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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
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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.
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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...
