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Ohio State Buckeyes football predictions for the 2009 season July 22, 2009 Sources: Cleveland Plain Dealer - "...college football previews are already making predictions. Several consider the Buckeyes contenders, and some consider them pretenders. Here are a couple: Athlon's College Football: The (#5) Buckeyes will be good, but they won't be good enough not to worry about getting clobbered by an SEC bully in early January. They'll have to settle for smacking around everybody in their backyard, especially the Wolverines...College Sports Fans: Barring an injury to Terelle Pryor, the Ohio State offense should be fine. Even without their top two receivers, the Buckeyes should pass for more than 150 yards per game. Coach Jim Tressel limited Pryor's passing game last year, but that will end now. Pryor will be heaving the ball down field and if that works out well, Ohio State will earn another Big Ten crown "
Baldwin Is A Buckeye Darryl Baldwin, a 6'6" 250lib defensive lineman, who also plays tight end, from Solon (OH) Solon issued his verbal commitment to join the Ohio State Class of 2010 today. One of the first players to land an offer from OSU, he was believed to have always had OSU as his top choice, although he was widely recruited. Baldwin although a defensive end could move to defensive tackle or even tight end. Baldwin had offers from Penn State, Michigan, Michigan State, Notre Dame, Illinois, West Virginia and Cincinnati in addition to interest and offers from many other schools. Welcome aboard, Darryl!
Latest recruit could help at several spots July 22, 2009 Source: Columbus Dispatch - "Ohio State's practice of recruiting players who could play multiple positions hasn't changed. The commitment of Darryl Baldwin is a good example. Baldwin... is seen as a defensive end in the mold of current Buckeye Cameron Heyward. But with 4.7-second speed in the 40-yard dash, Baldwin also has shown the ability to play tight end, says recruiting analyst Bill Kurelic. Baldwin sees himself as a defensive end at the moment, and as a Buckeye in the near future, becoming the ninth commitment to the 2010 recruiting class. Ranked as the No. 5 prospect in the state by Kurelic, Baldwin said he picked OSU in part because '...I felt the most comfortable when I went down there to Ohio State. I felt like I fit in well, and I had a lot of friends down there. I fit in perfectly "
Tressel Lands Another Top Ohioan July 19, 2009 Source: Bucknuts - "Dominating the state of Ohio is always Jim Tressel's first goal in recruiting. He did so last year and with another top in-state prospect saying yes to the Buckeyes today, Tressel has added another key piece to his 2010 recruiting puzzle...Baldwin had dozens of scholarship offers...'He called Coach Tressel and told him he is going to go to Ohio State,' said Solon coach Jim McQuaide. 'Everyone is excited. He also told the other coaches his decision. He's excited to be going to Ohio State.' Baldwin becomes verbal commitment No. 9 in an Ohio State recruiting class that will likely number at least 18 come national signing day...Baldwin is the No. 5 prospect in the state of Ohio in the Ohio Football Recruiting News Rankings. In addition to having outstanding size, Baldwin moves very well. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.75 to 4.78 seconds at Ohio State's Advanced Camp on June 26 "
Martin moves to tailback July 17, 2009 Source: Columbus Dispatch - "Offensive coordinator Jim Bollman said today that redshirt freshman Jermil Martin will work at tailback when practices start this fall. Martin has so far been a fullback. He is listed at 6-0, 227 in the spring media guide. The fact that incoming freshman Carlos Hyde did not qualify academically may have been a factor in Martin's move, as Hyde also is a big tailback. Also, Bollman said incoming freshman Zach Boren will work at fullback. Boren enrolled early but sat out spring practice while recovering from offseason knee surgery. It was not clear whether he would play at linebacker or fullback -- he played both in high school."
Coaches look for third wheel at tailback July 19, 2009 Source: Columbus Dispatch - "Members of the Ohio State coaching staff are fond of saying that at tailback, they need a "pair and a spare." They've got the pair, in Dan Herron and Brandon Saine. It's the spare that might be a concern. Two highly touted incoming freshmen have been in the news recently -- Jaamal Berry was arrested and charged with drug possession in June, and Carlos Hyde failed to qualify academically...In the meantime, Bollman said, Jermil Martin has moved from fullback to tailback. 'He's a tough guy, a big guy who can run the ball well,' Bollman said of Martin, who is 6 feet and 227 pounds. Martin could help fill the 'big back' void left by the departed Chris Wells. It was a role that Hyde (6-1, 230) was expected to play this fall. 'I felt I was going to be a big part in the offense; that's why this (academic issue) is really bumming me out,' Hyde said. "
Under coach Tressel only five of 178 OSU signees failed to qualify academically: 2009 25 Carlos Hyde, RB 2008 20 Shawntell Rowell, DT 2007 15 None 2006 20 None 2005 18 Freddie Lenix, ATH 2004 24 Dennis Kennedy, RB 2003 15 None 2002 24 None 2001 17 Quinton Thomas, DE
Evaluating academics adds more risk to recruiting July 19, 2009 Sources: Columbus Dispatch - "When Ohio State recruit Carlos Hyde failed to qualify academically for this fall, it was a surprise...equally surprising, though, is that it doesn't happen more often. Hyde was just the fifth OSU recruit to fall short in coach Jim Tressel's nine recruiting classes -- out of 178 signees....Evaluating high school players is a complex process. It's tough enough to watch game video, or see a player perform drills at a camp, and try to project whether he is talented enough to be worth a precious scholarship. But evaluating whether he can meet academic standards is an even thornier process...Ohio State offensive coordinator Jim Bollman said the key in determining a recruit's academic potential is to talk to as many people as possible who know him -- parents, teachers, coaches and counselors. Recruiters ask about the player's character; how motivated is he to work to make the grade? These days, the job is even tougher, Bollman said, because the trend is toward recruiting players at a younger age. 'You don't have near the perspective that you had 10 years ago,' (Bollman) said. 'You're recruiting juniors who haven't even taken a (college-entrance) test yet.' There are political considerations, as well. OSU has increased its admission standards significantly in recent years. Tressel can recruit a few borderline academic cases, but not many "
Former Ohio State coach John Cooper inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame July 18, 2009 Sources: Cleveland Plain Dealer & Columbus Dispatch - "John Cooper, Ohio State's football coach prior to current coach Jim Tressel, was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame today. CBSSports.com carries an Associated Press report, writing about Cooper: Former Ohio State coach John Cooper remembers when he was a young assistant going to coaching conventions hoping to catch a glimpse of Woody Hayes, Ara Parseghian, Bo Schembechler and Bear Bryant. He joins those coaching greats Saturday as he and 21 other former coaches and players are enshrined into the College Football Hall of Fame. Cooper, who also coached at Arizona State and Tulsa, said it's a great feeling to be associated with the coaches he once just wanted to see. He said being enshrined is one of the best days of his life...Irony: One of Cooper's biggest wins at Ohio State was on Jan. 1, 1997, when the Buckeyes edged Arizona State, 20-17, in the Rose Bowl. Ten years prior to that, Cooper coached Arizona State to its first-ever Rose Bowl win, 22-15 over Michigan. Ironically, Ohio State was 2-10-1 against Michigan with Cooper as its coach...JOHN COOPER - 192-84-6 (.691) - Tulsa (1977-84), Arizona State (1985-87), Ohio State (1988-2000)...Cooper was 193-83-6 in 24 years as a coach at Tulsa, Arizona State and Ohio State, including 111-43-4 at OSU. With the Buckeyes, he won a share of three Big Ten titles, the 1997 Rose Bowl, and finished No. 2 in the national polls in 1996 and 1998. He becomes the 27th Hall of Fame member who coached or played at Ohio State. The 28th will be former linebacker Chris Spielman, who this year was announced as part of the class of 2010 " (Webmaster Note: Cooper is the only headcoach in history to win the Rose Bowl both as a Big Ten (OSU) and Pac 10 (ASU) headcoach.)
Big Ten looking for postseason success July 16, 2009 Source: USA Today - "...The Big Ten hasn't looked so big the last few seasons. The conference is just 9-20 in bowl games since 2005 and has lost four consecutive BCS Bowls. On top of that, the Big 10 hasn't won a Rose Bowl since Wisconsin beat Stanford in 2000. But with a new season comes renewed hope. Ohio State and Penn State are each expected to be in the top-10 when the season opens. Here is a quick team-by-team breakdown of the Big 10...Ohio State: Despite at least a share of four consecutive Big Ten titles, the Buckeyes are feeling the pressure after dropping three consecutive BCS bowls. Sophomore Terrelle Pryor returns for his first full season as starting quarterback, but the Buckeyes' chances of winning the league may hinge on finding a replacement for Chris "Beanie" Wells. Wells rushed for more than 1,000 yards in 10 games last season. Sophomore Dan Herron could see the majority of carries this season. He rushed for 439 yards and six touchdowns in limited action last season "
From the sick bay to the spotlight July 15, 2009 Source: USA Today - "College football is a next-man-in type of sport, and we tend to forget injured players soon after they leave the field. But many Big Ten teams will get key pieces back in the mix this fall. Here are players (Big Ten Conference) who could make a major impact in 2009 after missing major chunks or all of last season with injuries...Lawrence Wilson DE, Ohio State -- The Buckeyes don't need to rely on Wilson, not with Thaddeus Gibson and Cameron Heyward in the fold, but the former starter could bolster an already strong front four. Leg injuries have ended Wilson's past two seasons, but he has shown some potential when healthy "
Who are the Big Ten's home run threats? July 15, 2009 Source: USA Today - "The Big Ten has taken heat in recent years for a lack of speed and explosiveness, but the league certainly has its share of game-changers. Here are a few of them...Ohio State running back Brandon Saine -- Dan Herron likely will get the first shot as the Buckeyes' starter, but most fans can't wait to see a healthy Saine get more carries. Injuries have limited Saine so far in his college career, but he's an extremely explosive back who can do damage in space "
Overrated -- Terrelle Pryor, Ohio State July 14, 2009 Source: CBSSports.com - Brian Stubits, a CBSSports.com Staff Writer, writes in his 'Rating, while waiting through college football's hardest part' online column: "...Overrated -- Terrelle Pryor, Ohio State: I can hear Buckeyes fans everywhere in an uproar, but I'm in the show-me camp with Pryor. My eyes scan stories with him appearing on Heisman watch lists for the coming season. I put on my glasses. He's still there. That's where I get overrated. He still has to prove he can do an essential part of quarterbacking -- pass effectively. In his first season he only attempted more than 20 passes in one game. Not to mention, I'm still having a hard time ignoring back-to-back 5 for 13 games against Michigan and Texas to close out his freshman campaign. Can he be as great as the hype? Surely, but right now I don't see how people get their expectations based off his college track record "
Preseason Consensus Poll: July 14 Update July 14, 2009 Source: Bucknuts - "We have the first edition of the 2009 Preseason Consensus Poll. We look at who the magazines and web sites have ranked as the top teams in college football. We also project the various BCS bowls for the upcoming season, including a familiar face in the title game...Each year, it is my mission in life to produce an ongoing consensus preseason top 25 for college football. The premise is simple: We use the published polls on web sites and in magazines as "votes" in our own consensus poll. Teams ranked No. 1 get 25 points and so on down to one point for those ranked 25th. Today, we open it up with the first edition of the 2009 poll. In this edition, we have top 25 polls from 16 different sources "
College football's top coaches: Meyer is No. 1 July 13, 2009 Source: Sporting News - Matt Hayes, who covers college football for Sporting News and is an analyst on NFL Network's College writes: "In the aftermath of last year's national title game, Urban Meyer told his friend and kingmaker, athletic director Jeremy Foley, that if Florida landed another big recruiting class a month later, the program would begin to look like USC. There's one big difference: Florida plays for -- and wins -- national titles. No wonder Meyer has overtaken USC's Pete Carroll as the game's best coach. A brief list of why Meyer is the hottest coach in college football:...A look at the nation's best coaches: The top five 1. Urban Meyer, Florida...2. Nick Saban, Alabama...3. Pete Carroll, USC...4. Bob Stoops, Oklahoma...5. Brian Kelly, Cincinnati...Five on the outside: 1. Mack Brown, Texas...2. Les Miles, LSU...3. Jim Tressel, Ohio State: It's hard to argue against five Big Ten championships (outright or shared) in eight seasons and six BCS bowls... 4. Chris Petersen, Boise State...5. Frank Beamer, Virginia Tech "
OK, here's MY list of the top 10 coaches July 14, 2009 Source: Atlanta Journal Constitution - Mark Bradley writes: "This morning's post regarding Matt Hayes' ranking of the top college football coaches set me to thinking. I said to myself, "need to do a list of your own." Herewith, the inaugural edition of dumb ol' MB's Top 10 Coaches:...1. Urban Meyer, Florida...2. Mack Brown, Texas...3. Jim Tressel, Ohio State: Yeah, I know Ohio State looked awful against Florida and LSU. But the Buckeyes are about to win another BCS title soon enough...4. Nick Saban, Alabama...5. Frank Beamer, Virginia Tech...6. Pete Carroll, Southern Cal...7. Les Miles, LSU...8. Mark Richt, Georgia...9. Paul Johnson, Georgia Tech...10. Bob Stoops, Oklahoma. "
Programs struggle to balance budget July 13, 2009 Source: ESPN - "Colleges are not immune to the economy. Teams are being cut and athletic programs are struggling to mend budgets...'We have to cut $7 million over the next two and a half years,' Stanford athletic director Bob Bowlsby said....Across the country, athletic departments are searching for ways to save money...Pac-10 school Washington shut down its men's and women's swimming teams in an attempt to save $1.2 million, which is about half of what the athletic department needs to cut from its budget...Big East member Cincinnati plans to eliminate scholarship funding for three of its men's sports (track, cross country and swimming) over the next four years. The plan will save the school about $400,000 annually...Many schools, including Michigan, Ohio State and Wisconsin, have stopped publishing media guides and recruiting brochures and are instead producing DVDs...Georgia Tech athletic director Dan Radakovich was forced to cut $3.8 million from his department's 2008-09 budget and laid off 13 employees. This coming season, Georgia Tech's football team will travel by bus to road games at Florida State and Vanderbilt...Georgia athletic director Damon Evans, who oversees an $84 million budget, said the Bulldogs' proceeds from football ticket sales have declined between $2.5 million and $3 million this year "
Media gatherings facing the ax July 12, 2009 Source: Columbus Dispatch - "Some leagues decide money is just too tight: The recession is trying to claim yet another casualty, this time one of college football's time-honored traditions. Faced with schools looking to cut costs and a changing media landscape with newspapers and television outlets struggling financially, several college conferences have canceled their annual July football media days. For years, conferences have offered journalists the opportunity to meet face-to-face with coaches, top players and league commissioners for question-and-answer sessions in relatively informal settings. But this summer, Conference USA, the Ohio Valley Conference, Sun Belt Conference and Big Sky Conference are doing away with their in-person gatherings. They'll offer reporters forums such as live video streaming or phone teleconferences as a substitute. 'It's all financial,' said Jon Kasper, the Big Sky's assistant commissioner for media relations "
Mike Brewster & Terrelle Pryor
Ohio State football Q&A: Sophomore offensive lineman Michael Brewster July 12, 2009 Source: Cleveland Plain Dealer - "Ohio State's Mike Brewster took over as the starting center as a true freshman last season in the fourth game of the year, at the same time that true freshman Terrelle Pryor took over as the starting quarterback...Brewster prefers center, but he's pretty clear that no matter where he ends up when the season starts against Navy on Sept. 5, he'll be better. Plain Dealer: What have summer workouts been like? Mike Brewster: As a team, we look a lot leaner, a lot quicker. Just in general, but the line looks good. We should be a lot leaner. PD: You worked at guard and center in the spring. Where are you more comfortable? MB: Center. That's where I'll be...PD: What do you see when you look back at how you played? MB: I look at tape from last year and now I feel like I obviously have a lot to improve on. I feel like I have a different understanding. My technique was terrible...PD: Why do you say your technique was terrible? MB: To what I need to do and where I need to be, I think last year was pretty bad. The Michigan game was a lot better than the Troy game. But you look at that first game and I told Coach Bollman, I can't believe you stuck with me. I was making mistakes, but I was probably making some good plays, too. I mean, I wouldn't say I had a terrible season. I think I can build on it "
Buckeye Banter... July 13, 2009 Source: LeBrowns Town Blog - "After years of condemning the slower style of play in the Big Ten in favor of the fast-paced SEC, media pundits should watch Ohio State closely this season. Finally, Jim Tressel will place plenty of athleticism on the field. Young speedsters on defense- Etienne Sabino, Jermale Hines, Chimdi Chekwa, Devon Torrance, and Thaddeus Gibson- will swarm the ball, make tackles and force turnovers. On offense, sophomore quarterback Terrelle Pryor will have an abundance of athletes to get the ball to. Lesser-experienced receivers DeVier Posey, Lamaar Thomas and Taurian Washington could be primed for breakout seasons. — While some might criticize Tressel and Co. for transitioning to the Pryor Era so early in his career, the decision will demonstrate its rewards over the next two or three seasons. Pryor used his freshman campaign to gain a command of the huddle and locker room, while getting acclimated to the game on the collegiate level. Now, as a sophomore, Pryor's experience and leadership will make it easier for guys like Posey and Washington to transition into more playing time "
...this is going to be Rich Rodriguez's last season as the head football coach at the University of Michigan July 12, 2009 Source: Parkersburg News and Sentinel - Parkersburg (WV) News and Sentinel writer David Poe opines: "First, it's pretty obvious to me this is going to be Rich Rodriguez's last season as the head football coach at the University of Michigan. He's not going to win. He's going to end the season with another lopsided loss to Ohio State, this time in the Big House, where there is no sin like losing to the hated Buckeyes. Rodriguez's short tenure at Michigan has been a disaster. The players don't seem to like his style. The alumni hasn't warmed up to him. The administrators who hired him -and who could fire him -were unhappy they were going to have to be deposed in his legal dispute with West Virginia University. Although most coaches get at least three years to prove themselves, I'm convinced Rodriguez is only going to get two. That means he once again will be looking for another coaching job (then again, he always seems to be looking for another coaching job, even when he has a good one.) So what job might be available at the end of the 2009 season? All indications are this could be Mark Snyder's last year at Marshall University "
Daniel "Boom" Herron
Here comes Boom July 12, 2009 Source: Warren Tribune Chronicle - "Dan Herron quickly makes his presence known at an Ohio State University football practice. His 5-foot, 10-inch 193-pound frame catches a couple of eyes, more so when he dons the gray helmet with a scarlet and white stripe across the dome. Then, he slips on a red or white jersey bulked up with shoulder pads. Herron turns his head as a coach or teammate shouts, "Boom."...Herron was the team's third leading rusher with 439 yards on 89 carries and six touchdowns behind Chris "Beanie" Wells and quarterback Terrelle Pryor. Wells shared some words of wisdom before departing...'He told me I had to build leadership, stay focused, do the right things, keep working hard,' Herron said. 'I have to keep carrying the great tradition we have here in the Ohio State running backs. We have a great group of guys that are working hard and we all have an opportunity to play a lot this year.' Herron's not the only one vying for that coveted OSU featured back spot...Herron said once camp starts in early August that decision will be a bit clearer. 'You kind of find out where you stand when it comes to camp,' Herron said. 'The guys that came in, they're great guys. They're working hard. We're all working hard...' 'You've got fast guys, power guys. All of us have something to give. We just have to do the work to the best of our abilities this year.' (Herron said)...'We're very fortunate to have a guy like Boom with us. He works extremely hard at what he does and he cares about the game of football. We're counting on him to carry the ball a lot this year.' (OSU quarterbacks' coach Nick Siciliano) "
Braxton Miller
For quarterbacks, there is no mold July 12, 2009 Source: Columbus Dispatch - "Last month, Taylor Graham barely had the words, "I've committed to Ohio State," out of his mouth when an obvious question arose: "Why would a quarterback who bears little physical resemblance to Terrelle Pryor pick Ohio State?"...Graham is not the next Pryor. But he laughed when asked why he'd chosen a college team that, for now anyway, has cast its lot with a running-throwing quarterback that seems to defy the pro-style ethos. 'I wouldn't categorize myself as an option quarterback, but I wouldn't categorize Ohio State's offense that way, either,' Graham said. "They run a pro-style offense...'...(said Tressel) 'But the thing I will say about quarterbacks is in 22 years we have been to nine national championship games (six at Youngstown State, three at Ohio State) with eight different quarterbacks. So the only thing I'll pledge to a quarterback is: 'We're going to do what you do and what your partners do.' Kevin Miller believes him. 'My experience with coach Tressel is he's genuine, he's straight up and he's going to let you know what it's all about,' Miller said. 'They run a heck of a program up there.' Miller's opinion counts more than most because he is the father of Braxton Miller, who is preparing for his junior season at Wayne High School in Huber Heights and perhaps is the next great quarterback to rise from Ohio.
Since the beginning of his sophomore season, Braxton Miller, nephew of former OSU receiver Dee Miller, has been harvesting informal scholarship offers, including from OSU...(Miller) doesn't look like Pryor or Graham, being 6-2, 192 pounds. Even though last month he ran a 4.39-second 40-yard dash at Michigan's summer camp, he's considered a passer who can dabble with the run. 'We're not looking for a program where they're going to run him all the time,' Kevin Miller said. 'It's always good to be able to use your feet as far as getting away from pressure, but not mainly to just run the option or things like that. He's a thrower first.' "
Ohio State Buckeyes Preview 2009 from CollegeFootballNews.com: "After losing two national championship games and getting blasted by USC in ugly, embarrassing fashion, Ohio State has to do something big to regain its good standing in the world of superpowers. But is that really fair? What major sin has Ohio State football committed? Yes, it has lost three BCS games in a row, but it battled hard in a war in the 2009 Fiesta Bowl against Texas and lost in the final moments. Should the Buckeyes be dogged for losing to a Texas team that probably should've been playing in the national championship?...What to watch for on offense:...What to watch for on defense:...The team will be far better if...The Schedule:...Key player to a successful season:...Key game: Nov. 7 at Penn State...."
Ineligible at Ohio State, former Naples High star Hyde will enroll at prep school July 10, 2009 Source: Naples (FL) News - "Former Naples High football standout Carlos Hyde will most likely miss the 2009 college football season after failing to qualify academically at Ohio State University. The 6-foot-1 230-pound fullback has failed to meet the required score of 17 on the ACT test, and can't take the test again until Sept. 12, the same day the Buckeyes are scheduled to host USC in the second game of the season. 'I think I'm going to miss the season and just focus on passing the ACT,' Hyde said Thursday night. 'I'm going to try to grey-shirt and enroll in January, that looks like what's going to happen.' In the meantime Hyde is taking an ACT prep course three times a week and will most likely enroll in a prep school for the fall semester. 'I think I'm going to go to prep school in Virginia and just continue to get ready for the test,' said Hyde, who has scored as high as 15 on the test in prior attempts. The Ohio State coaching staff has recommended two prep schools to Hyde, Fork Union Military Academy and Hargrave Military Academy, both of which are located in Virginia..."
Will Hyde Be A Buckeye? July 9, 2009 Source: Bucknuts - "Many Buckeye fans were thinking Naples, Fla., running back Carlos Hyde would be the next Beanie Wells at Ohio State. That may still happen, but it if it does it definitely won't be this coming season...The 6-foot-1 and 240-pound Hyde is similar in size to Wells and has good speed. He picked Ohio State over scholarship offers from Florida, Florida State, Miami, West Virginia and many others. Unfortunately, Hyde has not yet enrolled at Ohio State and the earliest he will do so will be winter quarter. Wells needs to raise his ACT score to qualify academically. 'I have a 16 right now,' Hyde said. 'I need to get a 17. I'm taking a class three days a week for the test. Coach (Jim) Tressel told me once I get my ACT situated I'm good to go.' The next testing is in September, so Wells is hoping to receive at least a 17 and start classes at Ohio State in January. 'I won't be on the field this season," Hyde said. "But I still plan to get up (to Ohio State).'..."
Ranking the Big Ten's strength of schedule July 9, 2009 Source: Buckeye Grove - "With each passing day the 2009 college football season is approaching faster and faster, and with plenty of different story lines in the Big Ten there is still plenty to discuss before the season gets underway. One of the biggest determiners on how teams could potentially do each season rests with the strength of scheduling. Perhaps one of the biggest hot button topics in college football today deals with non-conference scheduling and different paths to elite bowl games...BuckeyeGrove.com has you covered by ranking the strengths of schedules of the teams who play in the Big Ten Conference. #1) When a team that is continually hoping to make a push for the national title game year after year and one game could derail those hopes, single games on the schedule become magnified. In Ohio State's case, the matchup with USC on Sept. 12 is enough to put them over the top, particularly because Big Ten teams aren't typically known for going out of their ways to schedule top non-conference opponents. That, combined with road games at Penn State and at Michigan down the stretch gives the Buckeyes the toughest schedule in the conference...#2: Minnesota, #3 Iowa, #4 Illinois, #5 Michigan, #6 MSU, #7 IU, #8 Purdue, #9 Northwestern, #10 Penn State, #11 Wisconsin..."
YOU MADE THE CALL: ALL-ALUMNI FOOTBALL TEAM REVEALED July 9, 2009 Source: OSU Alumni Association - "The fans have spoken. More than 1,400 cast votes, between Nov. 2008 and Feb. 2009, for the all-time, all-star, All-Alumni Team of Buckeye football legends. Jack Park, Ohio State football historian and a legend himself, assembled the ballot, which ran online and in the November/December 2008 issue of Ohio State Alumni Magazine. The slate included players from the early days of Ohio State football through the 2006-7 season. Those members selected starting offensive and defensive players, a kicker, punter, and coach. Former linebacker Chris Spielman was the leading overall vote recipient and captured 1,240 out of 1,439 possible votes. Other vote leaders included: offensive tackle Orlando Pace (1,192); running back Archie Griffin (1,181); defensive back Jack Tatum (1,201); and kicker Mike Nugent (1,229). The team's coach is Woody Hayes (1,055 votes)...links: Jack offers comments on each member of the team. You can also find OSUAA president and CEO Archie Griffin's takes on the team, as well as additional content you can find by clicking the links on the right side of the page...•ALL-ALUMNI OFFENSE •ALL-ALUMNI DEFENSE •ALL-ALUMNI SPECIAL TEAMS •ALL-ALUMNI COACH ...The selection of the All-Alumni Team celebrates the 100th anniversary of Ohio State Alumni Magazine. "
Siciliano named QB coach, regrets taking over for friend July 9, 2009 Source: Columbus Dispatch - "Nick Siciliano took a huge step up the career ladder yesterday, officially becoming quarterbacks coach at Ohio State. But he didn't feel like doing cartwheels. He is replacing his mentor and friend, Joe Daniels, the longtime quarterbacks coach who will move to the administrative side of the football program as he continues his fight with cancer. 'I feel very blessed, because there's probably 10,000 people who'd like to be in this chair," Siciliano said. "But I'd be lying to you if I didn't say there was some remorse from the standpoint of I know what Joe Daniels would love to be doing right now. That part breaks my heart, because Joe Daniels is a football coach. He loves this game, just like I do.' Since the spring of 2008, Siciliano, 34, has essentially been serving as quarterbacks coach, especially on the field. The NCAA granted OSU a waiver that allowed the use of two men to do the job while Daniels dealt with his health issues..."
Ohio State football announces staff adjustments July 8, 2009 Source: Cleveland Plain Dealer - "Ohio State officially announced a reshuffling of some coaching positions Wednesday, one move promoting a 34-year-old into a position coaching the most important Buckeye on the roster. Of course, Nick Siciliano has been working closely with sophomore quarterback Terrelle Pryor for a year. This announcement officially makes Siciliano, in his fifth year on staff, the quarterbacks coach, while former quarterbacks coach Joe Daniels becomes the associate director for personnel development. That means Daniels will be dealing with people like NFL scouts and high school coaches instead of coaching on the field every day...In other moves, assistant recruiting coordinator Greg Gillum was promoted to director of football operations for player personnel, while administrators Stan Jefferson, Todd Alles and Amy Burgess were given added duties. Also, as previously reported, former Wayne State offensive line coach Keith Uecker, who played at Auburn and for the Green Bay Packers, was named offensive quality control coach, formerly Siciliano's title..."
Win or lose, USC game will shape Buckeyes' image July 8, 2009 Source: ESPN - "In his recent rundown of must-see games this season, colleague Bruce Feldman touched on the potential impact of the Ohio State-USC contest for the Buckeyes. It goes without saying that a home loss to the Trojans, especially one by double digits, would further damage Ohio State's national reputation. But Feldman contends that even a victory might not be a major help to the Buckeyes' cause...'I'm not sure this game is as much a proving-ground battle as last year's at USC was for Ohio State. My sense is that if the Buckeyes handle the Trojans here, it'll still be a big win, but not monumental in the pollsters' eyes. It'll be too easy for critics to write it off'...Feldman might be dead-on about the pundits writing off an Ohio State victory. Despite the Buckeyes' recent struggles in national showcase games, they have several factors working in their favor Sept. 12 at Ohio Stadium...It comes down to this: If the Buckeyes knock off USC, they deserve a ton of credit. And if they lose, they deserve plenty of blame (believe me, they'll get it). There's no gray area for the Scarlet and Gray, which makes the matchup all the more exciting..."
2009 Ohio State Buckeyes Movie Trailer - Redemption 2
The Doc's All-Up-and-Coming Team: Defense July 6, 2009 Source: Dr. Saturday - "Here are the rules for this team: All players are second or third-year guys -- no incoming freshmen or junior college transfers -- set to start for the first time this year, or otherwise to contribute heavily after a redshirt year or a season (or two) as a backup. No one on the team was feted with awards or freshman All-America notices, and none has more than a couple career starts; most have none. Because they weren't "instant impact" types, you won't find many of these guys near the top of the preseason position lists, but you should expect to be well-acquainted with all of them by this time next year...Linebacker: Etienne Sabino Ohio State...Three linebackers under Jim Tressel -- Matt Wilhelm, A.J. Hawk, James Laurinaitis -- left as All-Americans and Butkus Award finalists. Sabino comes with more hype than any of them. The main obstacle preventing Galippo's successor at the top of the '08 linebacker crop from the same heights as his predecessors in the middle may be the pesky line of succession: Fifth-year senior Austin Spitler remains at the front of the queue..."
Instant Impact: Which Freshmen Step Up in 2009? July 3, 2009 Source: The Silver Bullet - "It is no mystery that the Buckeyes have an incredibly young team with quite a few question marks. This of course opens the door for some of the newcomers to have crack at making an impact right away. In fact, some of the Buckeyes success may depend on how quickly the 2009 class steps up. So let's take a look the top five players that I think have a chance to become season changers: 5. Jack Mewhort - Offensive Line4...Carlos Hyde - Running Back / Fullback...3. Corey Brown - Cornerback...2. Jaamal Berry - Running Back...1. Duron Carter - Wide Receiver..."
Stoneburner gives Buckeyes a new look at tight end July 5, 2009 Source: Columbus Dispatch - "The Dublin Coffman graduate came to Ohio State in the spring of 2008 determined to play receiver. Even with a 6-foot-5, 225-pound frame, he had the speed to play outside and had spent his high school career there, making the All-Ohio first team and playing in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl...He grew right out of receiver. In January, the coaching staff decided his future was at tight end. Tight end. Those words could strike fear in the heart of any self-respecting Ohio State skill player. The position has been marginalized in recent seasons...'My first thought is I didn't want to (move),' Stoneburner said. 'But after talking to the coaches, it made sense...'...And so, once again, there are flickers of hope for the tight ends in the Ohio State offense...'If we can make (Stoneburner and Ballard) threats, that's going to take a little bit of pressure off those younger (receivers),' Tressel said. 'Football is a game of pressure, and if everybody out there is a threat to catch it, that puts more pressure on the defense.' And what makes Stoneburner intriguing is he offers a different look than traditional tight ends. He's working on his blocking techniques, but clearly, he is more of an H-back, receiving tight end than an extra offensive lineman. In spring practice, he ran a number of deep routes, either down the middle or to the corner, and showed a knack for catching over his shoulder on the run. 'I'll be matched up with linebackers and safeties a lot, and I'd like to think most of the time I'd be athletic enough to get around them,' Stoneburner said..."
Pandel Savic, a quarterback for the Buckeyes from 1947 to '49, will be inducted into the Ohio State Athletics Hall of Fame.
Savic's success story speaks volumes to America's gift - July 4, 2009 Long before speaking in scarlet and gray, Pandel Savic learned to talk in maize and blue — and orange and green. The year was 1934, and Savic sat in the Youngstown-area classroom of first-grade teacher Mrs. Armstrong, studying the color charts so he could learn to speak the same language as his classmates. He had come to the United States as a 9-year-old from a village near the Macedonia-Greece border and knew no English. Now, nearly 75 years later, the former Ohio State quarterback still speaks in colors — the red, white and blue of an America he grew up loving. Savic, 83, is an unabashed patriot who presents his life as proof that "as long as you kept your nose clean and went to work, you had so many opportunities to do what you wanted to do here." He found success playing football — his fourth-quarter touchdown pass against Michigan in 1949 enabled the Buckeyes to earn a 7-7 tie and a Rose Bowl trip. And he found it upon graduation, helping to start an industrial safety business eventually worth millions. Those achievements, combined with his involvement in the community — he helped develop Muirfield Village Golf Club and start the Memorial Tournament with good friend Jack Nicklaus — factored into Savic being named to the 2009 class of the Ohio State Athletics Hall of Fame..."
An Ohio State interview: Linebacker Brian Rolle July 3, 2009 Source: Cleveland Plain Dealer - "Brian Rolle was a star of the spring for the Buckeyes. For two years, the linebacker from Immokalee, Fla., stayed in the background at Ohio State, popping up with some big plays on special teams, but otherwise biding his time with veterans...in front of him. A little undersized at 5-foot-11, but with big-hit ability, it was hard to get a read on him as a person and a player. Here's a read. This guy could be a star of the fall as well...Here's our conversation from Friday..."
Drew Basil is a Buckeye Kicker/Punter Drew Basil, Chillicothe (OH) Chillicothe, committed to the Buckeyes yesterday, July 2, 2009, and becomes the 8th member of the Class of 2010. Basil said: "Out of all the visits that I had this one just surpassed them all. The other campuses all had good points, but Ohio State had everything. I have always dreamed about being a Buckeye. The offer meant a little more to me when I got it. I am still going to work with Tim Williams (former OSU kicker Tim Williams 1990-1993) and he was pretty excited for me." Former 2 time consensus All-American as both place-kicker and punter Chris Sailer, now one of the top kicking and punting coaches in the world said about Basil, "Drew is an outstanding kicker. He has a great leg and gets great lift on his ball. Has proven that he is one of the very best in his class. Perhaps the top combo player in the nation. Hard working young man with a great attitude." Basil had offers and interest from schools including Air Force, Purdue, Cincinnati, Kentucky, which would have multiplied significantly if not for his commitment. Welcome aboard, Drew!
Chillicothe punter commits to Ohio State July 3, 2009 Source: Columbus Dispatch - "Drew Basil, a kicker-punter from Chillicothe, toured Ohio State yesterday, then became the eighth commitment to the 2010 recruiting class. 'I grew up as an Ohio State fan, and my parents and I had talked about (the possibility of committing) before today,' Basil said. 'But the tour I got, it just made us say 'wow' even more.' Basil, 6 feet 2 and 190 pounds, told coach Jim Tressel his decision in person..."
ESPN.com's Ivan Maisel and Adam Rittenberg discuss the Big Ten's red-hot rivalries for '09.
Rank 'Em: College Football Rivalries: "With the college football season just around the corner, ESPN.com senior writer Pat Forde came up with his red-hot gridiron rivalries for '09. The Red River Rivalry between Texas and Oklahoma is always at the top of the list. And Ohio State-Michigan never seems to disappoint. But with all these rivalries sure to come correct, which one tops your list as the best?"
Red-hot rivalries to provide '09 fireworks: "...7. Ohio State Buckeyes-Michigan Wolverines: Why It's Hot Now: Not so much because of on-field competitiveness, as the Wolverines attempt to dig out of a rare downturn. This particular meeting gets its heat from the eligibility of honorable mention all-Big Ten offensive lineman Justin Boren at Ohio State after a publicly acrimonious transfer from Michigan. Boren had rather famously announced that "family values have eroded" at Michigan under first-year coach Rich Rodriguez -- chapping many hides within the program. Then he made it worse with what is believed to be the first high-profile transfer between the two ancient rivals since World War II. He's slated to start for Ohio State, and no guard's play will be more closely scrutinized in a single game all season than Boren's in this one. Upper Hand Today: Ohio State is on a Buckeye-record five-game winning streak in the series under Jim Tressel and has allowed just 10 points the last two meetings..."
Ohio State freshman Jaamal Berry has drug charge reduced July 2, 2009 Source: Cleveland Plain Dealer - "Ohio State incoming freshman running back Jaamal Berry had a drug charge in Florida reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor in court today, which should bode well for his future as a Buckeye. According to the standards of conduct policy for the athletic department, players can't play in games while a felony charge is pending. However, the punishment for misdemeanors is left to the discretion of coaches. Berry did report with the other incoming freshman for the start of summer classes on June 22. Records show that last Friday, he entered a written plea of not guilty and the arraignment was waived..."
Planned sports training center unites 3 past OSU stars, former Blue Jacket as investors July 2, 2009 Source: Columbus Dispatch - "The idea came to Bobby Carpenter as he worked out at the D1 Sports Training center in Nashville, Tenn., preparing for the 2006 NFL scouting combine and draft. 'I just loved the concept,' the former Ohio State University and current Dallas Cowboys linebacker said of the large, state-of-the-art gym...D1 Sports is a chain created by former University of Tennessee fullback Will Bartholomew...He called his best friend and former Buckeyes teammate, A. J. Hawk, 25, who immediately wanted in. 'Athletes here need a place like this' (said Hawk). The D1 Sports concept is simple: It's a place for serious athletes -- from junior high to the professional level in a wide range of sports -- to train with other serious athletes. Another former OSU football player, Mike Vrabel, 33, former New England Patriots star, who recently was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs...joined Carpenter and Hawk in the business venture...'It's by far the best facility around here outside of Ohio State,' Carpenter added...One of D1's local trainers is Butch Reynolds, a three-time Olympian, a former world record holder in the 400-meter dash and a current strength and conditioning coach for the OSU football team..."
RB Roderick Smith Commits to the Buckeyes Roderick Smith from Fort Wayne (IN) Harding committed to OSU on Wednesday July 1. "I love everything about Ohio State" Smith said. The four-star running back, ranked as the No. 6 running back in his class by Scout.com and the No. 5 running back by Rivals.com, combines speed, strength and elusiveness on the field. He finished his junior season with 1,685 yards rushing and 15 touchdowns and during his three-year career has rushed for 5,285 yards. The 6'2" 217lb Smith had offers and interest from many schools including Georgia, Iowa, Michigan, Michigan State, Oklahoma, Purdue, Notre Dame, Tennessee, Texas and Arkansas. Welcome aboard, Roderick!
Hawks RB commits to Ohio State July 3, 2009 Source: Fort Wayne Journal Gazette - "Harding running back Rod Smith knows when he's wanted. He also knows where he fits best. On Wednesday, (he) committed to play for Ohio State in 2010...The decision came during an unofficial visit to Columbus, where Smith watched a summer workout and met with head coach Jim Tressel and running backs coach Dick Tressel...Smith's father Roger Smith accompanied him during the visit. 'They're an established team,' Roger Smith said. 'He'll get a good workout not only on the field, but he'll have good academics as well, which is the most important thing."...Ohio State has been a favorite of his since the Buckeyes were impressed by Smith at a 7-on-7 camp as a freshman. 'It's a place where I can improve my skills,' Smith said. 'It's a place I'm going to work harder than I ever have before.'..."
Smith Is A Buckeye July 1, 2009 Source: Buckeye Sports - "The Ohio State Buckeyes got their man on Wednesday when four-star running back Roderick Smith issued a verbal commitment to join their class of 2010...'Just the coaches are great,' he said about OSU. 'Me and the coaches have a great chemistry together. They're easy to talk to. I got a chance to hang out with the players and that was all I needed. That about sealed it.' As for spending time with Pryor, Smith said, 'He's cool. It's cool knowing that he's a big-time college player. I'm glad I'll get a chance to play with him.' Smith's final choice came down to the Buckeyes and Michigan State..."
Colin Cowherd ranks Buckeyes fourth for decade July 1, 2009 Source: Cincinnati Enquirer - "'I've been asked so many times since we started the website, 'In your opinion, who are the top college football programs in America?'...Ohio State: Take the good with the bad. Jim Tressel is both a rigid and successful task master and an offensive coach, stuck in the 70's. Too often the Buckeyes take a lead and play not to lose. Or come in with a game plan, built too heavily weighted on field position and clock management. Today's game is about velocity, multiple weapons, risk taking, spreading the field. Watch the New England Patriots offense for a lesson. Watch the Buckeyes, and you get a sense that you should be watching from a black and white TV. Flashy and fleet QB Terrell Pryor should help change two things: more offensive explosions and more BCS wins. Expect both..."
Ohio State places 10th in national rankings of athletic programs July 1, 2009 Source: Columbus Dispatch - "Ohio State finished 10th in the 2008-09 Directors' Cup standings, a ranking of the nation's most successful athletic departments. Teams that qualify for NCAA championships earn points. Football teams earn points by how they finished in the USA Today poll. Stanford won the competition for the 15th straight year. Tenth place was OSU's highest finish since 2004. The Buckeyes have placed in the top 10 four times previously: in 1997 (tie for eighth), 2001 (sixth), 2003 (third) and 2004 (fourth)." (Webmaster note: Stanford won the award for the 15th straight year with 1455 points. North Carolina was second with 1184.25 points, 11.5 ahead of Florida. Southern California, Michigan, Texas, California, Virginia, LSU and Ohio State rounded out the top 10.)
