Ohio State Football 2015 [continued]

[gonelong]

With Washington out for the game and Tommy Schutt with a foot injury the depth of the interior DL is pretty thin. Does this cause any level of concern for you? It has me a bit worried.

On a side note, just heard IOWA sold out there Rose Bowl allotment and had enough to requests for tickets to sell them out twice.

GL

[bucksfan2]

http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-state-football/2015/12/65151/ticket-travel-costs-result-in-excess-of-ohio-state-tickets-available-for-fiesta-bowl

Kinda feel like who cares with the Fiesta Bowl. Excited for the game, don't like Notre Dame, but it is a glorified exhibition.

[Roy Tucker]

I think it's a hangover of a vaguely disappointing season. And when 11-1 is disappointing, you know how sky high the expectations were. For all the apparent talent they had, thry never hit on all cylinders.

[Assembly Hall]

http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-state-football/2015/12/65151/ticket-travel-costs-result-in-excess-of-ohio-state-tickets-available-for-fiesta-bowl

Kinda feel like who cares with the Fiesta Bowl. Excited for the game, don't like Notre Dame, but it is a glorified exhibition.

Glorified exhibition? That is what most bowl games have always been. I just say that Bucks fans are disappointed with the way the season turned out.

[gonelong]

Bowl games play a part in early season ratings for the next season which in turn drive perception. It plays a part in the perception of the strength of the conferences as well as the strength of the individual teams.

Plus it's more college football.

I know a lot of people are disappointed with the season, I'm not. They got tripped up in a game in which the elements drove the offense into the teeth of a good DL, with a RB that was not 100%, and they played it tight. It was an unfortunate loss and something I hope the coaching staff learned from, but it was still a very fun season for me to follow. Perhaps I am just getting less critical as I get older. :)

Link (http://www.redszone.com/forums/showthread.php?107604-Ohio-State-Football-2015-Defending-National-Champions&p=3360649&viewfull=1#post3360649)


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

[BuckeyeRed27]

With Washington out for the game and Tommy Schutt with a foot injury the depth of the interior DL is pretty thin. Does this cause any level of concern for you? It has me a bit worried.

On a side note, just heard IOWA sold out there Rose Bowl allotment and had enough to requests for tickets to sell them out twice.

GL

It is concerning and the drop off from Schutt and Washington will be a factor, but there is decent line depth. I think more often than not you'll see Bosa inside with Hubbard getting an increased role. I'll be honest I'm not sure how good ND's run game is to being with. I still think OSU's biggest obstacle in this game is their motivation. If they show up ready to play like they can they will kill them, but who knows if they will.

[Chip R]

On a side note, just heard IOWA sold out there Rose Bowl allotment and had enough to requests for tickets to sell them out twice.

GL

That doesn't surprise me in the least. Iowa has always had great fan support for their bowl trips.

[traderumor]

That doesn't surprise me in the least. Iowa has always had great fan support for their bowl trips.
And that isnt even counting cornstalks [emoji6]

[gonelong]

Guard Pat Elflein announced he will return for his senior season. That ought to help quite a bit next year with 2 returning OL me

[villain612]

I will always appreciate the awesome run that this group of players had last year - was the best 3 game stretch of Buckeye football in my life.

This year was a stressful and disappointing season based on the sky high expectations. Had the talent to win another title but keep in mind, repeating is tough. Only a handful of teams have done it in the modern era. Urban will have the Bucks in the CFP hunt almost every year and only a few programs in the country can say that.

I think the Bucks are gonna roll Notre Dame. The loss of Washington is disappointing but I still think they win relatively easy. Something along the lines of 35-14.

And if you are still disappointed, just remember we will always have this gem:

10161

[Sea Ray]

I think it's a hangover of a vaguely disappointing season. And when 11-1 is disappointing, you know how sky high the expectations were. For all the apparent talent they had, thry never hit on all cylinders.

I hear what you're saying but in looking at it, how many more cylinders were they supposed to hit on? Granted the Mich St loss was disappointing and it's been discussed extensively. But other than that OSU only had two games where they won by only one TD...and all the other games they won by two or more TDs. I think they did hit on all cylinders but fans expectations were too high.

The only games where they failed to meet expectations was vs the Spartans and that's nothing to be ashamed of.

[traderumor]

I hear what you're saying but in looking at it, how many more cylinders were they supposed to hit on? Granted the Mich St loss was disappointing and it's been discussed extensively. But other than that OSU only had two games where they won by only one TD...and all the other games they won by two or more TDs. I think they did hit on all cylinders but fans expectations were too high.

The only games where they failed to meet expectations was vs the Spartans and that's nothing to be ashamed of.I tend to agree. They were supposed to beat every opponent 100-0 and not get challenged until playing Michigan St. I think most expected the Michigan game every week, and perhaps they could have played closer to that potential more than they did. But most of it was not blowing out what most perceived as pushover teams, which, really the only ones I felt that way about were the Northern Illinois and Maryland games, where the D got gashed by good running QBs and the games were closer than they should have been.

[Sea Ray]

I tend to agree. They were supposed to beat every opponent 100-0 and not get challenged until playing Michigan St. I think most expected the Michigan game every week, and perhaps they could have played closer to that potential more than they did. But most of it was not blowing out what most perceived as pushover teams, which, really the only ones I felt that way about were the Northern Illinois and Maryland games, where the D got gashed by good running QBs and the games were closer than they should have been.

Sure but even Maryland, they scored 49 pts and won by 3 TDs. I think it's unfair to expect more than that

[bucksfan2]

Sure but even Maryland, they scored 49 pts and won by 3 TDs. I think it's unfair to expect more than that

They were sluggish for most of the season. Some if the criticism is unfair, they weren't going to beat everyone by 100, but the offense never really clicked aside from Va Tech and Michigan. There was well document criticism about the play calling all season long and the lack of development of Cardale Jones and even Barrett. By no means was it a poor season, but the offense never played up to its potential.

[Assembly Hall]

They were sluggish for most of the season. Some if the criticism is unfair, they weren't going to beat everyone by 100, but the offense never really clicked aside from Va Tech and Michigan. There was well document criticism about the play calling all season long and the lack of development of Cardale Jones and even Barrett. By no means was it a poor season, but the offense never played up to its potential.

tOSU was just a victim of circumstances with-in the B1G and other conferences. Think about it. Oklahoma, Clemson, and 'Bama are fortunate to be there. It just didnt roll the Bucknuts way this year.

[traderumor]

Sure but even Maryland, they scored 49 pts and won by 3 TDs. I think it's unfair to expect more than that

That game was closer than that, though. I did not view their season that way, but that was the source of the criticism. Against Maryland, the game was supposed to be decided by halftime, it wasn't, so that was a fail to many.

[Sea Ray]

That game was closer than that, though. I did not view their season that way, but that was the source of the criticism. Against Maryland, the game was supposed to be decided by halftime, it wasn't, so that was a fail to many.

It should have been (settled by halftime) but this is college football. They don't always go the way they're supposed to. The national championship a decade ago involved games that were much closer than they should have been (Purdue). It happens every year

[bucksfan2]

tOSU was just a victim of circumstances with-in the B1G and other conferences. Think about it. Oklahoma, Clemson, and 'Bama are fortunate to be there. It just didnt roll the Bucknuts way this year.

Yea that is what happened. Its a little easier to swallow in the playoff now, but there are always seasons in which your team is one of the best in the country but gets left out because of a loss or even two. I have seen ultra talented OSU teams fall short because of a slip up. Clemson deserves it this year, the others, especially Oklahoma and Bama are lucky because IMO they suffered bad losses but were over to come it based upon perception. Oh and either not having a playoff or being on the side of a weaker division. Or better yet playing a team in the Conference title game that may have been the worst offensive team I have ever seen.

[cincrazy]

Yea that is what happened. Its a little easier to swallow in the playoff now, but there are always seasons in which your team is one of the best in the country but gets left out because of a loss or even two. I have seen ultra talented OSU teams fall short because of a slip up. Clemson deserves it this year, the others, especially Oklahoma and Bama are lucky because IMO they suffered bad losses but were over to come it based upon perception. Oh and either not having a playoff or being on the side of a weaker division. Or better yet playing a team in the Conference title game that may have been the worst offensive team I have ever seen.

In my opinion, this is the fourth best Ohio State team to not win the national title. The 1969 team lost to Michigan on the last day of the season and went on to win the Rose Bowl, the 1998 Bucks had an inexplicable loss to Michigan State at home but absolutely rolled over everyone else that season, and the 2005 Buckeyes had the wind knocked out of their sails early vs. Texas because of Troy Smith's suspension (I think he was available for that game, but Tressel went with Zwick for the majority of it.) The 2015 Buckeyes, in my opinion, were more about unrealized potential. We know how great they COULD have been, but truthfully we only saw that in one game this year. This core group of players tends to play best with their backs against the wall, and unfortunately it took a loss to MSU to wake them up out of their slumber.

[traderumor]

It should have been (settled by halftime) but this is college football. They don't always go the way they're supposed to. The national championship a decade ago involved games that were much closer than they should have been (Purdue). It happens every year
Well, yea, we're agreeing. I'm talking about why the critics were "disappointed" or felt like the team was overachieving.

[Revering4Blue]

In my opinion, this is the fourth best Ohio State team to not win the national title. The 1969 team lost to Michigan on the last day of the season and went on to win the Rose Bowl, the 1998 Bucks had an inexplicable loss to Michigan State at home but absolutely rolled over everyone else that season, and the 2005 Buckeyes had the wind knocked out of their sails early vs. Texas because of Troy Smith's suspension (I think he was available for that game, but Tressel went with Zwick for the majority of it.) The 2015 Buckeyes, in my opinion, were more about unrealized potential. We know how great they COULD have been, but truthfully we only saw that in one game this year. This core group of players tends to play best with their backs against the wall, and unfortunately it took a loss to MSU to wake them up out of their slumber.

I don't know.

IMO, the 96' team was every bit as good as '98, even with the loss to Michigan. This was in the Mythical National Championship days, anyway, and the Buckeyes were tied to the Rose Bowl, where they knocked off previously undefeated Arizona State - Frankly, IMO, both OSU and that Arizona State team, with Jake Plummer, were better teams than either the overhyped teams (Florida and Florida State) that played for the MNC that year. Four teams ended up with one loss, so there should have been a split MNC.

Also, IMO, the previously undefeated '79 team that lost the Rose Bowl after going undefeated in a very tough Big Ten Season - Just top give you an idea of how tough the league was then, both IU and Purdue ended the season ranked, IIRC. In what turned out to be a 17-16 loss against an enormously talented USC team, rather than kick a Field Goal, Earle Bruce's second quarter decision to go for it on fourth and goal from the 1 backfired as QB Art Schlichter - still the best OSU QB I've ever seen, as he was considered the equal to Elway and Marino at the time - was tackled literally inches from the goal line on an option play.

There's really no way to qualify an argument either way, but it makes for a fun - or agonizing, depending on your point-of-view - debate.

[Assembly Hall]

I don't know.

IMO, the 96' team was every bit as good as '98, even with the loss to Michigan. This was in the Mythical National Championship days, anyway, and the Buckeyes were tied to the Rose Bowl, where they knocked off previously undefeated Arizona State - Frankly, IMO, both OSU and that Arizona State team, with Jake Plummer, were better teams than either the overhyped teams (Florida and Florida State) that played for the MNC that year. Four teams ended up with one loss, so there should have been a split MNC.

Also, IMO, the previously undefeated '79 team that lost the Rose Bowl after going undefeated in a very tough Big Ten Season - Just top give you an idea of how tough the league was then, both IU and Purdue ended the season ranked, IIRC. In what turned out to be a 17-16 loss against an enormously talented USC team, rather than kick a Field Goal, Earle Bruce's second quarter decision to go for it on fourth and goal from the 1 backfired as QB Art Schlichter - still the best OSU QB I've ever seen, as he was considered the equal to Elway and Marino at the time - was tackled literally inches from the goal line on an option play.

There's really no way to qualify an argument either way, but it makes for a fun - or agonizing, depending on your point-of-view - debate.

You are right about the '79 season. That was a grind in the Big 10. IIRC, Purdue finished 2nd, Michigan 3rd, and IU 4th. Loved that Buckeye team. BTW, IU beat an undefeated BYU team in the Holiday Bowl that year. The Bucknuts spanked the Hoosiers by 40 in conference play. They were pretty damn good.

[villain612]

Urban Meyer is now 50-4 at Ohio State.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Urban Meyer is now 50-4 at Ohio State.

And some how only has 1 Big 10 championship. Crazy.

[Assembly Hall]

And some how only has 1 Big 10 championship. Crazy.

Well, they were ineligible that one year. They would have won the B1G and the national championship if they were.

[GAC]

I had no issue with Bosa being charged with targeting. As soon as I saw him leading with his helmet ... and IMO it was deliberate, no doubt ..... I went "Rut Roh". That is targeting in accordance with the NCAAF rule change (2013).

Now if one wants to debate that the punitive action is too severe (ejection), then that's another issue.

Joey is a helluva ballplayer. And to complement his overall athletic ability is his intensiveness, as well as aggressiveness. But Joey, as well as every player on that field, also KNOWS the rule when it comes to targeting. In that situation.... no matter that he was caught up in the moment, adrenaline pumping .... he knew better, and didn't need to lead with his helmet. Pretty obvious IMO.

But I do believe the targeting rule needs fixed. I see it in a similar way as those ridiculous "no tolerance" rules in schools that are too strict and lack common sense. Just like in the schools, those "officials" can only follow and implement the "letter of the law" (no leniency).

Perfect example.... look what happened to Michigan LBer Bolden in that game vs MSU. When a player gets ejected for being blocked into a quarterback while pushed to the ground, your rule has a serious problem.

It needs fixed. Good article..... http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/writer/jon-solomon/25349152/inside-college-sports-footballs-targeting-rule-needs-to-be-fixed

[traderumor]

I had no issue with Bosa being charged with targeting. As soon as I saw him leading with his helmet ... and IMO it was deliberate, no doubt ..... I went "Rut Roh". That is targeting in accordance with the NCAAF rule change (2013).

Now if one wants to debate that the punitive action is too severe (ejection), then that's another issue.

Joey is a helluva ballplayer. And to complement his overall athletic ability is his intensiveness, as well as aggressiveness. But Joey, as well as every player on that field, also KNOWS the rule when it comes to targeting. In that situation.... no matter that he was caught up in the moment, adrenaline pumping .... he knew better, and didn't need to lead with his helmet. Pretty obvious IMO.

But I do believe the targeting rule needs fixed. I see it in a similar way as those ridiculous "no tolerance" rules in schools that are too strict and lack common sense. Just like in the schools, those "officials" can only follow and implement the "letter of the law" (no leniency).

Perfect example.... look what happened to Michigan LBer Bolden in that game vs MSU. When a player gets ejected for being blocked into a quarterback while pushed to the ground, your rule has a serious problem.

It needs fixed. Good article..... http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/writer/jon-solomon/25349152/inside-college-sports-footballs-targeting-rule-needs-to-be-fixed

I definitely think the penalty is too severe. There are a lot of legal hard hits out there that are very dangerous and cause injuries, and just as dangerous illegal hits that do not result in ejecting a player. The ejection is too arbitrary considering the nature of the game. And the funny thing is, that the rule is a "safety issue," how many targeting calls are mixed up with a guy laying on the ground injured? My guess would be a negligible percentage. And targeting only gets called in one on one situations, never do you see it called in a situation with multiple players. So targeting does not occur except in plays where two players are isolated? This is one of those things where the rule makes sense, and it has always made sense. It was called "spearing" and has always been illegal and resulted in a penalty. "If it ain't broke, let's fix it til it is," was in play when they created this rule.

[villain612]

If Bosa doesn't get that penalty, it could've been a blowout. It not only reversed the interception on the play, but he was absolutely manhandling their O-line up that point.

[Assembly Hall]

If Bosa doesn't get that penalty, it could've been a blowout. It not only reversed the interception on the play, but he was absolutely manhandling their O-line up that point.

From where I am sitting it was a blowout regardless. Just sayin'! LOL

[GAC]

I definitely think the penalty is too severe. There are a lot of legal hard hits out there that are very dangerous and cause injuries, and just as dangerous illegal hits that do not result in ejecting a player. The ejection is too arbitrary considering the nature of the game. And the funny thing is, that the rule is a "safety issue," how many targeting calls are mixed up with a guy laying on the ground injured? My guess would be a negligible percentage. And targeting only gets called in one on one situations, never do you see it called in a situation with multiple players. So targeting does not occur except in plays where two players are isolated? This is one of those things where the rule makes sense, and it has always made sense. It was called "spearing" and has always been illegal and resulted in a penalty. "If it ain't broke, let's fix it til it is," was in play when they created this rule.

Not totally disagreeing at all with what you're saying. And I think it should also be emphasized that the targeting rules (9-1-3 and 9-1-4) have not changed from previous years. It's the penalty (ejection) that has changed. And that's where the "debate" begins ... is it too excessive?

We all agree that football is not only a very physical sport, but violent. It's why we watch it (LOL). I can remember back in the day (60s/70s) when players didn't have all the protection, weren't in as good of physical shape (conditioning, etc), and they basically beat the crap out of each other, wasn't uncommon to see players bloodied after the game. There wasn't much emphasis at all on safety. And we see that in a lot of those former players and the toll it took on their bodies.

So I can understand the emphasis in today's game on safety to a certain degree, and trying to do what they can in some areas. I agree with the concussion protocol for instance.

According to the NCAA rules, target is defined "to take aim at an opponent for purposes of attacking with an apparent intent that goes beyond making a legal tackle or a legal block or playing the ball."

And a defenseless player is defined as "a player not in position to defend himself".

So I think the Bosa situation qualifies.

Examples of a defenseless player.....


Rule 2-27-14:

A player in the act of or just after throwing a pass.
A receiver attempting to catch a pass, or one who has completed a catch and has not had time to protect himself or has not clearly become a ball carrier.
A kicker in the act of or just after kicking a ball, or during the kick or the return.
A kick returner attempting to catch or recover a kick.
A player on the ground.
A player obviously out of the play.
A player who receives a blind-side block.
A ball carrier already in the grasp of an opponent and whose forward progress has been stopped.
A quarterback any time after a change of possession.

HINTS FOR PLAYERS


Don’t lead with your head
Lower your target--don’t go for the head or neck area with anything
Tackle: Heads-up and wrap-up


So I agree with all the above. I think they need to "re-work" the penalty that doesn't go as far as an ejection.

But again, until there is some sort of re-examination of the rule, players (like Bosa) KNOW the rule, KNOW it means ejection... and they need to use their head in other ways ;)

[gonelong]

It's tough on the players. To my eye it looks like Bosa is going to hit him with his shoulder, but when the QB makes the throw he rotates into the tackle. Such is life.

[traderumor]

Not totally disagreeing at all with what you're saying. And I think it should also be emphasized that the targeting rules (9-1-3 and 9-1-4) have not changed from previous years. It's the penalty (ejection) that has changed. And that's where the "debate" begins ... is it too excessive?

We all agree that football is not only a very physical sport, but violent. It's why we watch it (LOL). I can remember back in the day (60s/70s) when players didn't have all the protection, weren't in as good of physical shape (conditioning, etc), and they basically beat the crap out of each other, wasn't uncommon to see players bloodied after the game. There wasn't much emphasis at all on safety. And we see that in a lot of those former players and the toll it took on their bodies.

So I can understand the emphasis in today's game on safety to a certain degree, and trying to do what they can in some areas. I agree with the concussion protocol for instance.

According to the NCAA rules, target is defined "to take aim at an opponent for purposes of attacking with an apparent intent that goes beyond making a legal tackle or a legal block or playing the ball."

And a defenseless player is defined as "a player not in position to defend himself".

So I think the Bosa situation qualifies.

Examples of a defenseless player.....


Rule 2-27-14:

A player in the act of or just after throwing a pass.
A receiver attempting to catch a pass, or one who has completed a catch and has not had time to protect himself or has not clearly become a ball carrier.
A kicker in the act of or just after kicking a ball, or during the kick or the return.
A kick returner attempting to catch or recover a kick.
A player on the ground.
A player obviously out of the play.
A player who receives a blind-side block.
A ball carrier already in the grasp of an opponent and whose forward progress has been stopped.
A quarterback any time after a change of possession.

HINTS FOR PLAYERS


Don’t lead with your head
Lower your target--don’t go for the head or neck area with anything
Tackle: Heads-up and wrap-up


So I agree with all the above. I think they need to "re-work" the penalty that doesn't go as far as an ejection.

But again, until there is some sort of re-examination of the rule, players (like Bosa) KNOW the rule, KNOW it means ejection... and they need to use their head in other ways ;)And all they did was explain spearing, as in "do not lead with the head." And that is going to not always be clear. And spearing was hardly ever called. Concussions seem to be most frequently happening when a guy is tackled and his head bangs on the ground, not helmet to helmet contact. And there is a lot of helmet to helmet that is so hard to call targeting, that its not, so that when they do call it, it seems arbitrary. I think there are more concussions from a knee to the head than helmet to helmet to helmet contact.

So, go back to the infrequently called spearing call and call it as they are targeting today and give the offense 15 yards. This penalty is not making the game any safer, its just making it more confusing. Sort of like penalizing a team that kicks the ball out of bounds on a kickoff, when the leagues have been telling us that the kick return is dangerous so we want more touchbacks. Its just so much silliness trying to make rules that are trying to convince critics that they care about safety. For the record, we are not fooled by the ruse.

[gonelong]

A lot of Buckeyes leaving early for the NFL Draft.
Joey Bosa, Zeke Elliot, Darron Lee, Tyvis Powell, Eli Apple, Jalin Marshall, and Cardale Jones

Marshall is the only one that raises a bit of an eyebrow for me. On the other hand, I have no doubts he'll make a roster.

I would expect both Bell and Thomas to declare in the coming days. Throw in the seniors and that is a serious amount of turnover.

Does give Meyer some room to sign a few more. :)

GL

[villain612]

Jalin Marshall is a head scratcher. He would get a lot more touches next year and could improve his stock big time. I don't see him doing better than the 6th round, if he gets drafted at all.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Jalin Marshall is a head scratcher. He would get a lot more touches next year and could improve his stock big time. I don't see him doing better than the 6th round, if he gets drafted at all.

I've seen some reports that he graded out as high as a 3rd rounder, so I he should get drafted no problem. He is a great weapon for a lot of NFL offenses that want a speedy slot guy. He may have solidified himself as a 2nd rounder if he came back, but he could also get hurt.

I don't blame any of these guys and is a great recruiting tool as well. I laugh when I read things about how this shows there are problems in the program or Meyer doesn't have control. The only downside is the loss of experience, but a positive in every other way for the program. No one else is going to be able to tell recruits they just sent 6 first rounders to the league as well as all the other guys who will get drafted.

[villain612]

I've seen some reports that he graded out as high as a 3rd rounder, so I he should get drafted no problem. He is a great weapon for a lot of NFL offenses that want a speedy slot guy. He may have solidified himself as a 2nd rounder if he came back, but he could also get hurt.

I don't blame any of these guys and is a great recruiting tool as well. I laugh when I read things about how this shows there are problems in the program or Meyer doesn't have control. The only downside is the loss of experience, but a positive in every other way for the program. No one else is going to be able to tell recruits they just sent 6 first rounders to the league as well as all the other guys who will get drafted.


Do you have a link to those reports? I just haven't heard anything like that.

Pretty much everyone else was probably right to declare. Powell was borderline but he's been there 4 years, got his degree, and probably won't improve his 4th rounder status much.

But your right though. Having that much talent headed to the NFL is a boon for recruiting. It's also why Saban and Fisher recruit so well too.

[BuckeyeRed27]

More just Twitter chatter....most of the mock drafts and stuff like that now only cover the first couple rounds and he was somewhat of a surprise to come out. Seems to be a lot of people that like him for that slot position that is getting more popular in NFL offenses.

Also this might be the best day in Dontre Wilson's life for quite a while.

[GAC]

A lot of Buckeyes leaving early for the NFL Draft.
Joey Bosa, Zeke Elliot, Darron Lee, Tyvis Powell, Eli Apple, Jalin Marshall, and Cardale Jones

And some of the other B10 leaders are also losing quality players to the draft.

The team on the rise, and who will be scary next year, IMO, is Michigan.

[Sea Ray]

And some of the other B10 leaders are also losing quality players to the draft.

The team on the rise, and who will be scary next year, IMO, is Michigan.

IF they can find a QB. I think Mich will have a hard time duplicating 2015 success in 2016. Tougher schedule, higher expectations etc

[bucksfan2]

OSU has Barrett next season, which is HUGE. An experienced QB can overcome some growing pains early in the season, especially on defense. I am kinda surprised that Marshall is leaving early. I thought that while he was dynamic he needed to work on things. He had some serious issues with fumbling and even when he held onto the ball at times you saw that arm get a little far away from the body. Right now in the NFL I see him as a dangerous punt returner but still with things to work on in order to play WR/HB/Slot. By all means get paid, especially when there are a limited number of hits your body can sustain, but I do wonder if he wouldn't have been better served spending one more year in college but becoming a more skilled player.

[BuckeyeRed27]

OSU has Barrett next season, which is HUGE. An experienced QB can overcome some growing pains early in the season, especially on defense. I am kinda surprised that Marshall is leaving early. I thought that while he was dynamic he needed to work on things. He had some serious issues with fumbling and even when he held onto the ball at times you saw that arm get a little far away from the body. Right now in the NFL I see him as a dangerous punt returner but still with things to work on in order to play WR/HB/Slot. By all means get paid, especially when there are a limited number of hits your body can sustain, but I do wonder if he wouldn't have been better served spending one more year in college but becoming a more skilled player.

The only reason I knock him a bit is because he would have been a focal point of the offense (I'm assuming Thomas goes pro). He could have put up some really big numbers. That said he still seems like a guy that is going to get drafted off of his speed and potential and even with a big season in 2016 probably wouldn't have gotten into the 1st or 2nd round.

I'm interested if Samuel moves back to RB now and splits time with some combination of Dunn and Weber or if they go with those 2 and leave Samuel in that same role in the slot with Wilson next year. Urban said that he wants the offense to be a lot more balanced next season, which means throwing more than this year. If that is the case my guess is Samuel stays in the H-back role and hopefully some of these younger WRs step up.

[traderumor]

Marshall is the type of guy that makes more sense than the studs even. He is going to have limited paydays with his skill set, so the sooner the better to get started. I'm not sure that his skillset is going to increase their draft stock much with another year of college, and would it be more than he makes by leaving now instead of a year later? Probably not. If he got a good draft projection, he's very savvy for leaving now.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Bell and Thomas did declare today. OSU is going to have an SEC sized recruiting class (ducks).

[bucksfan2]

Bell and Thomas did declare today. OSU is going to have an SEC sized recruiting class (ducks).

Figured those two were coming. I know projections are all over the place, but when all is said and done I can see Bosa, Decker, Lee, Zeke, and Thomas going in the 1st. Guys like Apple and Bell are quality players, who will probably go in the 2-4th round range but be solid starters with a wild card being Washington. This will rival some of the more talented teams I have ever seen at OSU, the 2002 and 2005 teams.

[GAC]

IF they can find a QB. I think Mich will have a hard time duplicating 2015 success in 2016. Tougher schedule, higher expectations etc

Maybe. But Michigan had a very strong, all-around, recruiting class that includes Mr Football from Indiana - QB Brandon Peters. So we'll see.

[Assembly Hall]

IF they can find a QB. I think Mich will have a hard time duplicating 2015 success in 2016. Tougher schedule, higher expectations etc

Yeah, my Michigan friends are already complaining about their schedule in the B1G. If I remember right they drew Wisconsin and Iowa from the west.

[Sea Ray]

Yeah, my Michigan friends are already complaining about their schedule in the B1G. If I remember right they drew Wisconsin and Iowa from the west.

And they also get MSU and OSU on the road if memory serves...

[Assembly Hall]

And they also get MSU and OSU on the road if memory serves...

Yes, and I do believe the Iowa game is on the road as well.

[gonelong]

Meyer noted today that they staff had been recruiting with the notion that six would leave early, 9 have. That gives them a few more to target for this round if they want them.

Meyer stated Elflein, Barrett and McMillan have already been named captains for 2016. (likely to add more in the fall)


Anonymous player poll at the at the US Army All American (http://ohiostate.247sports.com/Bolt/Top-recruits-pick-best-stadium-and-game-day-atmosphere-42598075) game.

Favorite College Stadium:
8 votes: Michigan, Ohio State
7: Tennessee
6: Alabama, Texas A&M
5: LSU, Notre Dame
4: Georgia
3: Clemson, Florida State, Michigan State, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Penn State, UCLA
2: BYU, Florida, Oregon, USC, Washington
1: Auburn, Baylor, Kentucky, Minnesota, Utah, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss, TCU, Virginia Tech, Wisconsin

Best Game-day Atmosphere:
10 votes: Ohio State
9: Alabama
6: Clemson, Texas A&M
5: LSU
4: Florida, Florida State, Michigan, Michigan State, Nebraska, Notre Dame, Ole Miss, Penn State
3: Auburn, Georgia, Oklahoma, Tennessee
2: Miami, Oregon, TCU, UCLA, USC, Wisconsin
1: Baylor, BYU, Kentucky, Utah, South Carolina, Stanford, Utah, Washington

[villain612]

Am I wrong in thinking that JT Barrett will stay the full 5 years? I guess it depends on how next year goes, but he's not an NFL style QB. I don't see him getting much draft hype. If stuck around for his senior year, the Bucks will be a team to beat in '17.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Am I wrong in thinking that JT Barrett will stay the full 5 years? I guess it depends on how next year goes, but he's not an NFL style QB. I don't see him getting much draft hype. If stuck around for his senior year, the Bucks will be a team to beat in '17.

He'll be around for 2 more years. He might catch on as an NFL back up in the right place because he is smart, but he isn't an NFL QB.

[Assembly Hall]

He'll be around for 2 more years. He might catch on as an NFL back up in the right place because he is smart, but he isn't an NFL QB.

Or he changes position at the next level.

[Revering4Blue]

He'll be around for 2 more years. He might catch on as an NFL back up in the right place because he is smart, but he isn't an NFL QB.

You may well be correct, but given the way the game has changed, it begs the question:

What really constitutes an "NFL-style" QB today?

Spread elements are apparent everywhere, even in the NFL. I'll argue that Stanford and Michigan- more often than not - line up in formations consistant with the traditional NFL style than 90 per cent of NFL teams today. Given that, I'm not about discount Barrett's future prospects an an NFL QB.

[BuckeyeRed27]

You may well be correct, but given the way the game has changed, it begs the question:

What really constitutes an "NFL-style" QB today?

Spread elements are apparent everywhere, even in the NFL. I'll argue that Stanford and Michigan- more often than not - line up in formations consistant with the traditional NFL style than 90 per cent of NFL teams today. Given that, I'm not about discount Barrett's future prospects an an NFL QB.

You still have to be a throw first QB. JT is pretty good about making reads in the run game, but less so passing. He has below average arm strength and would need to be more accurate than he is now. He would need to improve a lot to overcome the physical limitations he has and I'm not sure that's possible. Still love the guy though and he will have a strong chance at winning the Heisman in 2017.

[Assembly Hall]

What really constitutes an "NFL-style" QB today?



Good question.....I wonder what Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston, and Cam Newton's replies to that would be?

[GAC]

Where does everyone think 'Zeke will go in the draft?

Man I'd love to see the Browns get him. We need that style of back in our offense (just one more needed piece)... but I'd hate to put that kinda "curse" on any young player (LOL)

[IslandRed]

What really constitutes an "NFL-style" QB today?

Spread elements are apparent everywhere, even in the NFL. I'll argue that Stanford and Michigan- more often than not - line up in formations consistant with the traditional NFL style than 90 per cent of NFL teams today. Given that, I'm not about discount Barrett's future prospects an an NFL QB.

The spread is not necessarily about formation -- NFL teams have been extremely multiple for decades now -- as about what its fundamental elements are. The college version of the spread usually incorporates the QB as a running threat (zone read) and often packaged-play concepts that give the QB a run/pass option based on simple reads of the defensive alignment. A fast tempo is often incorporated as well; by forcing the defense to hurry up to just get lined up, in theory it minimizes how fancy the defense can get, making the key reads easier. And then there's the Baylor favorite, "send four guys with track speed deep and key on the one covered by the weakest defender."

In the NFL, though, the key skill remains the ability to execute a more complicated version of the passing game. Running ability is nice but most QB runs are off-script scrambles, not called plays. It's icing, not the cake.


Good question.....I wonder what Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston, and Cam Newton's replies to that would be?

I didn't watch a lot of Wilson in college, but Newton and Winston weren't really similar players. Newton is a terrific athlete who thrived as a pass/run dual threat in college, and the draft questions were about his ability to adapt to pro-style passing. Winston's always been a pocket passer who's been as NFL-style, both in skill set and schooling, as any QB coming out of college in recent years. Mariota is a better comparison for Newton in terms of the type of college system they played in and being a dangerous runner. Obviously, playing in a spread offense in college has not prevented either from being good pro quarterbacks.

[Sea Ray]

The spread is not necessarily about formation -- NFL teams have been extremely multiple for decades now -- as about what its fundamental elements are. The college version of the spread usually incorporates the QB as a running threat (zone read) and often packaged-play concepts that give the QB a run/pass option based on simple reads of the defensive alignment. A fast tempo is often incorporated as well; by forcing the defense to hurry up to just get lined up, in theory it minimizes how fancy the defense can get, making the key reads easier. And then there's the Baylor favorite, "send four guys with track speed deep and key on the one covered by the weakest defender."

In the NFL, though, the key skill remains the ability to execute a more complicated version of the passing game. Running ability is nice but most QB runs are off-script scrambles, not called plays. It's icing, not the cake.



I didn't watch a lot of Wilson in college, but Newton and Winston weren't really similar players. Newton is a terrific athlete who thrived as a pass/run dual threat in college, and the draft questions were about his ability to adapt to pro-style passing. Winston's always been a pocket passer who's been as NFL-style, both in skill set and schooling, as any QB coming out of college in recent years. Mariota is a better comparison for Newton in terms of the type of college system they played in and being a dangerous runner. Obviously, playing in a spread offense in college has not prevented either from being good pro quarterbacks.

The jury's still out on Mariota being a good pro QB. The issue for these guys is can they stay healthy? Wilson is an exception due to his intellect but I'm of the belief that these scrambling QBs can't stay healthy unless they've got size like Newton (Kaepernick). The smaller guys like Vick, RG3 and Mariota will tend to spend a lot of time on the sidelines nursing injuries

[BuckeyeRed27]

The jury's still out on Mariota being a good pro QB. The issue for these guys is can they stay healthy? Wilson is an exception due to his intellect but I'm of the belief that these scrambling QBs can't stay healthy unless they've got size like Newton (Kaepernick). The smaller guys like Vick, RG3 and Mariota will tend to spend a lot of time on the sidelines nursing injuries

To be fair it is a struggle for any QB to stay healthy for 16 games, but scrambling QBs certainly have to be smart about when to get hit.

[IslandRed]

The jury's still out on Mariota being a good pro QB.

I guess, but given how he played this year relative to the adjustments he had to make, I liked what I saw.

[Sea Ray]

To be fair it is a struggle for any QB to stay healthy for 16 games, but scrambling QBs certainly have to be smart about when to get hit.

NFL is a tough game, no question about it but your chances of staying upright are much better if you stay in the pocket. That's one of the reasons Dalton has been so healthy but Ben is always getting hurt

[gonelong]

These guys start classes today:
Five-star DE Jonathon Cooper
Four-star WR Austin Mack
Four-star OT Michael Jordan
Four-star OG Tyler Gerald
Four-star RB Antonio Williams
Four-star DT Malik Barrow
Four-star LB Tuf Borland

[Sea Ray]

These guys start classes today:
Five-star DE Jonathon Cooper
Four-star WR Austin Mack
Four-star OT Michael Jordan
Four-star OG Tyler Gerald
Four-star RB Antonio Williams
Four-star DT Malik Barrow
Four-star LB Tuf Borland

Impressive!

[BuckeyeRed27]

I'm pretty excited about Austin Mack. Sounds like he was one of the most impressive players at the Army All American practices and we need a play maker at WR with Thomas leaving.

[RedTeamGo!]

The jury's still out on Mariota being a good pro QB. The issue for these guys is can they stay healthy? Wilson is an exception due to his intellect but I'm of the belief that these scrambling QBs can't stay healthy unless they've got size like Newton (Kaepernick). The smaller guys like Vick, RG3 and Mariota will tend to spend a lot of time on the sidelines nursing injuries

Newton also has a cannon for an arm.

[RedTeamGo!]

Where does everyone think 'Zeke will go in the draft?

Man I'd love to see the Browns get him. We need that style of back in our offense (just one more needed piece)... but I'd hate to put that kinda "curse" on any young player (LOL)

I don't think Zeke last until the 32nd pick. I think Houston will take him at 22. No way should the Browns select him at #2, especially with a more analytical approach.

[bucksfan2]

Newton also has a cannon for an arm.

IMO Newton is so good because he is a big solid QB who is difficult to tackle. I don't think he is exactly a great skilled passer, but he creates match up problems when he has the ball. My concern as a Panthers fan would be that in order to be successful in the Panthers offense, Newton will take a ton of punishment. Right now I see him as a more agile Big Ben, as he grows older the hits will begin to take their toll.

[Sea Ray]

Newton also has a cannon for an arm.

A lot of those guys do. But you need good size to stay healthy if you're a running QB in the NFL

[gonelong]

I'm pretty excited about Austin Mack. Sounds like he was one of the most impressive players at the Army All American practices and we need a play maker at WR with Thomas leaving.

I think I am most excited about the Defensive line. We were able to get a sneak peak in the ND game and those guys performed pretty well. Now we add Jashon Cornell and Dre'Mont Jones as redshirt freshman as well as already on campus freshman Malik Barrow and Jonathon Cooper.

They are building a Defensive line that will be able to rotate a huge number of guys without a clear change in talent. Given the losses we have in the secondary, it's good to know we will have a defensive line that will get pressure. I probably shouldn't fret about the CB and S as tOSU has turned out NFL talent at those positions consistently, but we will be pretty inexperienced there outside of Conley.

GL

[Assembly Hall]

I don't think Zeke last until the 32nd pick. I think Houston will take him at 22. No way should the Browns select him at #2, especially with a more analytical approach.

I see that a few of the mock drafts that I have looked at, have him going to Houston. But geez, they need a QB in the worst way.

[BuckeyeRed27]

I see that a few of the mock drafts that I have looked at, have him going to Houston. But geez, they need a QB in the worst way.

I don't think this considered a very strong QB draft.

It's always hard to say with a RB, but there is no way Zeke makes it past the first few picks of the second round.

[Assembly Hall]

I don't think this considered a very strong QB draft.

It's always hard to say with a RB, but there is no way Zeke makes it past the first few picks of the second round.

No it is not as far as QB's are concerned, but teams that need them tend to take them no matter what. To be honest, based on the Colts draft history, I could see them taking Zeke at #18 even though they got bigger concerns. But I am like you, I think he will get taken early.

[RedTeamGo!]

I don't think this considered a very strong QB draft.

It's always hard to say with a RB, but there is no way Zeke makes it past the first few picks of the second round.

If he's available at 32 the Browns will take him, but he won't be.

- - - Updated - - -


A lot of those guys do. But you need good size to stay healthy if you're a running QB in the NFL

Newton runs, but I don't consider him a "running qb."

2015:
3840 passing yards
35 passing TDs
60% completion percentage

[Assembly Hall]

Mel Kiper's 1st mock came out..........he has Zeke going to the Broncos. FWIW, he has Bosa as the first pick.

[gonelong]

Greg Studrawa has a long standing relationship with Urb back to his BGSU days. He already has good recruiting ties in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland and West Virginia so that is a plus. Studrawa has been at the helm of some pretty good offenses and has experience as both a OL coach and offensive coordinator, so I like the hire.

As a bonus (and likely a factor in the hire), this would appear to put Warriner in the booth during games.

Meyer has been churning out Coordinators to Head Coaches. Have to wonder if Schiano and Studrawa see this job as a way to land a solid D1 head coach position ... or if they see this as a place to camp out as a coordinator for awhile.

GL

[gonelong]

Two OSU football players transitioned from walk-ons to scholarship players today: Joe Burger and Craig Fada

Always love to see that.

GL

[BuckeyeRed27]

Two OSU football players transitioned from walk-ons to scholarship players today: Joe Burger and Craig Fada

Always love to see that.

GL

Agreed that is always nice. Does make me wonder if Urban believes we aren't going to get as many guys to close out this class and is just banking the scholarships for the next class.

I'm sure Joe and Craig will take Powell and Marshall out to a nice steak dinner.

[gonelong]

2 new 2016 commits reported this week:
* four-star linebacker Keandre Jones (flip from Maryland)
* four-star wide receiver Binjimen Victor (This is a very good get IMO!)

[LoganBuck]

2 new 2016 commits reported this week:
* four-star linebacker Keandre Jones (flip from Maryland)
* four-star wide receiver Binjimen Victor (This is a very good get IMO!)

Dwayne Haskins Jr comes on board as well. Stud QB recruit.

[gonelong]

Dwayne Haskins Jr comes on board as well. Stud QB recruit.

A 4-star QB, WR, and LB today. Not too shabby.

This kid is considered more of a pocket passer. I find it interesting that Meyer seems to add a mix of pocket passers and dual threats when recruiting the QB position.

GL

[Eric from NC]

Here is the si article about the two MD recruits flipping to Ohio State. It does seem that adding Rutgers and MD has helped out Ohio State and Penn State with recruiting, although I'm not sure its helped MD and Rutgers any.

http://www.si.com/college-football/2016/01/18/dwayne-haskins-keandre-jones-flip-ohio-state-maryland-recruiting-2016

[villain612]

Number 1 recruiting class in the country.

In Urban we trust.