good second half and make some adjustments after what was a very very very poor first half.
They have to stop turning the ball over. It is a huge issue that is eventually going to cost them. We can talk all we want about QB, o line, play calling, lack of identity and those are all issues, but they pale in comparison to turnovers. They can spend the rest of the season not figuring out any of those other issues and still might win a national championship on talent alone if they can figure out how to hold onto the ball.

I guess he was a B, the fact they completely stopped letting Cardale throw the ball in the 4th quarter says a lot about how the coaches view him right now.

[villain612]

Jalin Marshall needs to hold onto the ball.

[kaldaniels]

Need to file a missing person report on Braxton Miller.

[GAC]

I took Indiana and the 19 points! :p

Indiana gave us a heck of a game last year remember? Pretty similar to yesterday's game. They were up on us halfway through the 3rd quarter when Marshall returned a punt for a TD. We ended up winning 42-24. Indiana's offense is no slouch... averaging 520 yds/game this year, and a pretty balanced attack. So our defense did a heck of a job IMO. What concerned me was our offense's performance, that is until about halfway through the 3rd, against an Indiana defense that is ranked pretty bad so far this season. They give up 500 total yds/game.

I just hope this coaching staff gets the message after Zeke's second half performance yesterday. This kid is your bread n butter.

I also thought there were a couple bad calls against OSU in that game. ;)

[Assembly Hall]

Do you mean like they have similar faces? I don't think they play much alike.

To me they have exactly the same style.

[Assembly Hall]

I took Indiana and the 19 points! :p

Indiana gave us a heck of a game last year remember? Pretty similar to yesterday's game. They were up on us halfway through the 3rd quarter when Marshall returned a punt for a TD. We ended up winning 42-24. Indiana's offense is no slouch... averaging 520 yds/game this year, and a pretty balanced attack. So our defense did a heck of a job IMO. What concerned me was our offense's performance, that is until about halfway through the 3rd, against an Indiana defense that is ranked pretty bad so far this season. They give up 500 total yds/game.

I just hope this coaching staff gets the message after Zeke's second half performance yesterday. This kid is your bread n butter.

I also thought there were a couple bad calls against OSU in that game. ;)

There were absolutely quite a few bad calls against tOSU. Funny thing is they came from the coaching staff!!!!!

[jimbo]

Ohio State is not making the playoff if they keep playing like this. Absolute garbage.

Well of course not, but it isn't selection time quite yet. I remember many of same over reactionary comments last year after the VT loss, the OT win at Penn State, etc. Let's also keep in mind, like Kentucky basketball fans like to say, we are now everyone's Super Bowl. This was the biggest game in years for an IU team who was undefeated and playing the defending national champs and current #1. You can't expect any team to play at a "National Championship level" week in and week out.

We, as fans, get way too caught up with teams that win by 50 every week during most of the season and then drop a turd come crunch time against real competition. Do what you have to do to win these types of games and work out the kinks. I kinda have to think that Urban knows what he's doing.


I bet Cardale is really kicking himself for not going pro after the championship game when there was some mystery about him.

Each game he plays at this point his stock falls more and more.

Give the kid a break. He is still a rookie. The kid played those last three games last year with little to no expectations, never had time to consider the pressure. It's a different animal this year. Expectations are everywhere and I'm sure he's feeling it. I really think he's about to have a break out game and it'll be all uphill from there. Then you'll be singing his praises. I highly doubt that his top concern right now is where his NFL stock falls. If it is, then he needs benched.