Future Buckeyes dominate all-star game rosters - CBS sports.com (blog)
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Future Buckeyes dominate all-star game rosters
CBS sports.com (blog)
With January quickly approaching it means that the annual high school all-star games are coming soon. This year, concentration will be mostly on the two major games in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl and Under Armour All-America Game, as the Semper ...


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For Sale:
6 Club Level tickets to Fiesta Bowl. Section 132, 25 yard line, $250 each
[email protected]

BM5: Media day takeaways on Prince, Gibson, passing game - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


BM5: Media day takeaways on Prince, Gibson, passing game
247Sports
White, who led Scotland to a 14-1 record and the state championship game this season, also made it back to Ohio State a second time and was on hand as the Buckeyes rolled over Nebraska 62-3. What's next for the Buckeyes? Make sure you're in the loop ...


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lawsio said:

Same goes for KY and IN, lovely place to visit.

Click to expand...

Not sure I have ever seen that sentence typed in the American dialect before.

lawsio said:

Talking of snow, Michigan snow can f**k all the way off. I like me some snow, but that place is all kinds of grim.

Click to expand...

It has more to do with the people than the snow but yes.

We don't give a damn for the whole state of *ichigan, it can indeed fuck all the way off.

Jamming to IN Flames....German band Böhse Onkelz from Frankfurt not really thrash

Ohio State commits are finalist for Army All-American Defensive Player of the Year honors
Caleb Houser via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


The Buckeyes have a 50 percent chance of bringing home the award.

Ohio State in just over two weeks away from arguably their biggest game of the season when they take on the Clemson Tigers in the PlayStation Fiesta Bowl on New Year’s Eve. With the entire program preparing for Clemson, the staff has had ample time for recruiting, but with the dead period nearing a week underway, Ohio State knows they’re controlling their own destiny for not only a national championship, but a recruiting national championship as well.

OSU commits receive US Army All-American Awards


If we’ve learned anything about the current commits in Ohio State’s 2017 recruiting class, it’s that each of them are not only deserving of a national honor, but most if not all are receiving national honors and awards.

The latest on the list of postseason awards, the US Army All-American defensive player of the year award has three current Ohio State commits as nominees for this prestigious honor. Baron Browning, Shaun Wade and Chase Young are all up for the award – giving Ohio State a 50 percent shot at keeping the award in their 2017 class.


The defensive recruiting class for the Buckeyes in 2017 is off the charts talent wise. With the star-power that is being brought to Columbus, the future of the Silver Bullets looks bright.

OSU DB commits shining


In keeping with trend, not only were Buckeye commits up for the US Army All-American defensive player of the year, but more OSU commits were nominated for a subset of the award as defensive back of the year.

The nominations on the Ohio State side of things include five-star cornerback commit, Shaun Wade. However, Ohio State target, Darnay Holmes is also a nominee for defensive back of the year.


Lately, Holmes has been seriously trending towards Ohio State, as 247sports crystal ball predictions seem to be coming in every day that passes in favor of the Buckeyes. With his commitment date coming on Jan. 7 at the U.S. Army All-American game, Ohio State will know their fortune on the Holmes saga, but as things currently stand, Darnay to the Buckeyes is a very real thing.

Colorado star high on Bucks


Colorado isn’t normally a state the Buckeyes have had historical success in recruiting wise, but that could change in the near future. Adrian Jackson, a top Colorado prospect in the 2018 class, currently has Ohio State at the top of his list of schools.

Jackson, an outside linebacker from Denver currently ranks as the seventh best at his position and the top overall prospect in his home state. The four-star has nine offers already from the likes of Penn State, Colorado, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio State and more.

While the offer list is already impressive, look for more of the nation’s top programs to throw their hats into the ring and become players for his services. There’s plenty of time before Jackson needs to come close to a decision, but the Buckeyes certainly look to be sitting well.

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Kurelic: Checking on Bolden; Buckeyes and No. 2 RB; more - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Kurelic: Checking on Bolden; Buckeyes and No. 2 RB; more
247Sports
Good evening Bucknuts subscribers! There is plenty going on with Ohio State football recruiting so let's get started! I will of course have plenty more throughout the. To continue reading, subscribe now for VIP Access. Are you a current VIP and getting ...

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Ohio State: Bengals Releasing Mike Nugent Was Right Move - Factory Of Sadness
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Ohio State: Bengals Releasing Mike Nugent Was Right Move
Factory Of Sadness
Ohio State football is known for both quantity and quality when it comes to their NFL talent. That said, there always comes a time when former players must be replaced. For those lucky to play in the NFL, those players know their career length will vary.
Burfict apologized to Antonio Brown in personESPN

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No. 1 2018 prospect in Colorado says Buckeyes top his list - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


No. 1 2018 prospect in Colorado says Buckeyes top his list
247Sports
In April, the Buckeyes offered a scholarship to the No. 1 class of 2018 prospect in the state of Colorado, Denver Mullen linebacker Adrian Jackson. Jackson has followed up. To continue reading, subscribe now for VIP Access. Are you a current VIP and ...

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Rockets, Buckeyes, Wolverines prep for bowl season - Toledo Blade
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Rockets, Buckeyes, Wolverines prep for bowl season
Toledo Blade
The night former Buckeyes coach Woody Hayes slugged Clemson lineman Charlie Bauman late in the 1978 Gator Bowl, and became a raving caricature for generations to come. But this is not another story on the final act of a good but flawed man. You will ...

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I would not anticipate the U.S. being on the leading edge of autonomous vehicle implementation. A place like Singapore with high population density and a compliant population will most likely be the first to get serious about it. Fleet long haul trucking and delivery vehicles will likely be first, cabs next, and then private vehicles. The end result, fifty years from now, may well be a prohibition on private ownership of on-road motor vehicles with autonomous on call vehicles operated via one or more federal or state public-private partnerships. Whether they're paid for via user fees or become a "right" paid for through taxes is TBD.

Buckeyes top Bulldogs, 49-28 - Athens Messenger (registration)
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Buckeyes top Bulldogs, 49-28
Athens Messenger (registration)
Buckeyes top Bulldogs, 49-28. By Kevin Wiseman Messenger sports editor; 4 min ago; 0. Nelsonville-York improves to 7-0. Messenger photo by Louise Fish. Nelsonville-York senior Jordan Fick (30) pressures Vinton County's Cassie Bentley during a game ...


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Final call for Donovan Peoples-Jones, Ohio State commit Tate Martell's wild ride continues, defensive backs set ... - Landof10.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Final call for Donovan Peoples-Jones, Ohio State commit Tate Martell's wild ride continues, defensive backs set ...
Landof10.com
Right now, it's just about 6:30 p.m. ET and Ohio State has not been told of a final decision, but sources close to the Buckeyes are feeling like they've done enough to swoop in and steal him from Michigan. Sources closer to the Wolverines side of ...
VIDEO: Eddie George Surprises Ohio State Quarterback Commit Tate Martell With Gatorade Player of the Year AwardEleven Warriors
Watch: Eddie George surprises Tate Martell with POY Award247Sports

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When the game is on the line, Ohio State relies on quarterback J.T. Barrett’s legs to lead them to victory
Brett Ludwiczak via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


It might not be pretty to watch, but Ohio State has won four of five games decided by a touchdown thanks to Barrett rushing the football.

“When Ohio State gets into a tough spot, the Buckeyes tend to fall back on J.T. Barrett and the QB run game to carry them through to victory.”

Ian Boyd, SB Nation


It may not be pretty to watch, but Ohio State has found success in close games when they trust in quarterback J.T. Barrett’s running ability. Barrett doesn’t have the type of ability to beat defenses with his speed like Braxton Miller, or he isn’t going to run defenders over like Cardale Jones, but the redshirt junior is smart with the football when his team needs him to be. The Buckeyes have seen five games decided by a touchdown or less this year, and because of what Barrett is able to do on the ground, Ohio State has won four of those games. When yardage lost from sacks are omitted, Barrett has averaged at least 5.8 yards per carry in those five games.

Over the past few years, Ohio State has found plenty of success on offense with the run/pass option, and the Buckeyes have needed Barrett’s legs more this year since the wide receivers haven’t developed as much as the coaching staff had hoped they would by this point. The troubles the wide receivers have had this year are highlighted even more by Barrett failing to average more than 7.8 yards per passing attempt in the five games decided by a touchdown or less. Along with Barrett’s legs, Ohio State is going to have to need their defense to step up like it has for most of the year. The defense has helped to put the Ohio State offense in a position for success, and when they do Barrett usually finds a way to capitalize on the opportunity.

“Watching him move again yesterday — you watch the other day late in the game he had gone like eight straight minutes and he wasn’t himself. He’s not in shape. He’s missed in essence, about four months. We gotta continue to build him and get him back.”

Ohio State men’s basketball coach Thad Matta on Keita Bates-Diop via Bill Landis, Cleveland.com


Ohio State is going to need a total team effort on Saturday if they want to score an upset over UCLA. Many are hoping for expanded minutes for Keita Bates-Diop on Saturday, but don’t be surprised if that doesn’t come to fruition. The forward suffered an ankle injury against Providence in November, and is still trying to work his way back into game shape. Bates-Diop returned for the last two games, but it’s obvious that Ohio State is taking things slow with him. In the loss to FAU, Bates-Diop was on the floor for 20 minutes, and he followed that up with 16 minutes in the win over UConn. By comparison, Bates-Diop played at least 24 minutes in the first three games of the year, which included the game against Providence where he was injured.

On top of the ankle injury, Bates-Diop is also trying to recover from a stress fracture in his left leg which he suffered over the summer. The combination of the stress fracture and the ankle injury, has seen Ohio State be a little more cautious with Bates-Diop’s return, as they have their eyes on a bigger prize. While a win against UCLA would be nice to bolster Ohio State’s résumé, Thad Matta wants to make sure Bates-Diop is a close to fully healthy as possible for Big Ten play. Bates-Diop isn’t quite at the level that many have become used to seeing him at, but he should be ready to help the Buckeyes contend for the conference crown if Matta continues to bring him along slowly.

“It makes us even want to be more hungry. We’re going out there playing with a Heisman candidate and a great player, so it feels like it’s sort of a thing for the back end. I feel like if we stop the pass, we have a great chance of winning this game.”

Ohio State safety Malik Hooker via Jacob Myers, The Lantern


Ohio State is going to need all hands on deck when they take on Clemson in the Fiesta Bowl on New Year’s Eve, but two players they are going to need to step up more than others are safety Malik Hooker and h-back Curtis Samuel. Hooker is tied for fifth in the country with six interceptions on the year. Against Michigan, Hooker returned his third interception for a touchdown, which set a school record. Hooker and the rest of the defensive backs will have their hands full trying to slow down Mike Williams and the rest of the Clemson wide receiving corps.

On the other side of the football, Ohio State is going to need a big effort from junior Curtis Samuel. When the Buckeye offense is hitting on all cylinders is when Curtis Samuel is involved, not only in the rushing game, but in the passing game as well. The Buckeyes are going to need to utilize Samuel in both aspects of the game, which could help to neutralize the tremendous Clemson defensive line. Taking some of the pressure off of quarterback J.T. Barrett’s shoulders will greatly improve Ohio State’s chances of making it to the championship game in Tampa.

“The best thing about it was how proud my parents were of me. They told me that’s the best thing they could hope for out of any award, just because it’s the most well-rounded in terms of your character, athletically, schoolwise. That really made me the happiest, their reaction.”

Ohio State defensive end Sam Hubbard on being named an academic All-American via Tim May, The Columbus Dispatch


While four Ohio State Buckeyes were named All-Americans this year, Sam Hubbard received an even bigger honor, as the redshirt sophomore was named an academic All-American. Hubbard sack numbers might have been a little down this year, after registering 6.5 sacks in limited time last season, the defensive end has registered 41 tackles, which is 13 more than in 2015. Last year Hubbard had the luxury of playing with guys like Joey Bosa and Adolphus Washington on the defensive line, but this year saw his role increase as he was a starter at defensive end.

Hubbard is a fourth-year finance major, and has a 3.61 GPA. The defensive end has found balancing football and classes challenging at the time, but as shown by his performance both on the field and in the classroom, he is more than up to the task. Sometimes shouldering such a heavy load means studying all night, hitting the weight room, taking a test, practicing, and following that up with another test. Not only is Hubbard proud of what he has accomplished so far, but his biggest fans are even prouder. The best part of being named an academic All-American for Hubbard was being able to tell his parents about the honor. Now Hubbard can focus on his next test, as Ohio State will take on Clemson in the College Football Playoff in a couple weeks.

STICK TO SPORTS

• John Glenn will lie in state at the Ohio Statehouse on Friday, followed by a celebration of his life at Ohio State on Saturday.
• Darth Vader wearing a Santa hat rode a unicycle in the snow while playing flame throwing bagpipes. Portland, you so crazy.
• Super Mario Run is Nintendo’s first mobile game.
• Apparently the squirrels in Toronto aren’t so polite.

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Ohio State football: Could Malcolm Pridgeon play for the Buckeyes in the Fiesta Bowl? - cleveland.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Ohio State football: Could Malcolm Pridgeon play for the Buckeyes in the Fiesta Bowl?
cleveland.com
Asked about Pridgeon's status on Thursday, Urban Meyer said he has been practicing to a limited extent and won't be ready even if the Buckeyes needed him in the playoff semifinal against Clemson. "He's going to be a very good player here," Meyer said.
Ohio State Buckeyes hold media day to talk about Fiesta BowlDayton Daily News
Ohio State football | Clemson loss brought change to BuckeyesColumbus Dispatch
Fiesta Bowl: Bold Predictions For Ohio State Buckeyes Vs. Clemson Tigers In College Football PlayoffThe Inquisitr
ESPN (blog) -247Sports
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What exactly is Ohio State getting itself into against UCLA?
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


UCLA tests the theory if the best defense is a good offense.

On this Ohio State basketball episode of "The Hangout in the Holyland," LGHL’s Matt Tamanini chats with BruinsNation.com Managing Editor Joe Piechowski about this Saturday's matchup between Ohio State and UCLA. The game will tip at 3:00 p.m. EST from Las Vegas, NV, and is part of the 2016 CBS Sports Classic.

So far this season, the Bruins are an impressive 11-0 and are scoring nearly 98 points per game. The Buckeyes on the other-hand are a frustratingly sloppy 8-2.

We ask Joe what he thinks the Buckeyes have to do to pull off the upset, whether or not Las Vegas will give the Bruins a home-court advantage, and look at what makes this team so special.

We also discuss...

• Steve Alford’s sorted coaching past.
• whether or not the best defense is a good offense.
• whether or not UCLA has any weaknesses.
• what the difference is between this season’s squad and previous teams.

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The Las Vegas Bowl and Boca Raton Bowl headline early bowl season’s college football best bets, odds
Brett Ludwiczak via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


With 41 bowl games over the next three weeks, we give you picks for the first eight bowl games.

Last week ATS: 4-3 (4-2 National, 0-1 B1G)

Season ATS: 84-87-4 (38-38-1 National, 46-49-3 B1G)

After a week off to recharge the batteries for bowl season, MC&J is ready to toss up a lot of winners for the holiday season. The regular season ended up being pretty much a wash in terms of record, so bowl season will determine if this year was a failure or success.

New Mexico Bowl: UTSA v. New Mexico (-7) - 12/17 2:00 PM EST - ESPN

The bowl season kicks off on Saturday with the New Mexico Bowl. UTSA will be making their first bowl appearance in their sixth FBS season. What type of present do the Roadrunners get for their first bowl appearance? They get to place New Mexico on the Lobos home turf.

New Mexico will be playing in the New Mexico Bowl for the fourth time in school history, compiling a 1-2 record so far. Last year the Lobos opened up the bowl season as well, falling to Arizona 45-37. New Mexico has a ridiculous rushing offense, averaging 428 yards per game on the ground. Teriyon Gipson leads the Lobos with just over 1,200 rushing yards, while Tyrone Owens has added 1,084 rushing yards.

UTSA played Arizona State and Texas A&M tough this year, but I see the Roadrunners, who are giving up 190 yards per game on the ground to opponents, having trouble slowing down New Mexico. Not only should their potent rushing attack allow New Mexico to control time of possession, but it also should put UTSA in a hole they won’t be able to climb out of.

New Mexico 41, UTSA 27

Las Vegas Bowl: Houston (-4) v. San Diego State - 12/17 3:30 PM EST - ABC

It’s undeniable the Las Vegas Bowl is the most intriguing matchup of the early bowl schedule. Houston had dreams of other destinations during the bowl season, but losses to Navy, SMU, and Memphis thwarted those plans. The Cougars also recently lost head coach Tom Herman to Texas, leaving Todd Orlando as the interim head coach before he joins Herman at Texas.

San Diego State also had thoughts that they might have a shot at the New Year’s Six Group of Five bid, but a loss to South Alabama in the beginning of October dashed any of those hopes. There is no question that running back Donnel Pumphrey is what makes the San Diego State offense tick. The senior has rushed for 2,018 yards and 16 touchdowns this year. Last time out the Aztecs were able to avenge a loss a couple weeks prior to Wyoming to take home the Moutain West Conference Championship.

With Houston having designs of a bigger bowl game this year, along with the departure of Herman, backing the Cougars could be a dangerous proposition. Pumphrey is just over 100 rushing yards away from breaking Ron Dayne’s FBS career rushing record. The Aztecs find their way by Houston in this one.

San Diego State 34, Houston 31

Cure Bowl: Arkansas State v. UCF (-6) - 12/17 5:30 PM EST - CBS Sports Network

The Cure Bowl is fitting since if you are invested in this bowl game in anyway, you’re probably sick. Luckily there is a couple other games on that can make it so you don’t have to pay too much attention to this one.

The biggest story from this game is how much Scott Frost has turned around Central Florida in just a year. Last year the Knights were 0-12, and now they are bowling. On the other side, Arkansas State has now made a bowl game in six straight seasons. Last year the Red Wolves were handed their first loss during that stretch when they played Louisiana Tech in the New Orleans Bowl.

This is a home game for Central Florida since they are playing in Orlando, and while I’m not crazy about laying the points here, I think the Knights are the better football team.

UCF 28, Arkansas State 20

Camellia Bowl: Appalachian State v. Toledo (-1) - 12/17 5:30 PM EST - ESPN

Another fun matchup on Saturday will be between a couple teams that have scored wins over Michigan in the last 15 years. Not really relevant to anything, it’s just fun to remember that both Appalachian State and Toledo have beat Michigan in Ann Arbor. It will be interesting to see which style will win out in this one, as Toledo’s high-powered offense goes up against a stout Appalachian State defense.

Toledo quarterback Logan Woodside leads the FBS with 43 touchdown passes this year, but the Rockets can also run the football. Kareem Hunt has the third-most rushing yards amongst active FBS players with 4,855 yards. Just ahead of Hunt on that list is Appalachian State’s Marcus Cox, who has 4,960 rushing yards. Cox only has 847 yards this year since he has missed four games due to injury. Jalin Moore has stepped up in Cox’s absence, rushing for 1,367 yards and 10 touchdowns.

Appalachian State has only allowed 10 passing touchdowns this year, but I can see Woodside tossing a few in this one. The Mountaineers have put together a fine season, but they won’t be able to secure their second bowl win in as many seasons over a team from Ohio.

Toledo 38, Appalachian State 31

New Orleans Bowl: Southern Mississippi (-5) v. Louisiana-Lafayette - 12/17 9:00 PM EST - ESPN

Southern Miss and Louisiana-Lafayette will close out the first day of bowl season in the New Orleans Bowl. The Golden Eagles have to be wondering what could’ve been after starting with season with four wins in their first five games. Quarterback Nick Mullens missed a few games due to a thumb injury and a concussion, which Southern Miss.

The key for the Golden Eagles in this one will be to try and slow down running back Elijah McGuire, who has recorded three straight seasons of at least 1,000 rushing yards for the Ragin’ Cajuns. College football fans will also see a familiar face at quarterback from Louisiana-Lafayette, as LSU transfer Anthony Jennings will be taking the snaps.

This marks the fifth time in six years that the Ragin’ Cajuns have played in the New Orleans Bowl, with Louisiana-Lafayette winning four straight before not playing here last year. It’s hard to deny that Southern Miss is the better team, especially with Mullens healthy.

Southern Miss 37, Louisiana-Lafayette 28

Miami Beach Bowl: Central Michigan v. Tulsa (-13) - 12/19 2:30 PM EST - ESPN

Tulsa might be even better than their 9-3 record might indicate. Aside from their blowout loss when they came to Columbus early in the season, the only other two losses for the Golden Hurricanes came at the hand of Houston (38-31) and Navy (42-40). Tulsa comes into this game with one of the best offenses in the country, and have won five of six games.

On the other hand, Central Michigan is really struggling as they come into Miami, with the Chippewas having lost four of their last five. Cooper Rush has been solid as quarterback for Central Michigan this year, throwing for 3,299 yards and 23 touchdowns, but he won’t be able to keep pace with Dane Evans, James Flanders, and the rest of the Tulsa offense.

Tulsa 45, Central Michigan 27

Boca Raton Bowl: Memphis v. Western Kentucky (-5) - 12/20 7:00 PM EST - ESPN

Points will be aplenty in South Florida on Tuesday night. Memphis and Western Kentucky have two of the best offenses in the country, which should make this lower-level bowl game quite entertaining. Memphis is coming off a big win over Houston to close out the regular season. Quarterback Riley Ferguson has been strong in taking over for Paxton Lynch, throwing 28 touchdowns this year. Ferguson’s favorite target has been Anthony Miller, who caught 84 passes for 1,283 yards, and 11 touchdowns.

Western Kentucky’s Mike White has been even better than Ferguson this year, throwing for 4,027 yards and 34 touchdowns. It helps that White has a couple of stud wide receivers in Taywan Taylor and Nicholas Norris. The Hilltoppers can run the football as well with Anthony Wales, who rushed for 1,376 yards and 24 touchdowns.

In a game that is likely to go back-and-forth, I like grabbing the points here. Who knows where Western Kentucky will be at with Jeff Brohm already having left for Purdue. Memphis can match Western Kentucky on the scoreboard, and I feel like this will come down to a late field goal to win.

Memphis 41, Western Kentucky 38

Poinsettia Bowl: BYU (-8.5) v. Wyoming - 12/21 9:00 PM EST - ESPN

BYU has had the hardest luck of any FBS team this year. The Cougars have four losses by a combined eight points, and just lost 13th year senior Taysom Hill to an elbow injury. At least BYU has some experience at backup quarterback, as Tanner Mangum will be taking the snaps for the Cougars. And it certainly doesn’t hurt BYU has running back Jamaal Williams to shoulder some of the load.

Craig Bohl has done a tremendous job in Laramie since taking over, taking a team that went 6-18 in his first two seasons and turning them into a 8-5 team this year. Running back Brian Hill is the star of the Cowboys offense, rushing for 1,767 yards and 21 touchdowns this season. Wyoming has slowed a bit in the stretch run though, losing three of their last four.

Even though Wyoming is a great story, their defense still leaves a lot to be desired. The combination of Mangum and Williams should be able to have no problems putting points up on the board, while the stingy BYU defense should be able to put the clamps on Hill and the rest of the Wyoming offense.

BYU 34, Wyoming 24

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Ohio State football: Could Malcolm Pridgeon play for the Buckeyes in the Fiesta Bowl? - cleveland.com (blog)
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Ohio State football: Could Malcolm Pridgeon play for the Buckeyes in the Fiesta Bowl?
cleveland.com (blog)
Asked about Pridgeon's status on Thursday, Urban Meyer said he has been practicing to a limited extent and won't be ready even if the Buckeyes needed him in the playoff semifinal against Clemson. "He's going to be a very good player here," Meyer said.
Ohio State Buckeyes hold media day to talk about Fiesta BowlDayton Daily News
Ohio State football | Clemson loss brought change to BuckeyesColumbus Dispatch
Fiesta Bowl: Bold Predictions For Ohio State Buckeyes Vs. Clemson Tigers In College Football PlayoffThe Inquisitr
ESPN (blog) -Landof10.com -Eleven Warriors
all 82 news articles »

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Torrance Gibson signed a letter of intent with Mississippi Gulf Coast, but Ohio State coach Urban Meyer isn't giving ... - ESPN
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Torrance Gibson signed a letter of intent with Mississippi Gulf Coast, but Ohio State coach Urban Meyer isn't giving ...
ESPN
It appears Gibson's next chapter in college is likely going to be away from the Buckeyes, though, after Mississippi Gulf Coast coach Chad Huff welcomed him publicly to his program earlier in the week. "We are looking forward to having Torrance join our ...
Urban Meyer: Keeping Luke Fickell 'one of the greatest things I've ever done'Landof10.com
Urban Meyer fears Clemson's multiple defense, says Torrance Gibson's fate's not decided yetLand-Grant Holy Land
Urban Meyer addresses Torrance Gibson's situation and future with Ohio Statecleveland.com (blog)

all 13 news articles »

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BH: 'Kwon gone? | Inside Wilson's camp - 247Sports
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BH: 'Kwon gone? | Inside Wilson's camp
247Sports
We talked to one of our team sources to get the latest he has heard on current Buckeyes and their status when it comes to leaving early for the NFL. The first player he brought up was middle linebacker Raekwon McMillan. “The thinking all along this ...

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Clemson’s Mike Williams will test the physicality of Ohio State’s defense
Christopher Jason via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


The big bodied wideout presents a physical challenge for the Buckeye secondary.

Clemson possesses the best wide receiver corps in the country. We told you about their slot receiver, Artavis Scott, who presents a serious matchup problem against Ohio State’s biggest weakness of their defense — covering the slot. What makes Scott even more dangerous, is that a lot of defensive attention goes to his teammate, Mike Williams.

Williams has the most NFL-ready wide receiver body in college football — as he stands at 6’3”, 225 lbs — and he plays like it. After suffering an unfortunate season-ending neck fracture in 2015, he bounced back in a big way in 2016. Per CFB Film Room, Williams has recorded 85 receptions for 1,170 yards and 10 touchdowns on 123 targets.

Looking at those statistics, most would think Williams is a slick slot receiver, who uses his speed and precise route running to gain separation. But in fact, the Clemson wideout is in the mold of Anquan Boldin, as he uses his frame to box out defenders to utilize his extensive catch radius and pluck the ball from poor defensive backs. He’s primarily an outside receiver, who stays outside the hashes, as you can see below:


What makes Williams stand out from the rest of the receivers in college football, is his physicality. He is legitimately a man amongst boys on the perimeter. Of his 85 receptions, 14 of those were contested by the defensive back. To give context, Jordan Leggette has the second most contested receptions with 5. Deshaun Watson clearly trusts Williams to come down with the ball, since he targeted Williams 31 times with the defense back draped over his receiver. The second most contested targets on the team are Deon Cain’s eight.

Here are two routes that are borderline unstoppable, due to Williams’ size, strength and reliable hands.

Fade


First of all, this is a dime by Deshaun Watson. South Carolina played soft man-to-man coverage on the outside, respecting Williams’ deep threat ability. As Williams took off from the line of scrimmage, the corner shaded to the inside, most likely taking away a deep post. Williams got onto the cornerback’s toes and got a step on the outside. As the ball hung up in the air, the defensive back got into good position to make a play on the ball. Williams went up and snatched the ball at its high point -- fighting through the corner’s arm -- and brought it down for six. You can’t guard this.




Back shoulder


The back shoulder throw has turned into one of the more reliable throws in football -- especially when a team possesses a legit quarterback and a big perimeter receiving option. The Patriots execute this play to perfection with Rob Gronkowski split wide with Tom Brady throwing him the ball. It’s based off the quarterback’s accuracy and the receiver’s body type and catch radius.

With Watson and Williams, this route is borderline unstoppable. Going up against Auburn’s biggest corner in Carlton Davis — who checks in at 6’1”, 195 — the Tigers still weren’t wary of trying this play. Williams runs a basic 9-route (vertical), looks inside at the quarterback near the sticks and then flips his body towards the sideline to box out the defender to make the grab. Watson places the ball where only his guy can get it and it’s an automatic first down. Since the Buckeyes do not possess a corner that can matchup size wise with Williams, they’ll just have to pray for an errant throw from Watson.



Yards after contact


Per CFB Film Room, 46 of Williams’ 85 grabs have moved the chains and 316 of his yardage has came after contact. He is the type of receiver who looks for contact and will run through you after the catch.

Against South Carolina, Mike Williams looked like a man possessed. After doing his best Randy Moss impression (above) on the fade route, Watson hit Williams on a simple 10-yard slant -- that wasn’t ran precisely, he just took advantage of soft coverage — and was hit immediately by the corner at the 8-yard line. The safety decided to make a business decision by not hitting Williams, while he took the corner on a piggy back ride into the end zone. This touchdown is one of the most beastly plays in recent memory and it displays his strength and physicality after the catch.




Conclusion


Mike Williams is the best receiver that the Ohio State defense will face all year and frankly, it’s not very close. He’s a potential top-10 draft selection and is the most NFL-ready wideout in this class. Marshon Lattimore and Gareon Conley have been excellent on the perimeter, but they have yet to be truly tested deep or by a receiver as big and skilled as Williams. Since getting burnt for 14 receptions in the Orange Bowl by Sammy Watkins, the Buckeyes have found creative ways to shutdown top tier receivers (Amari Cooper). The problem with this Clemson team though, is that Williams is not their only elite option at receiver. Do they man-up Lattimore on Williams, push Conley inside on Scott and let Damon Webb cover Deon Cain? Lattimore vs. Williams could be the battle two future top-10 draft picks and the individual matchup of the College Football Playoffs.

The Clemson receivers present a serious matchup problem and one would expect the Heisman runner-up to test it early and often.

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Bates-Diop is "feeling good" but won't be rushed back - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Bates-Diop is "feeling good" but won't be rushed back
247Sports
COLUMBUS – It's been a rough last eight months for Keita Bates-Diop. The Buckeye junior forward missed both of Ohio State's NIT games to end last year with an illness that turned out to be mononucleosis. Entering preseason, Bates-Diop was sick again ...
Bates-Diop feeling good again, Paul Keels is the greatest, and moreLandof10.com

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Urban Meyer fears Clemson’s multiple defense, says Torrance Gibson’s fate’s not decided yet
Alexis Chassen via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Before heading to Arizona, the Ohio State coach spoke to the media.

Urban Meyer spoke to the media Thursday as part of the Fiesta Bowl media day. The head coach has just over three weeks to get his staff and team prepared for their postseason rematch with Clemson, and he’s running on all cylinders. Meyer addressed Luke Fickell’s new position with the University of Cincinnati, and how his team is progressing to being ready for the College Football Playoff semifinals.

• To open the presser, Meyer was asked about the transfer rumors about Torrance Gibson. The head coach did note that Gibson came to see him to talk about his decision, but nothing is in stone. Meyer called it an “unfortunate situation” but he plans on doing what is best for the student athlete.
• The transition from Luke Fickell should be a lot easier given he’s only moving an hour and a half away. Meyer noted as long as both parties are professional, they just put together a calendar with set expectations for the rest of OSU tenure and there shouldn’t be a problem. Meyer also pointed out another good thing is the recruiting calendar is “user friendly” and that “Luke’s a pro”.
• Meyer was asked about the development of his relationship with Luke Fickell. He admitted, “I did not want to keep him when I first got here” despite being a good guy. But then their initial meeting went over the top and the head coach has immense respect for him and his family, saying now, Fickell is a “very good friend of mine”.
• The head coach was asked about the number of quarterback runs, especially on fourth down. He admitted he tends to have a “guy”, citing examples being Braxton Miller, Tim Tebow, Ezekiel Elliott and would add J.T. Barrett to the list. He continued, “I know one thing about J.T., if he has a chance he’ll get it [fourth down conversion].”
• On how Meyer and staff are preparing for the Clemson defense, which has multiple looks. He admitted it’s hard to get ready to see three different defenses from one school, but says the first two series usually gives some kind look into their approach on that day.
• Meyer and staff have not only studied Clemson’s schemes, but also noted that the team had the best social media approach to recruits a few seasons ago, which was incorporated into the way Ohio State did things. He noted, “I like to study winners, we certainly know what they do.”
• The head coach was asked his feelings about an 8-team College Football Playoff, but his concerns are mostly with what having an extra game would do for the students class schedule and practice time. He even quipped that several players were given unexcused absences the day after the national championship game against Oregon.
• Meyer was also asked if he’d rather have an 11 game season with a conference championship, or a 12 game season with no championship. The coach answered with “Clemson” before expanding that he isn’t trying to be disrespectful, but he hasn’t given that scenario any thought.
• Usually during bowl practices, young guys have a chance to step up and maybe get some notice. Meyer noted it’s different this year with so many of the young guys already in the fold.
• On Raekwon McMillan’s career as a Buckeye, Meyer didn’t hold back, “Probably one of the top 2 or 3 I’ve ever been around — he handles his business, has a great family” and even touched on his strong involvement with the OSU community. The head coach said McMillan’s reputation is “solid as gold”. He hedged a little before confidently stating the defender has exceeded expectations.
• The coaching staff had previously mentioned getting some help for freshman Isaiah Prince, by bringing in a tight end or someone else to back him up. When asked how that plan is going, Meyer said that the first priority is improving the player, but that he’s “never seen a player work harder” since the last game of the season.
• On the importance of having Billy Price and Pat Elflein on the offensive line, Meyer said he was proud these two would have their own trees in Buckeye Grove and without any hesitation said the team wouldn’t be where they are without those two. He went on to say they were the “backbone or where we are and what we do, on top of that the greatest people you will ever find”.
• When asked about improving the passing game of the quarterbacks, Meyer noted that the term “gunslinger” will never be used to describe their quarterbacks because that’s just not what they do — that’s not Ohio State’s goal on offense. But it is what makes Barrett one of the most efficient passers in the country.
• Finally, Meyer was asked what the team needed to do to recapture the Noah Brown magic from the Oklahoma game. He claimed that they need to get him more targets, Brown needs to get separation more and they need to protect Barrett better. He did note that Brown is back to full speed after his tough injury.

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Ohio State Buckeyes hold media day to talk about Fiesta Bowl - Dayton Daily News
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Ohio State Buckeyes hold media day to talk about Fiesta Bowl
Dayton Daily News
Landers was on the sideline when the Buckeyes beat Notre Dame last season in the Fiesta Bowl. This time, he'll be on the field. He and all the players can't wait. It's the same for their family members. Asked if his mom was going to the game, Landers ...
Ohio State football | Clemson loss brought change to BuckeyesColumbus Dispatch
Fiesta Bowl: Bold Predictions For Ohio State Buckeyes Vs. Clemson Tigers In College Football PlayoffThe Inquisitr
Season review: Ohio State reloads in a hurry to get back to College Football PlayoffESPN (blog)
247Sports -Landof10.com -Eleven Warriors
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Born a Buckeye, Michigan commit Joel Honigford now bleeds blue - MLive.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Born a Buckeye, Michigan commit Joel Honigford now bleeds blue
MLive.com
"My whole childhood, I was an Ohio State fan - a huge Ohio State fan," said Honigford, whose dad played basketball for the Buckeyes and his mom also attended Ohio State. "I knew everything about them. I loved the Buckeyes and always hated Michigan, ...


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