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LGHL MC&J: Picks against the spread for every Big Ten team this weekend
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MC&J: Picks against the spread for every Big Ten team this weekend
Brett Ludwiczak via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images
Four more teams in the conference means there are even more games to pick!
MC&J is back for yet another season.
What year is this? I just know we have been going at least 10 years. Last year saw us post a record that was over .500, so hopefully those picks were helpful to those in Ohio who were placing bets in the first year of legal sports gambling in the state.
For those new to the program, picks articles are posted on Thursdays and Fridays. Normally the national picks are on Thursday and Big Ten picks follow on Friday, but that schedule isn’t concrete since there are occasionally weeks — like this one — where the Big Ten has some teams playing on Thursday.
Here’s to another profitable season of picks!
Last year ATS: 133-120-2 (71-73-2 National, 62-47 B1G)
Howard v. Rutgers (-36.5) - Thursday 8/29 6:00 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network
Rutgers could be solid this year with workhorse running back Kyle Monangai and Minnesota transfer quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis. Last year the Scarlet Knights won seven games and this season should win just as many, if not more.
It’s hard to see Howard staying inside the number here.
Rutgers 51, Howard 10
North Carolina (-1.5) v. Minnesota - Thursday 8/29 8:00 p.m. ET - FOX
Minnesota must be the official team for Week 1’s Thursday night game on FOX, since this will be the third time in the last four seasons the Golden Gophers have opened up the season on Thursday on the network. Darius Taylor has the look of the next solid Minnesota running back, but his status is up in the air for this game due to a leg injury.
With Drake Maye now in the NFL, Texas A&M transfer Max Johnson and Conner Harrell will be competing to be the starting quarterback for the Tar Heels. One thing that will make the job easier for both quarterbacks is running back Omarion Hampton, who rushed for 1,504 yards and 15 touchdowns in 2023. Hampton should have a better performance than last year against the Golden Gophers, when he ran for just 46 yards in the loss.
North Carolina wins a tight game in Minneapolis.
North Carolina 24, Minnesota 20
Eastern Illinois v. Illinois (-27.5) - Thursday 8/29 9:00 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network
While Tony Romo and Jimmy Garoppolo aren’t walking through that door for Eastern Illinois, the Panthers don’t have that bad of a team. Last year they forced 25 turnovers and have a veteran quarterback and running back returning for another season.
I could see Eastern Illinois hang around in this one since the Fighting Illini have next week off before taking on Kansas.
Illinois 34, Eastern Illinois 17
Florida Atlantic v. Michigan State (-13.5) - Friday 8/30 7:00 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network
Michigan State will enter this season with something to look forward to, unlike last year when they were mired in the Mel Tucker scandal. This will be Jonathan Smith’s first game as head coach of the Spartans, and he brought quarterback Aidan Chiles with him from Oregon State.
Even though Florida Atlantic has an experienced quarterback in Marshall transfer Cam Fancher, Michigan State is a little too deep and has a little more talent in this one.
Michigan State 38, Florida Atlantic 20
Western Michigan v. Wisconsin (-23.5) - Friday 8/30 9:00 p.m. ET - FS1
Luke Fickell is hoping his second year in Madison goes better than his first. The Badgers went 7-6 last year, including a stretch in the middle of the season when they lost four of five games. One thing that really hurt Wisconsin was the loss of running back Chez Mellusi to injury. The former Clemson running back was averaging six yards per carry before he was injured in the Purdue game.
Joining Mellusi in the backfield is Miami transfer quarterback Tyler Van Dyke, who should thrive in Phil Longo’s passing offense. The Badgers should be able to start the season with an easy win over a Western Michigan team that was 4-8 in Lance Taylor’s first season as head coach.
Wisconsin needs a couple strong performances before Alabama visits Camp Randall in a couple weeks.
Wisconsin 42, Western Michigan 14
No. 8 Penn State (-8.5) v. West Virginia - 12:00 p.m. ET - FOX
Last year to open up the season, West Virginia hung around Penn State for the first half in State College before the Nittany Lions started to pull away. This year’s game is going to have a little different environment since it’ll be played at noon in Morgantown. Neal Brown has a team that can contend for the Big 12 title behind quarterback Garrett Greene.
Penn State returns quarterback Drew Allar and running backs Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen. It will be interesting to see if Allar targets former Ohio State receiver Julian Fleming early. The Nittany Lions could be a sleeper to make the College Football Playoff this year, but they’ll have their hands full with the Mountaineers on Saturday.
This is shaping up to be one of the best games of the weekend, and I think West Virginia takes Penn State down to the wire.
Penn State 27, West Virginia 24
Illinois State v. No. 25 Iowa (-22.5) -12:00 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network
Not only did Iowa toss Brian Ferentz in the trash, Kirk Ferentz won’t be coaching in this game since he’ll be serving a one-game suspension for a recruiting violation. It would be hilarious if without a Ferentz in the mix, the Hawkeyes go out and score 50-60 points. Back for Iowa at quarterback is Cade McNamara, who suffered a season-ending injury early in the season.
I know Iowa has had some issues with FCS foes in the past, but this feels like it could be a different Hawkeye squad since they have former Western Michigan head coach Tim Lester at offensive coordinator. Iowa could be a sleeper this year since they always have one of the stingiest defenses in the country.
Iowa 34, Illinois State 7
UConn v. Maryland (-20.5) - 12:00 p.m. ET - FS1
Maryland has routinely taken care of business in the non-conference before stepping into their Big Ten schedule. Mike Locksley has provided some stability to the program, leading the Terrapins to at least seven wins in each of the last three years. Billy Edwards Jr. takes over for Taulia Tagovailoa at quarterback and should put up some big numbers in the opener against a UConn squad that isn’t very good.
Maryland 44, UConn 14
Indiana State v. Purdue (-33.5) - 12:00 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network
Indiana State was 1-10 last season. Purdue beat the Sycamores 56-0 in 2022. We are likely to see a similar result this year.
Purdue 52, Indiana State 3
Florida International v. Indiana (-21.5) - 3:30 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network
It’s a new era in Bloomington. The Hoosiers hired Curt Cignetti from James Madison, and he has the Hoosiers thinking like they are winners. Indiana brought in Kurtis Rourke from Ohio to try and solidify their quarterback position. Rourke has thrown 50 touchdown passes in his college career so far.
Can’t say I’m a huge fan of laying three touchdowns and the hook with the Hoosiers, but I think they’ll want to impress in Cignetti’s home debut.
Indiana 45, Florida International 17
UTEP v. Nebraska (-27.5) - 3:30 p.m. ET - FOX
Matt Rhule may be changing the culture at Nebraska, but I’m going to need to see it on a more consistent basis before I start believing the hype. There likely will be some jitters for freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola in his first start for the Cornhuskers, so I’ll side with UTEP not getting completely blown out in Lincoln.
Nebraska 41, UTEP 21
Miami (OH) v. Northwestern (-2.5) - 3:30 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network
These teams played back in 2022, with the RedHawks winning 17-14 in Evanston. David Braun is coming off his first season as Northwestern head coach, finishing with an 8-5 record and a win over Utah in the Las Vegas Bowl. I’m not sure I see as much success for the Wildcats this year, especially since they won’t have a true home with Ryan Field being renovated.
Chuck Martin is coming off his best season in Oxford, as Miami won 11 games last year. What makes the season even more impressive is they did it without Brett Gabbert, who was injured in October against Toledo.
Gabbert leads the RedHawks to their second upset of Northwestern in the last three seasons.
Miami (OH) 24, Northwestern 20
Idaho v. No. 3 Oregon (-44.5) - 7:30 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network
Idaho is a really solid FCS team. Too bad this game wasn’t in Moscow, since it would be so much fun to see this game in the Kibbie Dome. Last year the Vandals made the FCS playoff, losing to Albany in a quarterfinal. While I don’t have any designs on them springing the upset, I think they could frustrate the Ducks just enough.
Oregon will take on Boise State next week, followed by games against Oregon State and UCLA. Since we have a long season ahead of us, I could see Dan Lanning pulling his starters after they build a comfortable lead. Oregon wins by 38-42 points.
Oregon 55, Idaho 14
Fresno State v. No. 9 Michigan (-21.5) - 7:30 p.m. ET - NBC
It’ll be interesting to see how this season goes for Michigan after they sold their soul for a national title. Gone are head coach Jim Harbaugh, starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy, and a number of starters on both sides of the football. While there won’t be a huge change in philosophy under Sherrone Moore, it will likely take some time for presumed starting quarterback Alex Orji and the rest of the new starters to find their footing.
Fresno State already has experience heading into Big Ten territory and leaving with a victory, as they defeated Purdue last year to open up the season. The Bulldogs were thrown a curveball when Jeff Tedford resigned due to health reasons, leaving Tim Skipper as the interim coach. Fresno State has a veteran team so they won’t totally wilt in Ann Arbor, and they stay within shouting distance of the Wolverines.
Michigan 31, Fresno State 13
UCLA (-14.5) v. Hawai’i - 7:30 p.m. ET - CBS
After Chip Kelly decided to take Ohio State’s offensive coordinator job, the Bruins promoted DeShaun Foster to take over for Kelly. What could make UCLA even more interesting this year is adding Eric Bienemy to the staff as offensive coordinator. Ethan Garbers is a veteran quarterback, while T.J. Harden can make some noise on the ground.
Hawai’i won their first game of the season, but I’m not putting much stock in a win over Delaware State. Timmy Chang may be a hero at the school from his time as a player, but he doesn’t really move the needle much for me when it comes to coaching.
Hawai’i usually struggles against power conference teams with a pulse, and I don’t see that changing against UCLA on Saturday.
UCLA 38, Hawai’i 17
Weber State v. Washington (-26.5) - 11:00 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network
Much like Michigan, Washington lost their head coach, quarterback, and plenty of talent after the national championship game. I’m a little more optimistic on what we’ll see from the Huskies in their first game of the 2024 season.
Replacing Michael Penix Jr. is Mississippi State transfer Will Rogers, who put up some big numbers in Starkville. Don’t sleep on running back Jonah Coleman, who came with new head coach Jedd Fisch from Arizona.
Washington wins by at least four touchdowns.
Washington 45, Weber State 13
No. 13 USC v. No. 23 LSU (-4.5) - Sunday 9/1 7:30 p.m. ET - ABC
Brian Kelly against Lincoln Riley feels like it is guaranteed to produce shenanigans. Both teams were all offense, no defense last year, and I’m not expecting that to change to start the 2024 season. The Trojans and Tigers will be replacing Heisman Trophy quarterbacks, but Miller Moss was able to gain some confidence with an impressive performance in USC’s bowl game. LSU will counter with Garrett Nussmeier.
I have a little more confidence in LSU’s ability to field a defense than I am with USC right now. The Tigers should be a factor in the SEC even though they have a lot to replace, while I can’t say I think USC will make much noise in the Big Ten in 2024.
In a game that is back-and-forth for a bit, LSU eventually makes a few stops to earn a 7-10 point win.
LSU 38, USC 28
Akron v. No. 2 Ohio State (-49.5) - 3:30 p.m. ET - CBS
Should Ohio State be favored by this much? Yes. The Buckeyes are that good and Akron is just as bad. I can’t say I’m still comfortable laying this many points, though.
The new clock rules that took effect last year cut down on game times and made spreads like this even tougher to stomach. With all the talent the Buckeyes have on offense, they can pretty much name their score, while the defense is so stingy they have the ability to keep their opponents from scoring double figures nearly every time out.
For those that are thinking of laying the chalk, there is a new reason that could help you out. With the expanded playoff, coaches will have to make sure backups are ready to step on the field if needed. Unlike past years when coaches might have kept things vanilla in blowouts, that might change since they want backups running the regular offense so they have a handle on it. We’ll likely see Devin Brown at quarterback for Ohio State and could even see Lincoln Keinholtz, Julian Sayin, or Air Noland on the field if the score gets really out of hand.
I just think 50 points is a hair too much to be laying in this game. The Buckeyes don’t play anyone in the first month of the season, so I can’t see them doing anything too crazy until they play Iowa. Ryan Day and Chip Kelly will want to keep the good stuff under wraps until later in the season. Ohio State impresses in their opener and let the starters get some reps and build a lead before taking their foot off the gas a little bit the rest of the way.
Ohio State 48, Akron 6
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Brett Ludwiczak via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images
Four more teams in the conference means there are even more games to pick!
MC&J is back for yet another season.
What year is this? I just know we have been going at least 10 years. Last year saw us post a record that was over .500, so hopefully those picks were helpful to those in Ohio who were placing bets in the first year of legal sports gambling in the state.
For those new to the program, picks articles are posted on Thursdays and Fridays. Normally the national picks are on Thursday and Big Ten picks follow on Friday, but that schedule isn’t concrete since there are occasionally weeks — like this one — where the Big Ten has some teams playing on Thursday.
Here’s to another profitable season of picks!
Last year ATS: 133-120-2 (71-73-2 National, 62-47 B1G)
B1G games (all games Saturday unless noted):
Howard v. Rutgers (-36.5) - Thursday 8/29 6:00 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network
Rutgers could be solid this year with workhorse running back Kyle Monangai and Minnesota transfer quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis. Last year the Scarlet Knights won seven games and this season should win just as many, if not more.
It’s hard to see Howard staying inside the number here.
Rutgers 51, Howard 10
North Carolina (-1.5) v. Minnesota - Thursday 8/29 8:00 p.m. ET - FOX
Minnesota must be the official team for Week 1’s Thursday night game on FOX, since this will be the third time in the last four seasons the Golden Gophers have opened up the season on Thursday on the network. Darius Taylor has the look of the next solid Minnesota running back, but his status is up in the air for this game due to a leg injury.
With Drake Maye now in the NFL, Texas A&M transfer Max Johnson and Conner Harrell will be competing to be the starting quarterback for the Tar Heels. One thing that will make the job easier for both quarterbacks is running back Omarion Hampton, who rushed for 1,504 yards and 15 touchdowns in 2023. Hampton should have a better performance than last year against the Golden Gophers, when he ran for just 46 yards in the loss.
North Carolina wins a tight game in Minneapolis.
North Carolina 24, Minnesota 20
Eastern Illinois v. Illinois (-27.5) - Thursday 8/29 9:00 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network
While Tony Romo and Jimmy Garoppolo aren’t walking through that door for Eastern Illinois, the Panthers don’t have that bad of a team. Last year they forced 25 turnovers and have a veteran quarterback and running back returning for another season.
I could see Eastern Illinois hang around in this one since the Fighting Illini have next week off before taking on Kansas.
Illinois 34, Eastern Illinois 17
Florida Atlantic v. Michigan State (-13.5) - Friday 8/30 7:00 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network
Michigan State will enter this season with something to look forward to, unlike last year when they were mired in the Mel Tucker scandal. This will be Jonathan Smith’s first game as head coach of the Spartans, and he brought quarterback Aidan Chiles with him from Oregon State.
Even though Florida Atlantic has an experienced quarterback in Marshall transfer Cam Fancher, Michigan State is a little too deep and has a little more talent in this one.
Michigan State 38, Florida Atlantic 20
Western Michigan v. Wisconsin (-23.5) - Friday 8/30 9:00 p.m. ET - FS1
Luke Fickell is hoping his second year in Madison goes better than his first. The Badgers went 7-6 last year, including a stretch in the middle of the season when they lost four of five games. One thing that really hurt Wisconsin was the loss of running back Chez Mellusi to injury. The former Clemson running back was averaging six yards per carry before he was injured in the Purdue game.
Joining Mellusi in the backfield is Miami transfer quarterback Tyler Van Dyke, who should thrive in Phil Longo’s passing offense. The Badgers should be able to start the season with an easy win over a Western Michigan team that was 4-8 in Lance Taylor’s first season as head coach.
Wisconsin needs a couple strong performances before Alabama visits Camp Randall in a couple weeks.
Wisconsin 42, Western Michigan 14
No. 8 Penn State (-8.5) v. West Virginia - 12:00 p.m. ET - FOX
Last year to open up the season, West Virginia hung around Penn State for the first half in State College before the Nittany Lions started to pull away. This year’s game is going to have a little different environment since it’ll be played at noon in Morgantown. Neal Brown has a team that can contend for the Big 12 title behind quarterback Garrett Greene.
Penn State returns quarterback Drew Allar and running backs Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen. It will be interesting to see if Allar targets former Ohio State receiver Julian Fleming early. The Nittany Lions could be a sleeper to make the College Football Playoff this year, but they’ll have their hands full with the Mountaineers on Saturday.
This is shaping up to be one of the best games of the weekend, and I think West Virginia takes Penn State down to the wire.
Penn State 27, West Virginia 24
Illinois State v. No. 25 Iowa (-22.5) -12:00 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network
Not only did Iowa toss Brian Ferentz in the trash, Kirk Ferentz won’t be coaching in this game since he’ll be serving a one-game suspension for a recruiting violation. It would be hilarious if without a Ferentz in the mix, the Hawkeyes go out and score 50-60 points. Back for Iowa at quarterback is Cade McNamara, who suffered a season-ending injury early in the season.
I know Iowa has had some issues with FCS foes in the past, but this feels like it could be a different Hawkeye squad since they have former Western Michigan head coach Tim Lester at offensive coordinator. Iowa could be a sleeper this year since they always have one of the stingiest defenses in the country.
Iowa 34, Illinois State 7
UConn v. Maryland (-20.5) - 12:00 p.m. ET - FS1
Maryland has routinely taken care of business in the non-conference before stepping into their Big Ten schedule. Mike Locksley has provided some stability to the program, leading the Terrapins to at least seven wins in each of the last three years. Billy Edwards Jr. takes over for Taulia Tagovailoa at quarterback and should put up some big numbers in the opener against a UConn squad that isn’t very good.
Maryland 44, UConn 14
Indiana State v. Purdue (-33.5) - 12:00 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network
Indiana State was 1-10 last season. Purdue beat the Sycamores 56-0 in 2022. We are likely to see a similar result this year.
Purdue 52, Indiana State 3
Florida International v. Indiana (-21.5) - 3:30 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network
It’s a new era in Bloomington. The Hoosiers hired Curt Cignetti from James Madison, and he has the Hoosiers thinking like they are winners. Indiana brought in Kurtis Rourke from Ohio to try and solidify their quarterback position. Rourke has thrown 50 touchdown passes in his college career so far.
Can’t say I’m a huge fan of laying three touchdowns and the hook with the Hoosiers, but I think they’ll want to impress in Cignetti’s home debut.
Indiana 45, Florida International 17
UTEP v. Nebraska (-27.5) - 3:30 p.m. ET - FOX
Matt Rhule may be changing the culture at Nebraska, but I’m going to need to see it on a more consistent basis before I start believing the hype. There likely will be some jitters for freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola in his first start for the Cornhuskers, so I’ll side with UTEP not getting completely blown out in Lincoln.
Nebraska 41, UTEP 21
Miami (OH) v. Northwestern (-2.5) - 3:30 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network
These teams played back in 2022, with the RedHawks winning 17-14 in Evanston. David Braun is coming off his first season as Northwestern head coach, finishing with an 8-5 record and a win over Utah in the Las Vegas Bowl. I’m not sure I see as much success for the Wildcats this year, especially since they won’t have a true home with Ryan Field being renovated.
Chuck Martin is coming off his best season in Oxford, as Miami won 11 games last year. What makes the season even more impressive is they did it without Brett Gabbert, who was injured in October against Toledo.
Gabbert leads the RedHawks to their second upset of Northwestern in the last three seasons.
Miami (OH) 24, Northwestern 20
Idaho v. No. 3 Oregon (-44.5) - 7:30 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network
Idaho is a really solid FCS team. Too bad this game wasn’t in Moscow, since it would be so much fun to see this game in the Kibbie Dome. Last year the Vandals made the FCS playoff, losing to Albany in a quarterfinal. While I don’t have any designs on them springing the upset, I think they could frustrate the Ducks just enough.
Oregon will take on Boise State next week, followed by games against Oregon State and UCLA. Since we have a long season ahead of us, I could see Dan Lanning pulling his starters after they build a comfortable lead. Oregon wins by 38-42 points.
Oregon 55, Idaho 14
Fresno State v. No. 9 Michigan (-21.5) - 7:30 p.m. ET - NBC
It’ll be interesting to see how this season goes for Michigan after they sold their soul for a national title. Gone are head coach Jim Harbaugh, starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy, and a number of starters on both sides of the football. While there won’t be a huge change in philosophy under Sherrone Moore, it will likely take some time for presumed starting quarterback Alex Orji and the rest of the new starters to find their footing.
Fresno State already has experience heading into Big Ten territory and leaving with a victory, as they defeated Purdue last year to open up the season. The Bulldogs were thrown a curveball when Jeff Tedford resigned due to health reasons, leaving Tim Skipper as the interim coach. Fresno State has a veteran team so they won’t totally wilt in Ann Arbor, and they stay within shouting distance of the Wolverines.
Michigan 31, Fresno State 13
UCLA (-14.5) v. Hawai’i - 7:30 p.m. ET - CBS
After Chip Kelly decided to take Ohio State’s offensive coordinator job, the Bruins promoted DeShaun Foster to take over for Kelly. What could make UCLA even more interesting this year is adding Eric Bienemy to the staff as offensive coordinator. Ethan Garbers is a veteran quarterback, while T.J. Harden can make some noise on the ground.
Hawai’i won their first game of the season, but I’m not putting much stock in a win over Delaware State. Timmy Chang may be a hero at the school from his time as a player, but he doesn’t really move the needle much for me when it comes to coaching.
Hawai’i usually struggles against power conference teams with a pulse, and I don’t see that changing against UCLA on Saturday.
UCLA 38, Hawai’i 17
Weber State v. Washington (-26.5) - 11:00 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network
Much like Michigan, Washington lost their head coach, quarterback, and plenty of talent after the national championship game. I’m a little more optimistic on what we’ll see from the Huskies in their first game of the 2024 season.
Replacing Michael Penix Jr. is Mississippi State transfer Will Rogers, who put up some big numbers in Starkville. Don’t sleep on running back Jonah Coleman, who came with new head coach Jedd Fisch from Arizona.
Washington wins by at least four touchdowns.
Washington 45, Weber State 13
No. 13 USC v. No. 23 LSU (-4.5) - Sunday 9/1 7:30 p.m. ET - ABC
Brian Kelly against Lincoln Riley feels like it is guaranteed to produce shenanigans. Both teams were all offense, no defense last year, and I’m not expecting that to change to start the 2024 season. The Trojans and Tigers will be replacing Heisman Trophy quarterbacks, but Miller Moss was able to gain some confidence with an impressive performance in USC’s bowl game. LSU will counter with Garrett Nussmeier.
I have a little more confidence in LSU’s ability to field a defense than I am with USC right now. The Tigers should be a factor in the SEC even though they have a lot to replace, while I can’t say I think USC will make much noise in the Big Ten in 2024.
In a game that is back-and-forth for a bit, LSU eventually makes a few stops to earn a 7-10 point win.
LSU 38, USC 28
Akron v. No. 2 Ohio State (-49.5) - 3:30 p.m. ET - CBS
Should Ohio State be favored by this much? Yes. The Buckeyes are that good and Akron is just as bad. I can’t say I’m still comfortable laying this many points, though.
The new clock rules that took effect last year cut down on game times and made spreads like this even tougher to stomach. With all the talent the Buckeyes have on offense, they can pretty much name their score, while the defense is so stingy they have the ability to keep their opponents from scoring double figures nearly every time out.
For those that are thinking of laying the chalk, there is a new reason that could help you out. With the expanded playoff, coaches will have to make sure backups are ready to step on the field if needed. Unlike past years when coaches might have kept things vanilla in blowouts, that might change since they want backups running the regular offense so they have a handle on it. We’ll likely see Devin Brown at quarterback for Ohio State and could even see Lincoln Keinholtz, Julian Sayin, or Air Noland on the field if the score gets really out of hand.
I just think 50 points is a hair too much to be laying in this game. The Buckeyes don’t play anyone in the first month of the season, so I can’t see them doing anything too crazy until they play Iowa. Ryan Day and Chip Kelly will want to keep the good stuff under wraps until later in the season. Ohio State impresses in their opener and let the starters get some reps and build a lead before taking their foot off the gas a little bit the rest of the way.
Ohio State 48, Akron 6
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LGHL If Marv was an alien, what type of otherworldly being is Jeremiah Smith?
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If Marv was an alien, what type of otherworldly being is Jeremiah Smith?
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Photo by Jason Mowry/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
We all assumed that Marvin Harrison Jr. was a once-in-a-generation player, but Jeremiah Smith might be about to prove us wrong.
It’s not like Ohio State is unaccustomed to having highly touted freshmen join the program. It’s not like Ohio State has never had a freshman saddled with high expectations even before playing a game. It’s not like Ohio State is unfamiliar with having generational talents arrive on campus with the eyes of the college football nation on them.
Yet, here we are with true freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith already a superstar with otherworldly expectations thrust upon him before he even takes his first collegiate snap. With the alien Marvin Harrison Jr. now off the NFL to wreak havoc on opposing defenses, it seems as if Smith has somehow not only slid into Marv’s spot on the roster but in the spotlight as well.
The No. 1 player in the 2024 cycle, the Chaminade-Madonna Prep alum was at the center of a dramatic recruiting process even if he never really wavered in his commitment to Ohio State. For months, Buckeye fans (not to mention coaches) had to deal with incessant rumors that the South Florida prospect was close to flipping any number of Florida schools — Miami and Florida State especially. However, publically Smith routinely reiterated that as long as head coach Ryan Day and WR coach Brian Hartline were in Columbus, he would be a Buckeye.
Despite the swirling conjecture around him, Smith was good to his word and signed with the Buckeyes in a memorable moment that saw Day almost pass out during his December Signing Day press conference.
While drama seemed to be omnipresent during Smith’s recruitment, once the five-star receiver arrived on campus in January, things have been relatively quiet for the budding superstar as he has seemingly been laser-focused on preparing for the season. His efforts have apparently impressed the Buckeye strength and conditioning staff so much that they hyped him up enough to The Athletic’s Bruce Feldman for the true freshman wide receiver to land at No. 7 on the 2024 Freaks List.
As Feldman explained to me on the podcast earlier this month, Smith has been impressive since arriving in Columbus, not only because of what he can do in the weight room but also because of how hard he works; reminiscent of Harrison’s signature combination of skill and dedication.
“[Smith] has wowed a lot of his veteran coaches in Columbus,” Feldman wrote in the Freaks article. “Everything about him is elite, we’re told, especially his work ethic. In addition, OSU coaches say he ‘has great hands, a great catch radius and does freaky things on a daily basis.’”
Smith’s raw numbers are undoubtedly freakish. He stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 215 pounds and Mickey Marotti’s staff has him bench pressing 355 pounds and squatting 530. During the offseason, he reportedly broad-jumped 10 feet 10 inches and vertical-jumped 36 inches. So not only is the freshman an absolute beast when it comes to slinging around weights and leaping large distances, but he can apparently also fly having topped out at 23.39 miles per hour.
But Smith — who those on the team call J.J. — is more than just a physical freak. Earlier this month, Hartline explained how well-rounded the receiver’s approach to his craft has been, and just how unique this type of output has been in recent Buckeye memory.
“He has a lot of tools. He works extremely hard and I will say this, we’ve never had an Iron Buckeye from Coach Mick as a freshman,” Hartline said earlier this month. “I don’t know ever or definitely since I’ve been here. So a lot of credit to him, as far as Jeremiah goes, he embodied everything that is a part of that conversation. It’s not just lifting numbers, speed numbers; it is the way you carry yourself, the way you train, the edge to you, it’s all that. He’s the first one that’s ever earned that and we leave it at that.”
For years, it was a given that after every single practice, Marvin Harrison Jr. could be found on the practice field at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center catching balls from the Monarc machine. It became such a standard part of the day that last season, the coaching staff made a rule that Marv couldn’t do it alone. So, if he wanted to get extra reps after practice (and he always did), he had to bring a teammate along with him.
While no legends of that nature have yet been borne from J.J.’s practice habits, it doesn’t seem like he is a long way off from establishing his own iconic routine.
Smith seems to understand that there are abnormally high expectations around him and that the hype and excitement for his debut season is reaching a fevered pitch. However, he is doing what he can to ensure that he doesn’t let that impact his performance and preparation.
“It’s a blessing, but you don’t want that hype to affect you,” he recently told the media. “I just keep my head down; just find ways to get better each and every day.”
While he has obviously had a fair share of media training at this point — given the pat, expected answer to questions about expectations — there is something about his calm, unbothered approach that is reminiscent of Harrison. Buckeye fans got used to seeing Harrison — the best wide receiver in college football and the son of an NFL Hall of Famer — seem genuinely overwhelmed by the attention often deferring to his teammates at every possible turn.
Now that Day has officially named Smith a starting wide receiver, it is only a matter of time until we get to see how he responds to putting up 200 yards and three touchdowns in a single game, but from a skill, work ethic, and personality perspective, everything about him feels incredibly Marv-esq, so I don’t expect his postgame interviews to be any different.
“I’m still learning. I’m just a freshman so coming in as a young guy, [I’m] listening to the older guys that have been here,” Smith said. “Off the field, I am a quiet person. Everyone says that, but I am all about business.”
For three years, Ohio State fans became accustomed to the otherworldly talent, approach, and demeanor of Marvin Harrison Jr. But despite his pedigree and obvious potential, even Marv didn’t come to college with the types of attention and expectations that have followed Jeremiah “J.J.” Smith to Ohio from Florida.
However, despite the weight of outside eyes, thus far it appears that Smith has handled his business as well as anyone possibly could. Of course that could all change once games begin, but with the road map that Marv left in Columbus, it seems like the freshman is well on his way to establishing his own once-in-a-generation legacy at OSU.
But that only invites the question, if Marv was an alien, what does that make Smith? A metahuman? A Nexus being? A wizard? A god?
Continue reading...
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Photo by Jason Mowry/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
We all assumed that Marvin Harrison Jr. was a once-in-a-generation player, but Jeremiah Smith might be about to prove us wrong.
It’s not like Ohio State is unaccustomed to having highly touted freshmen join the program. It’s not like Ohio State has never had a freshman saddled with high expectations even before playing a game. It’s not like Ohio State is unfamiliar with having generational talents arrive on campus with the eyes of the college football nation on them.
Yet, here we are with true freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith already a superstar with otherworldly expectations thrust upon him before he even takes his first collegiate snap. With the alien Marvin Harrison Jr. now off the NFL to wreak havoc on opposing defenses, it seems as if Smith has somehow not only slid into Marv’s spot on the roster but in the spotlight as well.
The No. 1 player in the 2024 cycle, the Chaminade-Madonna Prep alum was at the center of a dramatic recruiting process even if he never really wavered in his commitment to Ohio State. For months, Buckeye fans (not to mention coaches) had to deal with incessant rumors that the South Florida prospect was close to flipping any number of Florida schools — Miami and Florida State especially. However, publically Smith routinely reiterated that as long as head coach Ryan Day and WR coach Brian Hartline were in Columbus, he would be a Buckeye.
Despite the swirling conjecture around him, Smith was good to his word and signed with the Buckeyes in a memorable moment that saw Day almost pass out during his December Signing Day press conference.
While drama seemed to be omnipresent during Smith’s recruitment, once the five-star receiver arrived on campus in January, things have been relatively quiet for the budding superstar as he has seemingly been laser-focused on preparing for the season. His efforts have apparently impressed the Buckeye strength and conditioning staff so much that they hyped him up enough to The Athletic’s Bruce Feldman for the true freshman wide receiver to land at No. 7 on the 2024 Freaks List.
As Feldman explained to me on the podcast earlier this month, Smith has been impressive since arriving in Columbus, not only because of what he can do in the weight room but also because of how hard he works; reminiscent of Harrison’s signature combination of skill and dedication.
“[Smith] has wowed a lot of his veteran coaches in Columbus,” Feldman wrote in the Freaks article. “Everything about him is elite, we’re told, especially his work ethic. In addition, OSU coaches say he ‘has great hands, a great catch radius and does freaky things on a daily basis.’”
Smith’s raw numbers are undoubtedly freakish. He stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 215 pounds and Mickey Marotti’s staff has him bench pressing 355 pounds and squatting 530. During the offseason, he reportedly broad-jumped 10 feet 10 inches and vertical-jumped 36 inches. So not only is the freshman an absolute beast when it comes to slinging around weights and leaping large distances, but he can apparently also fly having topped out at 23.39 miles per hour.
But Smith — who those on the team call J.J. — is more than just a physical freak. Earlier this month, Hartline explained how well-rounded the receiver’s approach to his craft has been, and just how unique this type of output has been in recent Buckeye memory.
“He has a lot of tools. He works extremely hard and I will say this, we’ve never had an Iron Buckeye from Coach Mick as a freshman,” Hartline said earlier this month. “I don’t know ever or definitely since I’ve been here. So a lot of credit to him, as far as Jeremiah goes, he embodied everything that is a part of that conversation. It’s not just lifting numbers, speed numbers; it is the way you carry yourself, the way you train, the edge to you, it’s all that. He’s the first one that’s ever earned that and we leave it at that.”
For years, it was a given that after every single practice, Marvin Harrison Jr. could be found on the practice field at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center catching balls from the Monarc machine. It became such a standard part of the day that last season, the coaching staff made a rule that Marv couldn’t do it alone. So, if he wanted to get extra reps after practice (and he always did), he had to bring a teammate along with him.
While no legends of that nature have yet been borne from J.J.’s practice habits, it doesn’t seem like he is a long way off from establishing his own iconic routine.
Smith seems to understand that there are abnormally high expectations around him and that the hype and excitement for his debut season is reaching a fevered pitch. However, he is doing what he can to ensure that he doesn’t let that impact his performance and preparation.
“It’s a blessing, but you don’t want that hype to affect you,” he recently told the media. “I just keep my head down; just find ways to get better each and every day.”
While he has obviously had a fair share of media training at this point — given the pat, expected answer to questions about expectations — there is something about his calm, unbothered approach that is reminiscent of Harrison. Buckeye fans got used to seeing Harrison — the best wide receiver in college football and the son of an NFL Hall of Famer — seem genuinely overwhelmed by the attention often deferring to his teammates at every possible turn.
Now that Day has officially named Smith a starting wide receiver, it is only a matter of time until we get to see how he responds to putting up 200 yards and three touchdowns in a single game, but from a skill, work ethic, and personality perspective, everything about him feels incredibly Marv-esq, so I don’t expect his postgame interviews to be any different.
“I’m still learning. I’m just a freshman so coming in as a young guy, [I’m] listening to the older guys that have been here,” Smith said. “Off the field, I am a quiet person. Everyone says that, but I am all about business.”
For three years, Ohio State fans became accustomed to the otherworldly talent, approach, and demeanor of Marvin Harrison Jr. But despite his pedigree and obvious potential, even Marv didn’t come to college with the types of attention and expectations that have followed Jeremiah “J.J.” Smith to Ohio from Florida.
However, despite the weight of outside eyes, thus far it appears that Smith has handled his business as well as anyone possibly could. Of course that could all change once games begin, but with the road map that Marv left in Columbus, it seems like the freshman is well on his way to establishing his own once-in-a-generation legacy at OSU.
But that only invites the question, if Marv was an alien, what does that make Smith? A metahuman? A Nexus being? A wizard? A god?
Continue reading...
LGHL Once on his way out of Ohio State, Bryson Rodgers could be a surprise contributor in 2024
- News
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Once on his way out of Ohio State, Bryson Rodgers could be a surprise contributor in 2024
Josh Dooley via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Photo by Jason Mowry/Getty Images
Rodgers entered the transfer portal just days after OSU’s loss in the Cotton Bowl, before ultimately deciding to return to Columbus.
Every day from now until the start of the season, Land-Grant Holy Land is highlighting Ohio State football players that you should be watching this season. Check out all of our ”Player to Watch” articles to get ready for the season opener against Akron.
Bryson Rodgers was a four-star wide receiver prospect in the 2023 recruiting class and a coveted player by many, including Ohio State wide receivers coach and supreme talent evaluator Brian Hartline. The latter has essentially earned his pick of the litter when it comes to high school WRs and specifically targeted Rodgers to round out (or square out, get it?) a group of four WRs signed as part of OSU’s fourth-ranked class.
Unfortunately for Rodgers – at the time, not necessarily long-term – his commitment to Ohio State was somewhat overshadowed by commitments (also to OSU) from Brandon Inniss, Carnell Tate, and Noah Rogers, all consensus top-10 WRs in the same class. So despite being a top-40ish WR himself, Rodgers was by far the lowest-ranked player at his position to sign with the Buckeyes.
Then, and not so surprisingly, Rodgers failed to have or make much of an impact during his freshman season... That is to say nothing of his talent. Meaningful reps for true freshmen are few and far between at Ohio State, even more so at the oft-loaded WR position. However, this was likely of little to no comfort for Rodgers. Evidenced (partially or possibly) by his decision to enter the portal almost immediately after the Buckeyes’ disastrous Cotton Bowl performance.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25594214/1482661573.jpg)
Photo by Ben Jackson/Getty Images
But after a few weeks of testing the portal waters, Rodgers decided to reaffirm his commitment to OSU by withdrawing his name from the portal on January 13. He cited his faith, family, and conversations with both Hartline and Ryan Day as reasons for his return, as well as a newfound clarity regarding his role and path to playing time in Columbus. Now seven months removed from considering and/or exploring a transfer, Rodgers finds himself firmly in the mix for playing time as part of a revamped Ohio State WR group.
Now, does that mean Rodgers should be expected (or expecting) to play a significant role week in and week out? Probably not. Not right now, at least. Because Emeka Egbuka, Jeremiah Smith, and both Tate and Inniss – from Rodgers’ class – seem like virtual locks to begin the 2024 season as starters or co-starters for the Buckeyes. But after that, the competition for WR snaps appears to be wide-open. And there’s reason to believe that Rodgers could earn a small yet consistent role sooner rather than later.
At 6-foot-2, 185 pounds, Rodgers might not fit the profile of a prototypical slot option... And yet, that is exactly where Hartline says the latter is pushing for playing time. However, if Rodgers can flex or work outside, I believe that he would see even more opportunities. Because Egbuka will rarely leave the field when healthy, and he is a slot superstar. When he (Egbuka) does move outside or needs a breather, Inniss is the presumed understudy/stand-in. But what about the depth behind Tate and Smith? Those reps seem to be up grabs, with no clear frontrunner (s).
Jayden Ballard is probably the only other WR (besides the “core four”) with a claim to any playing time at all, except we’re now in Year 4 of the Ballard Experience and have very little to show for it. I’m still holding out hope for the Massillon product, but it’s possible that Rodgers only has to beat out one guy (Ballard) in order to see the field for OSU. This season. If and when he does, I think he has the talent to do some things.
Coming out of high school, Rodgers was recognized for his YAC skills. And if Ohio State’s offense is as potent as most expect it to be, there should be plenty of open space in which he can show off said skills. But first, Rodgers must prove that he can separate despite possessing a leaner, thinner frame. Of course, the same could have been said for Carnell Tate, and look at him now.
I don’t mean to suggest that Rodgers can or will challenge Tate for a role and/or playing time, however, I do think that the former could quickly become the latter’s understudy if given every opportunity. That certainly makes more sense to yours truly than developing Rodgers as a slot option. Especially with guys like Kojo Antwi and Mylan Graham also on the Buckeyes’ roster.
Of course, all of this conjecture means nothing if Rodgers is not fully invested and ready/willing to earn reps. But by returning to Ohio State, instead of looking for a quick/easy way out, I believe that he has already proven his willingness and desire to succeed as a Buckeye. And for that reason, Rodgers will be a player to watch in 2024.
Continue reading...
Josh Dooley via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Photo by Jason Mowry/Getty Images
Rodgers entered the transfer portal just days after OSU’s loss in the Cotton Bowl, before ultimately deciding to return to Columbus.
Every day from now until the start of the season, Land-Grant Holy Land is highlighting Ohio State football players that you should be watching this season. Check out all of our ”Player to Watch” articles to get ready for the season opener against Akron.
Bryson Rodgers was a four-star wide receiver prospect in the 2023 recruiting class and a coveted player by many, including Ohio State wide receivers coach and supreme talent evaluator Brian Hartline. The latter has essentially earned his pick of the litter when it comes to high school WRs and specifically targeted Rodgers to round out (or square out, get it?) a group of four WRs signed as part of OSU’s fourth-ranked class.
Unfortunately for Rodgers – at the time, not necessarily long-term – his commitment to Ohio State was somewhat overshadowed by commitments (also to OSU) from Brandon Inniss, Carnell Tate, and Noah Rogers, all consensus top-10 WRs in the same class. So despite being a top-40ish WR himself, Rodgers was by far the lowest-ranked player at his position to sign with the Buckeyes.
Then, and not so surprisingly, Rodgers failed to have or make much of an impact during his freshman season... That is to say nothing of his talent. Meaningful reps for true freshmen are few and far between at Ohio State, even more so at the oft-loaded WR position. However, this was likely of little to no comfort for Rodgers. Evidenced (partially or possibly) by his decision to enter the portal almost immediately after the Buckeyes’ disastrous Cotton Bowl performance.
But after a few weeks of testing the portal waters, Rodgers decided to reaffirm his commitment to OSU by withdrawing his name from the portal on January 13. He cited his faith, family, and conversations with both Hartline and Ryan Day as reasons for his return, as well as a newfound clarity regarding his role and path to playing time in Columbus. Now seven months removed from considering and/or exploring a transfer, Rodgers finds himself firmly in the mix for playing time as part of a revamped Ohio State WR group.
Now, does that mean Rodgers should be expected (or expecting) to play a significant role week in and week out? Probably not. Not right now, at least. Because Emeka Egbuka, Jeremiah Smith, and both Tate and Inniss – from Rodgers’ class – seem like virtual locks to begin the 2024 season as starters or co-starters for the Buckeyes. But after that, the competition for WR snaps appears to be wide-open. And there’s reason to believe that Rodgers could earn a small yet consistent role sooner rather than later.
At 6-foot-2, 185 pounds, Rodgers might not fit the profile of a prototypical slot option... And yet, that is exactly where Hartline says the latter is pushing for playing time. However, if Rodgers can flex or work outside, I believe that he would see even more opportunities. Because Egbuka will rarely leave the field when healthy, and he is a slot superstar. When he (Egbuka) does move outside or needs a breather, Inniss is the presumed understudy/stand-in. But what about the depth behind Tate and Smith? Those reps seem to be up grabs, with no clear frontrunner (s).
Jayden Ballard is probably the only other WR (besides the “core four”) with a claim to any playing time at all, except we’re now in Year 4 of the Ballard Experience and have very little to show for it. I’m still holding out hope for the Massillon product, but it’s possible that Rodgers only has to beat out one guy (Ballard) in order to see the field for OSU. This season. If and when he does, I think he has the talent to do some things.
Coming out of high school, Rodgers was recognized for his YAC skills. And if Ohio State’s offense is as potent as most expect it to be, there should be plenty of open space in which he can show off said skills. But first, Rodgers must prove that he can separate despite possessing a leaner, thinner frame. Of course, the same could have been said for Carnell Tate, and look at him now.
I don’t mean to suggest that Rodgers can or will challenge Tate for a role and/or playing time, however, I do think that the former could quickly become the latter’s understudy if given every opportunity. That certainly makes more sense to yours truly than developing Rodgers as a slot option. Especially with guys like Kojo Antwi and Mylan Graham also on the Buckeyes’ roster.
Of course, all of this conjecture means nothing if Rodgers is not fully invested and ready/willing to earn reps. But by returning to Ohio State, instead of looking for a quick/easy way out, I believe that he has already proven his willingness and desire to succeed as a Buckeye. And for that reason, Rodgers will be a player to watch in 2024.
Continue reading...
LGHL Starting wide receivers set to return kicks, punts for Ohio State
- News
- 0 Replies
Starting wide receivers set to return kicks, punts for Ohio State
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Photo by Jason Mowry/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
All the Buckeye news thats fit to re-print.
Look, we get it. Your days are busy and you don’t have time to read all of the stories and tweets from the three dozen websites dedicated to covering Ohio State athletics, or the 237 Buckeye beat writers churning out hot takes and #content on a daily basis. But that’s ok, that’s what your friends at Land-Grant Holy Land are here for.
Monday through Friday, we’ll be collecting all of the articles, tweets, features, interviews, videos, podcasts, memes, photos, and whatever else we stumble across on the interwebz and putting them in our daily “Why is this News?” article. That way, you’ll have a one-stop shop for all of the most important Buckeye news, jokes, and analysis.
You’re welcome!
Subscribe to the Land-Grant Podcast Network for all of your Ohio State needs
Matt Tamanini, Land-Grant Holy Land
Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | iHeart Radio
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25594218/1726791060.jpg "COLLEGE FOOTBALL: OCT 14 Ohio State at Purdue")
Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Ty Hamilton is ready to explode on defense (and blow up offensive lines) this season
Jami Jurich, Land-Grant Holy Land
Brandon Inniss and Emeka Egbuka To Return Punts, Jayden Ballard and Carnell Tate to Run Back Kicks, Ryan Day Says
Andy Anders, Eleven Warriors
How Ohio State is preparing to use new helmet communications
Joey Kaufman, The Columbus Dispatch
Ryan Day makes expectations, standard clear for Buckeyes opener against Akron (paywall)
Spencer Holbrook, Lettermen Row
Quick Hits: Ohio State Captains Discuss Leadership, High Expectations Entering 2024 Season
Dan Hope, Chase Brown, Andy Anders, and Garrick Hodge, Eleven Warriors
Let us know what you think happens against Akron on Saturday
Matt Tamanini, Land-Grant Holy Land
Breaking down new info on Buckeyes depth chart for opener (paywall)
Spencer Holbrook, Lettermen Row
Overseen by Quality Control Coach Rob Keys, Ohio State Expects Collaborative Special Teams Effort in 2024
Andy Anders, Eleven Warriors
Ohio State set to host top 2026 commit, offer 2028 Florida defensive target
Caleb Houser, Land-Grant Holy Land
A kid at heart: Ohio State’s Devin Royal gives back to Pickerington
Adam Jardy, The Columbus Dispatch
Field Hockey: Three Buckeyes Selected as Big Ten Preseason Players to Watch
Ohio State Athletics
Men’s Ice Hockey: Buckeyes’ Full Schedule Revealed
Ohio State Athletics
WHO IS THE GUY IN THE BACK???
Continue reading...
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Photo by Jason Mowry/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
All the Buckeye news thats fit to re-print.
Look, we get it. Your days are busy and you don’t have time to read all of the stories and tweets from the three dozen websites dedicated to covering Ohio State athletics, or the 237 Buckeye beat writers churning out hot takes and #content on a daily basis. But that’s ok, that’s what your friends at Land-Grant Holy Land are here for.
Monday through Friday, we’ll be collecting all of the articles, tweets, features, interviews, videos, podcasts, memes, photos, and whatever else we stumble across on the interwebz and putting them in our daily “Why is this News?” article. That way, you’ll have a one-stop shop for all of the most important Buckeye news, jokes, and analysis.
You’re welcome!
For your Earholes...
Subscribe to the Land-Grant Podcast Network for all of your Ohio State needs
Matt Tamanini, Land-Grant Holy Land
Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | iHeart Radio
Today’s Player to Watch
Ty Hamilton is ready to explode on defense (and blow up offensive lines) this season
Jami Jurich, Land-Grant Holy Land
On the Gridiron
Brandon Inniss and Emeka Egbuka To Return Punts, Jayden Ballard and Carnell Tate to Run Back Kicks, Ryan Day Says
Andy Anders, Eleven Warriors
How Ohio State is preparing to use new helmet communications
Joey Kaufman, The Columbus Dispatch
Ryan Day makes expectations, standard clear for Buckeyes opener against Akron (paywall)
Spencer Holbrook, Lettermen Row
Quick Hits: Ohio State Captains Discuss Leadership, High Expectations Entering 2024 Season
Dan Hope, Chase Brown, Andy Anders, and Garrick Hodge, Eleven Warriors
Let us know what you think happens against Akron on Saturday
Matt Tamanini, Land-Grant Holy Land
Breaking down new info on Buckeyes depth chart for opener (paywall)
Spencer Holbrook, Lettermen Row
Overseen by Quality Control Coach Rob Keys, Ohio State Expects Collaborative Special Teams Effort in 2024
Andy Anders, Eleven Warriors
Ohio State set to host top 2026 commit, offer 2028 Florida defensive target
Caleb Houser, Land-Grant Holy Land
On the Hardwood
A kid at heart: Ohio State’s Devin Royal gives back to Pickerington
Adam Jardy, The Columbus Dispatch
Outside the Shoe and Schott
Field Hockey: Three Buckeyes Selected as Big Ten Preseason Players to Watch
Ohio State Athletics
Men’s Ice Hockey: Buckeyes’ Full Schedule Revealed
Ohio State Athletics
And now for something completely different...
WHO IS THE GUY IN THE BACK???
Continue reading...
LGHL Five college football teams that could surprise this season
- News
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Five college football teams that could surprise this season
justingolba via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports
With college football week one officially only a couple days away, let’s look at some teams that should be getting more attention
It is officially here. Week one of the college football season is only a few days away, and something that is always fun to watch for are teams that can overdeliver. We always focus on the teams that disappoint and are overrated, but who are some of the teams that we should be talking more about heading into week one?
Here are five teams to watch this season:
I am a big fan of NC State this season, and the main reason is transfer quarterback Grayson McCall. McCall transferred to NC State from Coastal Carolina and has been one of the best group of five quarterbacks in the country over the last three seasons. McCall went 32-8 with over 10,000 yards and an 88-14 touchdown to interception ratio as a Chanticleer.
Now, he is in the ACC with the Wolfpack and has some weapons. Kevin Concepcion is back after winning ACC Rookie of the Year honors, and Wesley Grimes and Noah Rogers (who Ohio State fans know) are coming in via the transfer portal.
The ACC is not that good, and NC State has the offense and defense to take advantage of that.
Speaking of the ACC, the Hokies are a sleeper team this season as well. Kyron Drones is the full-time starter at quarterback now, and he will need to be better at moving the ball through the air, but he is a threat on the ground and, if he can throw the ball vertically, is a true dual threat.
Again, the ACC isn’t good, and the Hokies bring back a lot of talent. They could make some noise and find themselves in the hunt late in the season.
I like the Huskers this season for two reasons. Matt Rhule and Dylan Raiola. Rhule has a history of taking his teams to the next level in his second season at the helm (the NFL doesn’t count), and Raiola is a talented enough quarterback to help the Huskers and Rhule reach that next level.
The Big Ten is tough, but Nebraska’s schedule is pretty favorable for them to make a run this season. Seven or eight wins should be a reasonable expectation for the Rhule and company.
West Virginia has one of the best chances in the country to start the season off with a bang as they host No. 8 Penn State in week one.
The Mountaineers are bringing back a lot of talent, and the Big 12 is a big question mark in general due to the addition of new teams and the departure of Texas and Oklahoma. Don’t be surprised if West Virginia keeps it close against the Nittany Lions and gives the top ten team a scare in Morgantown.
One name to remember for Boise State. Running back Ashton Jeanty. The 2023 Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year is back after running for 1,347 yards on 220 attempts and 14 touchdowns and added 43 receptions for 569 yards and five touchdowns.
They also have Maddux Madsen, who has only appeared in ten games but beat out former five-star and USC commit Malachi Nelson, so he must be impressing so far this year. I think Boise State will make the playoff as the group of five automatic qualifier.
Continue reading...
justingolba via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports
With college football week one officially only a couple days away, let’s look at some teams that should be getting more attention
It is officially here. Week one of the college football season is only a few days away, and something that is always fun to watch for are teams that can overdeliver. We always focus on the teams that disappoint and are overrated, but who are some of the teams that we should be talking more about heading into week one?
Here are five teams to watch this season:
NC State
I am a big fan of NC State this season, and the main reason is transfer quarterback Grayson McCall. McCall transferred to NC State from Coastal Carolina and has been one of the best group of five quarterbacks in the country over the last three seasons. McCall went 32-8 with over 10,000 yards and an 88-14 touchdown to interception ratio as a Chanticleer.
Now, he is in the ACC with the Wolfpack and has some weapons. Kevin Concepcion is back after winning ACC Rookie of the Year honors, and Wesley Grimes and Noah Rogers (who Ohio State fans know) are coming in via the transfer portal.
The ACC is not that good, and NC State has the offense and defense to take advantage of that.
Virginia Tech
Speaking of the ACC, the Hokies are a sleeper team this season as well. Kyron Drones is the full-time starter at quarterback now, and he will need to be better at moving the ball through the air, but he is a threat on the ground and, if he can throw the ball vertically, is a true dual threat.
Again, the ACC isn’t good, and the Hokies bring back a lot of talent. They could make some noise and find themselves in the hunt late in the season.
Nebraska
I like the Huskers this season for two reasons. Matt Rhule and Dylan Raiola. Rhule has a history of taking his teams to the next level in his second season at the helm (the NFL doesn’t count), and Raiola is a talented enough quarterback to help the Huskers and Rhule reach that next level.
The Big Ten is tough, but Nebraska’s schedule is pretty favorable for them to make a run this season. Seven or eight wins should be a reasonable expectation for the Rhule and company.
West Virginia
West Virginia has one of the best chances in the country to start the season off with a bang as they host No. 8 Penn State in week one.
The Mountaineers are bringing back a lot of talent, and the Big 12 is a big question mark in general due to the addition of new teams and the departure of Texas and Oklahoma. Don’t be surprised if West Virginia keeps it close against the Nittany Lions and gives the top ten team a scare in Morgantown.
Boise State
One name to remember for Boise State. Running back Ashton Jeanty. The 2023 Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year is back after running for 1,347 yards on 220 attempts and 14 touchdowns and added 43 receptions for 569 yards and five touchdowns.
They also have Maddux Madsen, who has only appeared in ten games but beat out former five-star and USC commit Malachi Nelson, so he must be impressing so far this year. I think Boise State will make the playoff as the group of five automatic qualifier.
Continue reading...
2027 NC LB Quinton Cypher (Verbal Offer)
- By pnuts34
- Football Recruiting
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247
Rivals
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HudL
Class: 2027
Position: LB
School: Raleigh(NC) Millbrook
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 215lbs
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Rivals
HudL
Class: 2027
Position: LB
School: Raleigh(NC) Millbrook
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 215lbs
Login to view embedded media
LGHL Ohio State set to host top 2026 commit, offer 2028 Florida defensive target
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Ohio State set to host top 2026 commit, offer 2028 Florida defensive target
Caleb Houser via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
The Buckeyes continue to stay busy on the recruiting trail even with game week here.
It’s the best time of the year! Ohio State football is back in just 48 hours, and it’s been a long time coming. An offseason that has been nothing but good to the Buckeyes and their current 2024 roster, it’s almost that time for that hard work to pay off on the field this Saturday with Akron coming to town.
The first game is exciting enough as it is, but Ohio State will once again play host to multiple big-time players, further proving every day in Columbus has recruiting as a top priority.
It’s good to have Buckeye football back more than anything else. Buckle up. It’s going to be a fun ride this fall.
Ohio State’s 2026 class has only one commit in the fold right now, but it’s as good as it gets. The No. 1 player nationally per the 247Sports Composite, Chris Henry Jr. has been committed to Ohio State since July of last year. The luster to his verbal will never wear off considering the amount of talent he has and will bring to the next level.
Now at Mater Dei High School, Henry Jr. is already making an impact and proving how highly touted he is with a dominant Week 1 performance. Seeing him compete last year in Ohio was obviously impressive, but seeing him only continue to get better against even tougher competition on a national level shows the caliber of player the Buckeyes will be getting once he arrives on campus.
While some have grow weary of his move out west and getting closer to other programs, most notably Oregon, it’s important to remember what the Buckeyes have going for them. Simply put, as long as Brian Hartline is on staff Ohio State should be just fine when it comes to keeping his commitment. Having him back on campus this weekend is perfect timing to reignite the fire between the two parties.
Not the most exciting game to take in considering the the level of opponent, it’s still a great deal for the Buckeyes to bring home one of their future starts, and it certainly won’t hurt when he sees true freshman Jeremiah Smith starting in his first college game.
A track record that Henry Jr. would love to follow, it’s perfect timing to get him back on campus and seeing all of what will eventually be his home once his star-studded prep career is finished.
It’s not often that Ohio State’s coaching staff offers a player this early in their high school career, but earlier this week Jacksonville, Florida native, Asher Ghioto added the Buckeyes to his already impressive offer list.
Just a high school freshman, Ghioto currently holds offers from the likes of Baylor, Florida, Florida State, Georgia, among others, but more will soon follow suit as additional programs take notice. A 6-foot-4, 230 pound athlete, Ghioto is not currently ranked on his 247Sports profile due to his class status, but again, knowing the schools already in the mix, it projects him as one of the higher-ranked guys at his position when those grades become available.
The Buckeyes will continue to be right atop of the list for several of their top targets, and though this recruitment has more than plenty of time, at least now the staff is in the mix and can begin really building a lasting relationship that’s built on comfort and getting to know the staff that much closer.
2027 quarterback target Brady Edmunds once again had his name pegged to Ohio State via On3, and that along with his 247Sports Crystal Ball earlier this week has to have fans feeling like the 2027 QB situation may be wrapped up even sooner than the 2026 version.
In just the last few days, Ohio State has also received several Crystal Ball/RPM predictions for 2026 defensive lineman Aiden Harris, 2026 offensive tackle Micah Smith and 2026 defensive lineman Deuce Geralds on top of a handful of submissions for 2025 wide receiver Phillip Bell, who is set to announce his commitment this coming weekend.
Continue reading...
Caleb Houser via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
The Buckeyes continue to stay busy on the recruiting trail even with game week here.
It’s the best time of the year! Ohio State football is back in just 48 hours, and it’s been a long time coming. An offseason that has been nothing but good to the Buckeyes and their current 2024 roster, it’s almost that time for that hard work to pay off on the field this Saturday with Akron coming to town.
The first game is exciting enough as it is, but Ohio State will once again play host to multiple big-time players, further proving every day in Columbus has recruiting as a top priority.
It’s good to have Buckeye football back more than anything else. Buckle up. It’s going to be a fun ride this fall.
Five-star commit set to be back on campus
Ohio State’s 2026 class has only one commit in the fold right now, but it’s as good as it gets. The No. 1 player nationally per the 247Sports Composite, Chris Henry Jr. has been committed to Ohio State since July of last year. The luster to his verbal will never wear off considering the amount of talent he has and will bring to the next level.
Now at Mater Dei High School, Henry Jr. is already making an impact and proving how highly touted he is with a dominant Week 1 performance. Seeing him compete last year in Ohio was obviously impressive, but seeing him only continue to get better against even tougher competition on a national level shows the caliber of player the Buckeyes will be getting once he arrives on campus.
While some have grow weary of his move out west and getting closer to other programs, most notably Oregon, it’s important to remember what the Buckeyes have going for them. Simply put, as long as Brian Hartline is on staff Ohio State should be just fine when it comes to keeping his commitment. Having him back on campus this weekend is perfect timing to reignite the fire between the two parties.
Not the most exciting game to take in considering the the level of opponent, it’s still a great deal for the Buckeyes to bring home one of their future starts, and it certainly won’t hurt when he sees true freshman Jeremiah Smith starting in his first college game.
A track record that Henry Jr. would love to follow, it’s perfect timing to get him back on campus and seeing all of what will eventually be his home once his star-studded prep career is finished.
2028 defensive lineman adds OSU offer
It’s not often that Ohio State’s coaching staff offers a player this early in their high school career, but earlier this week Jacksonville, Florida native, Asher Ghioto added the Buckeyes to his already impressive offer list.
Just a high school freshman, Ghioto currently holds offers from the likes of Baylor, Florida, Florida State, Georgia, among others, but more will soon follow suit as additional programs take notice. A 6-foot-4, 230 pound athlete, Ghioto is not currently ranked on his 247Sports profile due to his class status, but again, knowing the schools already in the mix, it projects him as one of the higher-ranked guys at his position when those grades become available.
The Buckeyes will continue to be right atop of the list for several of their top targets, and though this recruitment has more than plenty of time, at least now the staff is in the mix and can begin really building a lasting relationship that’s built on comfort and getting to know the staff that much closer.
Quick Hits
- On Wednesday, Ohio State continued to see good news predicted in their favor, as more of the same momentum from Tuesday for Crystal Ball and RPM picks were submitted for the Buckeyes.
2027 quarterback target Brady Edmunds once again had his name pegged to Ohio State via On3, and that along with his 247Sports Crystal Ball earlier this week has to have fans feeling like the 2027 QB situation may be wrapped up even sooner than the 2026 version.
In just the last few days, Ohio State has also received several Crystal Ball/RPM predictions for 2026 defensive lineman Aiden Harris, 2026 offensive tackle Micah Smith and 2026 defensive lineman Deuce Geralds on top of a handful of submissions for 2025 wide receiver Phillip Bell, who is set to announce his commitment this coming weekend.
Continue reading...
LGHL I-80 Football Show: The long night is over, Week 1 is here!
- News
- 0 Replies
I-80 Football Show: The long night is over, Week 1 is here!
JordanW330 via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images
Michigan receives its Notice of Allegations, pre-season rankings are useless, and a Week 1 watchlist
Welcome to a new episode of Land-Grant Podcast Network’s I-80 Football Show. On this show, we travel down I-80 to talk all things Big Ten Football. After every week of action, we will catch you up on all the conference’s games and look ahead at the matchups, storylines, and players you should be paying attention to for the next week.
My name is Jordan Williams, and I am joined by my co-host Dante Morgan.
The NCAA has given Michigan its official notice of allegations in maybe the fastest, and pettiest, investigation in recent memory. There’s little chance it was a coincidence that the notice was given a few days before Netflix dropped its documentary with Connor Stalions on the sign-stealing scandal. Notifying Michigan in the days before the documentary and the week before the season starts is proof that the NCAA knows that people think they’re useless and they’re trying to show their power in this scenario.
Week 0 gave us some good games despite Vegas expecting major blowouts. It took less than four hours for Florida State to prove why preseason rankings are a waste of time. Even in a long and boring offseason, there is better content than ranking teams before the season starts especially with the transfer portal. It’s impossible to know which teams are good anymore until they’ve played a couple of games.
With Week 1 officially here, the guys break out ‘Map Quest’ — a new segment where they highlight one game in each of the four windows: Friday night, Saturday at noon, Mid-Day, and Primetime, that everyone should watch. Week 1 is extended with games going from Thursday to Monday, including USC playing LSU in a solo slot on Sunday night.
There are a lot of games to avoid unless you’re a sicko like us, but we still found four games worth being on your TV this weekend.
If you like the show, please share it with friends and family and leave a five-star review. If you want to keep up with the show you can subscribe to the Land-Grant Podcast Network Feed where new episodes drop every Thursday.
You can also find Jordan’s article including B1G Thoughts on Land-Grant Holy Land.
Follow the show on YouTube: @JordanW330
Follow the podcast on Instagram: @I80FootballShow
Connect with us on Twitter: Jordan: @JordanW330 and Dante: @DanteM10216
Continue reading...
JordanW330 via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images
Michigan receives its Notice of Allegations, pre-season rankings are useless, and a Week 1 watchlist
Welcome to a new episode of Land-Grant Podcast Network’s I-80 Football Show. On this show, we travel down I-80 to talk all things Big Ten Football. After every week of action, we will catch you up on all the conference’s games and look ahead at the matchups, storylines, and players you should be paying attention to for the next week.
My name is Jordan Williams, and I am joined by my co-host Dante Morgan.
The NCAA has given Michigan its official notice of allegations in maybe the fastest, and pettiest, investigation in recent memory. There’s little chance it was a coincidence that the notice was given a few days before Netflix dropped its documentary with Connor Stalions on the sign-stealing scandal. Notifying Michigan in the days before the documentary and the week before the season starts is proof that the NCAA knows that people think they’re useless and they’re trying to show their power in this scenario.
Week 0 gave us some good games despite Vegas expecting major blowouts. It took less than four hours for Florida State to prove why preseason rankings are a waste of time. Even in a long and boring offseason, there is better content than ranking teams before the season starts especially with the transfer portal. It’s impossible to know which teams are good anymore until they’ve played a couple of games.
With Week 1 officially here, the guys break out ‘Map Quest’ — a new segment where they highlight one game in each of the four windows: Friday night, Saturday at noon, Mid-Day, and Primetime, that everyone should watch. Week 1 is extended with games going from Thursday to Monday, including USC playing LSU in a solo slot on Sunday night.
There are a lot of games to avoid unless you’re a sicko like us, but we still found four games worth being on your TV this weekend.
If you like the show, please share it with friends and family and leave a five-star review. If you want to keep up with the show you can subscribe to the Land-Grant Podcast Network Feed where new episodes drop every Thursday.
You can also find Jordan’s article including B1G Thoughts on Land-Grant Holy Land.
Follow the show on YouTube: @JordanW330
Follow the podcast on Instagram: @I80FootballShow
Connect with us on Twitter: Jordan: @JordanW330 and Dante: @DanteM10216
Continue reading...
P Joe McGuire (Official Thread)
- By ScriptOhio
- Buckeye Football
- 6 Replies
Ohio State Bio
Joe McGuire
• Joe walked on to the team in the fall of 2023 and is now in his second season with the program
• He is an OSU Scholar-Athlete who is majoring in sport industry
Honors & Awards
2023: OSU Scholar-Athlete
More on Joe
• Joe came out of the successful Prokick Australia program that has placed so many punters into collegiate football
• He made headlines in his hometown in February 2022 when he had a "hat-trick with his final three deliveries as he played for the Heatherhill Cricket Club, finishing with figures of five wickets for just 10 runs," according to the Daily Mail Australia
• He is the son of Carla and Eddie McGuire, and he has a brother, Alexander
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Joe McGuire
- Position: Punter
- Height: 6-2
- Weight: 212
- Hometown: Melbourne, Australia
- Last School: Prokick Australia
- Year: Sophomore
• Joe walked on to the team in the fall of 2023 and is now in his second season with the program
• He is an OSU Scholar-Athlete who is majoring in sport industry
Honors & Awards
2023: OSU Scholar-Athlete
More on Joe
• Joe came out of the successful Prokick Australia program that has placed so many punters into collegiate football
• He made headlines in his hometown in February 2022 when he had a "hat-trick with his final three deliveries as he played for the Heatherhill Cricket Club, finishing with figures of five wickets for just 10 runs," according to the Daily Mail Australia
• He is the son of Carla and Eddie McGuire, and he has a brother, Alexander
Login to view embedded media
CBS Sports
- By ScriptOhio
- College Football
- 3 Replies
Paramount Press Express | CBS SPORTS HQ TO LAUNCH “COLLEGE FOOTBALL PREGAME”, A NEW THREE-HOUR SATURDAY MORNING STUDIO SHOW
Pregame Show Joins CBS Sports’ Expanded Multiplatform College Football Coverage Across HQ, CBS Sports Network, YouTube, Podcasts and More [CBS Sports HQ
www.paramountpressexpress.com
CBS SPORTS HQ TO LAUNCH “COLLEGE FOOTBALL PREGAME”, A NEW THREE-HOUR SATURDAY MORNING STUDIO SHOW
Skull Session: Ryan Day Wants to “Leave No Doubt” This Season, Will Howard Feels Honored to Be Ohio State’s QB1 and Verizon Works to Improve Cell Service Around the Shoe
Ryan Day wants to "leave no doubt" this season, Will Howard feels honored to be Ohio State's QB1 and Verizon works to improve cell service around the Shoe.
Each week of the season, COLLEGE FOOTBALL PREGAME will have fans covered with the latest news, commentary on the biggest storylines, picks and updates from a national network of analysts and on-site reporters across the country.
The new pregame show will showcase a talented roster of decorated former players, national title winners, leading voices, reporters and hosts throughout the season, including Damien Harris, Danny Kanell, Cardale Jones and Beanie Wells.
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Skull Session: Ryan Day Wants to “Leave No Doubt” This Season, Will Howard Feels Honored to Be Ohio State’s QB1 and Verizon Works to Improve Cell Service Around the Shoe
Ryan Day wants to "leave no doubt" this season, Will Howard feels honored to be Ohio State's QB1 and Verizon works to improve cell service around the Shoe.
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While neither Jones nor Wells ended their college football careers among the greatest players of all time, both Buckeyes are living legends in Columbus – the former more than the latter. Jones was, of course, Ohio State’s No. 3 quarterback in 2014 but led the Buckeyes to the national title in the inaugural College Football Playoff, while Wells recorded 585 carries for 3,382 yards and 30 touchdowns in 36 games, including 59 carries for 412 yards and four scores against Michigan.
Like I said, legends.
I look forward to seeing them talk ball this season!
Just sayin': Some competition for ESPN Gameday and FOX Big Noon Kickoff; however, this CBS show is not "on location" it is a studio show.
