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LGHL Ohio State is still No. 1 in the College Football Playoff rankings, but how long can that last?
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Ohio State is still No. 1 in the College Football Playoff rankings, but how long can that last?
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 Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
The defending champion Georgia Bulldogs are nipping at the Buckeyes’ heels.
Whether you think that the Ohio State Buckeyes are the best team in the country or not — objectively, they are not — they are the No. 1 team in the country thanks to the second iteration of the 2023 College Football Playoff rankings. For the second week in a row, the committee has deemed OSU’s body of work to be better than anyone else in college football.
While there are different organizations that measure the same thing, we will use ESPN’s metrics for this discussion, since the worldwide leader in sports is the home for the CFP. But ESPN’s count, the Buckeyes have the No. 1 strength of record (SOR) in FBS. This number calculates what the average top-25 team would do against a team’s specific schedule. Of the other teams in currently contention for the No. 1 CFP spot — namely the unbeaten teams — Washington is No. 2, Florida State is No. 3, Georgia is No. 7, and Michigan is No. 8.
Another one of the metrics to keep an eye on is the more straightforward strength of schedule (SOS). This is where Ohio State’s advantage slipped from the first week of the rankings, and likely could even more this week. Heading into the first CFP rankings, OSU was No. 15 in SOS, with Alabama being the only playoff contender in the top 30 at No. 8.
Thanks to losses by Notre Dame and Wisconsin last weekend, the Buckeyes’ SOS ranking fell to No. 20. While the Tide remained at No. 8 many of the other contenders — especially the unbeaten teams — are still a ways back. Washington is No. 41, FSU is 58, UGA is 90, and the Mitten State Cheaters are No. 111 out of 133 teams in FBS. However, last week, the Bulldogs beat then-No. 12 Missouri and have No. 9 Ole Miss on the schedule this week and No. 14 Tennessee the following week.
Even if everything else remains status quo, the combination of three straight top-15 wins will almost certainly skyrocket UGA up the SOS rankings and potentially past OSU in the CFP rankings heading into the regular season finale. With Penn State, Maryland, and the Buckeyes remaining this month, the Harboys have the top strength of schedule remaining — UGA is No. 3, Ohio State is No. 7, Washington is No. 10, and Florida State is 44.
While anything can happen in any given game, if we assume that the top five teams all remain unbeaten until Nov. 25 when Ohio State and the Ann Arbor Weasels face off, there is a distinct possibility that the Buckeyes will go into The Game as the No. 2 team — or potentially No. 3, depending on how the games play out.
Partially because of the superior competition that they have faced this season and partially because of the specific style of play that this team has experienced, for many casual onlookers, the Buckeyes might be winning on the scoreboard, but aren’t necessarily doing so in the eye test. And while the College Football Playoff committee does keep objective metrics at the center of their evaluations, they also base their decisions — especially when it comes to distinguishing between exceptionally similar teams — on what they actually see on the field.
Georgia beat Missouri last Saturday 30-21, a solid nine-point victory over a top-15 team. However, the way that game was played seems to have given the Dawgs far more cred in the college football community than Ohio State’s eight-point 20-12 win over then-No. 7 Penn State just a few weeks before. So, even if UGA just wins its games against Ole Miss and Tennessee, while the Buckeyes are playing a lackluster slate of Michigan State and Minnesota, I would honestly be surprised if the defending champs didn’t jump OSU.
Then there is the curious case of the sign-stealing culprits. If the Corn and Blue beat the Nits in a more convincing fashion on Saturday in Happy Valley than OSU did in Columbus, it could give the committee reason to jump the Meerkats over the Bucks if Ryan Day’s squad plays with its Spartan and Golden Gopher food.
So while I think that Miss-Again’s woeful strength of schedule — even after playing Penn State — will probably keep them out of the top two spots assuming OSU and UGA remain undefeated, it will be interesting to note how the committee talks about the Fighting Ferrets following this weekend.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25068549/1446073912.jpg "Michigan v Ohio State")
Photo by Ben Jackson/Getty Images
Frankly, no, I don’t think that they will be. While I presume that the Buckeyes will still be undefeated, I am going to guess that Georgia will be as well; although I feel a lot less comfortable in projecting that than I do with OSU. With three straight weeks against legitimate opponents, I do think that the committee will eventually give the benefit of the doubt the the Bulldogs, especially if they look strong in all three theoretical victories.
However, barring an epic collapse by Ohio State, I don’t see Michigan, Florida State, or Washington having enough quality opportunities to pass the Buckeyes. Perhaps the Skunk Bears could if they obliterate Penn State and Maryland, considering those would be common opponents between the two squads, but to this point, the best team that both UM and OSU have played was Rutgers and the Pompous Princes only beat the Scarlet Knights 31-7 in the Big House, while OSU won 35-16 in Piscataway. So, if things remain fairly consistent, the Winged Helmet Wingnuts likely won’t have enough juice to jump the Buckeyes... until they actually face off on the field, of course.
While it would be fun for OSU to stay No. 1 throughout the regular season and into the playoffs, if they do drop behind Georgia heading into the regular season finale, being as high as they are now does have its benefits. In the absolute worst-case scenario, if Ohio State loses its rivalry game for the third year in a row, being No. 1 or No. 2 in the country going in, does keep them as high as humanly possible in the pecking order should there be a spot available for a one-loss team to get into the CFP field.
We saw OSU take advantage of that situation last year, and they could do it again in 2023. Obviously, a lot of things would still need to happen for the loser of The Game to get back in, but being in the top two before a loss is a heck of a lot better than being No. 5 or 6.
Ultimately, the Buckeyes are in as good of a position to get back to the College Football Playoffs as they could possibly be, whether they win out or not. The simplest path to the tournament is to beat Michigan State, Minnesota, and TTUN, but if they stumble.
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 Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
The defending champion Georgia Bulldogs are nipping at the Buckeyes’ heels.
Whether you think that the Ohio State Buckeyes are the best team in the country or not — objectively, they are not — they are the No. 1 team in the country thanks to the second iteration of the 2023 College Football Playoff rankings. For the second week in a row, the committee has deemed OSU’s body of work to be better than anyone else in college football.
While there are different organizations that measure the same thing, we will use ESPN’s metrics for this discussion, since the worldwide leader in sports is the home for the CFP. But ESPN’s count, the Buckeyes have the No. 1 strength of record (SOR) in FBS. This number calculates what the average top-25 team would do against a team’s specific schedule. Of the other teams in currently contention for the No. 1 CFP spot — namely the unbeaten teams — Washington is No. 2, Florida State is No. 3, Georgia is No. 7, and Michigan is No. 8.
Another one of the metrics to keep an eye on is the more straightforward strength of schedule (SOS). This is where Ohio State’s advantage slipped from the first week of the rankings, and likely could even more this week. Heading into the first CFP rankings, OSU was No. 15 in SOS, with Alabama being the only playoff contender in the top 30 at No. 8.
Thanks to losses by Notre Dame and Wisconsin last weekend, the Buckeyes’ SOS ranking fell to No. 20. While the Tide remained at No. 8 many of the other contenders — especially the unbeaten teams — are still a ways back. Washington is No. 41, FSU is 58, UGA is 90, and the Mitten State Cheaters are No. 111 out of 133 teams in FBS. However, last week, the Bulldogs beat then-No. 12 Missouri and have No. 9 Ole Miss on the schedule this week and No. 14 Tennessee the following week.
Even if everything else remains status quo, the combination of three straight top-15 wins will almost certainly skyrocket UGA up the SOS rankings and potentially past OSU in the CFP rankings heading into the regular season finale. With Penn State, Maryland, and the Buckeyes remaining this month, the Harboys have the top strength of schedule remaining — UGA is No. 3, Ohio State is No. 7, Washington is No. 10, and Florida State is 44.
While anything can happen in any given game, if we assume that the top five teams all remain unbeaten until Nov. 25 when Ohio State and the Ann Arbor Weasels face off, there is a distinct possibility that the Buckeyes will go into The Game as the No. 2 team — or potentially No. 3, depending on how the games play out.
Partially because of the superior competition that they have faced this season and partially because of the specific style of play that this team has experienced, for many casual onlookers, the Buckeyes might be winning on the scoreboard, but aren’t necessarily doing so in the eye test. And while the College Football Playoff committee does keep objective metrics at the center of their evaluations, they also base their decisions — especially when it comes to distinguishing between exceptionally similar teams — on what they actually see on the field.
Georgia beat Missouri last Saturday 30-21, a solid nine-point victory over a top-15 team. However, the way that game was played seems to have given the Dawgs far more cred in the college football community than Ohio State’s eight-point 20-12 win over then-No. 7 Penn State just a few weeks before. So, even if UGA just wins its games against Ole Miss and Tennessee, while the Buckeyes are playing a lackluster slate of Michigan State and Minnesota, I would honestly be surprised if the defending champs didn’t jump OSU.
Then there is the curious case of the sign-stealing culprits. If the Corn and Blue beat the Nits in a more convincing fashion on Saturday in Happy Valley than OSU did in Columbus, it could give the committee reason to jump the Meerkats over the Bucks if Ryan Day’s squad plays with its Spartan and Golden Gopher food.
So while I think that Miss-Again’s woeful strength of schedule — even after playing Penn State — will probably keep them out of the top two spots assuming OSU and UGA remain undefeated, it will be interesting to note how the committee talks about the Fighting Ferrets following this weekend.
What Are the Strength of Schedule and Strength of Records for the College Football Playoff Contenders?
Will Ohio State Be the No. 1 team in the College Football Playoff rankings heading into The Game?
Frankly, no, I don’t think that they will be. While I presume that the Buckeyes will still be undefeated, I am going to guess that Georgia will be as well; although I feel a lot less comfortable in projecting that than I do with OSU. With three straight weeks against legitimate opponents, I do think that the committee will eventually give the benefit of the doubt the the Bulldogs, especially if they look strong in all three theoretical victories.
However, barring an epic collapse by Ohio State, I don’t see Michigan, Florida State, or Washington having enough quality opportunities to pass the Buckeyes. Perhaps the Skunk Bears could if they obliterate Penn State and Maryland, considering those would be common opponents between the two squads, but to this point, the best team that both UM and OSU have played was Rutgers and the Pompous Princes only beat the Scarlet Knights 31-7 in the Big House, while OSU won 35-16 in Piscataway. So, if things remain fairly consistent, the Winged Helmet Wingnuts likely won’t have enough juice to jump the Buckeyes... until they actually face off on the field, of course.
While it would be fun for OSU to stay No. 1 throughout the regular season and into the playoffs, if they do drop behind Georgia heading into the regular season finale, being as high as they are now does have its benefits. In the absolute worst-case scenario, if Ohio State loses its rivalry game for the third year in a row, being No. 1 or No. 2 in the country going in, does keep them as high as humanly possible in the pecking order should there be a spot available for a one-loss team to get into the CFP field.
We saw OSU take advantage of that situation last year, and they could do it again in 2023. Obviously, a lot of things would still need to happen for the loser of The Game to get back in, but being in the top two before a loss is a heck of a lot better than being No. 5 or 6.
Ultimately, the Buckeyes are in as good of a position to get back to the College Football Playoffs as they could possibly be, whether they win out or not. The simplest path to the tournament is to beat Michigan State, Minnesota, and TTUN, but if they stumble.
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LGHL You’re Nuts: Which Ohio State basketball non-conference game are you most looking forward to?
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You’re Nuts: Which Ohio State basketball non-conference game are you most looking forward to?
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
Your (almost) daily dose of good-natured, Ohio State banter.
Both Ohio State’s men’s and women’s basketball teams kicked off their season on Monday. While the women’s basketball team is looking to make another deep run in the NCAA Tournament, the men’s team is just hoping to make it to the “Big Dance” this year. There certainly are lofty expectations for Kevin McGuff’s team since they are returning so much talent from a team that made the Elite Eight last year. On the other side, Chris Holtmann knows he has to start making some noise with his team because the results so far during his time in Columbus can’t continue.
Before they really jump into conference play, both the men’s and women’s teams have interesting non-conference schedules. Not only will both teams hit the road for early-season tournaments near Thanksgiving, they also will square off with UCLA before Christmas, The men’s team will take on the Bruins in Atlanta, and the women’s team will host UCLA a couple of days later. Other highlights of the men’s schedule include games against Texas A&M in Columbus on Friday, as well as a game in Cleveland against West Virginia a couple of days before the calendar turns to 2024.
Today we want to know which Ohio State non-conference basketball game you are most looking forward to this season. With so many strong options between both the men’s and women’s teams, your pick can be from either squad. No matter which game you select, hopefully, both teams start the season with a strong showing in the non-conference portion of their season, which helps them build some momentum that carries over to conference play.
This year Ohio State will take on UCLA in the CBS Sports Classic. The Buckeyes have been a fixture in the annual event since it started back in 2014. This will mark the fourth time the teams have met in the event, with Ohio State winning the last two meetings between the schools in the December classic. This year will be the first time the CBS Sports Classic will take place in Atlanta.
Why this game is most interesting to me of all of Ohio State’s non-conference games is it comes at a time when football takes a bit of a backseat? Hopefully, we’ll be looking ahead to a College Football Playoff game for Ohio State at this time, but any playoff game for the Buckeyes will still be a couple of weeks away. Between this game and a couple of Big Ten games earlier in December, it will be a perfect time for fans to take a better look at the men’s basketball team.
What makes this game even more interesting is next year it will be a conference game since UCLA will be joining the Big Ten in 2024. The Bruins have a couple of strong bigs in Adem Bona and Kenneth Nwuba returning this year, and I’m looking forward to seeing how Zed Key and Felix Okpara handle the size. Square off against Bona and Nwuba will help prepare Key, Okpara, and the rest of the Buckeyes for some of the physical big men they’ll see in Big Ten play.
Also, even though he has left Cincinnati, seeing Mick Cronin have to eat a loss to the Buckeyes never gets old!
I was really tempted to take the women’s game against UCLA just to provide some synergy with Brett’s pick. The OSU women's basketball team does play the Bruins on Dec. 18 at 6:30 p.m. ET in a game that will be broadcast on FS1, but I opted for a different WBB game. This one happens a bit earlier in the non-conference schedule, is a rematch of an epic Ohio State victory from last season, and takes place in one of the most venerable buildings in all of collegiate athletics.
So, I am heading down to Rocky Top for the Ohio State Buckeyes to visit the Lady Vols of Tennessee on Dec. 3 at 5 p.m. ET on ESPN. Hopefully, this game will be a culmination of a day of celebrating for all Buckeye fans as earlier in the afternoon, the College Football Playoff seedings will be announced. So, if the football Buckeyes can take care of business over the next four Saturdays, then this women’s hoops game should be the perfect thing to watch while we are booking our trips to whichever semifinal destination Ryan Day’s squad is heading to.
Beyond the doubleheader nature of the day, last season Kevin McGuff’s squad used an 87-75 victory to propel them into a season that eventually landed them in the Elite Eight. The game took place in the Value City Arena and was the season opener for both sides and even though OSU was ranked 12th and the Lady Vols were No. 24, anytime you can see your favorite team get a win over that historic program is exciting.
On the day, now-graduated Taylor Mikesell led the way with 25 points, while four other Buckeyes — Rebeka Mikulášiková, Jacy Sheldon, Taylor Thierry, and Cotie McMahon — all finished in double figures. The two teams were fairly evenly matched offensively, both shooting roughly 50% from the field. The Lady Vols held a 40-to-30 rebounding advantage, but the biggest difference was in OSU’s suffocating full-court press. The Buckeyes’ D forced 16 steals and 29 turnovers on the night; conversely, Tennessee only forced four steals and the Buckeyes turned it over just 15 times.
Mikesell has now moved on to the professional ranks, but the other four top scorers from last year’s contest are back. Both Tennessee and Ohio State saw their 2022-23 seasons ended by Virginia Tech — Tennessee in the Sweet 16 and OSU in the Elite Eight — before the Hokies lost to LSU in an epic Final Four matchup.
Unfortunately, the No. 7 Buckeyes dropped their first game of the season 83-74 to No. 21 USC on Monday in Las Vegas while the No. 11 Lady Vols beat Florida A&M 93-64. Tennessee was led by Karoline Striplin and Jewel Spear who both went for 20 points.
When these two teams face off in a little less than a month, you know the environment will be electric and coach Kellie Harper will have her team prepared for OSU’s patented press as well. This one should be a thrilling matchup for both teams.
Continue reading...
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
Your (almost) daily dose of good-natured, Ohio State banter.
Both Ohio State’s men’s and women’s basketball teams kicked off their season on Monday. While the women’s basketball team is looking to make another deep run in the NCAA Tournament, the men’s team is just hoping to make it to the “Big Dance” this year. There certainly are lofty expectations for Kevin McGuff’s team since they are returning so much talent from a team that made the Elite Eight last year. On the other side, Chris Holtmann knows he has to start making some noise with his team because the results so far during his time in Columbus can’t continue.
Before they really jump into conference play, both the men’s and women’s teams have interesting non-conference schedules. Not only will both teams hit the road for early-season tournaments near Thanksgiving, they also will square off with UCLA before Christmas, The men’s team will take on the Bruins in Atlanta, and the women’s team will host UCLA a couple of days later. Other highlights of the men’s schedule include games against Texas A&M in Columbus on Friday, as well as a game in Cleveland against West Virginia a couple of days before the calendar turns to 2024.
Today we want to know which Ohio State non-conference basketball game you are most looking forward to this season. With so many strong options between both the men’s and women’s teams, your pick can be from either squad. No matter which game you select, hopefully, both teams start the season with a strong showing in the non-conference portion of their season, which helps them build some momentum that carries over to conference play.
Today’s question: Which Ohio State non-conference basketball game are you most looking forward to this season?
We’d love to hear your choices. Either respond to us on Twitter at @Landgrant33 or leave your choice in the comments.
Brett’s answer: The men’s basketball team’s game against UCLA
This year Ohio State will take on UCLA in the CBS Sports Classic. The Buckeyes have been a fixture in the annual event since it started back in 2014. This will mark the fourth time the teams have met in the event, with Ohio State winning the last two meetings between the schools in the December classic. This year will be the first time the CBS Sports Classic will take place in Atlanta.
Why this game is most interesting to me of all of Ohio State’s non-conference games is it comes at a time when football takes a bit of a backseat? Hopefully, we’ll be looking ahead to a College Football Playoff game for Ohio State at this time, but any playoff game for the Buckeyes will still be a couple of weeks away. Between this game and a couple of Big Ten games earlier in December, it will be a perfect time for fans to take a better look at the men’s basketball team.
What makes this game even more interesting is next year it will be a conference game since UCLA will be joining the Big Ten in 2024. The Bruins have a couple of strong bigs in Adem Bona and Kenneth Nwuba returning this year, and I’m looking forward to seeing how Zed Key and Felix Okpara handle the size. Square off against Bona and Nwuba will help prepare Key, Okpara, and the rest of the Buckeyes for some of the physical big men they’ll see in Big Ten play.
Also, even though he has left Cincinnati, seeing Mick Cronin have to eat a loss to the Buckeyes never gets old!
Matt’s answer: The women’s basketball team’s game against Tennessee
I was really tempted to take the women’s game against UCLA just to provide some synergy with Brett’s pick. The OSU women's basketball team does play the Bruins on Dec. 18 at 6:30 p.m. ET in a game that will be broadcast on FS1, but I opted for a different WBB game. This one happens a bit earlier in the non-conference schedule, is a rematch of an epic Ohio State victory from last season, and takes place in one of the most venerable buildings in all of collegiate athletics.
So, I am heading down to Rocky Top for the Ohio State Buckeyes to visit the Lady Vols of Tennessee on Dec. 3 at 5 p.m. ET on ESPN. Hopefully, this game will be a culmination of a day of celebrating for all Buckeye fans as earlier in the afternoon, the College Football Playoff seedings will be announced. So, if the football Buckeyes can take care of business over the next four Saturdays, then this women’s hoops game should be the perfect thing to watch while we are booking our trips to whichever semifinal destination Ryan Day’s squad is heading to.
Beyond the doubleheader nature of the day, last season Kevin McGuff’s squad used an 87-75 victory to propel them into a season that eventually landed them in the Elite Eight. The game took place in the Value City Arena and was the season opener for both sides and even though OSU was ranked 12th and the Lady Vols were No. 24, anytime you can see your favorite team get a win over that historic program is exciting.
On the day, now-graduated Taylor Mikesell led the way with 25 points, while four other Buckeyes — Rebeka Mikulášiková, Jacy Sheldon, Taylor Thierry, and Cotie McMahon — all finished in double figures. The two teams were fairly evenly matched offensively, both shooting roughly 50% from the field. The Lady Vols held a 40-to-30 rebounding advantage, but the biggest difference was in OSU’s suffocating full-court press. The Buckeyes’ D forced 16 steals and 29 turnovers on the night; conversely, Tennessee only forced four steals and the Buckeyes turned it over just 15 times.
Mikesell has now moved on to the professional ranks, but the other four top scorers from last year’s contest are back. Both Tennessee and Ohio State saw their 2022-23 seasons ended by Virginia Tech — Tennessee in the Sweet 16 and OSU in the Elite Eight — before the Hokies lost to LSU in an epic Final Four matchup.
Unfortunately, the No. 7 Buckeyes dropped their first game of the season 83-74 to No. 21 USC on Monday in Las Vegas while the No. 11 Lady Vols beat Florida A&M 93-64. Tennessee was led by Karoline Striplin and Jewel Spear who both went for 20 points.
When these two teams face off in a little less than a month, you know the environment will be electric and coach Kellie Harper will have her team prepared for OSU’s patented press as well. This one should be a thrilling matchup for both teams.
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'24 NC C Jayden Quaintance (Kentucky Verbal)
- By brodybuck21
- 2011 & Beyond Basketball Recruiting
- 5 Replies
247
Rivals
Class: 2024 (high school)
Position: Center
School: Raleigh (NC) Word of God Christian Academy
Height: 6-foot-10
Weight: 235 lbs
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Rivals
Class: 2024 (high school)
Position: Center
School: Raleigh (NC) Word of God Christian Academy
Height: 6-foot-10
Weight: 235 lbs
Login to view embedded media
LGHL Ohio State earns Crystal Ball for 2025 four-star running back
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Ohio State earns Crystal Ball for 2025 four-star running back
Gene Ross via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
2025 RB Byron Louis | Mick Walker, 247Sports
The Buckeyes are also adding daily to their guest list for Saturday’s game under the lights.
While there are still a handful of spots to be filled in the 2024 recruiting class, where Ohio State currently owns the nation’s No. 2 group, the Buckeyes’ coaching staff is also hard at work getting a head start on 2025. While this weekend’s tilt against Michigan State under the lights will provide a big opportunity to host prospects in both classes, it seems Ohio State is already making headway with a Florida running back.
After earning a Crystal Ball for the top cornerback in the 2025 class just last week, Ohio State became the beneficiary of another Crystal Ball prediction in its favor on Tuesday, when 247Sports Director of Recruiting Steve Wiltfong logged a prediction in favor of the Buckeyes for four-star running back Byron Louis.
Louis, the No. 18 RB and a top-200 player overall in the 247Sports Composite, hails out of American Heritage, a school Ohio State has had some recent success at having landed five-star wide receiver Brandon Inniss from the prep program in the 2023 class. A 5-foot-10, 180-pound back, the junior has amassed over two dozen offers thus far, including the likes of Georgia, Oklahoma, Penn State, USC, Wisconsin and many others.
Louis has visited Columbus multiple times to this point, most recently for the Buckeyes’ win over Penn State in mid-October. Here is what he told On3 about his latest trip to Ohio State:
“The game-day atmosphere was like no other. You can feel the intensity of the game through the fans both outside and inside the stadium. The highlight of this trip had to be how loud the stadium gets. It was packed. Everyone was involved in the game from start to finish. The atmosphere and the tradition that goes into the game itself at Ohio State was beautiful.”
Louis officially released his top-10 schools back in September, and of course the Buckeyes made the cut. However, it seems as though he is continuing to narrow down his list, and as of right now things are looking very good for Ohio State. That being said, it sounds like OSU has been a frontrunner in this recruitment for a while, telling the following to Rivals after an unofficial visit to Columbus in March:
“Ohio State, where do I start? It’s just different up there. It’s almost the college version of American Heritage in how they operate. They move like a machine — one team, one sound, one goal, really. The culture there is different. As soon as you walk into the facility, you know they’re about business. They’ve got a history behind it, too.”
There is still work to be done here to fully secure Louis’ commitment, and Tony Alford will continue to put the work in to secure another talented back for his position group. Should he officially join the class, Louis would become the third offensive player in Ohio State’s 2025 group — joining quarterback Taven St. Clair and wide receiver Jayvan Boggs — and the fifth member of the class overall.
Ohio State will likely be expecting a rather large guest list this weekend for one of the programs final home games of the season, and with the team donning alternate uniforms and being played under the lights, it will only add to the atmosphere. Here are just some of the players who have already announced their intent make the trek to Columbus.
All recruiting rankings are per the 247Sports Composite.
Continue reading...
Gene Ross via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
2025 RB Byron Louis | Mick Walker, 247Sports
The Buckeyes are also adding daily to their guest list for Saturday’s game under the lights.
While there are still a handful of spots to be filled in the 2024 recruiting class, where Ohio State currently owns the nation’s No. 2 group, the Buckeyes’ coaching staff is also hard at work getting a head start on 2025. While this weekend’s tilt against Michigan State under the lights will provide a big opportunity to host prospects in both classes, it seems Ohio State is already making headway with a Florida running back.
After earning a Crystal Ball for the top cornerback in the 2025 class just last week, Ohio State became the beneficiary of another Crystal Ball prediction in its favor on Tuesday, when 247Sports Director of Recruiting Steve Wiltfong logged a prediction in favor of the Buckeyes for four-star running back Byron Louis.
Louis, the No. 18 RB and a top-200 player overall in the 247Sports Composite, hails out of American Heritage, a school Ohio State has had some recent success at having landed five-star wide receiver Brandon Inniss from the prep program in the 2023 class. A 5-foot-10, 180-pound back, the junior has amassed over two dozen offers thus far, including the likes of Georgia, Oklahoma, Penn State, USC, Wisconsin and many others.
Louis has visited Columbus multiple times to this point, most recently for the Buckeyes’ win over Penn State in mid-October. Here is what he told On3 about his latest trip to Ohio State:
“The game-day atmosphere was like no other. You can feel the intensity of the game through the fans both outside and inside the stadium. The highlight of this trip had to be how loud the stadium gets. It was packed. Everyone was involved in the game from start to finish. The atmosphere and the tradition that goes into the game itself at Ohio State was beautiful.”
Louis officially released his top-10 schools back in September, and of course the Buckeyes made the cut. However, it seems as though he is continuing to narrow down his list, and as of right now things are looking very good for Ohio State. That being said, it sounds like OSU has been a frontrunner in this recruitment for a while, telling the following to Rivals after an unofficial visit to Columbus in March:
“Ohio State, where do I start? It’s just different up there. It’s almost the college version of American Heritage in how they operate. They move like a machine — one team, one sound, one goal, really. The culture there is different. As soon as you walk into the facility, you know they’re about business. They’ve got a history behind it, too.”
There is still work to be done here to fully secure Louis’ commitment, and Tony Alford will continue to put the work in to secure another talented back for his position group. Should he officially join the class, Louis would become the third offensive player in Ohio State’s 2025 group — joining quarterback Taven St. Clair and wide receiver Jayvan Boggs — and the fifth member of the class overall.
Quick Hits
Ohio State will likely be expecting a rather large guest list this weekend for one of the programs final home games of the season, and with the team donning alternate uniforms and being played under the lights, it will only add to the atmosphere. Here are just some of the players who have already announced their intent make the trek to Columbus.
All recruiting rankings are per the 247Sports Composite.
- 2025 wide receiver Phillip Bell III (No. 8 WR, No. 57 Overall)
- 2025 linebacker Tarvos Alford (No. 12 LB, No. 93 Overall)
- 2026 QB Will Griffin (No. 5 QB, No. 62 Overall)
Looking forward to being back in Columbus this Saturday! THE Ohio State University! @ryandaytime @CoreyDennis_ @CoachTFitch @markpantoni @OhioStateFB @Bucknuts247 @Buckeye_Nation @Bucknuts247 @adamgorney @GregSmithRivals @ChadSimmons_ @SWiltfong247 @TomLuginbill @TheUCReport… pic.twitter.com/qAEE0GYbRT
— Will Griffin 4️ 2026 QB (@w_griffin11) November 8, 2023
- 2025 LB Grant Beerman (Not yet ranked on Composite)
- 2026 offensive tackle Adam Guthrie (Not yet ranked on Composite)
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LGHL The haters owe C.J. Stroud an apology; not that he cares what they think
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The haters owe C.J. Stroud an apology; not that he cares what they think
Jami Jurich via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
As the former Buckeye puts up historic numbers in his rookie season, it’s time for his doubters to admit they were wrong about him.
When it was announced that former Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud would begin his professional career with the Houston Texans, the internet was full of haters. To be clear, the internet is always the pits — you typically don’t have to look very far to find someone trash-talking an athlete; couch critics are everywhere, including here at LGHL.
But they seemed to be especially loud where Stroud was concerned, and the chatter didn’t start when he was the second name called in the 2023 NFL Draft. It merely revved up the haters who had already been banging on for months, even before he was named a 2022 Heisman Trophy finalist (though this certainly helped stoke the flames).
Columnists and chat board warriors alike chimed in on whether Stroud was overrated. Many people felt he had promise but ultimately wouldn’t measure up to the elite quarterbacks with long and decorated careers. He was, they claimed, destined to burn out in a flash, forgotten after a few seasons; as — they claimed — is the destiny of any Ohio State QB.
I would go to battle with family and friends who claimed he was good but not great, and that he appeared better than he was because he was buoyed by the talent around him. As if he wasn’t also buoying his teammates.
My personal favorite quote, one so funny I nearly printed and framed it, “We will never hear about him again when he goes to the NFL.” (Credit for this one goes to a Michigan fan on Reddit).
By the time we reached the 2023 NFL Draft, the chatter wasn’t new. It was just refueled.
Now, after Stroud’s performance in Week 9, that chatter hopefully has ceased for good. In fact, I don’t want to hear from Stroud’s haters unless they’re tapping the mic to apologize to him.
Because just eight games into his NFL career, Stroud is shattering records. In the Texans’ victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, he had a historic game—perhaps the best game a rookie quarterback has ever had.
Completing 30 of 42 passes, Stroud broke both the NFL record for single-game passing yards by a rookie with 470 yards through the air AND tied the record for single-game touchdowns by a rookie with five.
He did it with flair, leading his team to a come-from-behind victory in the final minute of the game with a 75-yard drive that ended with a 15-yard touchdown pass to Tank Dell with just six seconds left in the game.
The performance earned him the fourth-best single-game passer rating of any NFL quarterback this season.
Additionally, having thrown only one interception all season, Stroud is now tied with Patrick Mahomes for most career touchdowns (14) before throwing your second interception.
(As an added fun aside, his leading receiver on Sunday was another former Buckeye—Noah Brown).
Despite what the haters on the outside said, many Buckeye fans have long known Stroud was special. Now, the proof is in the pudding, as they say.
Stroud, who is putting up astonishing numbers, is the heavy frontrunner to win this year’s NFL Rookie of the Year Award. In addition to his 14 touchdowns, and a single interception, he’s thrown 2,270 yards through his first eight games.
Much to the chagrin of the Michigan fan on Reddit, we are in fact, still hearing about him. I’d venture to guess we’re just getting started putting respect on his name.
And so, I’d like the haters to apologize to C.J. Stroud. Not that he cares what you think. But it’s time to admit you were wrong and that Stroud was worth all the hype he got and then some. Because—if the first half of his rookie season is any indication—it looks like he’s going to be a household name for many years to come.
Continue reading...
Jami Jurich via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
As the former Buckeye puts up historic numbers in his rookie season, it’s time for his doubters to admit they were wrong about him.
When it was announced that former Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud would begin his professional career with the Houston Texans, the internet was full of haters. To be clear, the internet is always the pits — you typically don’t have to look very far to find someone trash-talking an athlete; couch critics are everywhere, including here at LGHL.
But they seemed to be especially loud where Stroud was concerned, and the chatter didn’t start when he was the second name called in the 2023 NFL Draft. It merely revved up the haters who had already been banging on for months, even before he was named a 2022 Heisman Trophy finalist (though this certainly helped stoke the flames).
Columnists and chat board warriors alike chimed in on whether Stroud was overrated. Many people felt he had promise but ultimately wouldn’t measure up to the elite quarterbacks with long and decorated careers. He was, they claimed, destined to burn out in a flash, forgotten after a few seasons; as — they claimed — is the destiny of any Ohio State QB.
I would go to battle with family and friends who claimed he was good but not great, and that he appeared better than he was because he was buoyed by the talent around him. As if he wasn’t also buoying his teammates.
My personal favorite quote, one so funny I nearly printed and framed it, “We will never hear about him again when he goes to the NFL.” (Credit for this one goes to a Michigan fan on Reddit).
By the time we reached the 2023 NFL Draft, the chatter wasn’t new. It was just refueled.
Now, after Stroud’s performance in Week 9, that chatter hopefully has ceased for good. In fact, I don’t want to hear from Stroud’s haters unless they’re tapping the mic to apologize to him.
Because just eight games into his NFL career, Stroud is shattering records. In the Texans’ victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, he had a historic game—perhaps the best game a rookie quarterback has ever had.
Completing 30 of 42 passes, Stroud broke both the NFL record for single-game passing yards by a rookie with 470 yards through the air AND tied the record for single-game touchdowns by a rookie with five.
He did it with flair, leading his team to a come-from-behind victory in the final minute of the game with a 75-yard drive that ended with a 15-yard touchdown pass to Tank Dell with just six seconds left in the game.
The performance earned him the fourth-best single-game passer rating of any NFL quarterback this season.
Additionally, having thrown only one interception all season, Stroud is now tied with Patrick Mahomes for most career touchdowns (14) before throwing your second interception.
(As an added fun aside, his leading receiver on Sunday was another former Buckeye—Noah Brown).
Despite what the haters on the outside said, many Buckeye fans have long known Stroud was special. Now, the proof is in the pudding, as they say.
Stroud, who is putting up astonishing numbers, is the heavy frontrunner to win this year’s NFL Rookie of the Year Award. In addition to his 14 touchdowns, and a single interception, he’s thrown 2,270 yards through his first eight games.
Much to the chagrin of the Michigan fan on Reddit, we are in fact, still hearing about him. I’d venture to guess we’re just getting started putting respect on his name.
And so, I’d like the haters to apologize to C.J. Stroud. Not that he cares what you think. But it’s time to admit you were wrong and that Stroud was worth all the hype he got and then some. Because—if the first half of his rookie season is any indication—it looks like he’s going to be a household name for many years to come.
Continue reading...
LGHL Ohio State women’s basketball 2023-24 player preview: Eboni Walker
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Ohio State women’s basketball 2023-24 player preview: Eboni Walker
ThomasCostello via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
The second-year Buckeye returns for one last NCAA season, and Walker could be used differently than last season.
Last season, the Ohio State women’s basketball team added one name in the transfer portal who ended up being a key player in the team’s Elite Eight run. After starting the season on the bench, the Las Vegas, Nevada native received a chance to start and didn’t relinquish it, all the way to Seattle, Washington and the NCAA Tournament regional final.
That forward is Eboni Walker. After playing a specific role last year, she might be used in a different way due to another new transfer.
Name: Eboni Walker
Position: Forward
Class: Graduate senior
High School: Centennial High School (Las Vegas, Nevada)
2022-23 Stats: 4.9 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 1.5 apg, .450 FG%, .000 3FG%, .644 FT%
When Walker joined the Buckeyes last season, it was a long time since the former Syracuse Orange forward saw an NCAA game. From the end of November, 2021, Walker missed the remainder of the season in her lone campaign spent in Upstate New York.
So, upon arrival at Ohio State, the forward wasn’t conditioned enough for head coach Kevin McGuff to give out many minutes. Through the end of the 2022 calendar year, Walker didn’t see much of the court against top non-conference or conference teams, but eclipsed the 10-minute mark against the Michigan Wolverines in a sign that she was moving her way into more responsibilities with the team.
On Feb. 8, against the Minnesota Golden Gophers, starting forward Rebeka Mikulášiková suffered an ankle injury that took her out for the rest of the game. From that moment on, Walker was the starting No. 5 role for head coach Kevin McGuff’s Buckeyes.
Almost immediately the individual performances by Walker improved. After averaging 4.2 points and 2.9 rebounds in the Walker’s first 23 bench appearances, the forward’s first start, in a tough away game against the Indiana Hoosiers, was a sign of her potential. Walker finished the game with 12 points, 11 rebounds and four assists.
Throughout the end of the season and into the playoffs, Walker averaged 6.3 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. Of those performances, the biggest moment came in the second round of the NCAA Tournament in Columbus.
With the game tied at 69 points a piece, with the North Carolina Tar Heels battling back to try and upset the Buckeyes, Walker’s patience on the court was key in an Ohio State win. On a broken inbound play, Walker held onto position and moved the perimeter, giving enough time and space for guard Jacy Sheldon to receive a Walker pass and hit a midrange jumper at the foul line, like the infamous Michael Jordan shot in the 1989 NBA Playoffs.
Walker had 15 points and seven rebounds in that game, adding another nine rebounds against the UConn Huskies in the Sweet Sixteen.
Walker is an agile and mobile option inside the point. Similar to the energy and movement of former Buckeyes’ forward Tanaya Beacham, Walker increases the intensity of games when she gets onto the court.
While Walker isn’t a scoring machine, she will perform well in the paint and grab rebounds for second chance shots. Her movement also gives the entire offense more mobility in McGuff’s 5-out system. However, Walker won’t hit long-range shots like Mikulášiková is capable of hitting.
At first, it felt like Walker was set to compete with Mikulášiková and Michigan State transfer Taiyier Parks. However, at the Buckeyes’ open practice one week before a trip to Las Vegas to face the USC Trojans, Walker wasn’t used in the same capacity as last season.
Instead, Walker came in as a power forward behind Cotie McMahon. It’s a role that better fits Walker, and gives McMahon more time to rest for the longevity of a difficult season, arguably the most difficult schedule Ohio State has seen in years.
With Mikulášiková as the likely starter to begin the year, and the physical Parks coming in behind the Slovakian, expect Walker to enter the game also like Beacham as an impact bench player. Should injury or form fall one of the No. 5 forwards, don’t be surprised to see Walker called back into the lineup more often.
These are the kinds of plays Walker will make. With attention going the way of the Buckeyes’ dynamic guards, Walker will get open looks that will end with attacks to the basket. The forward will also try midrange shots but has more impact driving the lane.
Miss a player preview? Here’s who you can read about so far:
Continue reading...
ThomasCostello via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
The second-year Buckeye returns for one last NCAA season, and Walker could be used differently than last season.
Last season, the Ohio State women’s basketball team added one name in the transfer portal who ended up being a key player in the team’s Elite Eight run. After starting the season on the bench, the Las Vegas, Nevada native received a chance to start and didn’t relinquish it, all the way to Seattle, Washington and the NCAA Tournament regional final.
That forward is Eboni Walker. After playing a specific role last year, she might be used in a different way due to another new transfer.
Name: Eboni Walker
Position: Forward
Class: Graduate senior
High School: Centennial High School (Las Vegas, Nevada)
2022-23 Stats: 4.9 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 1.5 apg, .450 FG%, .000 3FG%, .644 FT%
Last Season
When Walker joined the Buckeyes last season, it was a long time since the former Syracuse Orange forward saw an NCAA game. From the end of November, 2021, Walker missed the remainder of the season in her lone campaign spent in Upstate New York.
So, upon arrival at Ohio State, the forward wasn’t conditioned enough for head coach Kevin McGuff to give out many minutes. Through the end of the 2022 calendar year, Walker didn’t see much of the court against top non-conference or conference teams, but eclipsed the 10-minute mark against the Michigan Wolverines in a sign that she was moving her way into more responsibilities with the team.
On Feb. 8, against the Minnesota Golden Gophers, starting forward Rebeka Mikulášiková suffered an ankle injury that took her out for the rest of the game. From that moment on, Walker was the starting No. 5 role for head coach Kevin McGuff’s Buckeyes.
Almost immediately the individual performances by Walker improved. After averaging 4.2 points and 2.9 rebounds in the Walker’s first 23 bench appearances, the forward’s first start, in a tough away game against the Indiana Hoosiers, was a sign of her potential. Walker finished the game with 12 points, 11 rebounds and four assists.
Throughout the end of the season and into the playoffs, Walker averaged 6.3 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. Of those performances, the biggest moment came in the second round of the NCAA Tournament in Columbus.
With the game tied at 69 points a piece, with the North Carolina Tar Heels battling back to try and upset the Buckeyes, Walker’s patience on the court was key in an Ohio State win. On a broken inbound play, Walker held onto position and moved the perimeter, giving enough time and space for guard Jacy Sheldon to receive a Walker pass and hit a midrange jumper at the foul line, like the infamous Michael Jordan shot in the 1989 NBA Playoffs.
Walker had 15 points and seven rebounds in that game, adding another nine rebounds against the UConn Huskies in the Sweet Sixteen.
What to Expect
Walker is an agile and mobile option inside the point. Similar to the energy and movement of former Buckeyes’ forward Tanaya Beacham, Walker increases the intensity of games when she gets onto the court.
While Walker isn’t a scoring machine, she will perform well in the paint and grab rebounds for second chance shots. Her movement also gives the entire offense more mobility in McGuff’s 5-out system. However, Walker won’t hit long-range shots like Mikulášiková is capable of hitting.
Prediction
At first, it felt like Walker was set to compete with Mikulášiková and Michigan State transfer Taiyier Parks. However, at the Buckeyes’ open practice one week before a trip to Las Vegas to face the USC Trojans, Walker wasn’t used in the same capacity as last season.
Instead, Walker came in as a power forward behind Cotie McMahon. It’s a role that better fits Walker, and gives McMahon more time to rest for the longevity of a difficult season, arguably the most difficult schedule Ohio State has seen in years.
With Mikulášiková as the likely starter to begin the year, and the physical Parks coming in behind the Slovakian, expect Walker to enter the game also like Beacham as an impact bench player. Should injury or form fall one of the No. 5 forwards, don’t be surprised to see Walker called back into the lineup more often.
Highlights
These are the kinds of plays Walker will make. With attention going the way of the Buckeyes’ dynamic guards, Walker will get open looks that will end with attacks to the basket. The forward will also try midrange shots but has more impact driving the lane.
Miss a player preview? Here’s who you can read about so far:
- Jacy Sheldon
- Rebeka Mikulášiková
- Diana Collins
- Taiyier Parks
- Rikki Harris
- Taylor Thierry
- Kennedy Cambridge
- Faith Carson
- Madison Greene
- Celeste Taylor
- Emma Shumate
- Kaia Henderson
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LGHL Hangout in the Holy Land Podcast: A way-too-early “Our pets’ heads are falling off!” edition
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Hangout in the Holy Land Podcast: A way-too-early “Our pets’ heads are falling off!” edition
Josh Dooley via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
Josh and Chuck discuss Ohio State’s injury woes on the gridiron, a few concerning starts on the hardwood, and the general absurdity of this whole Michigan situation.
The latest episode of Land-Grant Holy Land’s flagship podcast is here! Join LGHL’s Josh Dooley and Chuck Holmes as they discuss Ohio State football, recruiting, and much, much more! Come for the hot takes, stay for the warm ones.
Listen to the episode and subscribe:
On this episode of “Hangout in the Holy Land,” Josh and Chuck overreact to losses or near-losses by both Ohio State basketball squads, injury woes for the Buckeyes’ football team, and the sense both get that this whole Michigan investigation will be fumbled, bumbled, and/or just plain f*cked by both the Big Ten and NCAA.
The hosts kick things off with a little basketball talk. Because it’s been a while, and the Buckeye ballers are back, baby! Unfortunately, the OSU women dropped a tough opener to USC, while the men barely squeaked by Oakland... Of the Horizon League. Not a great start, but as in basketball and as in life, both squads will look to rebound.
The Hangout boys then move on to Ohio State football, as they discuss a Scarlet and Gray squad that remains both undefeated and imperfect. The guys look ahead to Saturday night in The Shoe while bantering about quarterback play, injuries, and the need for a ‘get-right’ blowout.
Plus, the TUN ‘scandal’... It just gets funnier and more bizarre by the day.
Please make sure to like, rate, review, and subscribe to the podcast! And as always, Go Bucks!
Connect with the pod
Twitter: @HolyLandPod
Connect with Josh Dooley
Twitter: @jdooleybuckeye
Connect with Chuck Holmes
Twitter: @ctholmes3
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
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
Josh and Chuck discuss Ohio State’s injury woes on the gridiron, a few concerning starts on the hardwood, and the general absurdity of this whole Michigan situation.
The latest episode of Land-Grant Holy Land’s flagship podcast is here! Join LGHL’s Josh Dooley and Chuck Holmes as they discuss Ohio State football, recruiting, and much, much more! Come for the hot takes, stay for the warm ones.
Listen to the episode and subscribe:
Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio
On this episode of “Hangout in the Holy Land,” Josh and Chuck overreact to losses or near-losses by both Ohio State basketball squads, injury woes for the Buckeyes’ football team, and the sense both get that this whole Michigan investigation will be fumbled, bumbled, and/or just plain f*cked by both the Big Ten and NCAA.
The hosts kick things off with a little basketball talk. Because it’s been a while, and the Buckeye ballers are back, baby! Unfortunately, the OSU women dropped a tough opener to USC, while the men barely squeaked by Oakland... Of the Horizon League. Not a great start, but as in basketball and as in life, both squads will look to rebound.
The Hangout boys then move on to Ohio State football, as they discuss a Scarlet and Gray squad that remains both undefeated and imperfect. The guys look ahead to Saturday night in The Shoe while bantering about quarterback play, injuries, and the need for a ‘get-right’ blowout.
Plus, the TUN ‘scandal’... It just gets funnier and more bizarre by the day.
Please make sure to like, rate, review, and subscribe to the podcast! And as always, Go Bucks!
Connect with the pod
Twitter: @HolyLandPod
Connect with Josh Dooley
Twitter: @jdooleybuckeye
Connect with Chuck Holmes
Twitter: @ctholmes3
Continue reading...
LGHL Ohio State makes the cut for five-star center
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Ohio State makes the cut for five-star center
Dan Hessler via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
2024 five-star center Jayden Quaintance via Fiba, 247Sports
One of the nation’s top centers in the 2024 class has the Buckeyes in his top four schools. The Ohio State football team also looks close to securing a five-star corner.
Ohio State is now 9-0 following a 35-16 victory over Rutgers Saturday. The game was closer than even the score shows, but Ryan Day and the Buckeyes did everything they needed to do to secure the victory. Ohio State will now look to play host to Michigan State in what will be the team’s last night game of the regular season.
Because of this, the majority of the headlines surrounding Ohio State’s football team will focus on the current roster. However, Ryan Day and the Ohio State coaching staff know the importance of recruiting and because of this, the Buckeyes will continue to make recruiting headlines as well.
The Ohio State football coaching staff are not the only ones busy recruiting. Chris Holtmann and the men’s basketball team are also constantly looking to bring the nation’s top talents to Columbus.
Holtmann and the men’s basketball Buckeyes are entering their busy season. The team’s regular season tipped off Monday as the Buckeyes played host to Oakland. With the start of the season being the talk of the program, it may have been easy to miss that the team made the cut for one of the nation’s top talents — and he plays a position that has plagued the team in recent history.
Five-star center Jayden Quaintance (Raleigh, NC / Word of God Christian Academy) announced his top four schools Monday, and included Ohio State, Kentucky, Florida and Missouri.
Ohio State has long been recruiting Quaintance, offering him back in May. Since then, the team has done a great job at building a relationship with him. Quaintance then took an official visit with the Buckeyes in September and the visit seems to have gone as well as possible.
Quaintance spoke with Travis Branham of 247Sports last month about the above four schools, as well as the G-League Ignite (who is no longer in consideration) and his visits with them. When talking about Ohio State he had the following to say:
Quaintance has an interesting recruiting situation as he is just 16-years old. He will need to complete two years of college before being draft eligible for the NBA. In the time of one-and-dones, securing a commitment from Quaintance and knowing he will be with the team for two years is a massive win.
Ohio State is sitting in a good spot with Quaintance, but none of the four teams have really separated themselves from the pack. Additionally, despite already taking all of his official visits, the expectation is for his recruitment to carry out and a decision is not expected anytime soon.
Quaintance is the No. 2 center in the 247Sports Composite and is the No. 7 overall prospect. He is also the No. 1 prospect from North Carolina.
Continue reading...
Dan Hessler via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
2024 five-star center Jayden Quaintance via Fiba, 247Sports
One of the nation’s top centers in the 2024 class has the Buckeyes in his top four schools. The Ohio State football team also looks close to securing a five-star corner.
Ohio State is now 9-0 following a 35-16 victory over Rutgers Saturday. The game was closer than even the score shows, but Ryan Day and the Buckeyes did everything they needed to do to secure the victory. Ohio State will now look to play host to Michigan State in what will be the team’s last night game of the regular season.
Because of this, the majority of the headlines surrounding Ohio State’s football team will focus on the current roster. However, Ryan Day and the Ohio State coaching staff know the importance of recruiting and because of this, the Buckeyes will continue to make recruiting headlines as well.
Five-star center has Ohio State in top four schools
The Ohio State football coaching staff are not the only ones busy recruiting. Chris Holtmann and the men’s basketball team are also constantly looking to bring the nation’s top talents to Columbus.
Holtmann and the men’s basketball Buckeyes are entering their busy season. The team’s regular season tipped off Monday as the Buckeyes played host to Oakland. With the start of the season being the talk of the program, it may have been easy to miss that the team made the cut for one of the nation’s top talents — and he plays a position that has plagued the team in recent history.
Five-star center Jayden Quaintance (Raleigh, NC / Word of God Christian Academy) announced his top four schools Monday, and included Ohio State, Kentucky, Florida and Missouri.
Ohio State has long been recruiting Quaintance, offering him back in May. Since then, the team has done a great job at building a relationship with him. Quaintance then took an official visit with the Buckeyes in September and the visit seems to have gone as well as possible.
Quaintance spoke with Travis Branham of 247Sports last month about the above four schools, as well as the G-League Ignite (who is no longer in consideration) and his visits with them. When talking about Ohio State he had the following to say:
Quaintance has an interesting recruiting situation as he is just 16-years old. He will need to complete two years of college before being draft eligible for the NBA. In the time of one-and-dones, securing a commitment from Quaintance and knowing he will be with the team for two years is a massive win.
Ohio State is sitting in a good spot with Quaintance, but none of the four teams have really separated themselves from the pack. Additionally, despite already taking all of his official visits, the expectation is for his recruitment to carry out and a decision is not expected anytime soon.
Quaintance is the No. 2 center in the 247Sports Composite and is the No. 7 overall prospect. He is also the No. 1 prospect from North Carolina.
Quick Hits
- Land-Grant Holy Land’s own Caleb Houser wrote last Friday about how Ohio State is trending for 2025 five-star cornerback Devin Sanchez (Houston, TX / North Shore). This was following a 247Sports Crystal Ball prediction being submitted by Steve Wiltfong in Ohio State’s favor. On Monday, the Buckeyes received another prediction for Sanchez by Ohio State insider Bill Kurelic. While these predictions are not guarantees, when Wiltfong and Kurelic agree, it usually comes to fruition.
- Ohio State is preparing to host Michigan State in what will likely be the team’s final night game in ‘The Shoe’. Ohio State will be wearing their alternate gray uniforms for the game, and the recruiting visitor list will also likely be large. It is easier for recruits to make trips for night games because of time for travel, and the Buckeyes will look to take advantage of this. Many priority targets will be on hand this weekend, including 2024 five-star OT Jordan Seaton.
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LGHL Ohio State women’s basketball 2023-24 player preview: Kaia Henderson
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Ohio State women’s basketball 2023-24 player preview: Kaia Henderson
ThomasCostello via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
Finishing up the Buckeye guards with the New York native
Up next in a series previewing every player on the 15-athlete Ohio State women’s basketball roster is guard Kaia Henderson. The final guard to get previewed at the start of the season, Henderson has the ability to make an impact, but people didn’t get to see a lot of it in the Upstate New Yorker’s freshman season.
Name: Kaia Henderson
Position: Guard
Class: Sophomore
High School: New Hartford High School (New Hartford, New York)
2022-23 Stats: 1.0 ppg, 0.3 rpg, 0.2 apg, .333 FG%, .286 3FG%, 1.000 FT%
Judging by the statistics from last season, Henderson didn’t see much of the court during the 22-23 season. In 13 appearances, the guard averaged 3.3 minutes per game. The most was six minutes against New Hampshire during a stretch of early season games against smaller non-conference opponents.
Regardless of the athlete, it’s difficult to make an impact or make an assessment of a player’s year with that few minutes. Inside the conference, Henderson made appearances but they each came late in games where the result was already decided.
Only twice was Henderson in a game long enough to register more than one shot attempt.
The guard has the ability to be an impact playmaker. At 5-foot-5, the smaller guard still gets to the basket and finds ways to score. So much so that in high school Henderson ended her amateur career in good company.
After three years, Henderson ended her time at New Hartford High School amassing 2,284 points scored. A school record and best for third in New York Division III history. The same division that current WNBA MVP Brenna Stewart played in at Cicero North Syracuse High School, less than an hour from Henderson’s stomping grounds.
Henderson also defends, being a pest to opposing players. The guard anticipates plays and forces errors similar to starting guard Jacy Sheldon.
Guard is a hard position to breakthrough for the scarlet and gray. Next to Sheldon is transfer guard Celeste Taylor. Next to them in guard/forward hybrid Taylor Thierry. Then on the bench it gets more difficult for Henderson to get chosen for minutes over redshirt senior and team leaders in Rikki Harris and Madison Greene.
With that said though, most of those names will be gone after this season. For head coach Kevin McGuff, he has a decision to make on how many game minutes Henderson and others in her shoes get while still staying competitive.
That likely means the most minutes Henderson gets will be against those smaller mid-conference schools. Seeing Henderson get a large chunk of minutes is only going to likely happen if injuries become a concern for Ohio State, but hopefully Henderson sticks it out to make a claim for a future guard role.
Following last season, three of Henderson’s teammates left in the transfer portal. Likely due to minimal minutes received. The New York guard had an argument herself but is sticking it out in scarlet and gray. That could be rewarded if the time is right.
See Henderson take over in the Buckeyes’ trip to Brazil in August. The guard causes issues on defense, gets steals and has inside and outside shooting range. Also a great video to get a feel for Ohio State’s trip to South America.
Miss a player preview? Here’s who you can read about so far:
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Finishing up the Buckeye guards with the New York native
Up next in a series previewing every player on the 15-athlete Ohio State women’s basketball roster is guard Kaia Henderson. The final guard to get previewed at the start of the season, Henderson has the ability to make an impact, but people didn’t get to see a lot of it in the Upstate New Yorker’s freshman season.
Name: Kaia Henderson
Position: Guard
Class: Sophomore
High School: New Hartford High School (New Hartford, New York)
2022-23 Stats: 1.0 ppg, 0.3 rpg, 0.2 apg, .333 FG%, .286 3FG%, 1.000 FT%
Last Season
Judging by the statistics from last season, Henderson didn’t see much of the court during the 22-23 season. In 13 appearances, the guard averaged 3.3 minutes per game. The most was six minutes against New Hampshire during a stretch of early season games against smaller non-conference opponents.
Regardless of the athlete, it’s difficult to make an impact or make an assessment of a player’s year with that few minutes. Inside the conference, Henderson made appearances but they each came late in games where the result was already decided.
Only twice was Henderson in a game long enough to register more than one shot attempt.
What to Expect
The guard has the ability to be an impact playmaker. At 5-foot-5, the smaller guard still gets to the basket and finds ways to score. So much so that in high school Henderson ended her amateur career in good company.
After three years, Henderson ended her time at New Hartford High School amassing 2,284 points scored. A school record and best for third in New York Division III history. The same division that current WNBA MVP Brenna Stewart played in at Cicero North Syracuse High School, less than an hour from Henderson’s stomping grounds.
Henderson also defends, being a pest to opposing players. The guard anticipates plays and forces errors similar to starting guard Jacy Sheldon.
Prediction
Guard is a hard position to breakthrough for the scarlet and gray. Next to Sheldon is transfer guard Celeste Taylor. Next to them in guard/forward hybrid Taylor Thierry. Then on the bench it gets more difficult for Henderson to get chosen for minutes over redshirt senior and team leaders in Rikki Harris and Madison Greene.
With that said though, most of those names will be gone after this season. For head coach Kevin McGuff, he has a decision to make on how many game minutes Henderson and others in her shoes get while still staying competitive.
That likely means the most minutes Henderson gets will be against those smaller mid-conference schools. Seeing Henderson get a large chunk of minutes is only going to likely happen if injuries become a concern for Ohio State, but hopefully Henderson sticks it out to make a claim for a future guard role.
Following last season, three of Henderson’s teammates left in the transfer portal. Likely due to minimal minutes received. The New York guard had an argument herself but is sticking it out in scarlet and gray. That could be rewarded if the time is right.
Highlights
See Henderson take over in the Buckeyes’ trip to Brazil in August. The guard causes issues on defense, gets steals and has inside and outside shooting range. Also a great video to get a feel for Ohio State’s trip to South America.
Miss a player preview? Here’s who you can read about so far:
- Jacy Sheldon
- Rebeka Mikulášiková
- Diana Collins
- Taiyier Parks
- Rikki Harris
- Taylor Thierry
- Kennedy Cambridge
- Faith Carson
- Madison Greene
- Celeste Taylor
- Emma Shumate
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