Wishing each and everyone of you a very Merry Christmas.

RuGettinIt said:

Is it pole time???

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that's what she sid

I'll never forget his game against BYU back in the day.

Playoff chances?

Bestbuck36 said:

We're in. No more need to speculate

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Play Like a Girl Podcast: Was Ryan Day on the Naughty or Nice List this year?
JamiJurich via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images

Plus, how OSU fared at Signing Day and which recruits to keep an eye on.

On LGHL’s “Play Like a Girl” podcast, Megan Husslein and Jami Jurich welcome in friends from around the LGHL, Ohio State, and sporting worlds to talk about everything from Ohio State sports to advocacy for women in sports and all the happenings in between.

Listen to the episode and subscribe:

Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio


Happy holidays and welcome back to the Play Like a Girl podcast! This week, Megan and Jami talk Signing Day, including how OSU fared and which recruits they’re most excited to see put on the Buckeye uniform.

The pair also checked over Santa’s list for him to make sure players, coaches and mascots in college football were properly placed on the Naughty or Nice list. Who’s getting presents on Christmas morning, and who will find coal in their stocking?

Check out the full podcast to find out!


Contact Megan Husslein
Twitter: @meganhusslein

Contact Jami Jurich
Twitter: @JamiJurich

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You’re Nuts: What is the best Christmas album of all time?
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by Kirsty O’Connor/PA Images via Getty Images

Your (almost) daily dose of good-natured, Ohio State banter.

Everybody knows that one of the best parts of being a sports fan is debating and dissecting the most (and least) important questions in the sporting world with your friends. So, we’re bringing that to the pages of LGHL with our favorite head-to-head column: You’re Nuts.

In You’re Nuts, two LGHL staff members will take differing sides of one question and argue their opinions passionately. Then, in the end, it’s up to you to determine who’s right and who’s nuts.

Today’s Question: What is the best Christmas album of all time?

Jami’s Take: “A Charlie Brown Christmas” by Vince Guaraldi Trio


It’s tough to choose a “Best” Christmas album because they are mostly variations on some combination of the same 20 songs. And yet, we all have attachments to the ones that serve up a healthy dose of nostalgia personally.

For me, there’s nothing too different about Nat King Cole’s Christmas album and someone else’s Christmas album except that Nat King Cole’s is what my Baka used to play (on cassette tape) every year while we baked Christmas cookies together. When I hear it, it still takes me back to that kitchen.

When someone does come along and do something different, usually it takes a little bit to grow on people. Most of us already have our favorite versions of songs (sing “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” all you want, but if you’re not Judy Garland I don’t want it), so when people try to mix it up, it just doesn’t sit right (that said – if you want some unhinged holiday fun, Sheryl Lee Ralph’s “Sleigh.” album is worth a listen. Wait til the beat drops in Little Drummer Boy!)

So it takes something special to veer from the standards and still create a classic holiday album. For me, while John Williams’ “Home Alone” score comes close (I’m willing to bet any 80s/90s kid springs to life when they hear this score), no one accomplishes this better than Vince Guarald Trio’s “A Charlie Brown Christmas.”

This album includes instrumental/choir versions of a handful of standards (“O Tannenbaum,” “What Child is This,” “Hark the Herald Angels Sing”) but it also includes spectacular standouts you won’t find on any old Christmas album, including “Christmas Time is Here,” “Skating,” and eternal banger “Linus and Lucy.”

The mostly instrumental album capitalizes on the nostalgia of Peanuts, particularly the “A Charlie Brown Christmas” special for which it is the score. It’s an ode to a simpler time of childhood joy, where the adult drama that often surfaces at the holidays seemed nowhere to be found. You were too busy writing letters to Santa, skating with your friends, or playing with your dog, in excited and nervous anticipation of Christmas morning.

It is both a sugar-coated warm hug and a melancholic masterpiece that somehow manages to reconcile the magic of childhood and the beauty of simplicity at the holidays with the knowledge that maybe the warm glow of holidays gone by was always going to fade.

But it also reminds us that maybe the kids have it right. Sure, they’re often focused on the gifts under the tree, but they also haven’t been defeated by The Man yet or jaded by the real world, and their unquestioning joy and the absence of adult cynicism are beautiful.

Couple the emotions this album evokes with the Guaraldi’s smooth jazz style and artful piano playing, and there’s a reason this album is still sparking joy for people of all ages, nearly 60 years after it was first released for the TV special. It is all the emotions of the holidays wrapped into one perfect album, whether you’re in the middle of the hustle and bustle doing last-minute shopping, sitting under the tree waiting for your parents to give you the go-ahead to unwrap Santa’s presents, one-drink-too-deep at Christmas dinner, or silently watching snow fall on Christmas Eve in a quiet moment of reflection.

Matt’s Take: “John Denver and the Muppets: A Christmas Together”


Man, this one is tough for me, because (as you can see in the tweet below), I grew up on four main Christmas albums, and all four absolutely slap, but for very different reasons.


The Carpenters’ Christmas album is the mellow, soothing stuff you put on while you are relaxing and drinking hot cocoa and perhaps cuddling up with your special someone. The Chipmunks album is completely unhinged childhood joy on vinyl. Barbra Streisand’s Christmas album is a masterpiece from start to finish, and her version of “Jingle Bells” might be the best reinvention of a Christmas carol in history.

But, ultimately, for me, the best of the bunch is 1979’s “John Denver and the Muppets: A Christmas Together.” This album has everything that you could possibly want from a Christmas recording, from the fairly traditional “Silent Night” (sung respectfully by the Muppets, in part in the original German while Denver explains the origins of the song) to the modern and sentimental “A Baby Just Like You” (in which Denver sings to his son “little Zachary”) to the progressively bonkers “Christmas Is Coming” to the epic “Twelve Days of Christmas” (which is the reason that, to this day, I always sing “ba-dum-bum-bum” after hearing “five gold rings”), it is a perfect collection of everything that the holidays have to offer.

Christmas — or whatever holiday(s) you choose to celebrate — is not just one thing; it is not just gingerbread houses and roasting chestnuts on an open fire; it is also stressing out over party plans and running to Walmart of Christmas Eve because you forgot to get a gift for your Aunt Edna, and there is no holiday album that I know of that captures the varied extreme emotions of the season quite like “John Denver and the Muppets: A Christmas Together.”

I would think that Jami of all people would appreciate this selection, considering earlier this week she penned a thoroughly researched, painstakingly considered article comparing every Big Ten football program to a character in “The Muppets’ Christmas Carol.”


Nonetheless, Dr. Teeth and The Electric Mayhem rocking out to “Little Saint Nick” and Kermit warbling through “The Christmas Wish” is what a holiday album is supposed to be, and it will always hold a very special place in my heart.

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Preview: Michigan, TCU to kickoff 2022 College Football Playoffs
David M Wheeler via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


TCU quarterback Max Duggan | Photo by Tim Heitman/Getty Images

Previewing the Fiesta Bowl and predicting the outcome.

I’ll admit it. All season long I expected TCU to stumble. They seemingly came out of nowhere and just kept winning. Often, they didn’t win by much. But when it was time for the Big 12 championship game, the Horned Frogs were undefeated and a frontrunner for a playoff spot. As we all know, the Kansas State Wildcats hung on to beat TCU in overtime (more on that game later). With only that one loss, TCU claimed the No. 3-seeded position in the playoff. On the afternoon of New Year’s Eve, they’ll face the Michigan Wolverines in the Fiesta Bowl, in Glendale, Arizona.

Michigan. Naturally, I don’t even like to utter the word. TTUN finds itself in the playoffs for a second consecutive year. After the shellacking that they suffered last year at the hands of the Georgia Bulldogs, Jim Harbaugh’s squad has appeared to be on a mission. Beating Ohio State and winning the Big Ten wasn’t enough. The Wolverines were determined to return to the little four-team tournament that we call the CFP. Going undefeated for the season was the only way to assure participation – and that’s what they did. Ready for TCU? Absolutely.

What to look for


These two teams have high-powered offenses. Balanced offenses, strong in both the run and the pass. TCU averages 40.3 points a game, good enough to rank sixth in the nation. Michigan is right behind. Their 40.1 points per contest rank the Wolverines seventh.

The Michigan defense, though not as ferocious as the team that they put on the field last season, is still stout and may provide the edge in this game. Yielding only 13.4 points per game, the Michigan D allows the Wolverines to play low-scoring close ones, while the offense is explosive enough to fuel a high-scoring shootout. Personally, I expect a game with both teams scoring at least in the 30s. But I could be wrong.

TCU offense against the Michigan defense


The Frogs are led by second team All American and Heisman finalist Max Duggan. Duggan has led his team all year and is the primary reason for their being where they are now. He’s a legitimate dual-threat quarterback and can win games with his arm or feet. Witness the comeback that he led against K-State. When I look back on that game, I see coaching errors as the reason for the loss. Duggan was playing like a madman.

Even totally exhausted, he wouldn’t be denied – getting the pass off, gaining the first down on a run. When overtime came, however, TCU chose to go for the touchdown on fourth and short, rather than take the three points. OK. Not what I would do, but I could accept it. But then Duggan handed the ball off. Handed it off! The runner was stopped short, and the Wildcats maneuvered for the winning field goal on their possession.

Duggan completed 65% of his passes for 3321 yards and 30 passing touchdowns, against only four interceptions. He’s averaging nine yards per passing attempt. Pretty impressive. He also rushed for over 400 yards (remember that this figure is net and includes sacks, though there weren’t many) and six more TDs. Duggan’s stats aren’t dissimilar to those of the Buckeyes’ C.J. Stroud.

Stroud completed 66.2% of his throws for 3340 yards (in 12 games, to Duggan’s 13) and a 9.4 yards per attempt average. Stroud has 37 TDs and six interceptions. With these numbers and leading their respective teams to the playoffs, they deserved to be Heisman finalists.

Max Duggan, however, isn’t a one-man show when TCU has the ball. Their top rusher, Kendre Miller, ran for 1342 yards during the season, with a 6.2 yards per carry average. Miller has racked up 17 rushing touchdowns. Duggan also has a trio of wide receivers, capable of creating the long play.

Quentin Johnston has pulled in 53 passes and averages 17 yards a completion. Taye Barber’s 17.4 average indicates a second long-ball threat, while Darius Davis rounds out the receivers with 34 catches. Combined, the three have 14 touchdown receptions.

How does Michigan counter this firepower? I’m sure that they will try the same tactic that worked so well against Ohio State (and against Purdue). First, neutralize the running game. I think that TCU’s running game is better than the Buckeyes’ so TTUN will be challenged. Linebackers Junior Colson and Michael Barrett, who have led the Wolverines in tackles all season, will be primarily responsible for stopping the run, at least for preventing ball carriers from running free in the secondary.

Secondly, the Wolverines will try to pressure Duggan and make him make passes that he doesn’t want to make. The risk here is Duggan’s scrambling ability – and QB-designed runs. Someone will need to keep an eye on Duggan, who is shrewd and experienced.

Finally, Michigan will attempt to prevent long pass plays by keeping a couple of safeties deep. For this strategy to work, they will need to be able to handle the running game without safety help.

The TCU offense is diverse and talented. I think that they’ll gain yards and score points.

Michigan offense against the TCU defense


There aren’t many teams that can lose a first-team All-American and actually improve. That’s what Michigan has done since star running back Blake Corum went down. Donovan Edwards stepped up big time, rushing for 400 yards in the final two games, against OSU and Purdue. Against the Buckeyes, Edwards averaged 9.8 yards for his 22 carries. He dropped off to a “mere” 7.4 yards for 25 rushes against the Boilermakers. One wonders whether he, rather than Corum, would have been All-American if he had been the featured back all year. The offensive line is that good, all ball carriers get yards.

For the past several years, Michigan’s primary problem was the lack of an elite quarterback leading the offense. That’s largely why they couldn’t beat the Buckeyes. J.J. McCarthy was recruited (and then highly touted) to be that guy. While McCarthy doesn’t have the stats of Stroud or USC’s Caleb Williams, he’s been efficient and very successful this year. He’s completed over 65% of his throws for nearly 2400 yards, 20 TD passes, and three picks. With the Wolverines’ running attack, McCarthy doesn’t throw as much as the headliner QBs. But when he does, he’s usually on target. And he’s very nimble, very quick, difficult to sack.

McCarthy passes to his tight ends more often than Duggan does. TE Luke Schoonmaker is one of his favorite targets, especially when a crucial third-down reception is needed. Schoonmaker’s 34 catches are second on the team to wideout Ronnie Bell’s 56. Bell, a good route-runner with strong hands, is UM’s downfield threat. The Frogs will probably need to double-team him when they can.

As I noted above, TCU’s defense isn’t their strength. Especially the pass defense, which gives up 236 yards a game. 149 yards rushing isn’t so hot, either. The Horned Frogs will have their hands full, obviously. The Buckeye defense played strong, physical ball against Michigan for most of the first half. Then collapsed. Burned by the big play. Multiple times. TCU will have to try to keep Edwards and Bell from bursting loose. Not sure that they have the speed to do that. So, they’ll have to focus on schemes. Michigan’s offensive versatility then comes into play. A formation to stop one play is vulnerable to another.

Michigan has a distinct advantage here. I doubt that TCU can stop the offense. If not, their hope is for a shootout, where they’re able to simply outscore UM.

Prediction


I think that it will be a good one. I’m thinking that it will be closer than the spread and may even go to overtime. The key will be whether Duggan, Miller, and Johnston will provide enough firepower for the Frogs to keep up. I’m betting (not real money, mind you) that they can.

Michigan 38, TCU 35

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Three early enrollees for 2023 to watch from the recruiting class
CMinnich via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

These Buckeyes will enroll in January and could play in the 2023 Spring Game

As I write this article, it dawned on me that it is going to be published on Festivus. For those of you who are like the Minnich family and celebrate Festivus, I hope that your Airing Of Grievances go well, and nobody gets hurt during The Feats Of Strength.

This is not going to be an Airing Of Grievances about the NIL factors and players signing elsewhere. Below are three players who have already signed their letters of intent to Ohio State, plan on enrolling in January 2023, and participating in spring football. With a good showing, these players could wind up playing as contributors for the 2023 Ohio State Buckeyes.

1. TE Jelani Thurman

Thurman was a player Ohio State fans were very nervous about, as rumors swirled that Thurman may decommit from the Buckeyes and sign with Auburn. Listed at 6-foot-6, 225 pounds, Thurman is projected to be one of the most athletic tight ends that Ohio State has had in quite a while at the position, and could make a move on the depth chart with an impressive spring.

2. CB Jermaine Matthews

Another player who was rumored to be contemplating a decommitment to sign with the Miami Hurricanes, Matthews was rated the second-best player in the state of Ohio and was named the Ohio Prep Sports Writers Association Division II Southwest District Defensive Player of the Year and the Division II Defensive Player of the Year. For a secondary that lacks depth, Matthews will probably be given ample opportunities to show what he can do, and could be an early contributor for the Buckeyes in 2023.

3. DL Kayden McDonald

An interior defensive lineman, it is possible that McDonald may not be able to make an immediate impact along the Ohio State defensive line. Listed at 6-foot-3, 310 pounds, McDonald is the type of massive defensive lineman that Ohio State has struggled to land from SEC country, and could get involved in the rotation that Ohio State defensive line coach Larry Johnson likes to use. McDonald was even used by his high school team at fullback, carrying the ball 77 times for 409 yards and 11 touchdowns this past season.

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Why is this News? All the articles and tweets Buckeye fans need for December 23, 2022
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Brooke LaValley/Columbus Dispatc / USA TODAY NETWORK

All the Buckeye news thats fit to re-print.

Look, we get it. Your days are busy and you don’t have time to read all of the stories and tweets from the three dozen websites dedicated to covering Ohio State athletics, or the 237 Buckeye beat writers churning out hot takes and #content on a daily basis. But that’s ok, that’s what your friends at Land-Grant Holy Land are here for.

Monday through Friday, we’ll be collecting all of the articles, tweets, features, interviews, videos, podcasts, memes, photos, and whatever else we stumble across on the interwebz and putting them in our daily “Why is this News?” article. That way, you’ll have a one-stop shop for all of the most important Buckeye news, jokes, and analysis.

You’re welcome!

For your Earholes...


Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio

On the Gridiron


Ohio State recruiting: A breakdown of the 2023 Buckeye recruiting class
Caleb Houser, Land-Grant Holy Land

Ohio State signed a bunch of football players who want to be Buckeyes — and that’s a good thing
Josh Dooley, Land-Grant Holy Land

Examining remaining Ohio State needs after first recruiting signing period (paywall)
Jeremy Birmingham, Dotting the Eyes

The Buckeyes eventually added Jayden Bonsu to the recruiting class as well:


Peach Bowl Film Preview: Georgia’s offensive line is consistent, run game is eerily similar to Ohio State’s
Chris Renne, Land-Grant Holy Land

Dissecting Georgia’s tight end duo: Can Ohio State slow them down? (paywall)
Cameron Teague Robinson, The Athletic

Film Study: Predicting What Ohio State’s Game Plan for Its CFP Semifinal Matchup with Georgia Might Look Like
Kyle Jones, Eleven Warriors

OSU defense says simpler approach will help them in playoff
Joey Kaufman, The Columbus Dispatch

As Buckeyes head to Atlanta for the playoffs, it’s time for redemption
David M. Wheeler, Land-Grant Holy Land

He’s not wrong:


Cincinnati expected to hire Ohio State’s Zach Grant as general manager
Matt Zenitz, On3

Ohio State’s running back decision will impact Buckeyes going forward
Patrick Murphy, Bucknuts

Paris Johnson Jr.’s Ohio State football legacy surpassed by the one he is creating off the field
Nathan Baird, cleveland.com

MC&J: The next set of bowl games will see the Big Ten finally get in the mix
Brett Ludwiczak, Land-Grant Holy Land

On the Hardwood


Game Notes: No. 3 Ohio State women sweep San Diego Invitational with win over No. 16 Oregon
Thomas Costello, Land-Grant Holy Land

Listen to the postgame press conferences from the women’s basketball team’s two victories at the San Diego Invitational:

Outside the Shoe and Schott


Men’s Volleyball: Clark, Pasteur Named Preseason All-MIVA
Ohio State Athletics

And now for something completely different...


This dude never fails to be the absolute best.


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TDunk said:

Urban would take him in a second.

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Yeah we know

You’re Nuts: Which Chris Holtmann-era player would best complement this current team?
justingolba via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images

The sixth-year coach has put a handful of guys in the NBA, would any of them hypothetically put this team over the top if added?

Another week, another spicy college basketball-related debate between the two characters who also bring you the Bucketheads basketball podcast each and every week. This week, Connor and Justin are taking a look at which former Buckeyes would complement this season’s team the best.

But first, a recap.


Last week, the guys debated whether the Purdue Boilermakers, who currently sit atop the AP Poll, are really the best team in the country. Matt Painter’s team ran over a tough Duke team that beat Ohio State, but they also struggled a bit with Nebraska and a Florida State team that’s 4-10 this season.

Justin said yes, Purdue is the best team. Connor stuck his head out and said no, and the people did not agree with him. 73% of people agreed with Justin, notching him another win. He leads the all-time series now, 34-33.


After 80 weeks:

Connor- 33
Justin- 34
Other- 9

(There have been four ties)


As stated at the top, this week we’re talking about Ohio State and only Ohio State. This year’s team is not perfect, losing 3 of their first 11 games thus far — arguably against the best three teams they faced. There are holes and shortcomings with the roster, as there are with nearly every team.

But if Ohio State could add a former player to this roster to really be the cherry on top, who would be the best addition? For the record, we are only considering Holtmann’s guys since he arrived in Columbus, so 2017 onward.

Today’s question: Which Chris Holtmann-era player would best complement this current team?

Connor: Malaki Branham

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Man oh man, could this team use Malaki Branham right now. And hey, that was the plan until the young man went ballistic for 35 points against Nebraska almost one year ago exactly and the rest is history.

A week or two ago, I don’t think a guard would be a smart addition to this current team. With Bruce Thornton running point and Isaac Likekele relieving him when necessary, the Buckeyes had no need for another two-guard who can bring it up when needed. But now that Likekele is away from the team tending to a personal matter with his family, the pressure on Thornton to run point for 35-40 minutes per game is growing.

Branham wasn’t a great distributor last season, but he was third on the team with two assists per game. That ability would be so useful right now with Likekele out and freshman guard Roddy Gayle really not showing that he has the capability to spell Thornton at point right now. Sueing has before and it sounds like he will more moving forward, but that’s a rather new development.

On top of his ability to get the ball over the timeline and distribute a little bit, Branham was — clearly — an NBA-ready scorer. He shot 41.6% from beyond the three-point line, but also exceled at those elbow-area mid-range shots. On the season, he shot right around 50% and much of his success was in the mid-range game.

Adding Branham to this team would give the Buckeyes another ballhandler, but also a certified go-to scorer that the current team lacks. Right now Ohio State has three players averaging between 13 and 15.5 points, but none higher than 15.5. If Branham had returned for a second season, he’d be the leading scorer and first option on offense, which would take some of the stress off of Zed Key, Justice Sueing, and Brice Sensabaugh.

But while having a certified bucket is important, the absence of Likekele and the slower progression from Gayle has made a second impactful guard a clear need for this team. Branham — hypothetically — would do that.

Justin: Keita Bates-Diop

Photo by Manuel Velasquez/Getty Images

Keita Bates-Diop is one of the top Buckeyes to come through the program in the last two decades. Malaki Branham is great, and I enjoyed watching him play every game last season, but let’s look at what this specific team would need. That is a player like Keita Bates-Diop.

Bates-Diop was an absolute killer of a scorer as we all know, but his defense was something that was underrated. He was a long, lanky wing who could defend multiple positions and get rebounds at a high clip. Case in point, he averaged 8.7 rebounds per game his senior season and 5.7 rebounds per game for his career.

Obviously, he could score the rock at a high level as well, averaging 19.8 points per game his senior season and 11.7 points per game for his career. He won Big Ten Player of the Year during the 2017-18 season, and is currently the only player to do that under Chris Holtmann.

Experience cannot be an afterthought here as well. Bates-Diop played four years of college ball and played in many big games, so he could help the talented freshman navigate things on this team.

Branham is great, but Bates-Diop just fits better.

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Buck Off Podcast: Early Signing Day Ohio State Recruiting Holiday Spectacular
Chris Renne via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by Ben Jackson/Getty Images

The guys were here to talk about one thing, and one thing only, Ohio State’s recruiting class in 2023

Listen to the episode and subscribe:

Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio


On today’s episode of “Buck Off with Christopher Renne,” I’m joined by Jordan Williams to discuss Ohio State’s 2023 recruiting class after early signing day.

We start the show discussing our initial thoughts on the 20-person class, and why the response to the class might be disingenuous. Chris and Jordan discuss their favorite players in the class and the guys they think can be immediate difference makers.

Then we get into a talk about Ohio State’s quarterback room after signing day and discuss the personality they have gotten in three straight classes. This obviously divulges into a situation of talking about the next starter and why the three psychopath competitors in the room will have to earn it.

Next, we look at the impact of NIL on the recruiting cycle and how some teams over performed with some late flips. In this discussion we talk about different recruiting strategies and why you shouldn’t be mad at another program for using money. We turn this to a discussion about the confidence we have in Ohio State’s current collectives to get the job done when it comes to recruiting.

Then, to close out the show, we get into a lengthy discussion about the weakest links in this recruiting class positionally, and our final thoughts on the class.


Connect with the Show:
Twitter: @BuckOffPod

Connect with Chris Renne:
Twitter: @ChrisRenneCFB

Connect with Jordan Williams
Twitter: @JordanW330

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Buckeyes ink the signature of final remaining 2023 commit, land kicker from Kent State
Caleb Houser via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

Ohio State’s 2023 class is locked in except for any additional commitments to be added before February.

Now that the dust from the early signing period has settled a little bit, taking a look at the class as a whole should make fans feel better about what the Buckeyes were able to bring in for their 2023 cycle. The fortunate aspect is the potential to make it even better, as there’s still room to add players late in the game before February. Of course, the portal will be where a lot of the efforts are made as well.

A busy time for this coaching staff, gearing up for a match-up in the College Football Playoff is at the top of the list for sure. However, cementing a top seven class with only 20 signed players compared to other programs with nearly 30 shows the quality over quantity Ryan Day and crew were able to snag. The trust in this program should still be at a high level.

Two wins away from a national title, there’s a lot more that could be wrong surrounding Ohio State. It’s good to remind yourself of that here and there.

Better late than never


While Ohio State’s signing day on Wednesday went pretty much how the staff expected it to go, it wouldn’t be recruiting if there wasn’t at least some drama involved. Signing nearly every commit they had on Wednesday except for Kayin Lee — who opted for Auburn late in the game — the only other player to present an obstacle was safety, Jayden Bonsu.

The New Jersey native did not make it official on Wednesday, and worries that a late flip was coming started to ramp up. A player that the Buckeyes certainly wanted to keep in the fold, there seemed to be some sort of work to be done between he and Ohio State to make it finalized. Whether the reasoning was a simple one or more serious like NIL opportunities at the 11th hour, the staff just needed to get through another hurdle in this new day of recruiting. Fortunately, they came out successfully.

Signing on Thursday, Bonsu made his Ohio State pledge official, and position coach Perry Eliano had to feel the weight lifted off his shoulders a bit. Knowing how important the safety position is to this defense overall, losing talented pieces of depth wouldn’t be anything in the plans especially this late in the cycle. Thankfully, the No. 23 ranked safety per the 247Sports composite rankings will be on his way to Columbus real soon.

One of the more underrated players in Ohio State’s class, Bonsu is a freak athlete that brings a ton of skills to the table. In run support, he’s a proven hitter and is reliable when it comes to sure tackling. Additionally, his coverage skills are nothing to look past and anyone on the defensive staff would be confident in confirming his importance to this haul overall. There was a little bit of a worry, but all is well on the Bonsu front as their last commit to sign is officially locked in.

Quick Hits

• Ohio State is still in full pursuit mode when it comes to adding to their roster via the transfer portal. At specific positions, the coaches know depth is needed and those guys need to be proven players rather than developmental pieces. While it’s not the offensive line or the cornerback positions yet, the Buckeyes are making some portal moves. This week, another addition was made thanks to kicker Casey Magyar.

A transfer from Kent State, Magyar is taking a preferred walk-on role with the Buckeyes, and while his addition isn’t necessarily the “splash” fans are looking for, it’s still another depth piece to a position that always needs to be competitive. This was a welcomed addition to the roster and will keep the special teams unit in better shape moving forward with someone with proven experience at the college level.


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He was the class of 2010?!?! Watching guys late in their careers in the NFL that I followed in recruiting really makes me feel old.

Ohio State recruiting: A breakdown of the 2023 Buckeye recruiting class
Caleb Houser via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Doral Chenoweth/The Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

A look at the 2023 recruiting class and what the Buckeyes were able to bring in.

Whether you’re happy or disappointed in Ohio State’s early signing day results, there is an argument to be made for both positive and negative feelings. The fact of the matter is that the Buckeyes were able to sign 20 players that are among the best in the country at their positions. Loaded with talent in every cycle, this recent haul may not be the largest number of guys to be brought in, but it’s still the second-ranked class behind only Alabama when it comes to the per-player rankings according to 247Sports. That alone should give you some insight into the quality of players that Ohio State was able to sign.

On the flip side though, negativity has been spread all over the social media world by Buckeye fans over the last 24 hours and that’s solely due not to who Ohio State landed, but — of course — who they didn’t land. Myself included, it just feels like there were some swings and misses that are major blows to the class, and potentially the program.

Regardless of NIL implications, proximity to home for certain players, or for another reason that can explain away why a certain guy didn’t sign with Ohio State, it’s just unfortunate to lose out on so many top-ranked targets, especially when it seems like the Buckeyes came in second for many of them. Speaking mainly on the defensive line, the haul is definitely solid already, but landing even one of the three major defensive ends that the Buckeyes had long been in on could have made all the difference in the world in the vibe of this class.

Again, whatever feelings you have on this recent signing day outcome, they are valid. As I mentioned yesterday, seeing multiple guys that Ohio State not wanted — and at one time was even in the lead for — picking other destinations for one reason or another stung.

Right or wrong, certain coaches didn’t have the greatest cycles and while I could go on and on down that rabbit hole, I’ll save the negativity and focus on the positives this class provides because there are several players worth celebrating.

The top position group for 2023’s haul


The receiver position at Ohio State has done nothing but flourish under Brian Hartline. Without getting on the soapbox too much, the on-field and recruiting success that Hartline has helped create is second to none and this cycle once again cements his name as the best in the country when it comes to receiver coaches.

Finishing with three of the top ten receivers in the country thanks to Brandon Inniss, Noah Rogers, and Carnell Tate, you would think this would be more than enough, but Hartline was also able to get one of the more underrated guys in the cycle, Bryson Rodgers as well. The four of these players boast the top receiver class in the country and it’s not particularly close. USC likely comes in second place, but again, what Ohio State has coming in each year is the best that the country has to offer and there’s a direct correlation to why the position has never been better in Columbus.

For me, the best aspect of this WR class is the variety of athletes included. Inniss, for instance, can do it all. A thicker player, he can play outside or inside and just makes life a nightmare for opposing defenses. Running extremely well after the catch is also at the top of his game.

Tate and Rogers are more of your true outside receivers and have the speed to take the top off of the defense in a hurry. Both are incredible route runners and won’t need a ton of love and care when it comes to getting ready for the college game. With Rodgers, you see another guy that doesn’t struggle for any athleticism. The ceiling for this group is scary.

Favorite player in the class


As a coach who works with receivers personally, normally my go-to for a favorite player in an Ohio State signing class is the position I teach, but this year I have to go with the late addition quarterback, Lincoln Kienholz.

A player that I didn’t know much about before he flipped from Washington, his name was quickly at the top of many lists when the Buckeyes needed a signal caller after losing Brock Glenn. Sure enough, Ryan Day worked his magic again and the opportunity to be a Buckeye was too good to turn down for Lincoln.

What makes him my favorite addition to this class, however, is his pure athleticism. Not many high school athletes can play three sports and excel at all of them, and Lincoln does that and then some. A multiple-state champion winner, this South Dakota native brings moxie to the quarterback room that the Buckeyes haven’t always had. In addition, while the comparisons are pretty lofty, Kienholz being mentioned in the same breath as Joe Burrow shows how dynamic he can be behind center.

Look below for the type of athlete that Lincoln is and the competitive nature he brings to the table.

Player not getting enough attention


If there’s one player on the defensive side of the ball that might legitimately have a role as a true freshman, for me it’s defensive tackle signee, Kayden McDonald. A 310-pound monster in the middle, McDonald has a ton to offer. Even playing some fullback for his Georgia powerhouse high school team, Kayden’s film is just so impressive. His burst off the ball is what stands out the most, but his ability to eat up the interior of the offensive line allowing the linebackers behind him to clean up the rest is something that Larry Johnson is going to rave over. A frame you can’t always find, this is a player that Ohio State is thrilled to steal out of SEC country.

Maybe not the highest ranking for a defensive tackle, but there’s still so much to be excited about with McDonald. Fans always want to land the larger SEC-type interior guys along the defensive line and he certainly fits that bill.

Surprise addition


As mentioned previously, the receiver position recruiting in 2023 was incredible. What makes it that much more impressive, however, is seeing Hartline even add to the class with preferred walk-on players. Never the most popular topics, the Buckeyes have still seen their walk-ons in recent history contribute in major ways and the latest addition of Brennen Schramm might just be the next in line.

A Medina, Ohio product, Schramm was an All-Ohio first-team selection during both his junior and senior seasons, and is no stranger to putting up big numbers. The main target for now Penn State QB, Drew Allar, the two of them put up some prolific stats in their time.

At any rate, Hartline getting another player of this caliber to walk on is a major win. He will provide depth and, as we’ve seen with other walk-ons, his chance to be developed under Hartline at Ohio State may lead to bigger roles down the road.

Conclusion


Overall this is just a solid class. It has a little bit of everything and the 2023 cycle as a whole isn’t over yet. There’s still time before the February signing period and there’s no reason why the Buckeyes can’t continue trying to add to their roster until then.

Focusing on the positives, this class should absolutely be something the fanbase is excited about and even with some disappointments along the way, 2023’s class — in addition to the recent cycles — makes for one of the best rosters in college football. Not all is bad in Columbus right now, even if there are some aspects that aren’t exactly firing on all cylinders.

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LovelandBuckeye said:

Fucking aTm?

Click to expand...

Lol right on time with Jimbo crying about NIL. I'm sure A&Ms on field product is what lured him there.

LGHL Uncut Podcast: Brice Sensabaugh, Felix Okpara, Chris Holtmann talk Maine, Carolina, time off
Connor Lemons via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Joseph Scheller/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

Ohio State’s freshman duo both scored in double digits during their blowout win over the Black Bears Wednesday.

Throughout the season, Land-Grant Holy Land will be bringing you uncut audio primarily from Ohio State press conferences, but also from individual interview sessions.

Listen to the episode and subscribe:

Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio


Ohio State (8-3, 1-0) played Maine Wednesday night at the Schott, but to call it a basketball “game” may be stretching the definition of competition. The Buckeyes led for 38:30 of the game, led by 21 at halftime, and never looked back.

After the game, freshmen Felix Okpara and Brice Sensabaugh spoke to the media. Okpara talked about his role on the team and what he planned on doing for the next four days on break. Sensabaugh discussed Wednesday’s game as well as the North Carolina game, saying that watching film of E.J. Liddell and Malaki Branham has helped his mid-range game.

Then, Holtmann spoke about Wednesday’s game briefly and was also asked — again — about the decision not to guard the ball on the final play against North Carolina. He also talked about how important it was to not look past Maine considering all of the upsets in college basketball over the past 48 hours.


Connect with Connor:
Twitter: @lemons_connor

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Game Notes: No. 3 Ohio State women sweep San Diego Invitational with win over No. 16 Oregon
1ThomasCostello via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Ohio State University athletic department

Pulling out pieces of both games for the Ohio State women’s basketball team

The Ohio State Buckeyes women’s basketball team faced their toughest non-conference stretch of the regular season, this week in San Diego, California. Part of the San Diego Invitational, the Scarlet and Gray faced an unranked, but high-caliber, USF Bulls and then the No. 16 Oregon Ducks 24 hours later.

It was a tournament of different Buckeyes coming up in the clutch, a tough injury, and a pinch of revenge.

Here’s what stood out.

Taylor Mikesell Downs the Ducks


Surrounding the entire tournament was the potential to face guard Taylor Mikesell’s former team, the Pac-12’s Oregon Ducks. A week before they had the chance, players shared their desire to face the Ducks for Mikesell and repeated it after their overtime victory over the Bulls. For Mikesell herself, it goes back further than that.

“I think I’d be lying if I didn’t say it was one of the first games I circled on the schedule,” said Mikesell.

The guard also applauded her teammates for treating it like just another game, when it came time to perform on the court. In all honesty, though, it was really anything but another game.

Ohio State treated the Ducks more like a small non-conference side than a top-25-ranked team. In the first half, the Buckeyes grabbed onto an early lead and didn’t let it go. Into halftime, the Scarlet and Gray outscored Oregon 54-37, shooting six more shots than the Ducks and going 7-for-12 from deep.

Defensively, Oregon was held to 3-for-13 shooting from beyond the arc in the first half, and outside of a third quarter where the Buckeyes' shooting went cold, handled the talent of the Ducks for 30 of the 40 minutes of the game.


Mikesell played arguably her best all-around game of the season too. The guard scored 25 points and had five rebounds and six assists, earning a +/- of +17.

What made the performance even more special for Ohio State was when it hit. Entering Wednesday, Mikesell had three tough games, all scoring under her season average and hitting only 24% of her shots from the field. Wednesday Mikesell went 10-for-13.

Hardly just “another game” for the guard.

Madison Greene’s Injury


Although the extent of guard Madison Greene’s injury is not yet known, judging from the guard and team’s reactions it's not a good situation. Greene went to the court late in the fourth quarter of Tuesday’s game against USF. That elicited strong emotions from her teammates, visibly shaken on the court and on the bench.

Last season, Greene missed the entire championship year due to a knee injury sustained in the week leading up to the start of the regular season. The guard’s fought hard this season, picking up the starting point guard role that she had prior to the injury, due to Jacy Sheldon’s lower leg injury leaving her out of games.

With three minutes remaining in the fourth quarter Tuesday, plus a bonus overtime period, Ohio State fought back, and Greene was part of the motivation.

“No player wants to see their teammate go down like that, especially Madison. ” said forward Cotie McMahon following Tuesday’s win. “We had no choice but to finish the game for her. No matter what it took we were going to do it. No matter what.”

To head coach Kevin McGuff, it was the bigger story Wednesday than any focus on Mikesell and getting vengeance from what seemed like a tough environment in Oregon.

“The bigger story is we took a tough injury with Madison last night and I was just proud of how our team showed up,” said McGuff. “The resilience they showed and really fought through tough adversity.”

Rikki Harris on Point


Down both starting point guards, and facing a consistently top team in the No. 16 Oregon Ducks who are led by outstanding guard Te-Hina Paopao, meant a potential nightmare for the Buckeyes.

After all, they don’t have any regular point guards in the rotation who coach McGuff is likely to use. That meant Rikki Harris, who hadn’t played point guard consistently since high school, stepped in to see what she could do to facilitate the Buckeyes' offense.

She did ok.

Harris hit her career assist record, with eight. All of those came in the first half. She showed versatility and was key in Ohio State’s first-half surge.

“Usually when you lose your point guard the first thing to go is your offensive execution,” said McGuff following Wednesday’s win. “Rikki made sure we kept the ball moving and that we generated great shots. I thought she did an outstanding job.”

Defensively, Harris and the Buckeyes also forced an outlier of a poor performance from Paopao. Even though the guard had 17 points, Paopao entered Wednesday with the top assist/turnover ratio in the country and only gave the ball up nine times in the Ducks' first 11 games.

Against the Buckeyes, Paopao had eight turnovers. Outside of the third quarter, Oregon never seemed to get their scoring on a consistent clip. Aside from when the Ducks cut their deficit down to seven in the third quarter, had trouble breaking through the Ohio State defense.

Taylor Thierry a Quiet Foundation


Across the two games, the lone piece of consistency was forward Taylor Thierry. Although she was outshined by 30 points from McMahon in game one and big nights by Mikesell and forward Rebeka Mikulášiková in game two, Thierry had two strong games.

In game one, Thierry had 17 points and six assists, with no turnovers. In overtime, Thierry grabbed an offensive rebound, a defensive rebound, an assist, and the most important basket of the game, the one that won it.

After forward Eboni Walker confidently blocked guard, and AAC Preseason Player of the Year, Elena Tsineke’s shot away, McMahon found Thierry running ahead of the USF defense. Thierry hit the layup, sending the bench into a frenzy.

Thierry scored 14 with eight rebounds in game two, shooting 15-for-21 across the two games overall. Also, the Cleveland, Ohioan hit another wide-open three, because defenses seem to think the talented forward/guard flex can’t hit a shot from deep.

Defensive Ups and Downs


Winning two games in a row, against stiff competition, is great but there are moments Ohio State can learn from across the two days. The first is defending in the paint. Against USF and 6-foot-4 forward Dulcy Fankam Mendjiadeu, the Buckeyes struggled.

Fankam Mendjiadeu had 34 points and 17 rebounds against the Scarlet & Gray. Of those 34, 12 came from the free-throw line. After making players like Tennessee center Tamari Key ineffective this season, Fankam Mendjiadeu garnered a lot of attention.

When the Cameroonian got the ball in the paint, her size and ability led to made shot after made shot. Also, seven of her 17 rebounds were on offense, meaning the Buckeyes couldn’t challenge the big even when they forced USF to miss a shot.

The problem for Ohio State was fouling. Mikulášiková and Harris each fouled out going up against the forward. While the Buckeyes didn’t seem to agree with the number of whistles, playing through them forced more substitutions in key moments and free points for the Bulls.

It wasn’t all bad defensively though. On Wednesday, the Buckeyes’ half-court defense had a marked improvement against the Ducks. Ohio State had hands in the faces of shooters and didn’t allow too many open looks. Even when the Buckeyes went cold, scoring five points in the third quarter, McGuff’s side held Oregon to their worst shooting quarter of the game, scoring 12 points.

There were still some good performances on the Oregon roster. Freshman forward Grace VanSlooten put 29 points on top of Paopao’s 17 points, but the remaining three starters for Oregon scored 13 combined points. The Ducks’ bench scored eight total.

Oregon’s 6-foot-8 center Phillipina Kyei had none of those 13 starter points outside of the Ducks' dynamic duo, but still grabbed 10 rebounds.

Destination Basketball Dud


There’s been a lot made about the Destination Basketball Las Vegas Invitational where a player had to wait 40 minutes for medical attention, and the Indiana Hoosiers played in a glorified conference room at The Mirage hotel.

The same group put on the San Diego Invitational and even the commentators weren’t too thrilled with the setup. On the air, they mentioned how the event wasn’t really made for live fans. Production of the stream, which was on relatively obscure Flosports, featured no replays for in-arena fans and only replayed moments on the stream at halftime.

Also, the commentary team noticed there were no possession arrows letting the referees know who had possession, requiring the officials and broadcast staff to keep track of fouls and possession on their own.

While it didn’t threaten the safety of the players, overall it felt minor league. Add to the fact that only Land-Grant Holy Land made time to talk with the coach and players after the top-25 matchup and it was a night that organizers and media overall could have paid more attention.

More on the San Diego Invitational:


Game 1 Recap vs. USF Bulls

Game 2 Recap vs. Oregon Ducks

LGHL Uncut Podcast: San Diego Invitational Special

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MC&J: The next set of bowl games will see the Big Ten finally get in the mix
Brett Ludwiczak via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images

Wisconsin will be the first of nine Big Ten teams to play in a bowl game this year when they take the field on Tuesday.

Season ATS: 102-111-5 (54-61-2 National, 48-49-3 B1G)

Bowls ATS: 6-6


With the weather outside getting frightful the next few days, it’s a perfect time to stay inside and watch the few bowl games before Christmas, as well as prep for the busy schedule we have on tap for after the holiday.

Hopefully my gift to you will be a bunch of winners over the next week!

Bowl games: 12/22 - 12/28


(All lines courtesy of Draftkings Sportsbook.)

Armed Forces Bowl: Baylor (-4) v. Air Force - Thursday 12/22 7:30 p.m. - ESPN

Are you really going to pick against Air Force in the Armed Forces Bowl? The Falcons have been really good of late in bowl games under Troy Calhoun, winning four of their last five bowl appearances. Led by Brad Roberts, who has rushed for over 1,600 yards and 15 touchdowns this year, Air Force is averaging 330 yards per game this year.

Not only are the Falcons the best rushing team in the country, they also have a very stingy defense, allowing just 13 points per game. Baylor finished the regular season with three straight losses, while Air Force won their last four games of the season. The Falcons win their fourth straight bowl game as they use their rushing attack to control the clock and wear down the Bears.

Air Force 24, Baylor 17


Independence Bowl: Louisiana v. Houston (-7) - Friday 12/23 3:00 p.m. - ESPN

Since joining the FBS, Louisiana has been strong in bowl games, winning seven of nine bowl appearances since 2011. After Billy Napier left after last season to take the head coaching job at Florida, the Ragin’ Cajuns needed a win over Texas State in the final game of the regular season to become bowl eligible.

Houston had one of the best offenses in the country this year. The Cougars also had one of the worst defenses in the country this season. Louisiana got some bad news when Houston wide receiver Nathaniel Dell announced he would be playing in this game despite declaring for the NFL Draft. Dell hauled in 103 passes for 1,354 yards and 15 touchdowns this year.

Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images

The Ragin’ Cajuns lost to Florida State 49-17 last month. If Louisiana couldn’t slow down the Seminoles, it’s hard to see them keeping Clayton Tune, Dell, and the rest of the Houston offense from putting a bunch of points on the scoreboard. Even though the Cougars have a suspect defense, Louisiana doesn’t have the tools on offense to keep pace.

Houston 45, Louisiana 28


Gasparilla Bowl: Wake Forest (-1) v. Missouri - Friday 12/23 6:30 p.m. - ESPN

Missouri and head coach Eliah Drinkwitz were too cowardly to play neighbor Kansas in the Liberty Bowl, so now they head to Tampa to play Wake Forest. I’m sure Drinkwitz will say his team will play anybody at any time, but we know that’s not the truth. This is the same guy who was crying a couple years ago because Missouri had to play Boston College.

Obviously I don’t have much respect for Drinkwitz and Missouri. I’m hoping Sam Hartman passes all over the Tigers. Top receiver A.T. Perry is 20 yards away from 1,000 yards for the season. The Tigers don’t have the weapons on offense to keep up with Hartman and Perry. The Demon Deacons extend Missouri’s bowl losing streak to four games.

Wake Forest 35, Missouri 23


Hawai’i Bowl: Middle Tennessee v. San Diego State (-7) - Saturday 12/24 8:00 p.m. - ESPN

Unlike some years, the Hawai’i Bowl isn’t the only show in town on Christmas Eve, as the NFL also has a game on Saturday night. Still, if you want to feel warm as a winter storm rolls across the country late this week, just turn on ESPN on Saturday night. The shots of scenery around Hawai’i should help you forget about the nasty weather outside.

San Diego State was able to find some success when they turned to Mississippi State transfer Jalen Mayden at quarterback, winning five of their last seven games. The only losses during that stretch came to Fresno State and Air Force. Brady Hoke’s team also tightened up on defense in the last seven games, only allowing more than 14 points twice.

Middle Tennessee did record one of the biggest wins in school history when they won at Miami earlier in the year. That win did lose a bit of luster though when we saw how bad Miami ended up being. It also didn’t help that the Blue Raiders lost four of five games following the win over the Hurricanes. Even though Chase Cunningham is a nice quarterback, Middle Tennessee’s defense is pretty bad. San Diego State’s defense slows down Cunningham and the Aztecs win their third straight bowl game.

San Diego State 31, Middle Tennessee State 17


Quick Lane Bowl: New Mexico State v. Bowling Green (-4) - Monday 12/26 2:30 p.m. - ESPN

Can they play this game on Monday at 2:30 in the morning instead? This might be the grossest bowl game of the year. New Mexico State got here because of wins over powerhouses like Valparaiso, Lamar, and UMass. As if that wasn’t bad enough, they have human beaver Jerry Kill as their head coach.

Even though Bowling Green is awful on defense, it’s not like New Mexico State can light up the scoreboard. I have a little more faith that the Falcons will be able to move the football with quarterback Matt McDonald. Plus, Bowling Green likely will have a bit of a home field advantage since it’s not a long drive to Detroit.

Bowling Green 30, New Mexico State 20


Camellia Bowl: Georgia Southern (-3.5) v. Buffalo - Tuesday 12/27 12:00 p.m. - ESPN

Even though this bowl game might not have the most attractive teams, it certainly has a great storyline. Former Buffalo quarterback Kyle Vantrease transferred to Georgia Southern after last season. After throwing just over 600 passes during his time with the Bulls, Vantrease has attempted 559 passes this year, throwing 25 touchdowns and 15 interceptions.

Being from Western New York, would I love to see the Bulls win their third straight bowl game? Of course I would. I just don’t see it happening. Even though Vantrease gets most of the attention, Georgia Southern running back Jalen White is less than a hundred yards away from 1,000 for the season. While the Eagles aren’t great on defense, Buffalo doesn’t have the horses to keep up with a motivated Vantrease and company.

Georgia Southern 41, Buffalo 31


First Responder Bowl: Utah State v. Memphis (-7) - Tuesday 12/27 3:15 p.m. - ESPN

I love the city of Memphis. I’ve spent a couple Christmases down there with family, went to a Tigers game when they played at The Pyramid, and even did Christmas Day brunch at The Peabody. Something just hasn’t felt right about this team since Mike Norvell left for Florida State. The Tigers have gone 6-6 the last two years. Prior to that, the last team Memphis didn’t win at least eight games in a season was 2013.

After winning 11 games and beating Oregon State in the LA Bowl in Blake Anderson’s first season in Logan, the Aggies had a bit of a tough season. One positive for Utah State is they rebounded from a 1-4 start and won five of their last seven games. The Aggies did lose quarterback Logan Bonner early in the season to injury, forcing running back Calvin Tyler Jr. to take on more of the load on offense. I feel like Utah State is good enough on both sides of the football to pull the upset here.

Utah State 27, Memphis 24


Birmingham Bowl: Coastal Carolina v. East Carolina (-8) - Tuesday 12/27 6:45 p.m. - ESPN

Coastal Carolina will be without head coach Jamey Chadwell, who took the Liberty job, but the Chanticleers will have quarterback Grayson McCall. Even though McCall has already announced he is entering the transfer portal, he will play in this game. McCall missed two games late in the year before returning for the Sun Belt Championship Game loss to Troy.

Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images

Are we really sure McCall is the best quarterback in this game? Don’t sleep on East Carolina’s Holton Ahlers, who threw for 3,400 yards and 23 touchdowns this year. Not only do the Pirates have Ahlers, running back Keaton Mitchell is also really good. I think the duo will be a little too much for Coastal Carolina to handle, especially if McCall is thinking about where his next stop might be.

East Carolina 42, Coastal Carolina 27


Guaranteed Rate Bowl: Wisconsin (-3.5) v. Oklahoma State - Tuesday 12/27 10:15 p.m. - ESPN

Both Wisconsin quarterback Graham Mertz and Oklahoma State’s Spencer Sanders have announced they are entering the transfer portal, which means this is the Backup Quarterback Bowl. The Cowboys really struggled when Sanders was injured this year, while Wisconsin can at least lean on running back Braelon Allen and their defense. The Badgers send interim head coach Jim Leonhard out as a winner.

Wisconsin 23, Oklahoma State 14


Military Bowl: UCF v. Duke (-3.5) - Wednesday 12/28 2:00 p.m. - ESPN

This should be a fun quarterback battle on Wednesday afternoon. UCF signal caller John Rhys Plumlee and Duke’s Riley Leonard both lead their teams in passing and rushing. Gus Malzahn has won nine games in both of his seasons at the school, and a 10th win would be the fourth for UCF in the last six years.

Duke isn’t quite as explosive as UCF, but they play a little smarter than the Knights. I know, it’s shocking that a Duke team is smart. Even though Mike Elko has done a tremendous job in his first year in Durham to get the Blue Devils to eight wins, I don’t see them beating UCF here. Plumlee was banged up late in the year, so the time off has given him some time to recover. The Knights outduel the Blue Devils in this one.

UCF 38, Duke 34


Liberty Bowl: Kansas v. Arkansas (-2.5) - Wednesday 12/28 5:30 p.m. - ESPN

For Kansas, a 6-6 season really feels like 10-2. Really though, we didn’t get to see the true Kansas team down the stretch since quarterback Jalon Daniels was injured in early October. While Daniels did return for the last two games of the year, the Jayhawks faced some stiff competition from Texas and Kansas State, which wasn’t exactly the best environment to work Daniels back into the lineup.

For Arkansas, this 6-6 season probably felt like 2-10, especially with how they started the season. The Razorbacks lost three of their last four games of the regular season, but all those losses were by three points or less. Quarterback KJ Jefferson has already announced he is returning next year, so I expect a big performance from him and running back Raheim Sanders against a Kansas defense that allowed nearly 200 yards per game on the ground.

Arkansas 35, Kansas 24


Holiday Bowl: No. 15 Oregon (-14.5) v. North Carolina - Wednesday 12/28 8:00 p.m. - FOX

For a bit this was looking like it could both teams could appear in a New Year’s Six bowl game. Then Oregon lost two of their last three games of the regular season, while North Carolina lost the last three games they played. The Ducks have to be especially kicking themselves because they were up on Oregon State 34-17 in the fourth quarter of the Civil War before the Beavers scored 21 unanswered points.

Photo by Ali Gradischer/Getty Images

I’m not a huge fan of giving more than two touchdowns in bowl games. This game it feels warranted, though. North Carolina will be without leading wide receiver Josh Downs, as well as a number of starters on defense. Even though the Tar Heels have Drake Maye, the quarterback has been rather ordinary in the last three games. Bo Nix and the Oregon offense should be able to put up plenty of points to cover this spread.

Oregon 48, North Carolina 28


Texas Bowl: Texas Tech v. Ole Miss (-3.5) - Wednesday 12/28 9:00 p.m. - ESPN

Ole Miss really faltered in the last month of the season, losing their final three games, including a 24-22 loss to Mississippi State in the Egg Bowl. A fun player to watch in this game is running back Quinshon Judkins, who rushed for 1,476 yards and 16 touchdowns in his first season in Oxford. The Red Raiders haven’t been great against the run this year, giving up over 160 yards per game on the ground.

While the Rebels come in to the game slumping, Texas Tech finished the season on a three-game winning streak, including a 51-48 overtime win against Oklahoma in the final game of the regular season. Oregon transfer Tyler Shough is back starting at quarterback for the Red Raiders after getting injured earlier in the year.

With over a month to stew over the awful finish to the regular season, Lane Kiffin should have his team ready to go to try and end the season on a positive note. Texas Tech looks like they headed in the right direction under first-year head coach Joey McGuire, I just think the Rebels will be able to take advantage of an inconsistent defense.

Ole Miss 44, Texas Tech 34

Odds/lines subject to change. T&Cs apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for details.

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Jaxbuck said:

For the record I absolutely like Day as a person, hope he is The Guy and avoids the fate of Cooper (for him and for us). I'm just not anywhere near optimistic about it.

Click to expand...

That's fair enough. I think we might have broached the topic a few beers in at Adriatico's lol. I'm not as sold as I was that night though, this next game is a very important one for Day without a doubt.

As Buckeyes head to Atlanta for the playoffs, it’s time for redemption
David M Wheeler via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images

Time for some players to step up and take advantage of a second chance.

Look at the numbers. 2022 is Ryan Day’s fourth season as the head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes football team. His record in those four seasons is 42-5. If we add the victories from 2018, when Day was Interim Coach during Urban Meyer’s suspension, that record extends to 45-5 — a very handsome 90%. (For the record, Meyer’s OSU record was 83-9, or 91.2%.)

Day’s Bucks won the Big Ten Championship in 2019 and 2020. They’ve made the four-team College Football Playoffs three of the four years that Day has been at the helm. Almost unrivalled success.

Yet... there’s no national title. No B1G titles the last two years. And only a 1-2 record against TTUN. (Yes, the 2020 game should have been a forfeit!) As a consequence, there are unmet expectations, some frustration and disappointment. Partly because Meyer set the bar so high, but mainly because of the level of talent on these Buckeye teams.

Do you want an interesting stat? Try this one: of the top 20 recruits in the history of the storied Ohio State football program (or at least since statisticians started tracking such things), six of them will be playing against Georgia on New Year’s Eve. Here they are, with their all-time rankings. No. 4 J.T. Tuimoloau, No. 5 Jack Sawyer, No. 6 Julian Fleming, No. 14 Paris Johnson, No. 15 Emeka Egbuka, and No. 18 Zach Harrison.

The Buckeyes have a rare opportunity. It’s been referred to redemption. But I see the opportunity as something simpler – a second chance. They don’t come often, and, when they do, they shouldn’t be wasted.

Here’s my list of guys with big second chances.

Obviously


Ryan Day and C.J. Stroud are the obvious choices here, so I won’t say much about them. Day was a golden boy, an offensive genius, but he’s lost the last two Michigan games, and diehard Buckeye fans are demanding his head. Stroud entered the 2022 season as the nation’s top QB and the leader for the Heisman. The big prize eluded him, and he’s slipped in the quarterback rankings. Several players have simply been better than Stroud this year. And they’ve won the big games.

Ryan and C.J., here’s your second chance.

Underachievers


I’m limiting myself to three players in this category, but clearly, we could add more. Two of them are among the six listed above.

Zach Harrison. Harrison has had a decent career as a Buckeye, but he’s never really broken out and lived up to his billing. And that billing was written in big, bold letters. Harrison was the Buckeyes’ top recruit in the 2019 recruiting class. The five-star player was the No. 2 defensive end and the No. 12 overall player in the class nationally.

As I said, he’s been OK. But he hasn’t been a Bosa or a Chase Young. Or even the Zach Harrison that we thought he would be. Zach – here you go, a second chance.

Taron Vincent. Another five-star defensive lineman, Vincent was the No. 1 defensive tackle nationally in the recruiting class of 2018. As a Buckeye, he won a starting position pretty early on, and he’s shown flashes. Nonetheless, I’d have to rate him as an underachiever.

He’ll have a challenge against the Dawgs. Their OL is a good one, and so is their running game. How about it, Taron?

Julian Fleming. First off, Fleming has suffered a number of injuries that have hampered his play. Additionally, he’s had a roomful of superstars to compete with for playing time at his wide receiver position. But if you look at OSU’s 2020 recruiting class, Fleming was at the top. He was the No. 1 receiver nationally in that class and the No. 3 player at any position.

He’s healthy, and he’ll be on the field against Georgia. Flex your muscles, Julian.

All-Americans


These three guys earned All-America status at the end of the season. While they’re certainly not “underachievers,” they might feel that they have something to prove. Well, here’s their chance to show the country that they’ve earned the accolades.

Marvin Harrison Jr. Not just Buckeye writers, but sportswriters and college football followers generally are calling Harrison Jr. the best wide receiver in America. OK, Marvin, let’s see it. UGA is vulnerable to a good passing attack, as we saw in the SEC championship game against LSU. And the Tigers’ passing game is nothing like OSU’s.

I’m not saying that you can win this game by yourself, but you can make it really tough on the Bulldog defense. Get open. Catch the ball. Run like the wind.

Paris Johnson Jr. and Dawand Jones. I’m lumping you together because your roles are similar. As offensive tackles, you’re primarily responsible for protecting Stroud in the pocket against outside rushes. You’ve got to do it. The Buckeye offense depends on protecting Stroud. You can do it; you’re All Americans, after all. Yes, their D-line is very good. Keep them away from your quarterback and seal them off on running plays.

Show everybody why you’re the best in the country.

Defensive team leaders


Against Michigan, the Buckeye defense fell apart, collapsed, giving up huge play after huge play. That kind of performance cannot happen again. There are a number of you who have played well all season. Here’s your chance to step up and assume a leadership role. Other guys look up to you. Do your job and help your teammates do theirs.

I’m talking to you, J.T. Tuimoloau, Ronnie Hickman, Tommy Eichenberg, Tanner McCalister, Steele Chambers, and Lathan Ransom.

Surprise performance?


Now and then comes a big surprise. Trey Sermon against Northwestern in the Big Ten Championship game of 2020 will serve as my example. I have several prime candidates here: Emeka Egbuka, Jack Sawyer, Miyan Williams, Xavier Johnson.

All of the above


Maybe to beat a team as dominant as Georgia has been over the past few seasons, the Buckeyes will need for most (if not all) of these guys to step up, to realize the significance of this game and to turn in the performance of a lifetime. Surely the talent is there. But they’ll need the leadership, the discipline, and the will to win.

Win this one and there’s a third chance, one that could erase all of the bad plays, frustrations, and disappointments of the Ryan Day era.

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Peach Bowl Film Preview: Georgia’s offensive line is consistent, run game is eerily similar to Ohio State’s
Chris Renne via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by Jeffrey Vest/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Georgia has one of the best pass protection units in college football and uses physicality on the ground to find success, despite having an uninventive run game.

Success for the Georgia Bulldogs over the years has started up front on both sides of the football. On the backs of NFL level players on the offensive line, a solid foundation is set with this group allowing the offensive coordinator Todd Monken to get into what they really want to do strategically.

This year is no different. Georgia’s offensive line was a finalist for the Joe Moore Award for the best offensive line group in the country. The offensive line on the other hand has given up seven total sacks on the year. They’ve had some help from quarterback Stetson Bennett’s elusiveness, but that number is elite.

Ohio State’s defensive line has created pressure, but they will need to be at their best to have an impact in this game. Georgia’s run scheme uses leverage and strength, which their offensive line does a great job with. If Jim Knowles needs to bring additional pressure, they can hurt Georgia’s offense. The few times they’ve given up sacks, Georgia’s offensive line has been beat in individual effort over scheme.

Looking at the success of Georgia’s offensive line, Ohio State has the talent to match on the other side, the question will once again be — Can they get the job done and be disruptive?

Pass-Pro


Starting on the offensive line, their pass protection is the first place that separates this unit. As a group they work collectively, and this collective work is what makes their protection so hard to beat. They do a great job communicating and passing off rushers. They also understand that when a rusher leaves there is work to be found.

Against Missouri, Georgia is in a 3rd-and-7 in their own territory. The down-and-distance alludes to a passing situation. Missouri shows a five man pressure, and ends up bringing three with a linebacker spying the quarterback. The defensive end slants inside and the defensive tackle loops to the outside. Georgia’s offensive tackles washes down the end into the guard and is able to still stay outside to take the looper out of the picture.

This gives Bennett the protection and time needed to throw. Unfortunately for the offensive line, not everybody did their job here.


In the next play, Auburn tries a similar strategy to create pressure against the Bulldogs. They slant the outside rusher and loop around the left defensive tackle. Georgia communicates and slides well enough to make this a non-factor in the play. Now this is important because Jim Knowles and the Buckeyes like to move players around with stunts. Georgia is smart enough to counter the stunts.

This matchup game will come down to well-timed play-calls from Knowles. Fooling Georgia should not be the plan. Creating number advantages and putting pass rushers in opportune positions should be the goal.


In this last play, we see the pass rushers rushing the quarterback with a twist between the defensive tackles for Auburn. This works because the tackles get up field, the right defensive tackle gets up field then slants to the middle. This takes two blockers out of the play, and allows the other defensive tackle to get up field without a blocker. The edge rushers keep Bennett in the pocket, and the pressure is able to get home.

This is by no means a complicated rushing scheme, but the timing and individual effort overwhelms the offensive line leading to a sack.

Run Game


While Georgia’s offensive line is one of the best pass protection units in all of football, they do rank third in the country in yards per rush. But situationally, their struggles are similar to Ohio State’s. Part of their issues stem from the same area as the Buckeyes — a lazy run scheme that is over reliant on inside and outside zone. When the run game is working, the offensive line is getting to the second level and the running backs have the feel to find the blocks.

In the first play here, Georgia is starting their drive on the 10-yard line. They are running outside zone. The defensive end for Missouri play side takes away option No. 1 from the running back which is getting outside the end. This forces the cut back to the middle, Georgia’s center and left guard double team the tackle with the center sliding off to get to the backer. The center gets to the backer and the right guard washes down the slanting tackle. They out muscle Missouri, creating a huge hole in the middle for what should have been a long gain.


Georgia in the next play is in a power run situation in 3rd-and-3. They rank 68th in power run success rate at 68.8 percent. The reason for this is they have the same tells of Ohio State and teams know what is coming in these scenarios. Missouri’s defensive end uses his eyes this time and see the play is coming his way, instead of getting up field he anchors down forcing the running back to make a choice. Interior penetration forces the back outside and doesn’t allow the Georgia offensive line to get up to the second level. This allows the backers to flow and make a tackle before the line to gain, forcing a punt.


The last strength of their run game is getting their more athletic linemen moving as pullers. Georgia uses a pin-and-pull blocking scheme to run their counter as well as their GT-Counter. Both plays are run in early downs, in this case it’s 1st-and-10 for the Bulldogs. Based off the defensive alignment means the guard and tight end are pulling across. Brock Bowers gets around the filling defender, Washington gets up to kick out the corner. This allows the back to get outside with a lot of grass in front of him.


Overall, consistency is Georgia’s offensive line’s greatest strength. They run their concepts, stay organized in pass-pro, and do both with a necessary physicality. At times the simple stuff gets to them, but generally they are a tough nut to crack. For the Buckeyes, it will require strong individual performances in matchups and well timed blitzes from the second level. If they can create confusion or get pressure with four, Georgia can be taken out of some of their more long developing concepts which would be a win for the Buckeyes.

Ohio State’s greatest strength starts with their ability to disguise pressure. That will challenge Georgia’s offensive line communication early. For the Buckeyes this can be the difference. On the other hand for Ohio State, we saw that the communication of Georgia almost completely made any stunts useless. The few times we saw Georgia’s offensive line has a misstep, it was because well designed timing and strong individual efforts.

On the other side with the run game, Georgia runs the ball well. They have three talented running backs with different skill sets. Sound familiar? Similarities aside Georgia has many of the same issues as Ohio State. Against equal talent the run game’s predictability creates problems in short yardage situations. If the Buckeyes are prepared and locked in, they should be able to key in on alignment to understand what play is coming in a given situation. Georgia is going to run a variation of zone or a pin-and-pull counter.

The talent of Georgia’s offensive line is underrated compared to some other position groups on the team, but the offense goes as they do. When they’re locked in there aren’t many better units in the country. For the Buckeyes to find success, they will need to match the physicality, and honestly, it just comes down to executing better on a play-to-play basis.

Ohio State has the talent up front, now they need to go out and prove that as a unit, they have what it takes to win the battle in the trenches against a team like Georgia.

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Why is this News? All the articles and tweets Buckeye fans need for December 22, 2022
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

All the Buckeye news thats fit to re-print.

Look, we get it. Your days are busy and you don’t have time to read all of the stories and tweets from the three dozen websites dedicated to covering Ohio State athletics, or the 237 Buckeye beat writers churning out hot takes and #content on a daily basis. But that’s ok, that’s what your friends at Land-Grant Holy Land are here for.

Monday through Friday, we’ll be collecting all of the articles, tweets, features, interviews, videos, podcasts, memes, photos, and whatever else we stumble across on the interwebz and putting them in our daily “Why is this News?” article. That way, you’ll have a one-stop shop for all of the most important Buckeye news, jokes, and analysis.

You’re welcome!

For your Earholes...


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On the Gridiron


Ohio State secures a commitment from Top247 edge rusher Joshua Mickens
Steve Wiltfong, 247Sports

Full Bios: Introducing Ohio State’s 2023 recruiting class
Steve Helwagen, Bucknuts

Listen to Ryan Day talk about the 2023 recruiting class so far.


A very good Ohio State 2023 class but… Recapping the Buckeyes’ 2023 National Signing Day
Bill Kurelic, Bucknuts

Thoughts as Ohio State signs very good, not great, 2023 recruiting class (paywall)
Jeremy Birmingham, Dotting the Eyes

Ohio State football’s strong 2023 signing class has holes only money could fill
Nathan Baird, cleveland.com

Who signed with the Buckeyes? 10 thoughts from early signing day (paywall)
Cameron Teague Robinson, The Athletic

Rapid Reaction: Buckeyes sign top-five class, but recruiting woes remain
Matt Parker, Lettermen Row

Looks like the Buckeyes add one more signee to the class late on Wednesday!


Signing Day 2022: Ryan Day not alarmed by recent rash of Ohio State football decommitments
Dean Straka, 247Sports

Ohio State’s quality 2023 recruiting class is tainted by the thought of what it could’ve been
Stephen Means, cleveland.com

National Signing Day suggests Jim Harbaugh’s reign over Ohio State and the Big Ten won’t last
Jimmy Watkins, cleveland.com

Analyzing impact as Ohio State loses commitment from cornerback Kayin Lee (paywall)
Jeremy Birmingham, Dotting the Eyes

Buckeyes add transfer kicker Casey Magyar as preferred walk-on
Joey Kaufman, The Columbus Dispatch

Ohio State also got a very talented preferred walk-on at wide receiver.


Ohio State Will Sit Down with Chip Trayanum After Season to Decide on Potential Full-Time Future at Running Back
Griffin Strom, Eleven Warriors

Ohio State’s Ryan Day supports Avery Henry after cancer diagnosis: ‘He’s got a whole team behind him’
Patrick Murphy, Bucknuts

Column: The College football calendar needs a retrofit
Meredith Hein, Land-Grant Holy Land

Three Buckeyes named to NFL Pro Bowl rosters
Patrick Murphy, Bucknuts

On the Hardwood


Buckeyes maul the Black Bears, 95-61
Connor Lemons, Land-Grant Holy Land

Buckeyes heed upset warnings, take care of business against Maine
Adam Jardy, The Columbus Dispatch


No. 3 Ohio State women’s basketball dominates No. 16 Ducks 84-67
Thomas Costello, Land-Grant Holy Land

OSU basketball remains perfect after beating Oregon, off to best start since 2011-12
Staff Reports, The Columbus Dispatch

Outside the Shoe and Schott


Short-handed Ohio State squad wrestles to mixed results in New Orleans
Josh Dooley, Land-Grant Holy Land

And now for something completely different...


Happy Holidays, from the Spartans’ coach!


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LGHL Uncut Podcast: San Diego Invitational Special with media from both games
1ThomasCostello via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Ohio State University athletic department

Head coach Kevin McGuff, Cotie McMahon, Taylor Thierry and Taylor Mikesell discuss the two games that kept the Buckeyes undefeated

Throughout the year, Land-Grant Holy Land will be bringing you uncut audio primarily from Ohio State press conferences, but also from individual interview sessions.


The Ohio State Buckeyes are champions of the San Diego Invitational. What’s even more important than that “trophy” is the way the Scarlet & Gray won it.

This episode of Uncut features a two-for-one special, with post-game press conferences from both games in one spot.

Up first is head coach Kevin McGuff and forwards Cotie McMahon and Taylor Thierry discussing the win against the USF Bulls. Ohio State needed overtime to beat the Bulls, and after the game coach McGuff describes what went wrong, a tough shooting performance by two of the team’s top scorers and the impact of guard Madison Greene going down for injury.

Following coach, McMahon and Thierry talk about the win, the mentality to come back from down six with less than a minute left in overtime. Also, setting up a game against the No. 16 Oregon Ducks and what it means to play for their teammate Taylor Mikesell.

After the second interview is postgame audio from the big win against those Ducks. McGuff starts things off talking about Mikesell beating her former team, rebounding from a tough third quarter and the ability of guard Rikki Harris to step in for Greene on such short notice.

Mikesell follows McGuff to talk about the feelings she had seeing Oregon on the schedule at the beginning of the season, the play of Harris and what the team focused on heading into the last quarter after a 7.7% shooting quarter in the third.


Connect with Thomas:

Twitter: @1ThomasCostello

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