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Google Penn State vs. Ohio State Preview: Lions Host Resurgent Buckeyes on Senior-less Night -...

Penn State vs. Ohio State Preview: Lions Host Resurgent Buckeyes on Senior-less Night - Roar Lions Roar
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Penn State vs. Ohio State Preview: Lions Host Resurgent Buckeyes on Senior-less Night
Roar Lions Roar
Well, here we are, Penn State's final home game of the season upon us. It's been a trying season for both the Nittany Lions and their guests, the Ohio State Buckeyes, one that both teams will nonetheless be looking to extend. A win for either side will ...


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LGHL How to watch Ohio State vs. Penn State 2017: Preview, game time, live streaming online

How to watch Ohio State vs. Penn State 2017: Preview, game time, live streaming online
Chuck McKeever
via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


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After a huge upset win, the Buckeyes head to State College to take on the Nittany Lions.

Where did that come from?

It’s a question plenty of Ohio State basketball fans are asking themselves in the wake of the Buckeyes’ convincing win over No. 16 Wisconsin on Thursday night. Leading by as much as 20 at one point in the second half, Thad Matta’s team eventually closed out a 10-point victory over a Badger squad that shellacked them the first time they met this season.

The win broke a three-game skid for the Buckeyes, who have struggled to muster a consistent offense all year. (In their last loss, to Nebraska, Ohio State managed just 57 total points. They had 44 by halftime against Wisconsin.) The outburst was all the more surprising given the quality of the opponent: Wisconsin is far from a perfect team, but they came into the game with the No. 4 defense in the country; the Buckeyes were just the second team to crack 80 points against the Badgers all season.

It doesn’t erase the shortcomings of the program up to this point, but the resounding win does raise an important question: is this a blip, or a sign of things to come?

Tuesday’s showdown against the Penn State Nittany Lions (14-15, 11th in the Big Ten) will be our first indicator of which direction the program is leaning. It’s a game that the Buckeyes should absolutely win, even if it won’t save their season. The Nittany Lions have dropped three straight games, most recently on the road against Minnesota.

In their last four contests, Ohio State is a clean 4-0 against Penn State. Two of those wins were by 20 points. It’s safe to say that Thad Matta has Pat Chambers’ number. Let’s hope his team doesn’t take their foot off the gas just yet.

Numbers to know

3.4


That’s how many fouls Trevor Thompson averages per game, but that total accounts for Thad having to pull him once he starts getting whistled. Per 40 minutes, that number jumps all the way up to 6.0. Given that Thompson is the most efficient offensive player on the roster, it’s worth paying attention to the very short leash given to him by the referees.

58.5


Jae’Sean Tate, who has injected some serious life into an otherwise lackluster Buckeye season, also happens to be the worst free throw shooter in the starting lineup. As Ohio State’s premier offensive player, he goes to the line more than anyone else on the team (4.5 attempts/game). If this game is tight late, hope that the Nittany Lions foul someone else.

38


One of the only things the Buckeyes have done consistently well this season is rebound. They’re pulling down 38 of them a game, led by Trevor Thompson’s 9.1 average. That puts him less than one board away from averaging a double-double, if you want an indicator of just how much he contributes to the team.

Cast of characters

Ohio State


C.J. Jackson

Jackson is coming off of his best game as a Buckeye, notching 18 points (including 4-4 from 3-point range) against Wisconsin. His transformation from a reliable bench player to a much-needed starter has been a fun one to watch, and while his shooting performance on Thursday was well beyond what his average would predict, it could be a sign of things to come for the sophomore guard.

Trevor Thompson

The Buckeye big man is having the best season of his college career. He’s become an integral piece of the Ohio State offense, as well as a huge contributor in the rebounding department. They’ll need Thompson to have another big game against Penn State, who get a lot of key minutes from 6’9 power forward Mike Watkins, the team’s most efficient shooter and no slouch at rebounding himself.

Penn State


Tony Carr

Carr, a 6’3 freshman guard, is the Nittany Lions’ leading scorer this year. He’s coming off of back-to-back 20+ point performances, and if Penn State is going to generate any kind of offense against Ohio State’s stingy defense, it’ll be on Carr’s shoulders.

Mike Watkins

Penn State is leaning heavily on their freshmen this year. Watkins, in his first season of college basketball, has seized the role of the Nittany Lions’ most important big man. The team keeps him in a rotation—he averages just shy of 23 minutes a game—but he’s carved out an important niche nevertheless. Look for a good matchup between Watkins and Trevor Thompson in this one.

How to watch


Game time: 8:30 p.m. ET

Radio: 97.1 FM

TV: Big Ten Network

Streaming: BTN2Go

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Google Greg Schiano is official, some crazy uniform ideas, a new rivalry forms and more Ohio State...

Greg Schiano is official, some crazy uniform ideas, a new rivalry forms and more Ohio State news - Landof10.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Greg Schiano is official, some crazy uniform ideas, a new rivalry forms and more Ohio State news
Landof10.com
When Luke Fickell tried to poach Ohio State cornerbacks coach Kerry Coombs from the Buckeyes in December, many assumed that — as part of Urban Meyer's fight to keep the energetic Coombs on his staff — he'd offer up some defensive coordinator ...
Greg Schiano will be only Ohio State Buckeyes defensive coordinatorEndZoneScore
Greg Schiano will work as Ohio State's lone defensive coordinator in 2017cleveland.com

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LGHL Top recruits list Ohio State as a favorite

Top recruits list Ohio State as a favorite
Dan Hessler
via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


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The Buckeyes make the cut for an elite WR, and an in-state recruit thinks highly of OSU.

In just one week, spring practice will begin for the Ohio State football program. With this, nine new Buckeyes will take the field for the first time—as well as two new coaches. Despite the busy time period, the Ohio State coaching staff is still finding time to ensure that the 2018 recruiting class is as impressive as this years.

This past weekend their efforts resulted in a small reward, as one of the country’s best recruits included Ohio State in his final 10 schools.

Four-star wide receiver Brennan Eagles (Houston, TX / Alief Taylor) is not a new name for those who follow Buckeye recruiting. Eagles is the country’s No. 7 WR in next year’s class and is the No. 43 overall player in the class, according to 247sports.


I have now decided to shut down my recruiting process and focus more on these 10 schools #WRU pic.twitter.com/iRmk3NvqKy

— Brennan Eagles (@_BrennanEagles_) February 27, 2017

Ohio State is in good company in Eagles’ recruitment as TCU, Georgia, Texas, LSU, UCLA, USC, Oklahoma, Florida State and Florida were all included in his list. As it stands today, home-state school Texas is seen as the runaway favorite. However, it is early in his recruitment and the Buckeyes are obviously still in play.

The Buckeyes have already been able to secure three commits in next year’s class, including two on the offensive side of the ball in five-star quarterback Emory Jones and four-star running back Brian Sneed. If Eagles were to commit to the Buckeyes, the future of Ohio State’s offense would be very bright.

Update on Jaelen Gill’s recruitment


Jaelen Gill (Westerville, OH / Westerville South) will be announcing his collegiate decision on Wednesday. The four-star RB is currently the No. 32 overall recruit and is the second best recruit in the state of Ohio, according to 247sports.

Urban Meyer has made it known that he wants to up the program’s efforts in recruiting Ohio, partially because of the amount of highly-touted recruits in the state for next year’s class. Securing Gill would be a great start to this approach.

Late Monday night, Gill appeared on the Holy Buckeye Show and announced a top five of Ohio State, UCLA, USC, Tennessee and Texas.

The Buckeyes have been a favorite to land the the 6-foot-1 runner, however, Gill may have Tweeted a cryptic message late yesterday afternoon.


Home will always be home. I can always come back! This will help me grow As a person.

— Raaaaaad Chaaaaad (@jaelengill21) February 27, 2017

The overall tone of this message is not comforting for Buckeye Nation, but it isn’t the nail in the coffin. Meyer is the best at what he does when it comes to recruiting, so the Buckeyes can never be counted out until it is all said and done.

Ohio State recruits sitting well in Rivals Top 100


Rivals.com updated its Top 100 recruiting rankings for the 2018 recruiting class on Monday, and there were multiple Ohio State commits and targets included on the list.

Of the three commits in next year’s class, five-star QB Emory Jones was the highest ranked, landing at No. 14. Four-star RB Brian Sneed was listed at No. 23, while newest Buckeye commit Jaiden Woodbey landed at No. 61.

Arguably the top recruit on Ohio State’s big board, five-star offensive tackle Jackson Carman (Fairfield, OH / Fairfield), was given high praise. Carman was near the top of the list, coming in as the No. 4 overall recruit. The Buckeyes are the current favorite to land Carman.

Check out the rest of the list to see where other Buckeye targets landed.

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Google Hoops: Penn State favored over Buckeyes - 247Sports

Hoops: Penn State favored over Buckeyes - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Hoops: Penn State favored over Buckeyes
247Sports
Ohio State and Penn State will face off for the only time during the regular season on Tuesday in State College, Pa., and the Nittany Lions are listed as 2.5-point favorites over the Buckeyes. Penn State (14-15, 6-10 Big Ten) is having a good season ...

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Google Kurelic: Buckeyes in great shape for stud O-tackles? Package duo - 247Sports

Kurelic: Buckeyes in great shape for stud O-tackles? Package duo - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Kurelic: Buckeyes in great shape for stud O-tackles? Package duo
247Sports
1) Some Bucknuts members have worried a bit about Buckeye 2018 offensive tackle recruiting. But that could actually turn into a huge strength of this Ohio State class, and 2018 offensive line recruiting in general appears in very good shape at this ...
Meyer's bouncebacks are worthwhile, McGuff leads Ohio State to conference title, Buckeyes volleyball continues runLandof10.com
Which redshirt freshmen Buckeyes are ready to break out? Ohio State spring football burning questionscleveland.com
Buckeyes Roundball Roundup: Big upset win over WisconsinWaiting For Next Year
Columbus Dispatch -Land-Grant Holy Land -Eleven Warriors
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Google Ohio State crystal football auctioned for $8K on Buckeye Cruise - 247Sports

Ohio State crystal football auctioned for $8K on Buckeye Cruise - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Ohio State crystal football auctioned for $8K on Buckeye Cruise
247Sports
The official start of 2017 Ohio State football begins on Tuesday, March 7, as the Buckeyes take to the practice field for the first time to begin spring ball. OSU looks to replace three players on offense and four on defense from the 2016 team that ...
LOOK: Urban Meyer hangs out with ex-Ohio State stars on 2017 Buckeye Cruise for CancerLandof10.com

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Google BH: Camp Kendall a go | Hill continues to catch on - 247Sports

BH: Camp Kendall a go | Hill continues to catch on - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


BH: Camp Kendall a go | Hill continues to catch on
247Sports
Spring practice is right around the corner and the Buckeyes got good news over the weekend. Junior college transfer Kendall Sheffield has enrolled in classes in time to participate. Want daily inside scoop on the Buckeyes? Become a VIP right now and ...


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LGHL Urban Meyer has the best recruiting pitch for Ohio State in college football

Urban Meyer has the best recruiting pitch for Ohio State in college football
Meredith Hein
via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


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Success at Ohio State has led to success in the NFL for top talent under Meyer.

“There’s a variety of things that kids look for. The success we’ve had recently and the exposure that this program has had for the right reasons has been really beneficial.”

- Urban Meyer, via Ben Axelrod, Land of 10


The Ohio State Buckeyes have developed a dominance in the recruiting world that seems impossible to replicate. After winning the first College Football Playoff, Ohio State sent a dozen players to the pros last year and have signed top-five recruiting class after top-five recruiting class under Urban Meyer. The head coach compared the attention focused on the program following the national championship to a “positive advertisement for 30 days...That’s basically what it was.”

The success that former Buckeyes have had in the NFL, from running back Ezekiel Elliott’s NFL-leading 1,631 rushing yards to wide receiver Michael Thomas’s 1,137 receiving yards (the most of any rookie receiver), has been a crucial part of what makes Ohio State such an appealing prospect for recruits. It was certainly a factor in Ohio State earning the No. 2 recruiting class in the country this year.

Even without a national title the past two seasons, Meyer and company have kept up the positive PR surrounding the program, especially when it comes to the NFL. This week’s NFL Scouting Combine is no exception, as the Buckeyes send eight former players to Indianapolis for the NFL’s premiere pre-draft evaluation. Overall, Meyer’s teams over the past five seasons have earned 39 combine invites.

The program continues to highlight the connection of these former players to Ohio State. Last season, Meyer posed for a selfie with Elliott at the combine. Ohio State also kept up a “combine central” to keep track of how the 14 representatives from the program fared over the multi-day event. This year, the Buckeyes’ are tweeting out encouragement to players like linebacker Raekwon McMillan with the not-so-subtle #DevelopedHere hashtag.

The benefits of the Ohio State program are on full display starting with the combine, moving through Pro Day and the NFL Draft and leading to the NFL season itself. Meyer has successfully managed to elevate the program’s visibility to the nation’s top prospects on the biggest stages in football to create the ultimate recruiting pitch.

“All of those players had chances to make leaps in bowl practice. The spring will show how ready they are for increased roles.”

- Bill Landis, Cleveland.com


This time last year, a significant number of redshirt freshman at Ohio State found themselves in positions to earn major roles for the 2016 football season. Given the loss of 16 starters from the previous season, Urban Meyer had a lot of talent to replace, and naturally turned to the pool of 21 freshman who had redshirted in 2015. As a result, players like running back Mike Weber, cornerback Damon Arnette and defensive tackle Robert Landers earned significant playing time last season. And while Meyer is evaluating these redshirts for their new roles in spring practice, his assessment truly started during bowl preparation back in December, even calling out freshmen who he did not feel were practicing up to their potential prior to a game in which they would not participate. Last season, Dre’Mont Jones wound up earning a starting job at defensive tackle after being recognized as a standout in the previous season’s bowl preparation.

This past season, 12 of 23 freshmen played as true freshmen, compared to just four in 2015. Opportunities for those 11 freshmen who were redshirted are also much more slim heading into this season, with 15 returning starters on both sides of the ball, and most of them unlikely to lose their starting jobs. With so much depth returning at key positions, these redshirt freshmen will be competing mainly for backup roles in 2017.

Drue Chrisman will replace Cameron Johnston at punter, but beyond that, the outlook is somewhat murky. At the tight end position alone, Jake Hausmann, Luke Farrell and Kierre Hawkins all redshirted last season and will compete for time behind returning starter Marcus Baugh. Other positions, namely quarterback, linebacker and safety, are two-deep as it is, and redshirts like quarterback Dwayne Haskins Jr., safety Jahsen Wint and linebacker Tuf Borland will have a tough road ahead of them in spring practice to earn their backup roles.

“We just want to do our job. Make plays when plays present themselves. Whoever is in the game, we’re going to be accountable that they’re going to get it done.”

- Ohio State wide receiver coach Zach Smith, via Eric Seger, Eleven Warriors


The deficiencies of the Ohio State passing game became painfully apparent in Ohio State’s Fiesta Bowl loss to Clemson in December. Then-freshman wide receiver Binjimen Victor reeled in the longest play of the game--a 21-yard reception from J.T. Barrett--but production from the passing game was limited to just 127 yards, two interceptions and no touchdowns.

Combined with the loss of Curtis Samuel, who led the team with 74 receptions on the season, Noah Brown, who was second on the team with 32, and Dontre Wilson, who finished his career with 27 catches on the season, the remaining receivers on the Ohio State roster accounted for just 122 receptions last year. Tight end Marcus Baugh had 24 receptions last season for 269 yards, leading returning pass catchers in both categories, and recorded a pair of touchdowns. The remaining receivers, 12 in all, accounted for five touchdowns on the season.

Behind a new offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, the outlook looks somewhat more promising, however. While production at receiver was a problem last season, there is a wealth of talent, especially among the younger classes, that could make an impact on the field next season. Fifth-year James Clark is the only senior at the position, and played in every game last season. Terry McLaurin, Parris Campbell, Johnnie Dixon and Eric Glover-Williams are all entering their junior season with the Buckeyes. Campbell in particular garnered some attention by the end of the year after locking down kickoff return duties (Glover-Williams also shined on special teams last season). McLaurin himself recorded two touchdowns in blowout wins over Rutgers and Nebraska. Dixon, meanwhile, battled injuries last season, but managed a rushing touchdown against Rutgers nonetheless. K.J. Hill is the highlight of the rising sophomore class, having reeled in 18 catches for 262 yards last season, and is balanced by Victor, who lost his redshirt when called for duty against Rutgers. Austin Mack and Alex Stump combined for three catches last season, and will have to catch up to their fellow receivers in terms of production next season.

Given issues the past two seasons at receiver, the incoming freshman class brings the length that has been lacking in other classes. The four freshman all measure 6-foot-3 or taller, with four-star recruit Trevon Grimes expected to figure immediately into the rotation. Jaylen Harris, Elijah Gardiner and Brendan White could also see playing time come the fall.

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Google Ohio State football announces Pro Day, other key Buckeyes' dates to know - cleveland.com

Ohio State football announces Pro Day, other key Buckeyes' dates to know - cleveland.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Ohio State football announces Pro Day, other key Buckeyes' dates to know
cleveland.com
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- The first major step for draft-eligible Ohio State Buckeyes comes this week with the start of the 2017 NFL Combine on Tuesday. It will be a quick turnaround after that to the next step in the draft process. Ohio State announced key ...
Spring Preview: Can Ohio State Find Another Malik Hooker at Safety?Eleven Warriors

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LGHL Ohio State’s Kelsey Mitchell named Big Ten women’s basketball Player of the Year

Ohio State’s Kelsey Mitchell named Big Ten women’s basketball Player of the Year
Ben Martens
via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


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The Buckeyes’ junior guard took home the hardware as the conference’s best player for the second time in her career.

The Ohio State women’s basketball just claimed a share of the Big Ten regular season title and the No. 1 seed in this week’s conference tournament in Indianapolis. Now the Buckeyes can add another accolade to their list of accomplishments: Big Ten Player of the Year.

Junior guard Kelsey Mitchell was announced as the winner of the award for the second time in her career on Tuesday afternoon during a broadcast on the Big Ten Network. Mitchell led the conference in scoring at 23.4 points per game, and also added three rebounds, four assists, and a steal.

Ohio State went 15-1 during the conference season, good enough to secure the 15th Big Ten title in program history and first since 2010. Overall, the Buckeyes went 25-5 during the regular season, and currently sit at No. 9 in the latest AP rankings.

This season, Mitchell became the fastest player in NCAA women’s basketball history to amass 2,000 career points. The Cincinnati native currently has 2,463 points, ranking third in Ohio State history, sixth in conference history, and sitting less than one thousand away from the NCAA’s all-time mark, which is now held by Washington’s Kelsey Plum, who broke the old record this past weekend.

A season ago, Mitchell also led the Big Ten in scoring en route to being named first-team All-Conference, and a consensus All-American. She lost out on Player of the Year honors to Minnesota’s Rachel Banham despite averaging 26.1 points, good for third in the country.

Mitchell previously won the award as a freshman in 2015, when she shared the honor with Amanda Zahui B. of the Golden Gophers. The first freshman to ever lead the nation in scoring, she averaged 24.9 points per game and set NCAA single-season records with 127 three-point field goals made and 35 consecutive games with a make from beyond the arc.

In addition to Player of the Year honors, Mitchell was also named first-team All-Conference for the third time. She was a unanimous selection.

Joining Mitchell in collecting postseason awards were Linnae Harper, named the conference’s 6th Player of the Year, and Tori McCoy, named to the Big Ten’s All-Freshman team.

Ohio State will play its first game of the Big Ten tournament on Friday at 12:00 p.m. ET against the winner of the 8/9 matchup between Iowa and Northwestern. The game will be broadcast live on BTN and be available for streaming on BTN2Go.

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BTN Check out 2017 Big Ten Wrestling Championships preliminary seeds

Check out 2017 Big Ten Wrestling Championships preliminary seeds
Brent Yarina, BTN.com Senior Editor via Big Ten Network

The Big Ten Conference announced Monday the preliminary seeds for the 2017 Big Ten Wrestling Championships, which are set for March 4-5 at Iowa. Six schools boast at least one top-seeded wrestler, with Ohio State and Penn State leading the way with three apiece.
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Google Meyer's bouncebacks are worthwhile, McGuff leads Ohio State to conference title, Buckeyes...

Meyer's bouncebacks are worthwhile, McGuff leads Ohio State to conference title, Buckeyes volleyball continues run - Landof10.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Meyer's bouncebacks are worthwhile, McGuff leads Ohio State to conference title, Buckeyes volleyball continues run
Landof10.com
If you're a Buckeyes fan, this is something you may find interesting. Prior to last season it only happened twice for Meyer (his 2007 Florida team lost to Michigan in the Citrus Bowl and his 2013 Buckeyes lost to Clemson in the Orange Bowl), but it's ...
Which redshirt freshmen Buckeyes are ready to break out? Ohio State spring football burning questionscleveland.com
No. 12 Ohio State 73, Rutgers 45 | Buckeyes clinch Big Ten regular-season women's titleColumbus Dispatch
BH: Camp Kendall a go | Hill continues to catch on247Sports
Rutgers Scarlet Knights -Eleven Warriors -The News Center
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Google Buckeyes looking to put another Potter in Scarlet and Gray? - 247Sports

Buckeyes looking to put another Potter in Scarlet and Gray? - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Buckeyes looking to put another Potter in Scarlet and Gray?
247Sports
Landing the hardwood Potter could actually help Urban Meyer and Ohio State football, as Micah's younger brother is a star on the gridiron, and the Buckeyes are taking a look at him. Want daily inside scoop on the Buckeyes? Become a VIP with our 7-DAY ...
Like that Wisconsin win? Here are the other best moments of the ...Land-Grant Holy Land

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BTN Audio: Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament Teleconference

Audio: Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament Teleconference
BTN.com staff via Big Ten Network

On Monday, the 14 Big Ten women’s basketball head coaches discussed their programs heading into the 2017 Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament. The tournament tips off Wednesday at Bankers Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. View the full bracket here.Filed under: Audio Tagged: Teleconferences
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BTN Power Rankings: Minnesota ascends to No. 2 in Jon Crispin’s poll

Power Rankings: Minnesota ascends to No. 2 in Jon Crispin’s poll
Brent Yarina, BTN.com Senior Editor via Big Ten Network

At this point, it's impossible to ignore the teams that are rolling and the teams that are struggling. That's why there's some serious movement in Jon Crispin's latest Big Ten Power Rankings, presented by ArcelorMittal.
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LGHL Here’s what Ohio State basketball still has to play for

Here’s what Ohio State basketball still has to play for
Matt Brown
via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


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Barring a huge upset, the Buckeyes aren’t making the NCAAs. But all’s not lost.

Ohio State basketball showed what they were truly capable of against Wisconsin, riding some uncharacteristically strong three-point shooting to a big upset win, probably their biggest Big Ten win over the last two seasons.

The win snapped a three-game losing streak and washed out some of the poor taste of an otherwise highly disappointing season for the Buckeyes, but it didn’t change anything structural. The Big Ten is too weak, and the Buckeyes have too many bad losses for Ohio State to sneak in the NCAA Tournament with anything other than a Big Ten Tournament title. And that upset doesn’t meaningfully change Ohio State’s seeding situation either.

But that doesn’t mean there aren’t interesting things left to play for this season. The Buckeyes have two more regular season games left, at Penn State tomorrow, and at home against Indiana on Saturday. They have a decent shot of winning both of them. Here’s what’s at stake for the rest of this year.

A winning record


Okay, let’s start small. The Buckeyes haven’t finished with an overall losing record since they finished 14-16 in 2003-2004, the last year before Thad Matta arrived on campus. That Buckeye team lost to teams like San Francisco, San Diego State, Seton Hall and Texas Tech. It was gross.

At 16-13, the Buckeyes could finish at .500 if they drop both of their regular season games, plus their first game of the Big Ten Tournament. A win in the regular season, or in DC, ensures the Buckeyes will at least finish above .500 before any postseason play. That’s the smallest of small victories, but it is something.

A shot at 20 wins


Thad Matta has won at least 20 games every single season he’s been at Ohio State, which is pretty remarkable given the state of the program once he arrived. At 16 wins right now, getting there would be tricky, but not impossible. If the Buckeyes split the regular season games and win their Big Ten Tournament opening game, they’d need two wins in the NIT to get to 20. If they win them both, the Buckeyes have a great shot to get there. 20 wins may seem arbitrary, but it would signify a strong finish to this season, building momentum to the future. Every other win helps get the Buckeyes there.

The NIT


The Wisconsin win went a long way towards erasing the the damage from the Nebraska loss to Ohio State’s NIT resume. Right now, the Buckeyes probably aren’t in if they lose both of these game, and their Big Ten Tournament opener, but one more win just might be enough (although it’s a good idea to not lose to like, Rutgers, if you can). 18 total wins would almost certainly lock the Buckeyes in.

The most updated NIT projections have Ohio State as a three seed (currently facing Valparaiso, if you’re curious). Going on a little bit of a run to end the season could certainly bolster their NIT seeding, making it more likely they’ll host a game, and get a draw that could help them avoid an upset at the hands of a tough mid or low-major.

The NCAAs


Okay, so this is still technically possible. The Buckeyes need to win out in the Big Ten Tournament to make the Big Dance, and that’s a lot easier if you don’t have to play every single night. Beating Penn State and Indiana makes Ohio State’s road through D.C. just a teensy bit easier.


These aren’t the goals that Ohio State thought they’d be playing for to start the season, but they’re not nothing. In a lot of ways, the Buckeyes can make their lives a bit easier by pulling together a few more wins to end the season. Their path starts tomorrow night.

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Google Analyzing the 2017 schedule: Oklahoma - 247Sports

Analyzing the 2017 schedule: Oklahoma - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Analyzing the 2017 schedule: Oklahoma
247Sports
Rematches are always interesting, and the Sooners would like nothing more than to give the Buckeyes a nice payback for what occurred last year. Keep in mind that although the game was played the third week of the season, it ended up being a "knockout" ...

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Google BM5: Biggest concern offensively: WRs or O-line? - 247Sports

BM5: Biggest concern offensively: WRs or O-line? - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


BM5: Biggest concern offensively: WRs or O-line?
247Sports
Patrick Murphy joins Dave Biddle to discuss that, talk about the biggest concern defensively for the Buckeyes, look ahead to Jaelen Gill's announcment on Wednesday, and take a quick look at OSU women's basketball (which might be a first on the BM5).

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B1G - PAC 12 Challenge

Buckeyes finish with 5-1 loss to Oregon State

SURPRISE, Ariz. – The Ohio State baseball team concluded action at the 2017 Big Ten/Pac-12 Challenge with a 5-1 loss to No. 5 Oregon State Sunday morning in Surprise, Ariz. The Beavers chalked up three runs in the fourth, one in the sixth and one in the eighth to improve to 7-1 on the year.

The Buckeyes (3-5), who took down the tournament host on Friday night, were limited at the dish vs. right-hander Jake Thompson who tossed eight innings and gave up one run on two hits to improve to 3-0. Ohio State starting pitcher Jake Post received the loss to drop to 0-1. He allowed three runs on four hits with three walks and two strikeouts in four innings of work.


Nice work, Beavers

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Google Which redshirt freshmen Buckeyes are ready to break out? Ohio State spring football burning...

Which redshirt freshmen Buckeyes are ready to break out? Ohio State spring football burning questions - cleveland.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Which redshirt freshmen Buckeyes are ready to break out? Ohio State spring football burning questions
cleveland.com
With Ohio State starting spring football in eight days, we're exploring a burning question for the Buckeyes every day leading up to March 7. Next up is a look at the players who redshirted last year: Who are the redshirt freshmen Buckeyes ready to take ...
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LGHL Alabama is handing out offers in Ohio State’s backyard

Alabama is handing out offers in Ohio State’s backyard
Caleb Houser
via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


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The Crimson Tide are making moves on Buckeye prospects.

It’s always refreshing to have a relaxing weekend for most people. However, even when Urban Meyer is away from town on the Buckeye Cruise Against Cancer, the rest of the Ohio State staff remains hard at work recruiting for the Buckeyes—an event which never stops. Whether being on the road or hosting top prep prospects from Ohio and around the country, the Buckeyes seem to have the formula for success, and as long as Urban Meyer is in charge, that won’t change.

Forcing OSU’s hand?


It’s no secret how talented the 2018 class is in the state of Ohio. There are plenty of options the Buckeyes can go to, but with their national presence in the recruiting scene, they may have to be selective on who they take when it comes to in-state players.

However, when Alabama offered Dayton Dunbar running back Tavion Thomas, Ohio State wasted no time in sending an offer. Could it have been because of Alabama’s offer OSU felt pressured to also offer the in-state back? Maybe.

Well, that looks to be happening again and again.

Only a week after the Thomas offer via Alabama, the Crimson Tide and Nick Saban are at it again as they not only offered one Ohio prospect without an Ohio State offer to this point, but two prospects alike. The latest, Dayton Dunbar receiver Joseph Scates, a current Michigan State commit, and Fairfield defensive end Malik Vann.


Blessed to Receive an offer from The University of Alabama #RollTide ‼️ pic.twitter.com/lijZ9aq7kz

#️⃣6️⃣...... (@ScatesJoseph) February 26, 2017

The two were in Tuscaloosa, Ala. this weekend visiting the Crimson Tide and were given their respective “good” news concerning the Crimson Tide offers. Scates, a four-star receiver is currently ranked as the sixth best prospect in Ohio and Vann, also a four-star, is ranked as the 12th best prospect in the Buckeye state.


Extremely blessed and excited to receive an offer from the University of Alabama ‼ #ROLLTIDE ⚪pic.twitter.com/oG3urwHM5X

— Malik Vann❕ (@MalikVann7) February 25, 2017

The two may not currently hold Ohio State offers, but the situation is identical to Tavion Thomas’. Offers from the Buckeyes would not be too surprising considering rival programs are hunting hard in their very own backyard. While Scates is currently committed to Michigan State and Vann still on the market, it’s unknown whether or not a Buckeye offer would change the mind of Scates, but any time an in-state prospect receives the prestigious offer from The Ohio State, it’s something to consider—and consider very strongly.

Upshaw checks out OSU


This past weekend may have been somewhat quiet in Columbus, Ohio concerning football recruiting, but that didn’t stop at least one visitor from making the short trek to Ohio State to see what the Buckeyes have to offer.


⭕❗⭕pic.twitter.com/GBfJjbXO8C

— Keaton Upshaw (@UpshawKeaton) February 24, 2017

In-state Ohio tight-end, Keaton Upshaw (Lima, OH / Lima Senior) made the drive south to Columbus and was able to take in the Woody Hayes Athletic Center as well as meet the coaching staff while Urban Meyer was out of the office.

Ranked as the 29th best prospect in Ohio for the 2018 class and the 26th best tight end in the country, the 6-foot-7, 200-pound three-star has the size to really turn some heads at the next level. Currently, Upshaw does not have an offer from Ohio State, but does hold offers from Pitt, Toledo and Bowling Green.

It’s relatively early in Upshaw’s recruitment, but if an Ohio State offer were to come his way, it would certainly be the “biggest” offer that he would have to this point. With Keaton starting to visit more and more schools, look for his recruitment to increase as more programs from around the country look to throw their hat into the ring for the Upshaw sweepstakes.

Matta hits the road


The basketball Buckeyes had an off weekend, but that didn’t mean it was an off weekend for everyone. As the team remained hard at work in Columbus, head coach Thad Matta hit the road on the recruiting trail in pursuit to find the next great talents to head to Columbus and suit up in the Scarlet and Gray.

Heading to Tennessee, Matta and Ohio State were on hand at Brentwood Academy to see Darius Garland. Garland, a 6-foot, 155-pound point guard is considered to be the top point guard in the country as well as the top player overall in Tennessee for the 2018 class, according to 247sports. Not only is Garland a top prospect at his position, but he also grades out as the seventh best player at any position in the nation.


Ohio State was on hand last night to see Brentwood Academy (TN) 2018 point guard Darius Garland (@dariusgarland22), per @allaroundgame10.

— Chip Miller (@BLUEChip_Miller) February 26, 2017

As things stand right now, the five-star holds 12 offers, but Ohio State may have their work cut out for themselves as all signs right now have Darius heading to Duke. Of the nine predictions in the 247sports crystal ball, all but one vote has Garland going to Duke; the lone non-Duke prediction has Garland suiting up for home state Vanderbilt.

The Buckeyes currently have three commits in their 2018 class, but there’s not one doubt that they’d love to add a fourth in Garland. If so, it would easily have Ohio State right at the top of the country for 2018.

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Google Women's lacrosse: Buckeyes rebound quickly, beat California 14-8 - OSU - The Lantern

Women's lacrosse: Buckeyes rebound quickly, beat California 14-8 - OSU - The Lantern
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Women's lacrosse: Buckeyes rebound quickly, beat California 14-8
OSU - The Lantern
Fritts would get lost behind the Buckeyes defense, netting her third goal of the day at the 14:16 mark in the second half. Then the Golden Bears would pull to within four of OSU when freshman midfielder Noelani Murayama fired in her second of the game.


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