It still cost OSU a shot at defending their title. So, in that way (and that way only) it kinda sucks.

Joey Bosa finally signs with San Diego Chargers
Luke Zimmermann via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


The preseason’s longest holdout is finally over.

After one of the more acrimonious holdouts in recent pro football memory, Joey Bosa, the No. 3 pick in this past April’s 2016 NFL Draft, has finally signed his rookie deal.

The San Diego Chargers announced Monday that Bosa’s signed a four-year agreement with them.

“We look forward to having Joey join us and getting him prepared as quickly as possible for the 2016 season,” said General Manager Tom Telesco.

According to the NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Bosa will receive a 4-year, $25.8 million deal. He’ll get a $17 million signing bonus, all fully guaranteed.

With a lot of mudslinging in both directions, a deeper dive into the Chargers’ history as well as legal language in the contracts of recent players picked around when Bosa was suggest the rookie wasn’t some kind of monster for wanting to protect himself in a league pejoratively nicknamed ‘Not For Long’.

Regardless of who was at fault, one of the 2016 NFL Draft’s potential highest impact players will now be able to hit the ground running. It won’t be enough for him to be able to see the field in a meaningful way early in the 2016 NFL season, but will both get him closer to doing so by year’s end plus get him one season closer to the real payout in an NFL player’s career: the second contract.

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Torrance Gibson suspended for season by Ohio State - ESPN
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Torrance Gibson suspended for season by Ohio State
ESPN
Once among the nation's most coveted recruits at quarterback, Gibson shifted positions after arriving on campus last year for the Buckeyes due to a logjam on the depth chart. His dynamic athleticism and size suited wide receiver. But the transition ...
Ohio State Football: Buckeyes suspend WR Torrance GibsonUPI.com
Urban Meyer 'disagrees' with Torrance Gibson suspension247Sports
Injury forces lineup change at kicker for Ohio State BuckeyesDayton Daily News
SportsBlog.com (blog) -Miami Herald -Columbus Dispatch
all 69 news articles »

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Kyle Young commits to Butler over Buckeyes: Ohio State basketball recruiting - cleveland.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Kyle Young commits to Butler over Buckeyes: Ohio State basketball recruiting
cleveland.com
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Two days after an in-state recruiting win for Ohio State basketball, the Buckeyes lost out on one of Ohio's top 2017 prospects. Kyle Young, a four-star small forward from Massillon Jackson, announced on Monday his commitment to Butler.

and more »

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BM5: Game week arrives; projecting Buckeyes' 2-deep - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


BM5: Game week arrives; projecting Buckeyes' 2-deep
247Sports
The program will release its official 2-deep on Tuesday, but Dave Biddle takes a stab at what the entire 2-deep will look like on today's show. Also, today marks the first Urban Meyer game-week press conference of the season. Those will be held each ...
Ohio State offer could be near for talented defensive tackle247Sports

all 4 news articles »

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Men of the Scarlet and Gray Podcast: Big Ten East Discussion
Shannon Sommers via our good friends at Buckeye Battle Cry
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


It’s time to talk about the teams in the Big Ten East Division.



Shannon and Chip are joined again this week with Brett Ciancia of PickSixPreviews.com

They start off with Rutgers who they all feel will finish last in the division followed by Maryland. All three agree the hires of Chris Ash for Rutgers and DJ Durkin for Maryland are excellent hires.

They then discuss Indiana and their ever-changing defensive coordinators. The problems they have defensively and the loss of some key offensive players.



The discussion turns to Penn State and who are they. Is James Franklin the right fit for them. How the White Out games add a touchdown for them.

The final three spots really are close with Michigan State in their eyes finishing third followed by Michigan and Ohio State going to the Big Ten championship game.





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The post Men of the Scarlet and Gray Podcast: Big Ten East Discussion appeared first on The Buckeye Battle Cry: Ohio State News and Commentary.

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TBBC Awards: Pre-season Edition
WVaBuckeye via our good friends at Buckeye Battle Cry
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


As a staff, nobody covers certain topics better than us here at the Buckeye Battle Cry, plus we love us some roundtable type stuff where we can bust out the wings and brewskies. Be sure to check in every Monday after a game for our awards and even during the bye week we will pick on some unsuspecting weasels from up north. Let’s get rolling with the heart and soul of this years team (believe it or not). Oh and please read Brandon’s first because the majority of us agree with what he says.

Offensive


tOSU Offensive MVP


Nov 28, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback J.T. Barrett (16) receives congratulations from offensive lineman Pat Elflein (65) in the fourth quarter against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports


MDotySr – The obvious answer is JT Barrett with his experience and no one looking over his shoulder equals BIG year.

Scott – JT Barrett

WVa – This was honestly a toss-up for me until listening to Urban Meyer gush about JT. Not that he needed to but it is apparent that this team will be put on his shoulders until there comes a time that all weapons are firing the way he likes. No offense to Weber, but i think the days of one feature back(Carlos and Ezekiel) are gone and the way he has always spread the ball is finally here. The “distributor” will have the power and ability to make that indefensible.

Joe D. – If the Ohio State offensive staff allows Barrett to have freedom in the Redzone, this offense could be the most dangerous in the country. Barrett finished second in the country in red zone completion percentage in 2015. The only problem is that he only had 15 passing attempts throughout the season. In 2014, he was a red-shirt freshman stepping into a high-power last year. In 2015, the offensive staff realized his value as a rusher in the redzone. This year, if he is given the opportunity to expand his game on the field, he could be a heisman finalist.

Ben V. – JT Barrett – Let’s move past last year and focus on this year. Barrett has free reign over the offense and a ton of weapons at his disposal. I expect him to shine in the offense this year, and he will make the read option flow like a river on a crisp fall day. Expect a 2500/1000 season from him with 40+ touchdowns if he stays healthy and games are not blow outs.

Brandon – JT Barrett. I think it is easy to forget how special he was as a freshman. We live in a culture where it is “what have you done for me lately” and Barrett really struggled at times last year. He came on strong for the Michigan and Notre Dame game after Warriner moved up to the box and the play-calling changed drastically. On a conservative end, you should be able to expect numbers similar to his freshman year. Realistically, I think he could easily throw for 3,500 yards.

JC – I agree with everyone’s consensus above. JT, no doubt. If he is given the freedom to play his game – look out! I must confess though I am not a fan of either Warinner or Beck but perhaps my novena will be answered this coming year and they will wake up to the reality that these kids are “explosive” – use that!

Shannon – I am going to go with the player that Urban Meyer calls his greatest play-maker, Curtis Samuel. He has waited behind Zeke for running back. Last season he was moved to h-back only to be stuck behind Braxton Miller. This season it is going to be all about the Samuel’s show.

JT Barrett is the ultimate unanimous choice here and should also be a highly rated pre-season Heisman candidate.

tOSU O-line MVP

MDotySr – I’m going with Jamarco Jones. Not much being said about him but I see him as a dominating player that we will be thankful to have back next year as well.

Scott – Pat Elflein

WVa – Pat Elflein is an obvious choice here which is why I will agree with Doty Sr. Jamarco Jones has had to have a great off-season(did) and will need to be the star on that side of the line to protect JT and pave a path. I too am looking forward to him finally being in the mix as one of the best in the B1G.

Joe D. – I’ll take a different route as well, not because I don’t think Pat Elflein will be the MVP of this offensive line. We know though what to expect from him as he moves to center. If the Buckeyes have success in rushing the football, Michael Jordan — the true freshman, is going to have to play at a high level at left guard.

Ben V. – Pat Elflein – The leader on the offensive line. He along with Billy Price are the lone returning starters on this line, and Elflein has been a key cog in this line for a few years now. I expect his move to center to bolster the line, and his ability to call out coverage’s to the rest of the offensive line should help the young guys gel quickly and solidify before we hit the end of the season grind.

Brandon – Pat Elflein. You run down the list of players who signed in February who may have an impact…Nick Bosa, Austin Mack, Michael Jordan…but the biggest get for the Buckeyes after the season was Pat Elflein sticking around for one more year. This guy is the heart and soul of the offensive line. Sure there are young guys everywhere but with Elflein and Barrett at the center of everything, I have no worries. They are both proven leaders and what this team needs.

JC – Pat Elflein … Billy Price could sneak in …. But pre-season I will undoubtedly predict “Big” Pat as the O-Line “King”.

Shannon – I am going to have to agree with some of my great colleagues in saying Pat Elfein. He moves from the guard position to the one responsible for play calling and any adjustments that will need to be made.

Pat Elflein is a pre-season all-B1G and AA and is a pretty good choice here.

tOSU Offensive Unsung

MDotySr – Mikey Weber aka Beast-mode Jr! I look for him to have a big year and put doubters back in their place. He runs mean, has some wiggle and deceptive speed. The Buckeye’s don’t need him to be a workhorse but as the season progresses, that’s what he will be.


WVa – By definition, unsung refers to someone who won’t get any credit for their performance and for me that’s gonna fall squarely on the shoulders of Marcus Baugh. This years star TE will continue the tradition of being an amazing blocker and getting very few passes thrown his way. I am not buying into the notion that they will throw it to him more than the last two/three TE’s(Stoneburner, Heuerman and Vannett). Time will tell, but he will definitely be a hard nosed blocker.

Joe D. – Noah Brown and the reasoning isn’t stat or scoring related. Just being able to have a blocker like him on the edge to start the season is huge. Plus, he’s shown that he can make big plays in fall camp so far. Bouncing back from a major injury like a broken leg is always going to be tough, but Noah Brown is a youngster that returns with the amount of experience needed to excel right away.

Ben v. – Paris Campbell – He is always brought up by Urban Meyer as a guy who is on the verge of breaking out, and this year I think it might happen. With no real returning wide receivers this season, Campbell has a chance to make his mark this season. He flashed a little bit last year before he got hurt, and never really got himself into a groove. I think Meyer and company find a way for him to get more involved in the offense this year and he becomes the unsung hero of this young offense.

Brandon – Dontre Wilson. It is easy to forget about the hype which Wilson came to Ohio State with. He played immediately as a freshman backing up Philly Brown and accumulated 460 yards from scrimmage and three touchdowns. Additionally, he averaged almost 25 yards a kick return for a total of 523 yards. As a sophomore, Wilson was the starter ahead of Jalin Marshall before he started his battle with the injury bug and racked up 400 yards from scrimmage (10.3 yards per touch), 664 yards in returns (24 yard avg on KR and 9.7 yard avg on PR), and three touchdowns. Wilson is finally healthy again and will remind us all why he was such a coveted prospect. He won’t start but expect to see him play a variety of roles in the offense and really make his name known in the return game.

JC – I like two choices above. Noah Brown and Dontre Wilson. Brown returning from a “massive” injury will be a focus. But as the season progresses I suspect so will his football abilities. Look for him too to be a surprise weapon in Norman. Dontre too will light up the year for the Buckeyes. So – in conclusion – I think I will vote for co-unsung s’.

Shannon – Greg Studrawa. The new offensive line coach is thrown to the fire. Having to replace three of the five starters on the line isn’t an easy task. Ohio State is planning on throwing a lot more this season which means better protection for J.T. Barrett.

This one is literally too close to call even though Dontre gets the most(2) votes.

Defensive


tOSU Defensive MVP


Sam Hubbard and Tyquan Lewis will need to step up in the absence of Joey Bosa.


MDotySr – Tyquan Lewis/Sam Hubbard is going to have a big years and probably will be their last in a Buckeye Uniforms. Their combined size, power and quickness will be on full display and you can’t double team them both!!! Great problem for the Buckeyes.

Scott – Nick Bosa

WVa – There are four players tat will compete for this honor this season, Tyquan Lewis, Sam Hubbard, Gareon Conley, Nick Bosa(4) and then the guy that will walk away with it in Raekwon McMillan. There is nobody on this roster with the skill level and raw physical talent of him. I myself would like to see them give him some touches at RB just to shut-up the TTUN fans about their two-way athlete. Faster than Shazier and a better nose for where the ball will end up. The defense needs him to be him this season!

Joe D. – I think Raekwon McMillan is the MVP of this defense, but the most valuable player in game situations will be Gareon Conley. His hand positioning is some of the best you’ll see in college football this year and while everyone is talking about two kids up north as the best defensive backs outside of Desmond King in the B1G — look no further than Conley to be the shutdown pass disrupter that helps carry this defense to a level that meets Ohio State standard.

Ben v – Tyquan Lewis – Everyone will pick McMillan here, but I think the man of the year will be Tyquan Lewis. Everyone focused on Joey Bosa last year and Lewis had a great season with 14 TFL and 8 sacks which were both top 10 in the Big Ten. I expect him to get a lot of attention from the opposing team’s coaching staffs, but with his constantly running motor, expect a similar season out of him this year. This is his audition for the NFL year, as I don’t see him coming back next season with a solid effort this year.

Brandon – Raekwon McMillan. In two years at Ohio State, with only one starting, McMillan has accumulated 173 tackles, 11 tackles-for-loss, four sacks, and one interception. To put how impressive this is in perspective, the man he took over four, Curtis Grant, had 132 tackles, 8.5 tackles-for-loss, three sacks, and one interception in four years. The Buckeyes desperately needed a middle linebacker who could dominate the game and they got this with McMillan. Everyone should take their time and enjoy watching him this year because chances are he will not be back next year.

JC – is this a trick question? Raekwon will dominate. The Big Ten is becoming better of late – because of Urban (let’s be real!) – but Raekwon is already NFL-ready. He will put on a clinic year.

Shannon – Gareon Conley. He is going to be the heart and soul of a rebuilding secondary. Conley will be creating a No Fly Zone on whoever he is guarding. With him being named a captain for the 2016 team this means being the leader of the rebuilt secondary, he will be showing the others how to play the “right” way.

Raekwonza is the winner here although there is a sentiment for a few others.

tOSU D-line MVP

MDotySr – Tyquan/Hubbard – see above!! Go Bucks.

Scott – Nick Bosa

WVa – Sam Hubbard made an impact last season when he wasn’t really expected to. Imagine what he is going to do as the leader of this D-line? I am like everyone else in being a huge #6 fan right now. He will be hard to stop and I believe he is just a little more fundamentally sound than Bosa was.

Joe D. – I’m with Brandon. I truly believe that you could move Hubbard to safety tomorrow and he’d still have a major impact on this defense. His versatility is so valuable — even on the defensive line. I would not be surprised if we see him and Tyquan Lewis line up in three technique a couple plays per game just to scare the living bejebus out of opposing offensive coordinators and their quarterbacks.

Ben v – Tyquan Lewis – See Above

Brandon – Sam Hubbard. I have been shouting from the rooftops how much I really like Sam Hubbard. He is so explosive and athletic that most offensive tackles are going to struggle to contain him. With Lewis on the other side and a more aggressive DT bunch this year, I believe Hubbard will easily have 10 sacks this year. I wouldn’t be surprised if he has 2-3 sacks versus Bowling Green and Tulsa to start the season before teams realize they have to give him the Joey Bosa treatment.

JC – Yep! Brandon & Joe D. are on target! Sam Hubbard is the man on the D-line. Nick Bosa will be in time. Not this year though. Tyquan too is looking as if he is ready for the NFL come seasons’ end. These two, indeed are the D-line MVP’s.

Shannon- I am gonna say Tracy Sprinkle because of the reasons Joe mentioned and I have a thing about Lorain County kids repping on the Buckeyes.

Sam Hubbard gets the nod but there’s a wide range of possibilities this season like having the bejebus knocked out of someone.

tOSU Defensive Unsung

MDotySr – Damon Webb (Lattimore with the Honorable Mention). I really think he breaks out big and a big thanks to Coach Schiano here. Not only will he help with run support but also possess excellent cover skills.

Scott – Sam Hubbard

WVa – Malik Hooker just has a name that you are sure will be around the ball. He has some of the intangibles that Bell brought the last two seasons and loves to hit. I think the presence of Gareon Conley makes it possible he stays under the radar for a little while.

Joe D. – Tracy Sprinkle and Michael Hill are going to help drastically improve the interior run defense. It wasn’t horrible last season, but at times the line was too aggressive off the snap and left the interior running lanes wide open. These two will help change that in 2016 by just being the aggressive players they are, with a little bit more discipline at staying home.

Ben v. – Malik Hooker – The defensive backfield is missing a lot from last year in Vonn Bell and Eli Apple, and they need someone to step up and fill those shoes. Malik Hooker has had the word star written about him since he was a kid in high school in Pennsylvania. I expect him to start at Safety and make a huge impact on the defense this season.

Brandon – Marshon Lattimore. With all of his injuries, it is very easy to forget how talented and highly regarded Lattimore was coming out of high school. This young man was the 6th rated corner-back and had offers from everyone from Alabama to Michigan to USC. He was a big time get. He quickly worked his way up the depth chart but has had lingering hamstring issues. He appears to be finally healthy and ready to start opposite of Gareon Conley. At 6’0”, Lattimore has the size to dominate B1G wide receivers as long as he stays healthy. He and Conley will form one of the best combos at the corner-back position.

JC – I like Ben’s answer. Malik Hooker is ready to step in and play at this level. I have read a lot on him and will be completely surprised if he does not answer the call-to-duty. He will shine at safety and watch as the season progresses and the Badgers, Spartans, and Wolverines line up against the Buckeyes – Malik will show the world that his “young-self” is ready for prime-time!

Shannon – It is the Silver Bullets is can there really be any unsung players?

Malik Hooker and Marshon Lattimore are two players that will fly under the radar for a little while.



Odds and Ends


tOSU Special Teams MVP

MDotySr – I have to agree with Brandon here and it’s not even close.

Scott – Cam Johnston

WVa – Dontre Wilson will need this season and this season will need Dontre Wilson on special teams. His ability to make separation will be key. He has an insane next level and may give us some excitement we haven’t seen in these parts since TG2

Joe D. – I defer my words to those that have a better feel for the third phase of the game. All I’ll say is AUSSIE AUSSIE AUSSIE!

Ben v – Cam Johnston – Field position, field position, field position. This kid can drop the ball on a dime inside the 5 yard line with little to no effort. With the amount of emphasis that is put on special teams by Urban Meyer coached teams, Johnston is a key cog in that effort with his knack for pinning opponents inside their 20. As long as we are winning the field position battle, I like our chances in every game this season.

Brandon – Dontre Wilson. As I mentioned above, Wilson will be a major part of the return game for the Buckeyes. Over the years he seemed like he was always one arm tackle away from breaking a big one for a return. As an undersized speedster, Wilson has accumulated 1,354 return yards without a touchdown. Wilson came to Ohio State listed at 180 generous pounds…last year he was at 185…he is now up to 195. If he maintains his speed and explosiveness, along with that extra 15 pounds, his return skills will be highlighted even more.

JC – Dontre Wilson and the return game. His speed and strength is Buckeyes Football. There is no exception – he’ll be out if he can’t deliver. Everything I have seen about this kid is that he is hungry. He is prepared. Do not expect anything less of a proficient and dynamic returner in Scarlet and Gray – and this year his name will be Dontre Wilson.

Shannon – Cam Johnston for the above mentioned reasons.

Special teams will live and die with Dontre Wilson.

tOSU Needs Improvement

Scott – Special teams coverage

WVa – I struggled with having an item to put here but am also worried about the scoring efficiency in the red zone like Joe. Without Ezekiel Elliott this season and no proven H-back as of yet, they may need to score before getting inside the 20! This may not be that much of a problem this season if the offense gets rolling, but it is definitely a big concern.

Joe D. – Scoring efficiency in the redzone. Over the last two seasons, the Buckeyes haven’t finished in the top 40 in this category. Last year, they finished 81st in scoring percentage. That’s an unfortunate number, even with the likes of Ezekiel Elliott in the backfield the last two seasons. Part of the issue is scoring on field goals and being able to trust your kicker to ma

Ben v. – Linebackers minus McMillan – I am a little worried about the inexperience of the linebackers minus McMillan. Projected starters are Chris Worley and Dante Booker who are both juniors, but have not had a lot of playing time up until this season. I know that Luke Fickell and Greg Schiano will have them coached up and ready to go, and luckily we have a couple of games to get them acclimated before we head to Norman for the big game against Oklahoma. I hope that they can come into their own and surround Raekwon with solid tackling and coverage. There will be a drop off without Darron Lee out there roaming around, but let’s hope it’s less than noticeable.

Brandon – Field Goal kicking. The job is Sean Nuernberger’s for the taking but I can’t say with any confidence that I would be okay with a game on the line and him having to hit a 30 yarder. He was supposed to be the starter last year but was beat out by a walk-on kickoff specialist from Duke; Jack Willoughby. Willoughby was not able to win the full-time kicking job at Duke but he was able to beat a scholarship kicker at Ohio State. That just shouldn’t happen. After winning the job back, Nuernberger went three of four with a long of 38 yards. The coaching staff does not appear to have much faith in the kicking game either only attempting 15 field goals last year and only three longer than 40 yards. All reports from the very few media practices is the field goal kicking game is still a mess. With a young team, there is going to be a time where they need Nuernberger to to nail a field goal to win and hopefully he can.

JC – Call playing. This team has enormous promise. The whole world has them losing in Norman – along with a stumble either against the Badgers, Spartans, or Wolverines. With that in mind – why not open up and challenge your talent. Play football as if it is fun ….

Shannon- Secondary and linebacker units. The first few games they will be getting their feet under them but by the end of the season they can become the strengths of the team.

Seems to be a lot of concern with the linebackers unit and the defense altogether.

tOSU Next Big Star

MDotySr – Austin Mack. He enrolled early got reps and has loads of talent. The only problem is how many good receivers the Buckeyes have on the roster which will limit his touches but I see him making the most of his chances.

Scott – Mike Weber

WVa – Since he never has really had his moment under the spotlight, I am going with Noah Brown here. All indications are that he is back where he was last season and according to Urban Meyer, he was neck and neck with Mike Thomas a year ago at this point. I have always been excited about him and think he will be the star of this offense next after JT Barrett.

Joe D. – Austin Mack is going to be a dangerous weapon for J.T. Barrett in the slot. The freshman — who enrolled before spring camp — had an excellent spring and fall, becoming the fastest player to lose his Black Stripe in March. He has all the physical tools to be a great wide receiver in the future. What makes him so valuable in 2016 is his hand-eye coordination and ability to make plays in the middle of the field.

Ben v. – Mike Weber – Merely a red-shirt freshman, he has been thrust into the spotlight early with the departure of Brionte Dunn from the team. Weber will get the ball 20+ times a game this season and will fill in nicely for Zeke Elliott. While I don’t think we will get the blocking like we did from Elliott, I feel the drop-off in the run game that everyone is expecting will not be that bad. Weber is a power runner and should be a fun one to watch grow over the next few seasons.

Brandon – Malik Hooker. I was not a huge fan of Hooker going into spring but he has won me over. I heard over and over about his athleticism and big play ability but I had never seen it. Two interceptions and a touchdown later and I am sold. Add this in with all the picks you saw him getting during the practice videos released during the fall camp and I think we have a star in the making.

JC – The Buckeyes are loaded. It’s rather difficult to narrow a future star down to one. I am going to say this team has the potential to being the 1996 New York Yankees with Jeter, Posada, Rivera, Williams, and Pettitte. So with that said – I will say Weber, Mack, and Hooker will all shine and be the next big names in Columbus.

Shannon – Jim Harbaugh since he will have to learn a new side of coaching, humility. Who has it better than us? Scarlet and Gray do coach thats who!!

Looks like a draw between Mike Weber and Malik Hooker.

tOSU Assistant Coach MVP

MDotySr – Very tough question here. Went back and forth between Marotti and Schiano with them being Co-MVP’s. The proving point will be week 2 (Tulsa scores a lot of points) and more importantly week 3 in Norman. Schiano was a great hire even if he is only here for one year, it was well worth it to me. On a side note, how the hell is Coach Marotti paid less that Iowa’s S&C Coach Chris Doyle by more than $205,000 annually????? Well you can bet Coach Mick will be getting an increase by next season.

Scott – Larry Johnson

WVa – I think for the situation the offense is in now compared to the end of the season last year, Greg Studrawa will become that guy. I believe the play calling will improve and the test would be to improve o-line play with a new coach and improving on what Warriner has done will be next to impossible. Stud will get it done.

Joe D. – Joker Phillips as a volunteer will turn this program into a savagery offense like he did at Kentucky. I mean, Greg Studrawa will be the MVP of this season after seamlessly making the transition from LSU and continuing what Ed Warinner has done as the offensive line coach. Especially if true freshman Michael Jordan blossoms into the guard the coaching staff expects will start throughout the 2016 season.

Ben v. – Luke Fickell – He will be the MVP of the team if he is able to coach up the defense and get the linebackers playing at the level they are capable of. Like I said above I have some concerns about the inexperience of the linebackers, and if he is able to get them playing at an elite level early, then he more than earns the MVP this season.

Brandon – Larry Johnson. Everyone talks about the Michigan defensive line but I think in the end the Buckeyes will have the most dominant defensive line they have seen in a long time. They have four guys at defensive end who could start at almost any place in the country (Lewis, Hubbard, Bosa, and Homes) and some defensive tackles waiting to explode on the scene. Johnson is a master motivator and by the end of the season, the Buckeyes will be rotating 12 guys and causing a bunch of havoc on quarterbacks.

JC – I love Larry Johnson. He is motivational heaven. He could sell me a box of Twinkies during Lent. This guy will be the face of another program elsewhere rather soon. Let’s just hope it isn’t in the Big Ten.

Shannon – As I have stated earlier Greg Studrawa.

Greg Studrawa has the call here but it’s close over Larry Johnson.

TB1G Coach of the Year

MDotySr – I really think Lovie Smith (great hire for them and the B1G) gets enough improvement out of the Illinois to win the award though I would not be surprised if Mike Riley to win it either.

Scott – Pat Fitzgerald

WVa – I am with Scott. Fitz does more with less better than anybody in the B1G. I think Lovie Smith brings a lot to the conference and will improve things in Illinois but he won’t get any of what Fitz is getting.

Joe D. – HEY KIRK FERENTZ, YOU HAD A NICE YEAR AND I’M GOING TO LET YOU FINISH, BUT URBAN MEYER IS THE GREATEST COACH IN AMERICA. (Storms off stage and throws what has become the biggest joke of an award in the trash)

Ben v. – Urban Meyer – You lose 12 guys to the NFL draft, plus a few more undrafted kids and you still win the Big Ten? How can he not win it this year? I mean really? So yeah he probably won’t win again.

Brandon – Not Urban Meyer. I’m not sure who it will be but as we all know Ohio State coaches can not win. If I have to pick a name, I think it will be Mike Riley at Nebraska. I have them finishing the year 9-3 and second place in the B1G West. They had horrible luck last year and bring back a lot of talent. I could easily see them doing even better than I predicted and finishing 11-1 with a big last weekend win against Iowa to propel them to the B1G Championship.

JC – Urban Meyer. The League will want to pick someone else like Kirk Ferentz, or Lovie Smith, or even the troubled tree-climber up north. But at the end of the day they will have no choice. Urban Meyer is great. Plain and simple.

Shannon – Any Big Ten coach that isn’t on the same sideline of the Buckeyes. We know after winning two national championships not a single coach has been COY since Jimmy Carter was in office. Biased? You tell me why a coach can go undefeated and not win the award. Explain to me why Minnesota’s Jerry Kill won the award for having a one or two game turnaround and Urban did what he did.

Doing a coin toss here and Fitz wins!

The post TBBC Awards: Pre-season Edition appeared first on The Buckeye Battle Cry: Ohio State News and Commentary.

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What you need to know about Penn State before Ohio State plays them
Matt Brown via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Is this the year they finally get their offense together?

The Ohio State football season will be here before you know it, and even if you’ve only been paying semi-close attention this offseason, you’re probably aware of the major storylines with the program. This is going to be an exceptionally young, but talented and athletic team. There’s a lack of proven production at wideout, running back, and defensive back. They return the best QB in the conference, and should at least compete for a Big Ten title.

But you may not know a lot about the specific teams on Ohio State’s schedule. We’ll get into a lot more detail before the actual games, but you may want a primer so you can sound smart at the bar, or at the barbecue, or in the grocery store checkout line.

So take a look at Ohio State’s opponents this year. Next up, Ohio State’s “other” rival (yes, this is a rivalry game, don’t @ me Penn State Twitter), Penn State

So, what was the deal with Penn State last year?


Is there one Youtube clip that sums up the Penn State offense from last year? Why yes, I do believe there is.


PENN STATE GAVE UP A SACK ON A TWO MAN RUSH. TO TEMPLE. TEMPLE!

The Nittany Lions did end up finishing with a 9-4 record, which is impressive given they were still working their way out of roster depth issues, but they beat exactly one team with a pulse (San Diego State), got destroyed by Ohio State and Michigan State, turned highly touted Christian Hackenburg into a quivering heap, and satisfied exactly zero Penn State fans.

Now, Hackenburg is gone. And so are both coordinators, including one (former DC Bob Shoop) who was very good at his job. The offensive line coach is gone too, and so are most of the pieces of a truly amazing pass rush last season. So this year should be a pretty interesting one.

What do the Nittany Lions have coming back on offense?


Taking over under center will be redshirt sophomore Trace McSorley. McSorely is a little small for a high level FBS QB, and doesn’t have a ton of experience. But he looked good at the end of the TaxSlayer Bowl, and apparently had a nice spring game. He may not have the raw star power or potential that Hackenburg had, but given the rest of the offense, he probably doesn’t need it.

McSorely just needs to hand the dang ball off to perhaps the best running back in the Big Ten, Saquon Barkley. Barkley torched Ohio State last season, en route to rushing for over 1,000 yards as a true freshman. With stud freshman Miles Sanders behind him, if Penn State’s offensive line is just average, moving the ball, and putting McSorley in positions to be successful should not be a problem.

In terms of pure production, Michigan has the best wideouts in the Big Ten. In terms of pure, adulterated potential, it’s probably Ohio State. But Penn State has a nice mix of both, paced by Chris Godwin and DaeSean Hamilton. It just comes down to consistent offensive line play, something Penn State hasn’t had in several seasons. We’ll see if former Minnesota line coach Matt Limegrover can turn a unit that is heavy on experience, but light on proven production, into winners.

What about Penn State’s defense?


The reason Penn State never truly fell in the tank, even with the worst of the sanctions, was their defense. Last year, it was especially nasty, especially the pass rush. But Bob Shoop is gone, along with Carl Nassib, Austin Johnson, and Anthony Zettel. They’re certainly not lacking for talent there, but expecting a repeat of last year’s defensive line production seems unreasonable.

But Penn State brings almost everybody else back. Sack machine Brandon Bell at linebacker returns, along with most of the secondary, and plenty other exciting options at the other linebacker spots, like Jason Cabinda and Manny Bowen. After the last several years, even with new coordinators, Penn State’s defense probably deserves some benefit of the doubt. Will they be as good as last year? That remains to be seen, but the offense may improve enough to absorb some defensive regression.

What’s the Ohio State-Penn State series history like?


The all-time series is 17-13, in favor of Ohio State, but recent history has been even more lopsided in the favor of the Buckeyes. Ohio State has won the last four games in this series, and eight of the last ten, including last year’s 38-10 romp in Columbus. Blowouts, like we saw in 2015 and 2013, are relatively rare though.

Is Penn State going to be any good this year?


It won’t be hard to find somebody on the internet who thinks Penn State might suck in 2016. They have to travel to play a good Pitt team before Big Ten play (not to mention a rematch with Temple), they play in the difficult Big Ten division, they’re breaking in a new, young, non-blue chip QB, and James Franklin’s in-game coaching decisions — especially when it comes to clock management — do little to inspire confidence. All of that makes sense.

But I think I’ve talked myself into a bit of a bounce back year for the Nittany Lions. The actual Big Ten schedule is pretty forgivable, with Ohio State, Iowa and Michigan State all at home, (a place where Penn State typically performs pretty well). Their returning skill position talent is some of the very best in the Big Ten. Their secondary should be good. If they get average offensive line play and new offensive coordinator Joe Moorhead is successful introducing some tempo principles into this scheme, you can also talk yourself into an improved squad. Maybe they finish 3rd in the Big Ten East. I think, given the two scenarios, I personally lean a little more towards the later.

How worried should Ohio State fans be about this game?


This is the non-Oklahoma/Michigan/Michigan State game that scares me the most, personally. Happy Valley at night is a difficult place to play for even experienced squads, and Ohio State won’t be that. They’ll also be coming off a potentially difficult road game at Wisconsin, and Penn State’s skill guys may be the only ones outside of Michigan and Oklahoma to be athletic enough to truly give Ohio State problems.

Ohio State’s pass rush could have a field day, and the Buckeyes probably will still go into this game as favorites, but I think it ends up being one of the harder ones on the schedule.

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Ohio State Football: Buckeyes suspend WR Torrance Gibson - UPI.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Ohio State Football: Buckeyes suspend WR Torrance Gibson
UPI.com
He scored twice in the Buckeyes' spring game after suffering a hamstring injury during the offseason. Last month, Meyer touted Gibson athletically and academically. "I love Torrance Gibson," Meyer said, via Cleveland.com. "I love his talent. I love the ...
Days since Michigan's last win over OSU in football:Columbus Dispatch
Ohio State Buckeyes ReportSportsBlog.com (blog)
Injury forces lineup change at kicker for Ohio State BuckeyesSpringfield News Sun
Miami Herald -Bleacher Report -cleveland.com
all 65 news articles »

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Or Brandon, according to the OSU roster. Anyways, Chicago-area kid added to the roster now that the season is underway and the 105-man preseason cap is lifted.

Some background from the Chicago Tribune:

The 6-foot, 180-pound quarterback delivered a memorable senior season, passing for 3,805 yards and 38 touchdowns while rushing for 1,084 yards and nine TDs in leading the RedHawks (9-5) to a state runner-up finish in Class 8A.

Skalitzky, who was named the Daily Southtown Player of the Year, had never played quarterback before attending Marist. He did have roster-spot college offers from the next tier in Dayton and Valparaiso.

But Skalitzky took a chance and sent out his 10-minute Hudl.com tape to numerous colleges throughout the country.

Click to expand...

http://www.chicagotribune.com/subur...brendan-skalitzky-st-0308-20160307-story.html

Buckeyes On Your Computer
Joe Dexter via our good friends at Buckeye Battle Cry
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Our friend Kevin Dearth is at it again! Much thanks to the best Buckeye Graphics man out there for sharing this wallpaper for your desktop or laptop.



For the full-size wallpaper, left-click the image above. To download, right click “save as.”

The post Buckeyes On Your Computer appeared first on The Buckeye Battle Cry: Ohio State News and Commentary.

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Urban Meyer ‘doesn’t agree’ with Torrance Gibson’s suspension
Alexis Chassen via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Says it wasn’t an athletic department or football decision.

Shortly after the University announced that redshirt freshman quarterback-turned-receiver Torrance Gibson would be suspended for Fall semester, Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer took the podium ahead of the team’s first game of the season.

With less than a week until the 2016 football seasons kicks-off, there are still position battles and depth chart questions that loom over the coaching staff. As game plans begin to formulate, there are at least a few “givens” that the team can build on. J.T. Barrett is still looking like a Heisman contender, and Curtis Samuel is still expected to be the playmaker for the Buckeyes on offense.

Meyer also answered some questions about Ohio State’s first opponent -- Bowling Green -- and where some of the young guys stand less than a week out.

• Meyer was quick to point out that Torrance Gibson’s suspension did not come from the football team, but rather the University, and that he “doesn’t agree with it”. While he doesn’t agree with it, the situation is “not unique and we have dealt with it [before]”
• Captains J.T. Barrett, Raekwon McMillan, and Pat Elflein were announced just after the Fiesta Bowl win — first time Meyer has announced them so early.
• Meyer lauded Mark Pantoni and his staff who helped recruit some of the important impact players like Raekwon McMillan.
• The ideal balance for this year’s offense is 50/50 — especially compared to last year — and Meyer said fortunately, he feels they are pretty close to that. He’ll know more after Week 1, but he feels good heading into the season.
• Meyer is looking for 250 rushing/250 passing yards per game. Lofty goals.
• Tyler Durbin will start this week on kick-offs and field goals with usual starter Sean Nuernberger nursing injuries, and despite Meyer not being 100% sure of his name, said he’s doing great ahead of the season and has earned the starting role.
• Marcus Baugh and Jerome Baker returned from injuries Monday, and the unit is pretty close to game ready. Meyer noted though, that most of the starters are set, but there are a couple players who are still on the bubble.
• Joe Burrow is the No. 2 guy at QB behind J.T. Barrett.
• Meyer has to bite his tongue from being too excited for this year’s team, but it does feel like 2014 and he has high expectations despite the number of young guys on roster.

On Bowling Green

• Meyer feels a special way about his former employer, Bowling green. “I love that school,” Meyer touted before speaking on his being hired in 2001 and why he took the job.
• He went on to talk about how Bowling Green has one of the most tradition rich programs in the MAC. He doubled down with how much respect he has for the program.
• Meyer told a story about how he went to Adidas to work out a deal worth ~$2,500 for matching shoes for the team when he coached at Bowling Green. Adidas came through with blue and grey shoes -- Bowling Green’s colors are brown and orange — but the players were just excited to match.
• The head coach is looking forward to seeing how the young guys react to their first game in front of a packed house in The ‘Shoe.

Misc.

• The head coach was also asked about Tim Tebow and his budding baseball career. Meyer said, “Incredible. He’s an incredible baseball player.” He went on to say that his athleticism was what stood out to him when he was recruiting the college quarterback back in high school.

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Buckeyes suspend receiver Torrance Gibson for fall semester - Comcast SportsNet Chicago
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Buckeyes suspend receiver Torrance Gibson for fall semester
Comcast SportsNet Chicago
Ohio State announced Monday what amounts to a season-long suspension for wide receiver Torrance Gibson. "Ohio State redshirt freshman wide receiver Torrance Gibson has been suspended from The Ohio State University for the 2016 fall semester for a ...

and more »

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Future Buckeyes in action: QB's and others shine - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Future Buckeyes in action: QB's and others shine
247Sports
Every Monday during football season I wrap up the weekend that was in high school football in Ohio and elsewhere, focusing on those who will continue their careers playing for the Buckeyes. Over the weekend a number of future Buckeyes played in ...

and more »

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Torrance Gibson Suspended for Fall Semester
Ben van Ooyen via our good friends at Buckeye Battle Cry
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here




The Buckeyes depth chart took another hit today, as it was reported by Tim Shoemaker at 11 Warriors that red-shirt freshman Torrance Gibson has been suspended for the fall semester, meaning he will not be a part of the team for the entire season. He will also not be allowed to attend classes at Ohio State for the fall semester as he has been suspended by the University for an undisclosed violation of the University’s student code of conduct. He would be eligible to return to the team at the earliest on January 9th which is when Spring semester begins at Ohio State.



The post Torrance Gibson Suspended for Fall Semester appeared first on The Buckeye Battle Cry: Ohio State News and Commentary.

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Ohio State WR Torrance Gibson suspended for the football season
Luke Zimmermann via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Less than ideal.

Ohio State released a short statement Monday morning before Urban Meyer's weekly OSU football press conference concerning the status of redshirt freshman Torrance Gibson.

The statement reads in its entirety:

Ohio State red-shirt freshman wide receiver Torrance Gibson has been suspended from The Ohio State University for the 2016 fall semester for a violation of the University's student code of conduct.

The specifics of the circumstances surrounding his suspension were not made available.

While transitioning from highly touted high school prep quarterback to wide receiver, Gibson sat out his freshman season. There had been rumblings of a potential transfer, but after sticking around in Columbus, Gibson looked ready to make an impact with his dynamic athleticism and improvements at the receiver position.

Gibson had some issues in high school, allegedly related to an altercation with a teacher. Rumors surrounding a possible departure from OSU surfaced last fall after he failed to dress against Penn State.

"He's on the team," Meyer said during the following week's press conference. "You have to earn the right to dress, and he didn't do it last week."

We’ll have more on this development as it comes to light.

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Power Rankings: Ohio State, Iowa, Michigan State lead the way
Tom Dienhart, BTN.com Senior Writer via Big Ten Network

The BTN tour bus has been put in park. It’s time for some football! I have had a few days to absorb and contemplate what I have seen and here is my inaugural Big Ten Football Power Poll, presented by ArcelorMittal. Speaking of the summer football tour, it’s not too late to go back and catch up on our 14-campus trip and all of the coverage. We started at Indiana, ended in Purdue, and BTN produced a whole bunch of video right here. With that said, here is a look at 1. Ohio State. Yes, lots of key personnel has

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buchtelgrad04 said:

New roster released today. One notable exception, Torrance Gibson.

Click to expand...

Tony Gerdeman ‏@TonyGerdeman
Torrance Gibson Suspended for 2016 Fall Semester http://theozone.net/Ohio-

Buckeye Opponets: Who to Follow in the Media
Brandon Zimmerman via our good friends at Buckeye Battle Cry
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Well folks, the football season is finally upon us! I’m sure you have already gobbled up as much information about the Buckeyes as you possibly could but what about their opponents? Sure I know thinking about the demise of the Buckeyes is the cool thing to do because they lost 16 starters BUT what if other teams lost key players too? I know it seems like we are supposed to pretend like every team on the Buckeyes schedule are returning 22 starters but they really aren’t. Each team has lost key players and they may even be forced to replace them with inexperienced players.

I’m here to help you find out all you need to know about their opponents by giving you members of the media who specialize in the Buckeyes opponents. Keep this page bookmarked and come back to it often!

Bowling Green, Sept 3

John Wagner > Toledo Blade @JWagnerBlade
Thomas Schmeltz > The Sentinel-Tribune @Thomas_Schmeltz



Tulsa, Sept 10

Kelly Hines > Tulsa World @KellyHinesTW



Oklahoma, Sept 17

John Shinn > Norman Transcript @John_Shinn
Jason Kersey > Daily Oklahoman @JasonKersey
Ryan Aber > Daily Oklahoman @RyAber
Guerin Emig > Tulsa World @GuerinEmig
Eric Bailey > Tulsa World @EricBaileyTW
Chuck Carlton > The Dallas Morning News @ChuckCarltonDMN
James Hale > OU Insider (247Sports) @OU247
Joey Helmer > OU Insider (247Sports) @JoeyHelmer10
Brandon Chatmon > Sooner Nation @BChatmon
Carey Murdock > Sooner Scoop @SoonerScoop
Cliff Brunt > Associated Press @CliffBruntAP



Rutgers, Oct 1

Keith Sargeant > NJ Advance Media @KSargeantNJ
Dan Duggan > NJ Advance Media @DDuggan21
Ryan Dunleavy > Asbury Park Press @RyDunleavy
Brian Lewis > New York Post @NYPost_Lewis
Richard Schnyderite > Scarlet Insiders (247Sports) @TheChopNation
Sam Hellman > Scarlet Report (Scout) @SamHellmanScout
Brian Dohn > Scarlet Report (Scout) @ScoutRutgers
Bobby Deren > Scarlet Nation (Rivals) @BobbyDeren
John Otterstedt > Scarlet Nation (Rivals) @RivalsNewJersey
Tom Luicci > ScarletKnights.com @TomLuicci
Tom Canavan > Associated Press @APTCan



Indiana, Oct 8

Mike Miller > Bloomington Herald-Times @MikeMillerHT
David Woods > Indianapolis Star @DavidWoods007
Zach Osterman > Indianapolis Star @ZachOsterman
Pete DiPrimio > Fort Wayne News-Sentinel @PDiPrimio
Alex McCarthy > Inside Indiana (247Sports) @AKMcCarthy
Justin Albers > All Hoosiers (Scout) @Justin_Albers
Matt Weaver > Peegs.com (Rivals) @MB_Weaver
Mike Marot > Associated Press @APMarot



Wisconsin, Oct 15

Jeff Potrykus > Milwaukee Journal Sentinel @JayPo1961
Jason Galloway > Wisconsin State Journal @Jason_Galloway
Tom Oates > Wisconsin State Journal @TomOatesWSJ
Jim Polzin > Wisconsin State Journal @JimPolzinWSJ
Ben Worgull > Badger Nation (Scout) @TheBadgerNation
John Veldhuis > BadgerBlitz.com (Rivals) @JohnVeldhuis
Evan Flood > Badger247 (247Sports) @Evan_Flood
Mike Lucas > UWBadgers.com @LucasAtLarge
Genaro Armas > Associated Press @GArmasAP



Penn State, Oct 22

Ben Jones > StateCollege.com @Ben_Jones88
Mike Poorman > StateCollege.com @PSUPoorman
Joe Juliano > Philadelphia Inquirer/Daily News @JoeJulesInq
David Jones > PennLive @DJonesHoop
Bob Flounders > PennLive @BobbyFlo7
Audrey Snyder > Pittsburgh Post-Gazette @AudSnyder4
Bob Cohn > Pittsburgh Tribune Review @BCohn_Trib
Jourdan Rodrigue > Centre Daily Times @JourdanRodrigue
Mark Wogenrich > Allentown Morning Call @MarkWogenrich
Cory Giger > Altoona Mirror @CoryGiger
Neil Rudel > Altoona Mirror @NeilRudel
Mike Gross > Lancaster Newspapers @MikeGrss
Rich Scarcella > Reading Eagle @NittanyRich
Donnie Collins > Scranton Times-Tribune @PSUBST
Derek Levarse > Wilkes-Barre Times Leader @TLDLevarse
Frank Bodani > York Daily Record @YDRPennState
Jeff Rice > Lions247 (247Sports) @JeffRice247
Sean Fitz > Lions247 (247Sports) @SeanFitz247
Greg Pickel > Fight On State (Scout) @GregPickel
Mark Brennan > Fight On State (Scout) @MarkXBrennan
Nate Bauer > Blue-White Illustrated (Rivals) @NateBauerBWI
Travis Johnson > Associated Press @ByTravisJohnson



Northwestern, Oct 29

Fred Mitchell > Chicago Tribune @Kicker34
Louie Vaccher > Wildcat Report (Rivals) @WildcatReport
Henry Bushnell > InsideNU.com (SBNation) @HenryBushnell
Chris Emma > CBS Chicago @CEmma670
Andy Seligman > Associated Press @ASeligmanAP



Nebraska, Nov 5

Brian Rosenthal > Lincoln Journal Star @HuskerExtraBR
Brian Christopherson > Lincoln Journal Star @HuskerExtraBC
Steve Sipple > Lincoln Journal Star @HuskerExtraSip
Rich Kaipust > Omaha World-Herald @RKaipustOWH
Sam McKewon > Omaha World-Herald @SWMcKewonOWH
Jon Nyatawa > Omaha World-Herald @JonNyatawa
Michael Bruntz > Huskers Illustrated (247Sports) @MichaelBruntz
Josh Harvey > Big Red Report (Scout) @JoshHarveyScout
Sean Callahan > Husker Online (Rivals) @Sean_Callahan
Mike Babcock > Hail Varsity @MDBabs
Eric Olson > Associated Press @EricOlson64



Maryland, Nov 12

Daniel Gallen > Baltimore Sun @DanielJTGallen
Roman Stubbs > Washington Post @RomanStubbs
Keith Cavanaugh > Terrapin Times (Scout) @MDTerrapinTimes
Jeff Ermann > Inside MD Sports (247Sports) @InsideMDSports
David Ginsburg > Associated Press @Ginzy3



Michigan State, Nov 19

Graham Couch > Lansing State Journal @Graham_Couch
Chris Solari > Lansing State Journal @ChrisSolari
Mike Griffith > MLive.com @MikeGriffith32
Joe Rexrode > Detroit Free Press @JoeRexrode
Matt Charboneau > Detroit News @MattCharboneau
Mike Wilson > SpartanTailgate.com (247Sports) @MikeWilson247
Hondo Carpenter > Spartan Nation @HondoCarpenter
Jim Comparoni > Spartan Magazine @JimComparoni
Larry Lage > Associated Press @LarryLage
Noah Trister > Associated Press @NoahTrister



Michigan, Nov 26

Nick Baumgardner > MLive.com @NickBaumgardner
Mark Snyder > Detroit Free Press @Mark__Snyder
Angelique Chengelis > Detroit News @Chengelis
Rachel Lenzi > Toledo Blade @RLenziBlade
Steve Lorenz > Wolverine247 (247Sports) @TremendousUM
Sam Webb > The Michigan Insider (Scout) @SamWebb77
John Borton > The Wolverine (Rivals) @JB_Wolverine
Larry Lage > Associated Press @LarryLage

The post Buckeye Opponets: Who to Follow in the Media appeared first on The Buckeye Battle Cry: Ohio State News and Commentary.

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Heard Around the ‘Shoe – 8/29/2016
Ben van Ooyen via our good friends at Buckeye Battle Cry
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Welcome to your tri-weekly look at all things Ohio State recruiting. Let’s get started!

The Other OSU QB Recruit:

Since the commitment of Tate Martell to Ohio State, Danny Clark has taken a back seat even though he has been committed for what seems like 10 years now. Clark and his team at Archbishop Hoban started off his senior season in a big way on Friday. Clark finished 14-23 passing for 196 yards and 2 TD’s as well as rushing for 3 more TD’s in their 42-14 win over Canton McKinley. In speaking with 247 after the game he mentioned the recruitment of Trevon Grimes and Tyjon Lindsey among other things relating to OSU.

“It’s an awesome addition to the class,” Clark said. “Two great players, two great kids, you always wonder with some of those out-of-state guys but they know where the fun is at, they know where the wins are at, so it was a great addition with Trevon and Lindsey. It was awesome to hear.”

“I cannot wait for the Buckeyes,” Clark said. “And Buckeye Nation it’s going to be a good year, I can feel it. It’s going to be a good year Buckeye Nation.”

He also talked about the recruitment of one of his close friends Jaylen Harris.

“Me and Jaylen are tight,” he said. “Jaylen, he doesn’t like to talk about it a lot, he’s really focused on this season right now and he’s going to go out and be the best player he can. And when the (time for the) decision comes, he’ll make the decision. He knows what he’s doing, he’s doing the best for him and his family.”

Next week Archbishop Hoban take on the defending Division I High School champions Lakewood St. Edward in what will be a real test for Danny Clark.


Battle of Top 5 High School Teams:

The other Quarterback recruit in this class was also on center stage on Saturday playing a top 5 matchup against Cedar Hill. Tate Martell shined as he was 10-22 passing for 135 yards and also rushed for 148 yards and 3 TD’s. He was without top wideout and Buckeye commit Tyjon Lindsey, who was out because of transfer rules, but still lead the Gaels to a 44-14 victory, their 40th consecutive win.



Haskell Garrett also plays for Bishop Gorman and although he was double teamed most of the night, he still made some plays on the defensive side of the ball. The real star on defense is 2018 prospect Palaie Gaoteote a 4-star linebacker. Ohio State has been the leader in the clubhouse in his recruitment and it doesn’t hurt at all that he has 3 future Buckeyes in his ear telling him to join them in Columbus when he graduates.



Oh So Close!:



Somehow the refs did not get the call correct on this one, and Trevon Grimes and St. Thomas Aquinas ended up losing the game as a Jake Allen interception on the play after this sealed the win for Booker T. Washington High School. Since there is no replay in High School football, the refs were unable to see what we all see, that Grimes broke the plane of the goal line before his body hit the ground. Grimes did finish with 9 catches for 161 yards, but he certainly would have loved to have that game winner. St. Thomas Aquinas fell 27-23 in their opener.



Injuries Suck:

The Buckeyes lone running back commitment for the class of 2017 went down on the first play of the game last Friday with an injury and did not return.



However, the news is not terrible as it looks like it was just a bad sprained ankle. Although it will take some time to heal, Dobbins should be able to return to action this season. Unfortunately for Dobbins the game ended up being canceled after weather made it unplayable. Too bad the game wasn’t called before they took the field, and maybe this injury could have been avoided.

Buckeye Commitments in Action:

Tate Martell – 10/22 for 135 yards, 148 rushing yards and 3 TD’s in 44-14 win.

Danny Clark – 14/23 196 yards, 3 rushing TD’s in 42-14 win.

JK Dobbins – 1 carry, 12 yards, injured in canceled game vs Liberty Hill

Trevon Grimes – 9 catches for 161 yards in 27-23 loss to Booker T. Washington

Tyjon Lindsey – DNP

Josh Myers – Lead the way for 4 rushing TD’s in 44-0 win.

Wyatt Davis – Pancaked his team to a 34-0 win over St. Xavier (OH)

Jake Moretti – Out for the Season, Torn ACL

Chase Young – Lead the defense to a 42-7 win against Oscar Smith HS out of Virginia

Haskell Garrett – Led the defense to a 44-14 win, held Cedar Hill to only 8 first downs.

Antjuan Simmons – Muffed a punt, and his team got defeated 51-14.

Brendan White – Passed for 160 and ran for 126, his last second TD gave Olentangy Liberty the win.

Amir Riep – Lead Colerain to a 31-28 victory, 45 yard punt return.

Isaiah Pryor – Along with Marcus Williamson, held Grayson to 152 total yards in 26-7 win.

Marcus Williamson – Shut down Greyson (GA) to the tune of 26-7

Jerron Cage – Winton Woods was downed 32-23 against Northmont.

Shaun Wade – Caught a TD pass, but lost to former Buckeye commitment Bruce Judson’s Trinity team 26-23









The post Heard Around the ‘Shoe – 8/29/2016 appeared first on The Buckeye Battle Cry: Ohio State News and Commentary.

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Ezekiel Elliott makes his NFL preseason debut and demands respect
Alexis Chassen via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


After missing the first two games with a hamstring issue, Elliott finally took the field for the Cowboys in his NFL debut.

With only one week left before the start of the regular season, this is the last chance for a lot of rookies to make their case for a spot on their team’s final 53-man roster. The Buckeyes are still leading the charge for youngsters in the NFL, contributing right away and notching out roles in the preseason on both offense and defense.

A few players have missed time with injuries, but most are expected to suit up for Week 1 of the regular season — and everyone will just have to wait and see if Joey Bosa ends up playing at all in 2016.

Offense


Ezekiel Elliott

The prodigal son has returned for the Cowboys and saw his first set of snaps in an NFL preseason. The running back didn’t disappoint. Building on his penchant for lowering his shoulder and taking a hit, Elliott was out to prove he belonged when he tried running though Seattle’s Legion of Boom’s Kam Chancellor.


Elliott’s role will be even more critical now that Tony Romo’s fate is up in the air; the quarterback suffered another fractured bone in his back, with his return time unknown. He is off to a good start with 48 yards on seven rushing attempts.

Jalin Marshall

At halftime of the Jets-Giants game, there was a familiar name at the top of the offensive stats list — J. Marshall. The undrafted free agent actually started for the Jets in their Week 3 preseason game, and had a varying performance. He had a few good catches that made up for earlier bobbles -- and a fumble — and finished the day with 30 yards on three catches. His inconsistency is something Buckeye fans know all too well, but his ceiling is high enough for the team to stick with Marshall through the season.

Braxton Miller

The former quarterback is impressing his coaches down in Houston and has stayed consistent through the preseason. In Week 3, he completed three catches for 29 yards, one for 17 yards on a critical 4th and 3 that got the team right up to the goal line.


Michael Thomas

The wideout saw less action in the Saints’ Week 3 matchup against the Steelers, only recording one catch for 23 yards. Despite his only catch coming from backup quarterback Luke McCown, Thomas still lined up and saw snaps when Drew Brees was still in the game.

Offensive line


Taylor Decker

So far, Decker is the only rookie for the Lions who is expected to start at the opening of the regular season. Despite a good camp, the Buckeye didn’t look that great in his preseason debut; he’s since stepped it up each week and in Week 3’s matchup against the Ravens, he allowed only one pressure on 31 passing plays.

Chase Farris signed on with the Lions as an undrafted free agent, but of all the lineman in that group, the Buckeye isn’t expected to land on the team’s final 53-man roster. Joel Hale signed on with the Buccaneers, and has some seen some snaps in the preseason; he’s not expected to garner an active roster spot, but could be primed for the practice squad.

Defense


Eli Apple

Back in action after missing Week 2’s preseason game, the cornerback started for the Giants and had one pass defended during the outing. He was the targeted quite a few times, but expected the Jets to try and exploit his inexperience, and was able to hold his own against veteran receiver Eric Decker.

Vonn Bell

The Saints have hit the jackpot with their second round pick. The Buckeye lead his team in tackles for the second week in a row — six total tackles, two less than in Week 2. His production has been unquestionable, and his ceiling could be among the best in the league. Bell might not be starting at the beginning of the regular season, but he is such to have a bit impact on the Saints’ defense in 2016 and beyond.

Darron Lee

Already taking reps with the first team for the Jets, the Buckeyes is slowly making his way into the starting rotation. He’s been battling eight year veteran Erin Henderson for the spot with the No. 1s, but an injury has pushed Lee ahead.

Tyvis Powell

Continuing to make waves in Seattle on both defense and special teams, Powell is almost a lock to make the final 53-man roster. He’s shown his contributions to both would be a good addition to the team. His Week 3 performance included being beaten in the endzone for a Cowboys touchdown, but also saw his NFL game high of five tackles.

Adolphus Washington

The defensive end keeps being one of the steals in this year’s draft for the Bills, recording three tackles in Week 3. Washington has been a nice addition to the pass defense, and could work his way into a starting spot — especially with the load of injuries the Bills have faced this preseason.

Noticeably absent


Cardale Jones sat out of Friday’s Week 3 preseason game with a sore shoulder, and missed additional time at the team’s facility over the weekend for ‘personal reasons’ that haven’t been made public.

Nick Vannett was expected to contribute to the Seahawks run blocking right away, but after suffering an ankle injury in the team’s second preseason game against the Vikings, the tight end is hoping to be back in action for Week 1 of the regular season.

Another preseason game, and another week the Chargers carry on without their first-round pick Joey Bosa. Things took an ugly turn last week, when the team went public with their offer to the defensive end (in an effort to make him look greedy), which was met by a public statement by Bosa’s agent (to make the Chargers seem unreasonable).

Other tidbits


The Jets placed Devin Smith on the PUP list.

John Simon did this against the Cardinals:


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Future Buckeyes in action: QB's and others shine - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Future Buckeyes in action: QB's and others shine
247Sports
Every Monday during football season I wrap up the weekend that was in high school football in Ohio and elsewhere, focusing on those who will continue their careers playing for the Buckeyes. Over the weekend a number of future Buckeyes played in ...
Heard Around the 'Shoe – 8/29/2016The Buckeye Battle Cry

all 2 news articles »

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NFL Preseason Update: Top Rookie Performances From Former Buckeyes - Eleven Warriors
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


NFL Preseason Update: Top Rookie Performances From Former Buckeyes
Eleven Warriors
After Ohio State's historic 2015 draft class, it's no wonder former Buckeyes have been turning heads in their first NFL appearances. Here are some of the top rookie performances from former Ohio State players.


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Opinion: Will Ohio State Ever Be A Basketball School? Does it Matter?
Mike Meals via our good friends at Buckeye Battle Cry
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


We are honored to introduce you to Mike Meals who is interested in becoming a writer for The Buckeye Battle Cry. Follow Mike on Twitter (@mmeals) where he is bound to win you over with his fantastic Twitter game. Please give Mike some feedback and let us know what you think.

The Oxford Dictionary defines pride as “a feeling or deep pleasure or satisfaction derived from one’s own achievements, the achievements of those with whom one is closely associated, or from qualities or possessions that are widely admired”. There are thousands of things a person can have pride in; their family, their profession, or their sports teams are just a few.

Like most Ohio State fans, I take great pride in seeing the men of the Scarlet and Gray take the field every Saturday in the fall, putting my home state’s name on over their own name, and playing with everything they have. Being a Buckeye fan has given me more pride and things to boast about than almost every other college football program has in the 33 (starting of 34) falls I have been on this earth and able to witness.

However, like many Buckeyes, once fall gives away to winter, I tend to check out of my “live and die” attitude with our Buckeyes. I still root for the hoops teams. I am proud when our KnuckleBucks do well in hockey. I love seeing our non-money teams win national championships. With all that said, I mellow out once the confetti has fallen at the bowl game.

Will that ever change? Will Ohio State ever become anything other than a “Football School”?

First, let’s look at some facts. Only one other school besides Ohio State has played for a football national title and a basketball national title in the same year, the University of Florida. Only 5 schools have ever won a football, basketball, and baseball national championship (OSU, TTUN, Stanford, Cal, and UCLA). In fact, only a couple schools have even won a bowl game the same year they won an NCAA Basketball Championship in my lifetime: ‘82 North Carolina, ’02 Maryland, ’04 UConn, ’06 Florida (see above), ’08 Kansas, ’13 Louisville, and ’15 Duke. This means 7 out of 33 autumns have ended with a basketball champion winning their bowl game.

There are definitive “football schools” and definitive “basketball schools”…and they rarely cross paths. There are plenty of times that one of the football schools has a good run in the other money sport but they are never able to maintain that momentum. Fans of that TTUN tried to act like they were becoming a basketball school a few years ago when they played for the basketball championship but as good of a job as John Beilein has done in AA since he arrived, they are not a basketball school. Some (like myself) would argue they are not much of a football school recently either.

That brings up the next question. Is it ok to accept that you are not a basketball school? With conference realignment recently showing that football is the only money sport that matters anymore, it seems the universities across America have said it is ok. Unfortunately in the NCAA, we all know at the end of the day the money in the bank is the only thing that matters.

What would it take to become a basketball school? The one-year rule hurts anyone not willing to be as dirty as Kentucky is now. You’ll never have a Michael Jordan staying in school long enough to make an impact. These schools already have dumped money into making the 12,000 seat arenas as nice as they can be. The athletic departments have all the nicest facilities for student-athletes. The free education is always there to dangle in front of these students but it doesn’t work. All the money brought in by football can’t turn a basketball program around. They are two completely different trains of thought in the athletic department. You simply can’t merge them in today’s economic landscape.

But as a fan, is it okay? Can you maintain your pride? Damn right you can. When you see that a “football” program like Ohio State finished 3rd in the Men’s Capital One Cup standings, a standing gained based on the overall Men’s athletic program’s performance, you sure as hell can. At the end of the day, when Urban is holding up that bowl championship trophy, my pride in our boys of fall will carry me through to the next year. Is it enough for you?

The post Opinion: Will Ohio State Ever Be A Basketball School? Does it Matter? appeared first on The Buckeye Battle Cry: Ohio State News and Commentary.

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Future Buckeye small forward Justin Ahrens talks Ohio State commitment
Charles Doss via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


See what led the junior to pick OSU, and much more.

While Urban Meyer and the Ohio State football coaching staff usually steal the headlines, it was Thad Matta and the Ohio State basketball team that took attention away from the future Silver Bullets over the weekend.

Holding a verbal commitment from Upper Arlington guard Dane Goodwin for nearly two years, the sharp shooter is no longer the loan member of the Buckeyes class of 2018.

On Friday afternoon, a pair of the top prospects the state of Ohio has to offer decided enough was enough and verbally committed to coach Matta, Chris Jent, Greg Paulus and the Buckeyes during an un-official visit to Columbus.

Joining the Columbus native as future Buckeyes are forwards Darius Bazley of Finneytown, and Versailles standout Justin Ahrens, the younger brother of Michigan State hooper Kyle Ahrens.

“Me and Darius met up before we went in the visit and called coach Jent and told him we were committing, and we asked him if he could get coach Matta out of his office for a couple minutes so we could sneak in. Then when coach Matta walked back in the room me and Darius were behind his desk and we acted like we had a microphone in our hands and we announced that we were going to commit to The Ohio State University, then we put on our hats and shirts,” Ahrens, a 6-foot-5, three-star prospect, stated to Land-Grant Holy Land soon after his commitment to the Buckeyes.

The 6-foot-7 Bazley chose Ohio State over programs such as Florida, Cincinnati and others; while Justin decided that suiting up for Matta and crew was the right spot for him over the likes of Miami (OH) and St. Louis.

“I chose Ohio state because I love everything about it. It feels like home. The academics, the coaching staff, the people, the campus. I just love it,” Ahrens, the 33rd small forward and 128th class of 2018 prospect, per the 247Sports Composite Rankings added on his OSU pledge.

“The connections I was able to make with the coaching staff made it easy for me to decide it was right. They are coaches that I can learn from, and also just have a good conversation with and they are so easy to get along with. Me and the coaches have a great relationship with each other.”

With Goodwin, Bazley, and Ahrens now in the fold the Buckeyes class of 2018 is currently the second overall class in the country behind the Razorbacks of Arkansas. Looking to add to the star studded group, Justin has another in-state recruit on his mind.

“Dwayne Cohill is one guy I'm trying to get. I played AAU with him two years ago. They already offered him too.”

Cohill (Cleveland,OH/Holy Name), arguably the top player in the state, isn’t just recruited by OSU, but also has Penn State, West Virginia and many more other schools . Can Ahrens, and the Buckeyes seal the deal, and close the border around the state or will Cohill end up elsewhere? I guess we’ll have to wait and see.

Stick with Land-Grant Holy Land for the latest.

Quick Hits

• Two future Ohio State running backs watched their games cut short on Friday. Class of 2017 commit JK Dobbins (La Grange,TX/La Grange), and 2018 pledge Brian Snead (Seffner,FL/Armwood) both left their respective games early. Dobbins’ night ended on the first play of La Grange’s win over Liberty Hill due to an sprain ankle. A lower back injury kept Snead from returning to action. Dobbins is expected to miss two or three weeks of game action, while it is unclear if Snead’s problem will keep him off the field.
• While Dobbins, and Snead’s night didn’t go as planned, many of the future Buckeyes shined under the lights this weekend. Which Ohio State commit did enough to grab your MVP vote? You have until Tuesday to pick your player of the week.

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