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LGHL Minnesota forward Jamison Battle announces transfer to Ohio State
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Minnesota forward Jamison Battle announces transfer to Ohio State
Connor Lemons via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Harrison Barden-USA TODAY Sports
The 6-foot-7, 220-pound lefty wing is already familiar with the Big Ten, and fills multiple needs for the 2023-2024 team.
Chris Holtmann, Jake Diebler, and the Ohio State men’s basketball staff landed one of the biggest fish in the transfer pool today with the announcement that Minnesota forward Jamison Battle will transfer to Ohio State for his final year of eligibility.
Battle, a 6-foot-7, 220-pound forward from Robbinsdale, Minnesota, spent his first two seasons at George Washington, where he averaged 13.5 points and 5.2 rebounds per game over 45 games. He shot 42.9% overall at George Washington, including 36.3% from three-point range.
He then transferred closer to home in 2021, where he led the last-place Golden Gophers in scoring during the 2021-2022 season at 17.5 points per game — this was also the seventh-highest mark in the Big Ten. The jump from the A-10 to the Big Ten didn’t impact his production, as Battle actually set career-highs in nearly every stat category during his first year at Minnesota.
His production and efficiency dropped off pretty steeply as a senior last year, however. Battle averaged 12.4 points per game, but on a career-low 37.1% shooting overall and only 31.1% from three. He averaged 3.8 rebounds per game — over one full rebound shy of his career average — and shot 78.1% from the free throw line.
Battle scored in double digits in 44 of his 56 games at Minnesota, with his career-high of 39 points happening back on February 27, 2022 in a home loss to Indiana. In three career games against Ohio State, he averaged 12.3 points and five rebounds per game, while going 6-22 (27.3%) from beyond the arc.
Adding Battle to the 2023-2024 Ohio State team fulfills two needs — adding a perimeter threat as well as adding a forward with length who can fill in one of the forward positions vacated by Justice Sueing and (potentially) Brice Sensabaugh.
Battle has never graded out as an elite shooter with a career three-point mark of 35%, but he did shoot higher than 35% in three of his four seasons before a huge regression this past year pulled his career average down. He’s averaged seven three-point tries per game each of the past two seasons, which places him top-three in the Big Ten each year in attempts from beyond the arc. His most recent season looks like an outlier, and it could have something to do with playing on a horrendous Minnesota team that averaged just 63 points per game.
Second, Ohio State will most likely need to fill both starting forward positions if Sensabaugh stays in the NBA Draft. Incoming freshmen Scotty Middleton and Devin Royal both look like they have the potential to be stars eventually, but it’s a big ask to start both side-by-side right away. Battle will step in and assume one of those two spots, and also bring experience to a team that will start multiple underclassmen regardless. This team may not need Battle to score 17 points per game on 14 shots per night like he did as a junior at Minnesota, but it will need him to be a consistent double-digit scorer night in and night out.
Battle was not ranked by 247Sports coming out of Minneapolis’ De La Salle High School, but Rivals had him as a three-star recruit. Upon announcing he was transferring on March 16, Battle was contacted by Ohio State as well as up to 20 other schools, including Xavier, Butler, Indiana, Clemson, Oklahoma, Iowa State, Utah, LSU, Santa Clara, Nebraska, Illinois, Arkansas, Wake Forest, Oklahoma State, Cincinnati, and Villanova. He visited Ohio State in late March to meet with the coaching staff and check out the facilities and campus.
247Sports rated Battle as the No. 25 transfer available in the transfer portal this year. On3 had him listed as the No. 15 transfer available. If Sensabaugh returns, he will slide into the other forward position next to Battle. If Sensabaugh leaves, it will likely be Middleton or Royal starting alongside Battle.
Continue reading...
Connor Lemons via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Harrison Barden-USA TODAY Sports
The 6-foot-7, 220-pound lefty wing is already familiar with the Big Ten, and fills multiple needs for the 2023-2024 team.
Chris Holtmann, Jake Diebler, and the Ohio State men’s basketball staff landed one of the biggest fish in the transfer pool today with the announcement that Minnesota forward Jamison Battle will transfer to Ohio State for his final year of eligibility.
Battle, a 6-foot-7, 220-pound forward from Robbinsdale, Minnesota, spent his first two seasons at George Washington, where he averaged 13.5 points and 5.2 rebounds per game over 45 games. He shot 42.9% overall at George Washington, including 36.3% from three-point range.
He then transferred closer to home in 2021, where he led the last-place Golden Gophers in scoring during the 2021-2022 season at 17.5 points per game — this was also the seventh-highest mark in the Big Ten. The jump from the A-10 to the Big Ten didn’t impact his production, as Battle actually set career-highs in nearly every stat category during his first year at Minnesota.
His production and efficiency dropped off pretty steeply as a senior last year, however. Battle averaged 12.4 points per game, but on a career-low 37.1% shooting overall and only 31.1% from three. He averaged 3.8 rebounds per game — over one full rebound shy of his career average — and shot 78.1% from the free throw line.
Battle scored in double digits in 44 of his 56 games at Minnesota, with his career-high of 39 points happening back on February 27, 2022 in a home loss to Indiana. In three career games against Ohio State, he averaged 12.3 points and five rebounds per game, while going 6-22 (27.3%) from beyond the arc.
Adding Battle to the 2023-2024 Ohio State team fulfills two needs — adding a perimeter threat as well as adding a forward with length who can fill in one of the forward positions vacated by Justice Sueing and (potentially) Brice Sensabaugh.
Battle has never graded out as an elite shooter with a career three-point mark of 35%, but he did shoot higher than 35% in three of his four seasons before a huge regression this past year pulled his career average down. He’s averaged seven three-point tries per game each of the past two seasons, which places him top-three in the Big Ten each year in attempts from beyond the arc. His most recent season looks like an outlier, and it could have something to do with playing on a horrendous Minnesota team that averaged just 63 points per game.
Second, Ohio State will most likely need to fill both starting forward positions if Sensabaugh stays in the NBA Draft. Incoming freshmen Scotty Middleton and Devin Royal both look like they have the potential to be stars eventually, but it’s a big ask to start both side-by-side right away. Battle will step in and assume one of those two spots, and also bring experience to a team that will start multiple underclassmen regardless. This team may not need Battle to score 17 points per game on 14 shots per night like he did as a junior at Minnesota, but it will need him to be a consistent double-digit scorer night in and night out.
Battle was not ranked by 247Sports coming out of Minneapolis’ De La Salle High School, but Rivals had him as a three-star recruit. Upon announcing he was transferring on March 16, Battle was contacted by Ohio State as well as up to 20 other schools, including Xavier, Butler, Indiana, Clemson, Oklahoma, Iowa State, Utah, LSU, Santa Clara, Nebraska, Illinois, Arkansas, Wake Forest, Oklahoma State, Cincinnati, and Villanova. He visited Ohio State in late March to meet with the coaching staff and check out the facilities and campus.
247Sports rated Battle as the No. 25 transfer available in the transfer portal this year. On3 had him listed as the No. 15 transfer available. If Sensabaugh returns, he will slide into the other forward position next to Battle. If Sensabaugh leaves, it will likely be Middleton or Royal starting alongside Battle.
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LGHL Buck Off Podcast: The year of the tight end, recruiting news, and Brian Hartline man or God?
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Buck Off Podcast: The year of the tight end, recruiting news, and Brian Hartline man or God?
Chris Renne 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
Hartline has made a fanbase numb, and the guys discuss the ridiculous recruiting potential of the 2024 class.
Listen to the episode and subscribe:
On today’s episode of “Buck Off with Christopher Renne,” I’m joined by Jordan Williams to to talk about the ridiculous outlook of Ohio State’s recruiting class and the ascension of one man into the realm of the Gods.
We start the show with a discussion about the tight end position, and why this might be the most sneaky elite unit on the team. Our talk gets into Ryan Day’s love for all things 11/12-personnel, Jordan’s four wide receiver dream, and why this year might be the year the 37 catch total falls. With all this talk, the guys announce the official “Year of the Tight End”
After that, our discussion turns to the recruiting front, and why Brian Hartline’s run of recruits – most recently five-star Mylan Graham – has us all numb to what he is actually accomplishing. The talk continues into a dialogue about Hartline’s white receiver competitiveness and growing career aspirations in the coaching profession.
To close out the recruiting talk, the guys get into the pending commitment of Air Noland and why he might be the most exciting quarterback prospect of the class (hint: he’s left-handed and puts up stats). Then they read the 247Sports Ohio State crystal ball list on air, and discuss how Ohio State’s recruiting might get super ridiculous.
After that our chitchat moves to the running back room. The excitement for Treveyon Henderson needs to start rising, and the health of this room can truly take the team to the next level.
To close out the show, we discuss Ohio State’s career/NIL fair.
Connect with the Show:
Twitter: @BuckOffPod
Connect with Chris Renne:
Twitter: @ChrisRenneCFB
Connect with Jordan Williams
Twitter: @JordanW330
Continue reading...
Chris Renne 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
Hartline has made a fanbase numb, and the guys discuss the ridiculous recruiting potential of the 2024 class.
Listen to the episode and subscribe:
Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio
On today’s episode of “Buck Off with Christopher Renne,” I’m joined by Jordan Williams to to talk about the ridiculous outlook of Ohio State’s recruiting class and the ascension of one man into the realm of the Gods.
We start the show with a discussion about the tight end position, and why this might be the most sneaky elite unit on the team. Our talk gets into Ryan Day’s love for all things 11/12-personnel, Jordan’s four wide receiver dream, and why this year might be the year the 37 catch total falls. With all this talk, the guys announce the official “Year of the Tight End”
After that, our discussion turns to the recruiting front, and why Brian Hartline’s run of recruits – most recently five-star Mylan Graham – has us all numb to what he is actually accomplishing. The talk continues into a dialogue about Hartline’s white receiver competitiveness and growing career aspirations in the coaching profession.
To close out the recruiting talk, the guys get into the pending commitment of Air Noland and why he might be the most exciting quarterback prospect of the class (hint: he’s left-handed and puts up stats). Then they read the 247Sports Ohio State crystal ball list on air, and discuss how Ohio State’s recruiting might get super ridiculous.
After that our chitchat moves to the running back room. The excitement for Treveyon Henderson needs to start rising, and the health of this room can truly take the team to the next level.
To close out the show, we discuss Ohio State’s career/NIL fair.
Connect with the Show:
Twitter: @BuckOffPod
Connect with Chris Renne:
Twitter: @ChrisRenneCFB
Connect with Jordan Williams
Twitter: @JordanW330
Continue reading...
LGHL Ohio State offers 2025 five-star linebacker, makes the cut for pair of 2024 targets
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Ohio State offers 2025 five-star linebacker, makes the cut for pair of 2024 targets
Caleb Houser via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Doral Chenoweth / USA TODAY NETWORK
The Buckeyes kept their fast and furious recruiting approach on Thursday by sending out a new offer in the 2025 class.
Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles has always been a linebacker guy at heart, but when it comes to recruiting he’d even admit that’s he would rather deal with schematics and game planning in comparison to having to be constantly in communication with his top targets.
Fortunately for Ohio State, the Buckeyes were able to bring home former star, James Laurinaitis to help coach the linebacker spot for one, but also to really aid in recruiting. Though he’s not able to travel due to NCAA rules with his specific position, when prospects are on campus Laurinaitis goes to work, and it’s been going well to say the least.
Like Brian Hartline, Laurinaitis brings not only Ohio State experience to the table, but also first-hand NFL success that really translates to what a young recruit needs to hear. Doing everything he’s been asked to at a high level since his arrival in Columbus, the Buckeyes are going to continue leaning on his efforts when targeting linebackers. It looks like another one will now be getting some attention from James, as Ohio State sent out their latest linebacker offer on Thursday in the 2025 class.
Taking to Twitter to share the latest update in his recruitment, the latest to earn a Buckeye offer is California product, Noah Mikhail. A 6-foot-3, 205 pound athlete, Mikhail is only a high school sophomore, but has all of the accolades to show why Ohio State is interested. The No. 28 player nationally, Mikhail is the third-best linebacker in the class and the sixth-best player in California for the 2025 cycle per the 247Sports Composite.
At nearly 30 offers to his name, the Buckeyes may be a little late to the party, but join the likes of Michigan, Notre Dame, USC, Texas, Oklahoma, and several more to offer the five-star. After visits to Michigan and Notre Dame this week, it was Ohio State’s turn to host Noah on Thursday. While the visit clearly went well enough for him to earn an offer, you can bet this won’t be the only time Mikhail hears from Laurinaitis and what the Buckeyes have to offer.
It’s going to be a critical cycle for Ohio State when it comes to landing elite cornerbacks to help solidify a defensive secondary that needs continued attention. Every recruiting class prioritizes the cornerback spot in today’s college football landscape with the high flying passing offenses, but this 2024 class really does seem to be that much more important, and maybe it’s because two of the better players at the position are in-state thanks to Bryce West and Aaron Scott.
Though those are the two highest targets on Ohio State’s board, two players at the position isn’t the goal as the Buckeyes will want to take at least three. Fortunately, there’s several key prospects that have Ohio State in the pecking order, and that was proven to be the case on Thursday as five-star defensive back Kobe Black trimmed his offer list down from 30 schools to a final group of 11.
While 11 programs still being in the mix is quite a few, cutting more than half of the other suitors out of the picture does lead to him getting closer to a decision. Making the cut for Black included LSU, Oregon, Texas, USC, Alabama, TCU, Texas A&M, Florida, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Ohio State. On his 247Sports profile, Black has Alabama, Oklahoma, LSU, Texas, and Ohio State as the “warm” programs, but this really is anyone’s game.
What would be a huge addition for any school at least the Buckeyes are still in it to this point for the No. 16 player nationally and third best cornerback in the country per the 247Sports Composite. As they’ve done well with landing corners out of Texas before, they’ll shoot their shot again in 2024.
With Ohio State included, the other five programs to make the list include Tennessee, Georgia, Florida State, UAB, and Oklahoma. Not the perfect guarantee, it does still carry weight that on his 247Sports profile only Ohio State and Tennessee are listed as “warm” with the in-state school for Spillman holding the lone Crystal Ball prediction.
The Buckeyes may have some work to do here to beat out the Vols, but they’ve made it this far for the No. 245 player nationally and 22nd best linebacker in the country per the 247Sports Composite.
Continue reading...
Caleb Houser via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Doral Chenoweth / USA TODAY NETWORK
The Buckeyes kept their fast and furious recruiting approach on Thursday by sending out a new offer in the 2025 class.
Ohio State sends out offer to 2025 linebacker
Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles has always been a linebacker guy at heart, but when it comes to recruiting he’d even admit that’s he would rather deal with schematics and game planning in comparison to having to be constantly in communication with his top targets.
Fortunately for Ohio State, the Buckeyes were able to bring home former star, James Laurinaitis to help coach the linebacker spot for one, but also to really aid in recruiting. Though he’s not able to travel due to NCAA rules with his specific position, when prospects are on campus Laurinaitis goes to work, and it’s been going well to say the least.
Like Brian Hartline, Laurinaitis brings not only Ohio State experience to the table, but also first-hand NFL success that really translates to what a young recruit needs to hear. Doing everything he’s been asked to at a high level since his arrival in Columbus, the Buckeyes are going to continue leaning on his efforts when targeting linebackers. It looks like another one will now be getting some attention from James, as Ohio State sent out their latest linebacker offer on Thursday in the 2025 class.
Taking to Twitter to share the latest update in his recruitment, the latest to earn a Buckeye offer is California product, Noah Mikhail. A 6-foot-3, 205 pound athlete, Mikhail is only a high school sophomore, but has all of the accolades to show why Ohio State is interested. The No. 28 player nationally, Mikhail is the third-best linebacker in the class and the sixth-best player in California for the 2025 cycle per the 247Sports Composite.
At nearly 30 offers to his name, the Buckeyes may be a little late to the party, but join the likes of Michigan, Notre Dame, USC, Texas, Oklahoma, and several more to offer the five-star. After visits to Michigan and Notre Dame this week, it was Ohio State’s turn to host Noah on Thursday. While the visit clearly went well enough for him to earn an offer, you can bet this won’t be the only time Mikhail hears from Laurinaitis and what the Buckeyes have to offer.
Buckeyes make the cut for five-star defensive back
It’s going to be a critical cycle for Ohio State when it comes to landing elite cornerbacks to help solidify a defensive secondary that needs continued attention. Every recruiting class prioritizes the cornerback spot in today’s college football landscape with the high flying passing offenses, but this 2024 class really does seem to be that much more important, and maybe it’s because two of the better players at the position are in-state thanks to Bryce West and Aaron Scott.
Though those are the two highest targets on Ohio State’s board, two players at the position isn’t the goal as the Buckeyes will want to take at least three. Fortunately, there’s several key prospects that have Ohio State in the pecking order, and that was proven to be the case on Thursday as five-star defensive back Kobe Black trimmed his offer list down from 30 schools to a final group of 11.
While 11 programs still being in the mix is quite a few, cutting more than half of the other suitors out of the picture does lead to him getting closer to a decision. Making the cut for Black included LSU, Oregon, Texas, USC, Alabama, TCU, Texas A&M, Florida, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Ohio State. On his 247Sports profile, Black has Alabama, Oklahoma, LSU, Texas, and Ohio State as the “warm” programs, but this really is anyone’s game.
What would be a huge addition for any school at least the Buckeyes are still in it to this point for the No. 16 player nationally and third best cornerback in the country per the 247Sports Composite. As they’ve done well with landing corners out of Texas before, they’ll shoot their shot again in 2024.
BREAKING: Five-Star CB Kobe Black is down toSchools!
The 6’2 188 CB from Waco, TX is ranked as a Top 15 Player in the ‘24 Class (No. 2 CB)
Where Should He Go? https://t.co/G1O5WfpYti pic.twitter.com/c6tnpa6OYN
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) April 6, 2023
Quick Hits
- Another top schools list being published on Thursday, this one from Edwin Spillman. A 2024 linebacker, Spillman is a 6-foot-1, 215 pound athlete out of Tennessee and has an impressive 34 offers to his name. Taking things seriously, Spillman cut his list all the way down to just six finalists before he comes to his final call.
With Ohio State included, the other five programs to make the list include Tennessee, Georgia, Florida State, UAB, and Oklahoma. Not the perfect guarantee, it does still carry weight that on his 247Sports profile only Ohio State and Tennessee are listed as “warm” with the in-state school for Spillman holding the lone Crystal Ball prediction.
The Buckeyes may have some work to do here to beat out the Vols, but they’ve made it this far for the No. 245 player nationally and 22nd best linebacker in the country per the 247Sports Composite.
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LGHL What is Ohio State men’s basketball getting in Jamison Battle?
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What is Ohio State men’s basketball getting in Jamison Battle?
Connor Lemons 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
Battle represents one of the biggest — if not the biggest — transfer addition in the Chris Holtmann era at Ohio State.
On Thursday afternoon, former Minnesota forward Jamison Battle announced he was transferring to Ohio State for his final year of eligibility. Battle, who transferred from George Washington to Minnesota in the summer of 2021, will be a graduate of the University of Minnesota and therefore will not need to sit one year, per NCAA guidelines.
Ohio State fans should be relatively familiar with the 6-foot-7, 220-pound lefty, as he’s played in the Big Ten for two seasons now and tangled with the Buckeyes thrice, going 1-2 in the process and averaging just over 12 points per game in those appearances. If they’ve watched him beyond just those three games (if you don’t watch Minnesota basketball, that’s understandable), then they’ll know that Battle might be the perfect addition to this roster, even if he doesn’t quite reach his full potential.
Here’s what Chris Holtmann’s Buckeyes are getting with Battle, and some logic as to why he was a massive target for this coaching staff:
With the departure of Justice Sueing and Brice Sensabaugh’s likely exit for the NBA Draft, Ohio State is suddenly without both of its starting forwards from last season. Scotty Middleton and Devin Royal are both high four-star recruits and will likely see some starts next season, but starting any combination of Royal, Middleton, Tanner Holden, and Kalen Etzler is a great recipe for another 13th-place finish in the Big Ten (respectfully). A move had to be made.
The transfer portal was pretty heavy with guards this year, while forwards were a bit harder to come by. Battle was one of the best power forwards looking to transfer, and he will slide right in to Ohio State’s starting lineup in November, likely alongside one of the aforementioned talented freshmen.
At 6-foot-7 and just over 220 pounds, Battle is big enough to finish in traffic and could surprise people with his rebounding, but his biggest asset is his three-point shot. Back and foot injuries — plus playing on a horrendous Minnesota team last year — impacted his numbers, but Battle is still a 35% three-point shooter for his career and he takes them in bunches.
With Sueing, Sensabaugh, and Sean McNeil gone, that leaves Ohio State without three of its top four three-point shooters from last season. Those three combined to hit 61.5% of the Buckeyes’ threes last season, and Chris Holtmann and his staff are now tasked with replacing those makes somehow. Battle is a good start.
For his career, Battle averages 7.1 three-point attempts per game and 5.1 two-point attempts. That’s not quite “Justin Ahrens” range, but Battle has historically preferred to knock down jumpers as opposed to driving. However, 42% of his shots have come from inside the arc, so he won’t exclusively operate on the outside. And with his size, he can finish at the rim.
Before seeing his numbers dip drastically last season, Battle shot 37%, 35%, and 37% from distance in his first three years in college. Holtmann is certainly banking on him returning to that level, so that the tandem of Zed Key and Felix Okpara will have room to operate below the basket. Battle drawing attention on the outside will also help Roddy Gayle and Bruce Thornton be the best versions of themselves — to guys who are at their best when able to carve inside for higher percentage looks around the basket.
It’s cliché and sometimes overused, but as of now Battle and Holden are the two most experienced players on the 2023-24 roster. Much was made about the youth of last season’s team, but next season’s roster will still include a whopping eight underclassmen — four freshmen and four sophomores.
Gayle, Thornton, and Okpara have all experienced the grind of a full Big Ten season now, and their youth will no longer be used as an excuse if and when struggles happen. Still, this Ohio State team is shaping up to only have three or four upperclassmen, including Battle. There’s a good chance he will be voted one of the team captains come August, alongside Thornton and Key.
Ohio State’s last two recruiting classes have clearly kept a close eye on the defensive side of the ball. Sensabaugh is the outlier, but Thornton, Gayle, and Okpara all proved to be average to above-average defenders last season, with plenty of room to grow. Middleton hasn’t even arrived yet, but expectations are sky high for the 6-foot-6 versatile wing from Miami. We can finally begin to slide some of these pieces around in our minds and see what Holtmann and his coaching staff have been formulating over the past two-plus years on the defensive end.
Battle does not bring a defensive pedigree to Columbus, although it’s hard to recall too many instances where his defense stuck out as obtusely poor. At his size, he can’t switch onto many guards or centers, but can bounce between the three and four. He averages exactly two personal fouls per game and only has 53 career steals and 42 career blocks over four years, so I wouldn’t categorize him as the biggest risk taker on defense.
He’ll guard his man, but don’t expect Battle to jump many passing lanes or reject many shots at the rim.
Including the saxophone, apparently?
Perhaps the biggest knock on Chris Holtmann’s transfer portal moves to this point is that he rarely goes out and adds a player with a “killer” mentality that can score in bunches. Instead, Ohio State has filled specific niche roles and valued experience — sometimes it’s worked out, and sometimes it hasn’t.
Battle does bring experience and some other attributes in small quantities, but his biggest asset is that he can flat-out score the basketball. On top of that, he’s already done it in the Big Ten, averaging 17.5 points per game as a junior at Minnesota and 12.4 PPG last year as a senior.
Holden brought the enticing possibility of big-time scoring ability, but for one reason or another it simply has not materialized to this point. Battle, on the other hand, scored 10+ points in all but 12 games at Minnesota, including 17 games scoring 20 or more points and two games scoring 30-plus. There were nights where Battle would score eight or 10 straight points for the Gophers, keeping a putrid offense afloat even if the end result was still a loss by the final buzzer.
There will be games where he puts up a crooked number while also being inefficient — that comes with the territory when adding someone with the offensive splits Battle has. But because he’s not reluctant to shoot the ball, his floor is very high. He may not average 17 points per game again, but 10-12 PPG looks like his floor, with the possibility of much more.
For the first time since arriving in Columbus six years ago, Holtmann went out and grabbed a bucket-getter, with little concern about the other stuff. Take the points, and worry about the rest later.
Continue reading...
Connor Lemons 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
Battle represents one of the biggest — if not the biggest — transfer addition in the Chris Holtmann era at Ohio State.
On Thursday afternoon, former Minnesota forward Jamison Battle announced he was transferring to Ohio State for his final year of eligibility. Battle, who transferred from George Washington to Minnesota in the summer of 2021, will be a graduate of the University of Minnesota and therefore will not need to sit one year, per NCAA guidelines.
Ohio State fans should be relatively familiar with the 6-foot-7, 220-pound lefty, as he’s played in the Big Ten for two seasons now and tangled with the Buckeyes thrice, going 1-2 in the process and averaging just over 12 points per game in those appearances. If they’ve watched him beyond just those three games (if you don’t watch Minnesota basketball, that’s understandable), then they’ll know that Battle might be the perfect addition to this roster, even if he doesn’t quite reach his full potential.
Here’s what Chris Holtmann’s Buckeyes are getting with Battle, and some logic as to why he was a massive target for this coaching staff:
A big body on the perimeter
With the departure of Justice Sueing and Brice Sensabaugh’s likely exit for the NBA Draft, Ohio State is suddenly without both of its starting forwards from last season. Scotty Middleton and Devin Royal are both high four-star recruits and will likely see some starts next season, but starting any combination of Royal, Middleton, Tanner Holden, and Kalen Etzler is a great recipe for another 13th-place finish in the Big Ten (respectfully). A move had to be made.
The transfer portal was pretty heavy with guards this year, while forwards were a bit harder to come by. Battle was one of the best power forwards looking to transfer, and he will slide right in to Ohio State’s starting lineup in November, likely alongside one of the aforementioned talented freshmen.
At 6-foot-7 and just over 220 pounds, Battle is big enough to finish in traffic and could surprise people with his rebounding, but his biggest asset is his three-point shot. Back and foot injuries — plus playing on a horrendous Minnesota team last year — impacted his numbers, but Battle is still a 35% three-point shooter for his career and he takes them in bunches.
Someone to stretch the floor, open up driving lanes
With Sueing, Sensabaugh, and Sean McNeil gone, that leaves Ohio State without three of its top four three-point shooters from last season. Those three combined to hit 61.5% of the Buckeyes’ threes last season, and Chris Holtmann and his staff are now tasked with replacing those makes somehow. Battle is a good start.
For his career, Battle averages 7.1 three-point attempts per game and 5.1 two-point attempts. That’s not quite “Justin Ahrens” range, but Battle has historically preferred to knock down jumpers as opposed to driving. However, 42% of his shots have come from inside the arc, so he won’t exclusively operate on the outside. And with his size, he can finish at the rim.
Before seeing his numbers dip drastically last season, Battle shot 37%, 35%, and 37% from distance in his first three years in college. Holtmann is certainly banking on him returning to that level, so that the tandem of Zed Key and Felix Okpara will have room to operate below the basket. Battle drawing attention on the outside will also help Roddy Gayle and Bruce Thornton be the best versions of themselves — to guys who are at their best when able to carve inside for higher percentage looks around the basket.
Experience
It’s cliché and sometimes overused, but as of now Battle and Holden are the two most experienced players on the 2023-24 roster. Much was made about the youth of last season’s team, but next season’s roster will still include a whopping eight underclassmen — four freshmen and four sophomores.
Gayle, Thornton, and Okpara have all experienced the grind of a full Big Ten season now, and their youth will no longer be used as an excuse if and when struggles happen. Still, this Ohio State team is shaping up to only have three or four upperclassmen, including Battle. There’s a good chance he will be voted one of the team captains come August, alongside Thornton and Key.
An able (but not great) defender
Ohio State’s last two recruiting classes have clearly kept a close eye on the defensive side of the ball. Sensabaugh is the outlier, but Thornton, Gayle, and Okpara all proved to be average to above-average defenders last season, with plenty of room to grow. Middleton hasn’t even arrived yet, but expectations are sky high for the 6-foot-6 versatile wing from Miami. We can finally begin to slide some of these pieces around in our minds and see what Holtmann and his coaching staff have been formulating over the past two-plus years on the defensive end.
Battle does not bring a defensive pedigree to Columbus, although it’s hard to recall too many instances where his defense stuck out as obtusely poor. At his size, he can’t switch onto many guards or centers, but can bounce between the three and four. He averages exactly two personal fouls per game and only has 53 career steals and 42 career blocks over four years, so I wouldn’t categorize him as the biggest risk taker on defense.
He’ll guard his man, but don’t expect Battle to jump many passing lanes or reject many shots at the rim.
A man of many talents
Including the saxophone, apparently?
Someone who can (and will) take over games
JAMISON BATTLE
: B1G+ pic.twitter.com/LDIBkAqx7y
— Minnesota Men's Basketball (@GopherMBB) November 10, 2021
Perhaps the biggest knock on Chris Holtmann’s transfer portal moves to this point is that he rarely goes out and adds a player with a “killer” mentality that can score in bunches. Instead, Ohio State has filled specific niche roles and valued experience — sometimes it’s worked out, and sometimes it hasn’t.
Battle does bring experience and some other attributes in small quantities, but his biggest asset is that he can flat-out score the basketball. On top of that, he’s already done it in the Big Ten, averaging 17.5 points per game as a junior at Minnesota and 12.4 PPG last year as a senior.
Holden brought the enticing possibility of big-time scoring ability, but for one reason or another it simply has not materialized to this point. Battle, on the other hand, scored 10+ points in all but 12 games at Minnesota, including 17 games scoring 20 or more points and two games scoring 30-plus. There were nights where Battle would score eight or 10 straight points for the Gophers, keeping a putrid offense afloat even if the end result was still a loss by the final buzzer.
There will be games where he puts up a crooked number while also being inefficient — that comes with the territory when adding someone with the offensive splits Battle has. But because he’s not reluctant to shoot the ball, his floor is very high. He may not average 17 points per game again, but 10-12 PPG looks like his floor, with the possibility of much more.
For the first time since arriving in Columbus six years ago, Holtmann went out and grabbed a bucket-getter, with little concern about the other stuff. Take the points, and worry about the rest later.
Continue reading...
2026 GA DL Deuce Geralds (Verbal Offer)
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- Football Recruiting
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Class: 2026
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School: Suwanee (GA) Collins Hill
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 240lbs
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2025 OH S Trey McNutt (Oregon Signee)
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LGHL You’re Nuts: Should Roddy Gayle be guaranteed a starting spot next season?
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You’re Nuts: Should Roddy Gayle be guaranteed a starting spot next season?
justingolba via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
The now-sophomore had an uneven freshman season but finished strong at the Big Ten Tournament.
We are officially in transfer portal season, and the Buckeyes have already stirred up some action. To this point, Ohio State junior forward Eugene Brown entered the portal, and Minnesota forward Jamison Battle has committed to the Buckeyes.
With the moving and shuffling of rosters, it is inevitable for the projected starting lineup takes, tweets and articles to start popping up — so we will indulge.
Last week, we finished up our rankings of the positions from last season with the center group. Connor gave the group a B and Justin gave the group a C.
Here was the final poll. Justin won with 52 percent of the votes.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24568059/Screenshot__5_.png)
And here are the updated standings.
Justin- 42
And now it is onto this week with this week’s question.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24567997/usa_today_20193175.jpg "NCAA Basketball: Big Ten Conference Tournament Quarterfinals - Michigan State vs Ohio State")
Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
If Gayle isn’t starting for Ohio State in November, then what are we really doing here? Time and time again last season — a season where Ohio State slogged to a sub-.500 record — we were told that despite the losses, the young players were getting better. We were told (and the players agreed) that the Buckeyes were taking their lumps, but that over time, the experience would pay dividends.
And wouldn’t you know it, by the end of the season it appeared that statement was finally starting to ring true. Bruce Thornton was impressive for most of his freshman season, scoring 10 or more points 19 different times. Gayle saw his minutes fluctuate, however, and didn’t truly take off until the Big Ten Tournament.
But once he did, my goodness was it impressive.
Roddy found the ball in his hands often in the Big Ten Tournament. He knocked down a crucial shot and hit two clutch free throws to win the first game against Wisconsin. He averaged 14.7 points in the Iowa, Michigan State, and Purdue games that followed, including knocking down nine of his 10 three-pointers.
Despite not being a featured cog of the offense much this season, Chris Holtmann trusted Gayle to make the correct decisions throughout the Big Ten Tournament. And pretty much every time he was forced to take a shot or make a decision in crunch time, he passed the test.
Gayle was an asset on the defensive end all season long, even when the minutes and opportunities were few and far between. The Buckeyes graded out as a putrid defensive team last year, ranking No. 106 in KenPom’s defensive metrics. But with Gayle on the floor in the Big Ten Tournament, Ohio State held Wisconsin and Michigan State below 60 points, and a high-powered Iowa offense that was the fourth-best in the nation below 70.
It’s likely that Ohio State will add a guard via the transfer portal before next season begins, and Gayle may have to compete with him to earn the starting spot. The truth is that 25% of Gayle’s points on the season came in the final three games. Is that torrid level of production sustainable for him over the course of a full 35-40 game season? Probably not, but I also don’t think it’s a coincidence that Gayle suddenly started scoring when a) he was given more minutes and b) Brice Sensabaugh was out of the lineup, freeing up shots. Coincidentally, both of those prerequisites will (probably) be in play next season, too.
Three games could be a sign of things to come, or it could be a fluke! But Holtmann didn’t start Gayle for the final 10 games of his freshman season just to relegate him to the bench as a sophomore. If we don’t pull the training wheels off this fall, then what was the point of grinding through that brutal season on the backs of him and the other freshmen?
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24567966/usa_today_20202612.jpg "Syndication: Journal-Courier")
Alex Martin/Journal and Courier / USA TODAY NETWORK
First of all, I have to comment on last week’s results. Ohio State has two centers on the roster. One was honorable mention All-Big Ten while playing through an injury, and the other was a freshman who looked really good towards the end of the season, and 80 percent of the votes were C or worse. I just feel we are setting the bar a little high.
Anywho, onto Roddy Gayle.
I voted No, but I want to clarify it with two things. First of all, I think Roddy Gayle Jr. will start, and second of all I hope he does start. However, I am taking the word ’definite’ very literally and that is why we are going with a no to this answer.
I am almost positive that Bruce Thornton and Roddy Gayle are the backcourt of the Buckeyes future. But being in the starting lineup is not the end all be all. Mainly because guys care way more about being in at the end of the game than the beginning. So, you don’t necessarily have to start him, you just have to make sure he is playing meaningful minutes.
Also, while he did finish the season on an incredible note, there were many times this season that he struggled. This is obviously understandable for a freshman in the Big Ten, but next season he will still only be a sophomore and if they do bring in a veteran guard from the portal or even if Tanner Holden stays, it may make more sense to start Thornton and a vet at the two and bring Gayle off the bench.
For what it is worth, I do think Gayle could start at the three possibly.
Continue reading...
justingolba via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
The now-sophomore had an uneven freshman season but finished strong at the Big Ten Tournament.
We are officially in transfer portal season, and the Buckeyes have already stirred up some action. To this point, Ohio State junior forward Eugene Brown entered the portal, and Minnesota forward Jamison Battle has committed to the Buckeyes.
With the moving and shuffling of rosters, it is inevitable for the projected starting lineup takes, tweets and articles to start popping up — so we will indulge.
Last week, we finished up our rankings of the positions from last season with the center group. Connor gave the group a B and Justin gave the group a C.
Here was the final poll. Justin won with 52 percent of the votes.
And here are the updated standings.
After 95 weeks:
Justin- 42
Connor- 38
Other- 11
(There have been four ties)
And now it is onto this week with this week’s question.
Today’s Question: Should Roddy Gayle be guaranteed a starting spot next season?
Connor: Yes
If Gayle isn’t starting for Ohio State in November, then what are we really doing here? Time and time again last season — a season where Ohio State slogged to a sub-.500 record — we were told that despite the losses, the young players were getting better. We were told (and the players agreed) that the Buckeyes were taking their lumps, but that over time, the experience would pay dividends.
And wouldn’t you know it, by the end of the season it appeared that statement was finally starting to ring true. Bruce Thornton was impressive for most of his freshman season, scoring 10 or more points 19 different times. Gayle saw his minutes fluctuate, however, and didn’t truly take off until the Big Ten Tournament.
But once he did, my goodness was it impressive.
Roddy found the ball in his hands often in the Big Ten Tournament. He knocked down a crucial shot and hit two clutch free throws to win the first game against Wisconsin. He averaged 14.7 points in the Iowa, Michigan State, and Purdue games that followed, including knocking down nine of his 10 three-pointers.
Despite not being a featured cog of the offense much this season, Chris Holtmann trusted Gayle to make the correct decisions throughout the Big Ten Tournament. And pretty much every time he was forced to take a shot or make a decision in crunch time, he passed the test.
RODDY GAYLE JR@roddy_gayle x @OhioStateHoops pic.twitter.com/iBq5mS6NTh
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) March 10, 2023
Gayle was an asset on the defensive end all season long, even when the minutes and opportunities were few and far between. The Buckeyes graded out as a putrid defensive team last year, ranking No. 106 in KenPom’s defensive metrics. But with Gayle on the floor in the Big Ten Tournament, Ohio State held Wisconsin and Michigan State below 60 points, and a high-powered Iowa offense that was the fourth-best in the nation below 70.
It’s likely that Ohio State will add a guard via the transfer portal before next season begins, and Gayle may have to compete with him to earn the starting spot. The truth is that 25% of Gayle’s points on the season came in the final three games. Is that torrid level of production sustainable for him over the course of a full 35-40 game season? Probably not, but I also don’t think it’s a coincidence that Gayle suddenly started scoring when a) he was given more minutes and b) Brice Sensabaugh was out of the lineup, freeing up shots. Coincidentally, both of those prerequisites will (probably) be in play next season, too.
Three games could be a sign of things to come, or it could be a fluke! But Holtmann didn’t start Gayle for the final 10 games of his freshman season just to relegate him to the bench as a sophomore. If we don’t pull the training wheels off this fall, then what was the point of grinding through that brutal season on the backs of him and the other freshmen?
Justin: No
First of all, I have to comment on last week’s results. Ohio State has two centers on the roster. One was honorable mention All-Big Ten while playing through an injury, and the other was a freshman who looked really good towards the end of the season, and 80 percent of the votes were C or worse. I just feel we are setting the bar a little high.
Anywho, onto Roddy Gayle.
I voted No, but I want to clarify it with two things. First of all, I think Roddy Gayle Jr. will start, and second of all I hope he does start. However, I am taking the word ’definite’ very literally and that is why we are going with a no to this answer.
I am almost positive that Bruce Thornton and Roddy Gayle are the backcourt of the Buckeyes future. But being in the starting lineup is not the end all be all. Mainly because guys care way more about being in at the end of the game than the beginning. So, you don’t necessarily have to start him, you just have to make sure he is playing meaningful minutes.
Also, while he did finish the season on an incredible note, there were many times this season that he struggled. This is obviously understandable for a freshman in the Big Ten, but next season he will still only be a sophomore and if they do bring in a veteran guard from the portal or even if Tanner Holden stays, it may make more sense to start Thornton and a vet at the two and bring Gayle off the bench.
For what it is worth, I do think Gayle could start at the three possibly.
Continue reading...
LGHL Ohio State football remains hot on the recruiting trail, but lacks defense in their 2024 class
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Ohio State football remains hot on the recruiting trail, but lacks defense in their 2024 class
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 / USA TODAY NETWORK
The Buckeyes have landed yet another five-star receiver to go with three other offensive commits since March 27. But with just one defensive player currently in the 2024 class, should OSU fans and/or coaches be concerned?
The Ohio State Buckeyes received a verbal commitment from five-star wide receiver Mylan Graham on Tuesday, proving once again that Brian Hartline is on another level when it comes to recruiting. OSU’s new offensive coordinator beat everyone to the punch with this talented Indiana wideout, extending Graham his first D1 offer back in June of last year. Graham now joins fellow five-star WR Jeremiah Smith in what could ultimately become a special 2024 class.
Graham’s commitment was Ohio State’s fourth since March 27 alone, giving the program strong momentum as they approach an otherwise slow part of the year. There is likely to be additional BOOM activity over the summer, but little in the way of organized team activity... The dog days of summer, indeed. Especially for us college football fans.
Regardless, Graham joining Devontae Armstrong, Deonte Armstrong and James Peoples as recent Scarlet and Gray pledges means the Buckeyes’ next recruiting class is coming together quite nicely — and that might be underselling it. However, there does seem to be an elephant in the room, which some OSU fans are choosing to ignore.
Me bringing up something to be pessimistic about? Never! But let’s acknowledge the situation here.
Of the eight players currently committed to Ohio State’s 2024 class, seven play either exclusively or primarily on the offensive side of the ball. The program’s lone defensive commit, Garrett Stover, has played both ways, but is being recruited as a linebacker or safety. Sounds like a different Stover... who just so happens to be Garrett’s cousin... and played both ways in high school... and was recruited by the Buckeyes as a linebacker. Guess how that turned out.
OSU does appear to be in good standing with a number of defenders, including in-state cornerbacks Bryce West and Aaron Scott, as well as national targets Dylan Stewart and Justin Scott, among others. But none of those players have pulled the trigger on a pledge to the Scarlet and Gray, leaving Ryan Day and his staff with little to hang their hat on in terms of future defensive additions.
Admittedly, it is very early in the process for 2024 recruits, but this slow burn – combined with multiple swings and misses last cycle – has to be at least a teeny, tiny bit concerning... Right?
The fact of the matter is, defensive coordinator Jim Knowles landed one commitment in the 2023 class. And Tony Alford, an offensive coach, helped with that player’s (Arvell Reese) recruitment. Tim Walton and Perry Eliano fared better on the recruiting trail but have yet to prove they can elevate Ohio State’s secondary on the field.
As for Larry Johnson, he deserves the benefit of the doubt. He took enormous swings attempting to land an elite prospect or two in the ‘23 class and missed. But the Buckeyes still have guys like J.T. Tuimoloau, Jack Sawyer, Mike Hall Jr., Caden Curry, and Kenyatta Jackson because of him.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24564358/usa_today_18818492.jpg)
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
Drip too hard...
So is OSU behind the 8-ball when it comes to defensive recruiting? Or are their offensive coaches and recruiters just that far ahead?
I am going to cautiously lean toward the latter. Because it is April of 2023, and these players will not sign their official letter of intent until next year! Many will change their mind(s) a dozen times between now and then anyway. That is just indicative of the world in which these college coaches and programs currently live. Verbal commitments don’t mean a whole hell of a lot right now, especially with all the jockeying and flipping certain to occur before National Signing Day.
Now, would it be nice to have a few explosive edge rushers or sticky corners already in the fold for 2024? Sure. But most programs have barely even started building their future classes. Texas currently has two total commitments. Alabama has four, only one of which is from a defender. Oregon and Florida each have five, Clemson and Tennessee six... You see where I’m going with this. It. Is. Early.
Besides, there are plenty of other Ohio State football-related issues to worry about. Such as: QB play, inexperience along the offensive line, and/or the Buckeyes’ sieve-like secondary. So let’s all practice some patience, enjoy the upcoming Spring Game, and just wait for more Mark Pantoni BOOM tweets. They’re comin’, hopefully from a bunch of future Silver Bullets.
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 / USA TODAY NETWORK
The Buckeyes have landed yet another five-star receiver to go with three other offensive commits since March 27. But with just one defensive player currently in the 2024 class, should OSU fans and/or coaches be concerned?
The Ohio State Buckeyes received a verbal commitment from five-star wide receiver Mylan Graham on Tuesday, proving once again that Brian Hartline is on another level when it comes to recruiting. OSU’s new offensive coordinator beat everyone to the punch with this talented Indiana wideout, extending Graham his first D1 offer back in June of last year. Graham now joins fellow five-star WR Jeremiah Smith in what could ultimately become a special 2024 class.
Graham’s commitment was Ohio State’s fourth since March 27 alone, giving the program strong momentum as they approach an otherwise slow part of the year. There is likely to be additional BOOM activity over the summer, but little in the way of organized team activity... The dog days of summer, indeed. Especially for us college football fans.
Regardless, Graham joining Devontae Armstrong, Deonte Armstrong and James Peoples as recent Scarlet and Gray pledges means the Buckeyes’ next recruiting class is coming together quite nicely — and that might be underselling it. However, there does seem to be an elephant in the room, which some OSU fans are choosing to ignore.
Me bringing up something to be pessimistic about? Never! But let’s acknowledge the situation here.
Of the eight players currently committed to Ohio State’s 2024 class, seven play either exclusively or primarily on the offensive side of the ball. The program’s lone defensive commit, Garrett Stover, has played both ways, but is being recruited as a linebacker or safety. Sounds like a different Stover... who just so happens to be Garrett’s cousin... and played both ways in high school... and was recruited by the Buckeyes as a linebacker. Guess how that turned out.
OSU does appear to be in good standing with a number of defenders, including in-state cornerbacks Bryce West and Aaron Scott, as well as national targets Dylan Stewart and Justin Scott, among others. But none of those players have pulled the trigger on a pledge to the Scarlet and Gray, leaving Ryan Day and his staff with little to hang their hat on in terms of future defensive additions.
Admittedly, it is very early in the process for 2024 recruits, but this slow burn – combined with multiple swings and misses last cycle – has to be at least a teeny, tiny bit concerning... Right?
The fact of the matter is, defensive coordinator Jim Knowles landed one commitment in the 2023 class. And Tony Alford, an offensive coach, helped with that player’s (Arvell Reese) recruitment. Tim Walton and Perry Eliano fared better on the recruiting trail but have yet to prove they can elevate Ohio State’s secondary on the field.
As for Larry Johnson, he deserves the benefit of the doubt. He took enormous swings attempting to land an elite prospect or two in the ‘23 class and missed. But the Buckeyes still have guys like J.T. Tuimoloau, Jack Sawyer, Mike Hall Jr., Caden Curry, and Kenyatta Jackson because of him.
Drip too hard...
So is OSU behind the 8-ball when it comes to defensive recruiting? Or are their offensive coaches and recruiters just that far ahead?
I am going to cautiously lean toward the latter. Because it is April of 2023, and these players will not sign their official letter of intent until next year! Many will change their mind(s) a dozen times between now and then anyway. That is just indicative of the world in which these college coaches and programs currently live. Verbal commitments don’t mean a whole hell of a lot right now, especially with all the jockeying and flipping certain to occur before National Signing Day.
Now, would it be nice to have a few explosive edge rushers or sticky corners already in the fold for 2024? Sure. But most programs have barely even started building their future classes. Texas currently has two total commitments. Alabama has four, only one of which is from a defender. Oregon and Florida each have five, Clemson and Tennessee six... You see where I’m going with this. It. Is. Early.
Besides, there are plenty of other Ohio State football-related issues to worry about. Such as: QB play, inexperience along the offensive line, and/or the Buckeyes’ sieve-like secondary. So let’s all practice some patience, enjoy the upcoming Spring Game, and just wait for more Mark Pantoni BOOM tweets. They’re comin’, hopefully from a bunch of future Silver Bullets.
Continue reading...
LGHL Three Questions about the 2023 Ohio State secondary
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Three Questions about the 2023 Ohio State secondary
CMinnich 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
Have the Buckeyes adjusted their approach from 2022?
“Early spring is the time for vigorous change, a preparation for the heat-driven oppression that is to come.” ~ Henry Rollins
Please bring on the heat, if you can, Mr. Rollins. It is always welcomed enthusiastically by me.
As Ohio State spring football continues on, I have decided to write a series of articles on a weekly basis to identify and rank the position groups, from least to most concerning, as they pertain to the upcoming 2023 season. Each week, I will point out questions I have about these position groups, and it is my hope that several, if not all, of these questions will be answered by the Ohio State Spring Game on April 15.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Secondary | Concern Ranking: 2nd
Reason for my ranking: Ohio State’s secondary was heavily scrutinized by the fans for its poor play versus Michigan and Georgia — the two biggest opponents on the two biggest stages. Key players have departed, but Ohio State was able to supplement the roster with two key additions from the transfer portal in Davison Igbinosun (Mississippi) and Ja’Had Carter (Syracuse).
Will the additions of Igbinosun and Carter, as well as another year of tutelage from cornerbacks coach Tim Walton and safeties coach Perry Eliano translate into better play on the field in 2023?
______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Every Ohio State fan can unfortunately see the big plays given up against Michigan and Georgia when they close their eyes and reflect upon the 2022 season. While no secondary is invulnerable to giving up big plays, the coaching staff’s inexplicable decisions to play with no deep safety help against Michigan and Georgia deserved the scorn and scrutiny of the fan base.
Some painful statistics to remind people: eight plays of at least 45 yards given up against the Wolverines and Bulldogs, six of which resulted in touchdowns. It will bear watching this season to see if lessons have been learned and mistakes corrected.
2. Can Denzel Burke Rebound From A Shaky 2022 Season?
Burke started as a true freshman in 2021, and Ohio State fans were optimistically expecting big things in 2022. Burke battled injuries and inconsistent play in 2022, and could be bouncing back with a strong 2023 season. Burke will be a necessary component for an Ohio State secondary that will lean on experience going into the 2023 season.
3. What Role Will Sonny Styles Play In 2023?
Sonny Styles has captivated Ohio State fans and coaches with his impressive athletic talents and physical style of play. Styles should be a true freshman, but graduated a year early to play for Ohio State in 2022, and was trusted enough to be on the field versus Georgia in the Peach Bowl. With the abundance of players at safety, where will Styles line up in 2023?
“I think when you look at the potential best 11 players for the 2023 defense, he’s a guy that our staff is gonna point at and say, ‘We need to find a way to get him in there’...” ~ Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles on Sonny Styles
Continue reading...
CMinnich 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
Have the Buckeyes adjusted their approach from 2022?
“Early spring is the time for vigorous change, a preparation for the heat-driven oppression that is to come.” ~ Henry Rollins
Please bring on the heat, if you can, Mr. Rollins. It is always welcomed enthusiastically by me.
As Ohio State spring football continues on, I have decided to write a series of articles on a weekly basis to identify and rank the position groups, from least to most concerning, as they pertain to the upcoming 2023 season. Each week, I will point out questions I have about these position groups, and it is my hope that several, if not all, of these questions will be answered by the Ohio State Spring Game on April 15.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Secondary | Concern Ranking: 2nd
- Scholarship Players Lost From The 2022 Squad: Cameron Brown, Jantzen Dunn, JK Johnson, Jaylen Johnson, Ronnie Hickman, Tanner McCalister
- Scholarship Players Returning From The 2022 Squad: Jyaire Brown, Denzel Burke, Jordan Hancock, Cameron Martinez, Josh Proctor, Kye Stokes, Sonny Styles, Ryan Turner, Kourt Williams II
- Freshmen Players Participating In 2023 Spring Football: Malik Hartford, Jermaine Mathews, Jr.
Reason for my ranking: Ohio State’s secondary was heavily scrutinized by the fans for its poor play versus Michigan and Georgia — the two biggest opponents on the two biggest stages. Key players have departed, but Ohio State was able to supplement the roster with two key additions from the transfer portal in Davison Igbinosun (Mississippi) and Ja’Had Carter (Syracuse).
Will the additions of Igbinosun and Carter, as well as another year of tutelage from cornerbacks coach Tim Walton and safeties coach Perry Eliano translate into better play on the field in 2023?
______________________________________________________________________________________________________
- Has The Defensive Coaching Staff Learned From Its Mistakes Of 2022?
Every Ohio State fan can unfortunately see the big plays given up against Michigan and Georgia when they close their eyes and reflect upon the 2022 season. While no secondary is invulnerable to giving up big plays, the coaching staff’s inexplicable decisions to play with no deep safety help against Michigan and Georgia deserved the scorn and scrutiny of the fan base.
Some painful statistics to remind people: eight plays of at least 45 yards given up against the Wolverines and Bulldogs, six of which resulted in touchdowns. It will bear watching this season to see if lessons have been learned and mistakes corrected.
2. Can Denzel Burke Rebound From A Shaky 2022 Season?
Burke started as a true freshman in 2021, and Ohio State fans were optimistically expecting big things in 2022. Burke battled injuries and inconsistent play in 2022, and could be bouncing back with a strong 2023 season. Burke will be a necessary component for an Ohio State secondary that will lean on experience going into the 2023 season.
3. What Role Will Sonny Styles Play In 2023?
Sonny Styles has captivated Ohio State fans and coaches with his impressive athletic talents and physical style of play. Styles should be a true freshman, but graduated a year early to play for Ohio State in 2022, and was trusted enough to be on the field versus Georgia in the Peach Bowl. With the abundance of players at safety, where will Styles line up in 2023?
“I think when you look at the potential best 11 players for the 2023 defense, he’s a guy that our staff is gonna point at and say, ‘We need to find a way to get him in there’...” ~ Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles on Sonny Styles
Continue reading...
