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MotS&G Freshman Ransom, a star in the making
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Freshman Ransom, a star in the making
Mike via our good friends at Men of the Scarlet and Gray
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Ohio State has found a gem with true freshman Lathan Ransom.
Ransom, a former 4 star out of Arizona quietly gained more snaps for the Buckeyes as the season progressed, but has been making a name for himself this postseason, delivering the biggest hits, and plays at key moments.
As a true freshman Ransom earned his first grade as a champion in the Sugar Bowl against Clemson.
Ransom saw a season high 28 snaps in the Sugar Bowl victory and made plays for the Buckeye defense. Most notably, Trevor Lawrence’s last throw in the end zone targeted for Amari Rodgers was contested and batted by Ransom right into Sevyn Banks’ hands leading to an interception.
Although Ransom has appeared in three games for the Buckeyes he has made his presence known these past two post season games (Northwestern, Clemson). In the Big Ten Championship, on 4th down Ransom made a huge hit on Northwestern’s John Raine causing an incompletion and icing the game leading to a Buckeyes fourth straight Big Ten Championship.
Meeting with the media ahead of the national championship, defensive coordinator Kerry Coombs and senior Shaun Wade had high praise for the freshman.
Coombs said Ransom has improved everyday this season. “He showed up and played big when we needed him to,” said Coombs. “He continues to improve and develop and we’re excited for his future.”
Wade told the media that Ransom is going to be a great player and he even reached out to Wade ahead of the Clemson game to go over things in the slot corner position where they both went over to the WHAC to work on techniques before game time.
Ransom has 4 tackles and 1 PD on the season.
The future is bright.
All the tools Ransom has shown dominating high school and translating it to the college game has future All American written all over it and is going to be a problem for offenses years to come.
Continue reading...
Mike via our good friends at Men of the Scarlet and Gray
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Ohio State has found a gem with true freshman Lathan Ransom.
Ransom, a former 4 star out of Arizona quietly gained more snaps for the Buckeyes as the season progressed, but has been making a name for himself this postseason, delivering the biggest hits, and plays at key moments.
As a true freshman Ransom earned his first grade as a champion in the Sugar Bowl against Clemson.
Ransom saw a season high 28 snaps in the Sugar Bowl victory and made plays for the Buckeye defense. Most notably, Trevor Lawrence’s last throw in the end zone targeted for Amari Rodgers was contested and batted by Ransom right into Sevyn Banks’ hands leading to an interception.
Although Ransom has appeared in three games for the Buckeyes he has made his presence known these past two post season games (Northwestern, Clemson). In the Big Ten Championship, on 4th down Ransom made a huge hit on Northwestern’s John Raine causing an incompletion and icing the game leading to a Buckeyes fourth straight Big Ten Championship.
Meeting with the media ahead of the national championship, defensive coordinator Kerry Coombs and senior Shaun Wade had high praise for the freshman.
Coombs said Ransom has improved everyday this season. “He showed up and played big when we needed him to,” said Coombs. “He continues to improve and develop and we’re excited for his future.”
Wade told the media that Ransom is going to be a great player and he even reached out to Wade ahead of the Clemson game to go over things in the slot corner position where they both went over to the WHAC to work on techniques before game time.
Ransom has 4 tackles and 1 PD on the season.
The future is bright.
All the tools Ransom has shown dominating high school and translating it to the college game has future All American written all over it and is going to be a problem for offenses years to come.
Continue reading...
MotS&G #11 Ohio State Buckeyes Silences #2 Clemson Tigers in the Big Easy
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#11 Ohio State Buckeyes Silences #2 Clemson Tigers in the Big Easy
Richard Tongohan via our good friends at Men of the Scarlet and Gray
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Yes, you read that right and it was intentional. With all the chatter and all the slights sent their way, the Buckeyes have finally defeated the Clemson Tigers. The risk of falling 0-5 to Clemson was possible, but with all the motivation in the world the Buckeyes trounced the Tigers and silenced the doubters for now—and oh, how sweet it is?!
The build up to this moment was heavy. Two elite teams with two distinct paths to the CFB Playoffs. Two budding rivals that always seem to meet. Two elite head coaches with loaded rosters that could compete to become the next dynasty in college football. Both sides had their motives and their wills tested up to this moment.
One team, Ohio State went through adversity to play this season. They fought for a chance to play and they defeated the odds to do so. They had a nine-game season that turned to six with Maryland and TTUN cancelling, and the Illinois game being cancelled due to COVID concerns.
Clemson looked good but suffered an early loss at the hands of Notre Dame without Trevor Lawrence. Lawrence returns and throttles Notre Dame and avenged the loss to set the table for another head-to-head with the Buckeyes.
The chatter was immense and extremely disrespectful toward the Buckeyes leading up to the game—no one gave them a shot to advance. Coaches, Clemson head coach Dabo Sweeney ranked the Buckeyes 11th (11th!) in his final coaches poll and the media was forecasting another Bama versus Clemson game.
With their demons on the field, the Buckeyes looked great in this game. They played with poise and balance—and they really dominated all phases of the game. Constant pressure by the defense stifled Lawrence while Fields’ grit shined through with the help of Trey Sermon in the ground game. The game was never really that close after the 14-14 tie but the job is not done with the #1 Crimson Tide on the horizon.
Yes, savor the win—do it! But we all know if you want to win a championship, you have to run through Alabama and Clemson. The Buckeyes demolished the latter and now they must be laser focused on the Crimson Tide and their arsenal of weapons at their disposal.
For what it’s worth: Even the Bama head coach, Nick Saban and their future opponent had them out at 5th overall behind Texas A&M and while the slight is less severe—we can all assume that it’ll be used again to sharpen their edge. Focus on the win and enjoy it, the Tide are not to be taken lightly especially with the issues we saw tonight with the secondary.
MOTSAG Heroes of the Game
Offense: Justin Fields, QB
Defense: Haskell Garrett, DT
Special Teams: Drue Chrisman, P
#GoBucks
Continue reading...
Richard Tongohan via our good friends at Men of the Scarlet and Gray
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Yes, you read that right and it was intentional. With all the chatter and all the slights sent their way, the Buckeyes have finally defeated the Clemson Tigers. The risk of falling 0-5 to Clemson was possible, but with all the motivation in the world the Buckeyes trounced the Tigers and silenced the doubters for now—and oh, how sweet it is?!
The build up to this moment was heavy. Two elite teams with two distinct paths to the CFB Playoffs. Two budding rivals that always seem to meet. Two elite head coaches with loaded rosters that could compete to become the next dynasty in college football. Both sides had their motives and their wills tested up to this moment.
One team, Ohio State went through adversity to play this season. They fought for a chance to play and they defeated the odds to do so. They had a nine-game season that turned to six with Maryland and TTUN cancelling, and the Illinois game being cancelled due to COVID concerns.
Clemson looked good but suffered an early loss at the hands of Notre Dame without Trevor Lawrence. Lawrence returns and throttles Notre Dame and avenged the loss to set the table for another head-to-head with the Buckeyes.
The chatter was immense and extremely disrespectful toward the Buckeyes leading up to the game—no one gave them a shot to advance. Coaches, Clemson head coach Dabo Sweeney ranked the Buckeyes 11th (11th!) in his final coaches poll and the media was forecasting another Bama versus Clemson game.
With their demons on the field, the Buckeyes looked great in this game. They played with poise and balance—and they really dominated all phases of the game. Constant pressure by the defense stifled Lawrence while Fields’ grit shined through with the help of Trey Sermon in the ground game. The game was never really that close after the 14-14 tie but the job is not done with the #1 Crimson Tide on the horizon.
Yes, savor the win—do it! But we all know if you want to win a championship, you have to run through Alabama and Clemson. The Buckeyes demolished the latter and now they must be laser focused on the Crimson Tide and their arsenal of weapons at their disposal.
For what it’s worth: Even the Bama head coach, Nick Saban and their future opponent had them out at 5th overall behind Texas A&M and while the slight is less severe—we can all assume that it’ll be used again to sharpen their edge. Focus on the win and enjoy it, the Tide are not to be taken lightly especially with the issues we saw tonight with the secondary.
MOTSAG Heroes of the Game
Offense: Justin Fields, QB
Defense: Haskell Garrett, DT
Special Teams: Drue Chrisman, P
#GoBucks
Continue reading...
MotS&G Battered Justin Fields out shines Lawrence, setting up clash with Crimson Tide
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Battered Justin Fields out shines Lawrence, setting up clash with Crimson Tide
Mike via our good friends at Men of the Scarlet and Gray
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Some players use criticism and comparisons to fuel their performance. Justin Fields did just so in Ohio State’s dominant 49-28 victory over the Clemson Tigers in the Sugar Bowl.
The comparisons and competition between Fields and Trevor Lawrence has been on display since the two were the best prospects in the 2018 recruiting class.
Lawrence has been the consensus number one pick for this upcoming NFL draft after Fields showed some weaknesses against ranked Indiana and Northwestern as he threw a combined 5 interceptions which was more then he had all of last season.
This, last year’s Fiesta Bowl clash, and Dabo’s ranking of Ohio State was more than enough fuel Fields needed for this CFB semifinal Friday night.
If he wasn’t already for his 19-1 record as a Buckeye heading into this game, Fields officially locked himself as a Buckeye legend for this gutsy performance.
Fields took off scrambling and took a big hit to the ribs from linebacker James Skalski that left him in a lot of pain through the course of the game. Fields missed one play before coming back in continuing to dominate.
Fields ended the night throwing 22-for-28 with 385 yards and Sugar Bowl record-six touchdowns.
Fields-Lawrence Battle
The first competition between Fields and Lawrence took place in high school at the Elite 11, where Fields was crowned MVP.
Lawrence took advantage of the second round after beating Fields and the Buckeyes in last year’s Fiesta Bowl.
Fields broke the 1-1 tie breaker in dominating fashion between the two Friday night as the Buckeyes advanced to the national title game against the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Continue reading...
Mike via our good friends at Men of the Scarlet and Gray
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Some players use criticism and comparisons to fuel their performance. Justin Fields did just so in Ohio State’s dominant 49-28 victory over the Clemson Tigers in the Sugar Bowl.
The comparisons and competition between Fields and Trevor Lawrence has been on display since the two were the best prospects in the 2018 recruiting class.
Lawrence has been the consensus number one pick for this upcoming NFL draft after Fields showed some weaknesses against ranked Indiana and Northwestern as he threw a combined 5 interceptions which was more then he had all of last season.
This, last year’s Fiesta Bowl clash, and Dabo’s ranking of Ohio State was more than enough fuel Fields needed for this CFB semifinal Friday night.
If he wasn’t already for his 19-1 record as a Buckeye heading into this game, Fields officially locked himself as a Buckeye legend for this gutsy performance.
Fields took off scrambling and took a big hit to the ribs from linebacker James Skalski that left him in a lot of pain through the course of the game. Fields missed one play before coming back in continuing to dominate.
Fields ended the night throwing 22-for-28 with 385 yards and Sugar Bowl record-six touchdowns.
Fields-Lawrence Battle
The first competition between Fields and Lawrence took place in high school at the Elite 11, where Fields was crowned MVP.
Lawrence took advantage of the second round after beating Fields and the Buckeyes in last year’s Fiesta Bowl.
Fields broke the 1-1 tie breaker in dominating fashion between the two Friday night as the Buckeyes advanced to the national title game against the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Continue reading...
MotS&G Olave’s anticipated Tiger rematch: By Mike Scharf
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Olave’s anticipated Tiger rematch: By Mike Scharf
Mike via our good friends at Men of the Scarlet and Gray
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
December 28, 2019… State Farm Stadium… 29-23. 29-23. 29-23:
That final score has been entrenched throughout Woody Hayes Athletic Center. On the walls in the locker room, in the weight room.
Everywhere.
This score hasn’t left the Buckeyes team’s eyes since a last-minute interception in last year’s Fiesta Bowl ended their national championship hopes.
This Buckeye team seeks redemption after having a bad taste in their mouth from last season’s clash with the Clemson Tigers, and none other than star wide receiver Chris Olave seeks it more than most.
Last season, Olave spoke up that he broke his route in last year’s Fiesta Bowl as he turned left instead of continuing his route thinking his quarterback took off to scramble which led to a Justin Fields’ interception right in the hands of Clemson’s defensive back Nolan Turner in the endzone securing a Tigers victory and national championship appearance.
As the NFL draft was looming, there was no denying in the mind of Olave what he was going to do—he came back to Ohio State to show everyone what he can do.
Olave met with the media ahead of the 2020 season expressing his love for Ohio State and the chip he has from last season’s disheartening loss:
“I care so much about this team, this university,” Olave said, “I don’t think I’ve gotten over it still (Fiesta Bowl loss), and I still got that chip on my shoulder and I want to show the world”.
Olave explained he found himself working out 2-3 times a day, trying to take his mind off things.
This Buckeye team knows who the underdog is and relishes it. The odds have been stacked against this group all season and they are ready to prove the world wrong.
In the Sugar Bowl trailer, narrated by Chris Olave, he acknowledge the team embraces the underdog narrative.
“We know you don’t want to see us here, and we know you don’t give us a chance. That’s fine,” said Olave. “After all we fought through, we just need one chance. A second chance.”
CO2 is ready.
Continue reading...
Mike via our good friends at Men of the Scarlet and Gray
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
December 28, 2019… State Farm Stadium… 29-23. 29-23. 29-23:
That final score has been entrenched throughout Woody Hayes Athletic Center. On the walls in the locker room, in the weight room.
Everywhere.
This score hasn’t left the Buckeyes team’s eyes since a last-minute interception in last year’s Fiesta Bowl ended their national championship hopes.
This Buckeye team seeks redemption after having a bad taste in their mouth from last season’s clash with the Clemson Tigers, and none other than star wide receiver Chris Olave seeks it more than most.
Last season, Olave spoke up that he broke his route in last year’s Fiesta Bowl as he turned left instead of continuing his route thinking his quarterback took off to scramble which led to a Justin Fields’ interception right in the hands of Clemson’s defensive back Nolan Turner in the endzone securing a Tigers victory and national championship appearance.
As the NFL draft was looming, there was no denying in the mind of Olave what he was going to do—he came back to Ohio State to show everyone what he can do.
Olave met with the media ahead of the 2020 season expressing his love for Ohio State and the chip he has from last season’s disheartening loss:
“I care so much about this team, this university,” Olave said, “I don’t think I’ve gotten over it still (Fiesta Bowl loss), and I still got that chip on my shoulder and I want to show the world”.
Olave explained he found himself working out 2-3 times a day, trying to take his mind off things.
This Buckeye team knows who the underdog is and relishes it. The odds have been stacked against this group all season and they are ready to prove the world wrong.
In the Sugar Bowl trailer, narrated by Chris Olave, he acknowledge the team embraces the underdog narrative.
“We know you don’t want to see us here, and we know you don’t give us a chance. That’s fine,” said Olave. “After all we fought through, we just need one chance. A second chance.”
CO2 is ready.
Continue reading...
MotS&G Sugar Bowl X-Factor: Defense by Mike Scharf
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Sugar Bowl X-Factor: Defense by Mike Scharf
Mike via our good friends at Men of the Scarlet and Gray
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
There’s no denying Ohio State’s defense had a slow start to this 2020 season, which was predicted due to seven starters taking their talents to the NFL which included two of the top three picks in Chase Young, and Jeff Okudah.
Along with Okudah and Young, the Buckeyes lost Damon Arnette, Jordan Fuller, Malik Harrison, Jashon Cornell and Davon Hamilton to the 2020 NFL draft.
The loss of stars and slow start to the season didn’t stop the Silver Bullets from picking up rhythm and improving as a team through the abnormal 2020-COVID season.
The following is currently the Buckeyes’ defensive stats:
In order for a Sugar Bowl victory and appearance in the 2020 National Championship, the Buckeyes defense needs to step up and execute the game plan for Trevor Lawrence’s high-powered Clemson Tiger offense.
Here are a few X-Factors defensively that could lead the Buckeyes’ to victory come Friday night.
Jonathan Cooper – Tommy Togiai – Haskell Garrett (Defensive Line)
Chase Young is dominating on Sunday’s for the Washington Football team and early on the Buckeyes faced problems replacing his 16.5 sacks from last season. That being said, the front seven has been dominate of late and the strong unit for the Buckeyes. (As noted above, they are 7th in the country in rush defense.) The experience and leadership of fifth-year senior Jonathan Cooper has been enormous all season long and will continue into championship season. Cooper has 20 tackles and 2.5 sacks on the season. The dominate-duo of the interior between Tommy Togiai and Haskell Garrett has been the biggest x-factor for the Buckeyes all season long and will cause disruption in the Tigers backfield. Togiai and Garrett have a combined 36 tackles and 5 sacks.
Pete Werner – Tuf Borland (Linebackers)
The Buckeye linebackers are a veteran group led by seniors Pete Werner and Tuf Borland. Werner leads the team with 37 tackles, 2.5 TFL, and one sack. Borland is second with 26 tackles, and 1.5 sacks. Both Werner and Borland are a big reason why the Buckeyes have played well against the run this season. These two, along with Baron Browning face their biggest test of the season Friday with the read option of Trevor Lawrence and Travis Etienne. Lawrence and Etienne have a combined rushing of 1,103 yards and 20 touchdowns.
The Buckeyes veteran group of linebackers are led by seniors Pete Warner and Tuf Borland. Warner leads the team with 37 tackles along with 2.5 TFL and one sack. Borland is second on the team with 26 tackles along with 1.5 sacks. These two, along with Baron Browning are a substantial reason why the team has played so well against the run this season. The biggest test will be this Friday as they look to contain the read option between Trevor Lawrence and Travis Etienne. Lawrence and Etienne have a combined rushing of 1,103 yards and 20 touchdowns this season for the Tigers.,,
Shaun Wade (Secondary)
This is a redemation game for Shaun Wade. Although, the talk of this year’s Buckeyes has been the secondary and the struggles they faced at times. The starting corners from last year’s defense were Jeff Okudah and Damon Arnette as they were both drafted in the first round last April. Along with those two the Buckeyes lost, Jordan Fuller, who was a dominate force at safety for last year’s secondary. The struggles have been apparent for the secondary, but the Buckeyes have picked it up led behind the fifth-year senior and future first-rounder Shaun Wade. Wade will be coming into this game LASER focused as he is looking for his redemption against the Tigers. Last year, during the Fiesta Bowl, Wade was called for a controversial targeting call on Trevor Lawrence which led to be the turning point of the game in favor for the Tigers. Wade has 20 tackles and 2 interceptions on the season.
Final Analysis
Wade won’t be the only one looking for redemption. This Buckeye defense, along with these X-Factors will come in determined to prove something. Not only have the media questioned the creditability of the Buckeyes due to the fact they only played six games.
Clemson Tigers’ head coach, Dabo Swinney added some fuel to the fire. Swinney ranked the Buckeyes 11th on the coaches’ poll ballot and stood by that decision saying “I didn’t rank anybody who didn’t play nine games or more in the top 10. That’s why they were 11. I have all the respect in the world for Ohio State.” — The Buckeyes will be ready.
Continue reading...
Mike via our good friends at Men of the Scarlet and Gray
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
There’s no denying Ohio State’s defense had a slow start to this 2020 season, which was predicted due to seven starters taking their talents to the NFL which included two of the top three picks in Chase Young, and Jeff Okudah.
Along with Okudah and Young, the Buckeyes lost Damon Arnette, Jordan Fuller, Malik Harrison, Jashon Cornell and Davon Hamilton to the 2020 NFL draft.
The loss of stars and slow start to the season didn’t stop the Silver Bullets from picking up rhythm and improving as a team through the abnormal 2020-COVID season.
The following is currently the Buckeyes’ defensive stats:
- Total Defense: 34
- Scoring Defense: 24 (Tied)
- Passing Defense: 104
- Rush Defense: 7
- 3rd Down Defense: 19
- Sacks Per Game: 26 (Tied)
In order for a Sugar Bowl victory and appearance in the 2020 National Championship, the Buckeyes defense needs to step up and execute the game plan for Trevor Lawrence’s high-powered Clemson Tiger offense.
Here are a few X-Factors defensively that could lead the Buckeyes’ to victory come Friday night.
Jonathan Cooper – Tommy Togiai – Haskell Garrett (Defensive Line)
Chase Young is dominating on Sunday’s for the Washington Football team and early on the Buckeyes faced problems replacing his 16.5 sacks from last season. That being said, the front seven has been dominate of late and the strong unit for the Buckeyes. (As noted above, they are 7th in the country in rush defense.) The experience and leadership of fifth-year senior Jonathan Cooper has been enormous all season long and will continue into championship season. Cooper has 20 tackles and 2.5 sacks on the season. The dominate-duo of the interior between Tommy Togiai and Haskell Garrett has been the biggest x-factor for the Buckeyes all season long and will cause disruption in the Tigers backfield. Togiai and Garrett have a combined 36 tackles and 5 sacks.
Pete Werner – Tuf Borland (Linebackers)
The Buckeye linebackers are a veteran group led by seniors Pete Werner and Tuf Borland. Werner leads the team with 37 tackles, 2.5 TFL, and one sack. Borland is second with 26 tackles, and 1.5 sacks. Both Werner and Borland are a big reason why the Buckeyes have played well against the run this season. These two, along with Baron Browning face their biggest test of the season Friday with the read option of Trevor Lawrence and Travis Etienne. Lawrence and Etienne have a combined rushing of 1,103 yards and 20 touchdowns.
The Buckeyes veteran group of linebackers are led by seniors Pete Warner and Tuf Borland. Warner leads the team with 37 tackles along with 2.5 TFL and one sack. Borland is second on the team with 26 tackles along with 1.5 sacks. These two, along with Baron Browning are a substantial reason why the team has played so well against the run this season. The biggest test will be this Friday as they look to contain the read option between Trevor Lawrence and Travis Etienne. Lawrence and Etienne have a combined rushing of 1,103 yards and 20 touchdowns this season for the Tigers.,,
Shaun Wade (Secondary)
This is a redemation game for Shaun Wade. Although, the talk of this year’s Buckeyes has been the secondary and the struggles they faced at times. The starting corners from last year’s defense were Jeff Okudah and Damon Arnette as they were both drafted in the first round last April. Along with those two the Buckeyes lost, Jordan Fuller, who was a dominate force at safety for last year’s secondary. The struggles have been apparent for the secondary, but the Buckeyes have picked it up led behind the fifth-year senior and future first-rounder Shaun Wade. Wade will be coming into this game LASER focused as he is looking for his redemption against the Tigers. Last year, during the Fiesta Bowl, Wade was called for a controversial targeting call on Trevor Lawrence which led to be the turning point of the game in favor for the Tigers. Wade has 20 tackles and 2 interceptions on the season.
Final Analysis
Wade won’t be the only one looking for redemption. This Buckeye defense, along with these X-Factors will come in determined to prove something. Not only have the media questioned the creditability of the Buckeyes due to the fact they only played six games.
Clemson Tigers’ head coach, Dabo Swinney added some fuel to the fire. Swinney ranked the Buckeyes 11th on the coaches’ poll ballot and stood by that decision saying “I didn’t rank anybody who didn’t play nine games or more in the top 10. That’s why they were 11. I have all the respect in the world for Ohio State.” — The Buckeyes will be ready.
Continue reading...
LGHL With the football season over, attention turns to Ohio State basketball
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With the football season over, attention turns to Ohio State basketball
Brett Ludwiczak via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
With last night’s win over Northwestern, Ohio State is 10-3 on the season and 4-3 in the Big Ten, which has them currently sitting fifth in the conference.
Football season is over. If you're a #Buckeyes fan who is just now going to tune into the men's basketball team, I've got you covered.
Here are five things to know about this year's team, if you're just catching up: https://t.co/FG7jhFuEw9
— Adam Jardy (@AdamJardy) January 12, 2021
Earlier this week, after the Ohio State football team fell to Alabama in the College Football Playoff Championship Game, Adam Jardy of the Columbus Dispatch put together five things to know for Buckeye fans who haven’t seen much of the Ohio State basketball team this year. If Jardy’s CliffsNotes weren’t enough for you, earlier today Stephen Means of Cleveland.com added four more things to know about the team that is currently ranked 21st in the country with a 10-3 record after last night’s 81-71 win over Northwestern.
Which Duane shows up
One thing that both writers mentioned about this year’s Ohio State team is the streakiness of Duane Washington Jr. When Washington is good, he’s really good. When Washington’s shot is off, he is one of the most frustrating players in the country to watch. Even head coach Chris Holtmann joked that Washington is “going to send him to an early death”.
Washington currently leads Ohio State, averaging 15.7 points per game. It’s just tough to know which Washington is going to show up on any given night. In the two wins over Rutgers, the junior scored a combined 39 points and went 8-of-19 from three-point range. But there are also games like the loss to Northwestern on Dec. 26, when Washington was just 1-of-9 from the field and missed what would have been the game-winning layup. If Washington’s shot is falling and he is displaying good shot selection, the Buckeyes are a hard team to beat. If it’s not, by the end of the game you might have pulled all your hair out.
One of the more recent developments with this year’s Ohio State team has been the testing of the depth at point guard. C.J. Walker has missed the last two games after he tore ligaments in his non-shooting hand, and backup Jimmy Sotos left late in the Rutgers game with a shoulder injury, missing last night’s victory over Northwestern.
A new face at point guard
The loss of Walker and Sotos has pushed Meechie Johnson Jr. into action. The guard from Cleveland wasn’t originally scheduled to be in Columbus until next year, but he graduated early and reclassified to the class of 2020. Not only did Johnson just join the team last month, he is also coming off a torn ACL, and was only cleared for full practice participation last week. Johnson played 11 minutes last night against the Wildcats, scoring his first points as a Buckeye as he finished the game with six points.
While Johnson won’t be fully unleashed on the court until next season, at least he is able to give Ohio State some minutes in its time of need right now. Sotos should at least be back on the court relatively soon, while it’s not known how long Walker will be out. Until the Buckeyes are at full strength, Johnson can at least give Ohio State some sparks, and have fans longing for next year when Johnson should be at full strength on the court.
Plenty of tests left
The Buckeyes have already played Rutgers and Northwestern twice this year, and the schedule is only getting to get tougher going forward. Ohio State still has to play Illinois, Michigan State, and Iowa twice this year. Add in a road game against Wisconsin, as well as a home contest against Michigan, and the Buckeyes will have their work cutout for them if they want to finish at .500 this year.
That’s not a knock on Ohio State, that just tells you how tough the Big Ten is this year. Currently Ohio State is one of just five Big Ten teams whose conference record is sitting above .500. While a number of the games still left ahead for the Buckeyes probably won’t go Ohio State’s way, it will at least ready them for the high-pressure situations that they’ll see in the NCAA Tournament. No better way to get yourself ready for the big dance than by competing in the toughest basketball conference in the country.
Depth will see them through
Even though Ohio State doesn’t have a “star”, what they do have working for them is that this is the deepest team Holtmann has had since he took over in Columbus. Currently eight players are averaging over 10 minutes per game, and that’s not even including Seth Towns, Sotos, and Eugene Brown III.
The X-factor for the Buckeyes this year is going to be Towns, who is working his way back into basketball shape after recovering from knee surgeries in 2018 and 2019. Prior to his injuries, Towns averaged 16 points per game and 5.7 rebounds per game in the 2017-18 season for Harvard, and was named the Ivy League Player of the Year. While we won’t see Towns playing 28 minutes per game like he did in his last season at Harvard, he could be a critical piece of the bench for the Buckeyes as the season goes on.
Even though teams want to be as healthy as possible throughout the season, the injuries Ohio State is dealing with right now are forcing players to step up when called on. Those guys who are playing more now than they might have thought they would be are gaining confidence, and everything could come together just in time for the Big Ten and NCAA Tournaments for the Buckeyes.
Continue reading...
Brett Ludwiczak via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
With last night’s win over Northwestern, Ohio State is 10-3 on the season and 4-3 in the Big Ten, which has them currently sitting fifth in the conference.
Football season is over. If you're a #Buckeyes fan who is just now going to tune into the men's basketball team, I've got you covered.
Here are five things to know about this year's team, if you're just catching up: https://t.co/FG7jhFuEw9
— Adam Jardy (@AdamJardy) January 12, 2021
Earlier this week, after the Ohio State football team fell to Alabama in the College Football Playoff Championship Game, Adam Jardy of the Columbus Dispatch put together five things to know for Buckeye fans who haven’t seen much of the Ohio State basketball team this year. If Jardy’s CliffsNotes weren’t enough for you, earlier today Stephen Means of Cleveland.com added four more things to know about the team that is currently ranked 21st in the country with a 10-3 record after last night’s 81-71 win over Northwestern.
Which Duane shows up
One thing that both writers mentioned about this year’s Ohio State team is the streakiness of Duane Washington Jr. When Washington is good, he’s really good. When Washington’s shot is off, he is one of the most frustrating players in the country to watch. Even head coach Chris Holtmann joked that Washington is “going to send him to an early death”.
Washington currently leads Ohio State, averaging 15.7 points per game. It’s just tough to know which Washington is going to show up on any given night. In the two wins over Rutgers, the junior scored a combined 39 points and went 8-of-19 from three-point range. But there are also games like the loss to Northwestern on Dec. 26, when Washington was just 1-of-9 from the field and missed what would have been the game-winning layup. If Washington’s shot is falling and he is displaying good shot selection, the Buckeyes are a hard team to beat. If it’s not, by the end of the game you might have pulled all your hair out.
One of the more recent developments with this year’s Ohio State team has been the testing of the depth at point guard. C.J. Walker has missed the last two games after he tore ligaments in his non-shooting hand, and backup Jimmy Sotos left late in the Rutgers game with a shoulder injury, missing last night’s victory over Northwestern.
A new face at point guard
The loss of Walker and Sotos has pushed Meechie Johnson Jr. into action. The guard from Cleveland wasn’t originally scheduled to be in Columbus until next year, but he graduated early and reclassified to the class of 2020. Not only did Johnson just join the team last month, he is also coming off a torn ACL, and was only cleared for full practice participation last week. Johnson played 11 minutes last night against the Wildcats, scoring his first points as a Buckeye as he finished the game with six points.
While Johnson won’t be fully unleashed on the court until next season, at least he is able to give Ohio State some minutes in its time of need right now. Sotos should at least be back on the court relatively soon, while it’s not known how long Walker will be out. Until the Buckeyes are at full strength, Johnson can at least give Ohio State some sparks, and have fans longing for next year when Johnson should be at full strength on the court.
Plenty of tests left
The Buckeyes have already played Rutgers and Northwestern twice this year, and the schedule is only getting to get tougher going forward. Ohio State still has to play Illinois, Michigan State, and Iowa twice this year. Add in a road game against Wisconsin, as well as a home contest against Michigan, and the Buckeyes will have their work cutout for them if they want to finish at .500 this year.
That’s not a knock on Ohio State, that just tells you how tough the Big Ten is this year. Currently Ohio State is one of just five Big Ten teams whose conference record is sitting above .500. While a number of the games still left ahead for the Buckeyes probably won’t go Ohio State’s way, it will at least ready them for the high-pressure situations that they’ll see in the NCAA Tournament. No better way to get yourself ready for the big dance than by competing in the toughest basketball conference in the country.
Depth will see them through
Even though Ohio State doesn’t have a “star”, what they do have working for them is that this is the deepest team Holtmann has had since he took over in Columbus. Currently eight players are averaging over 10 minutes per game, and that’s not even including Seth Towns, Sotos, and Eugene Brown III.
The X-factor for the Buckeyes this year is going to be Towns, who is working his way back into basketball shape after recovering from knee surgeries in 2018 and 2019. Prior to his injuries, Towns averaged 16 points per game and 5.7 rebounds per game in the 2017-18 season for Harvard, and was named the Ivy League Player of the Year. While we won’t see Towns playing 28 minutes per game like he did in his last season at Harvard, he could be a critical piece of the bench for the Buckeyes as the season goes on.
Even though teams want to be as healthy as possible throughout the season, the injuries Ohio State is dealing with right now are forcing players to step up when called on. Those guys who are playing more now than they might have thought they would be are gaining confidence, and everything could come together just in time for the Big Ten and NCAA Tournaments for the Buckeyes.
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LGHL Tier Talk 2.0: Risers, fallers, and COVID catchers
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Tier Talk 2.0: Risers, fallers, and COVID catchers
Connor Lemons via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
A clear top four seem to have separated themselves from the pile, while three programs are now on a temporary pause due to COVID-19 cases.
In baseball, the catcher wears a complete suit of armor to protect himself from everything that could hit, clip, or smack him. A catcher’s mask, chest protector, knee savers, shin guards, all of that. This equipment is affectionately known as “the tools of ignorance” because you’re willingly putting this stuff on to sit in the line of fire of a 90+ mph fastball. If playing catcher is so risky, why do so many athletes choose to don the tools of ignorance?
Because it’s fun, duh.
Similarly, trying to decide who the elite teams in the Big Ten are compared to the rest is a task of pure ignorance. Even worse: looking down the line and trying to decide which middle of the road teams stand out from the others.
One of those middling teams really made a statement this week and climbed into my top tier. Another tier two team from last week completely spilled the chili this week, and therefore will drop. And Nebraska is..... Nebraska.
Last week’s Tier Talk was a bit lengthy, so I’m going to try and cut it back a bit. Let’s get ignorant, shall we?
Tier 1: The Contenders
The clear best teams in the conference.
Iowa
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Catalina Fragoso-USA TODAY Sports
Record: 11-2 (5-1)
KenPom Rank: 3
Big wins: No. 16 North Carolina, No. 19 Northwestern, at No. 14 Rutgers, No. 16 Minnesota
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 1
Iowa continues to blow the doors off their opponents. Since last week, they went on the road to Maryland and bludgeoned the Terrapins by 22, and then came home and beat a very talented Minnesota team by 15 points. Luka Garza will continue grabbing the headlines (deservedly so), as he averaged 28.5 points per game in those two wins, but the Hawkeyes are absolutely loaded with talent.
Jordan Bohannon, who returned to Iowa after missing his entire fourth year with a hip issue, was the unsung hero in Iowa’s win over Minnesota. He scored 19 points to go along with 14 assists and seven rebounds in 36 minutes, and has scored at least 13 points in each of the past four games. Iowa’s defense is bad, but it’s not horrendous. When you score 85 points per game, you don’t need to play a ton of defense anyways.
Michigan
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Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Record: 11-0 (6-0)
KenPom Rank: 4
Big wins: No. 19 Northwestern, No. 16 Minnesota, No. 9 Wisconsin
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 2 (⬆1)
The knock on Michigan before this week wasn’t that they weren’t good, it was their schedule. The Wolverines beat up Northwestern pretty nicely, but the Wildcats are sliding now. We were waiting for Michigan to step up to the plate and make a statement, and my goodness, did they.
Michigan blew out No. 16 Minnesota at home by 25, which was shocking at the time. The Gophers had already upset Iowa and had just embarrassed Ohio State, but the Wolverines’ balanced scoring attack and aggressive defense were too much too handle.
However, that was only the appetizer, as Michigan then pantsed No. 9 Wisconsin on Tuesday night, 77-54. This game was never close, and Michigan led by as many as 40 points before calling off the dogs with over six minutes to go. This game was so lopsided that Michigan could have dribbled the ball out every possession starting at the 15:07 mark of the second half, and still won. The Badgers scored 54 points on Tuesday. Michigan scored their 55th point with 15:07 to go.
Light. Work.
Illinois
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Patrick Gorski-USA TODAY Sports
Record: 9-4 (5-2)
KenPom Rank: 8
Big wins: At No. 10 Duke
Bad losses: Maryland
Last week: Tier 1
During the preseason I picked Illinois to win the conference, but I’ve backed off that a bit. While Illinois is the most talented team in the B1G, they turn the ball over far too often for a team with their level of talent (13.5 TO per game, 2nd in B1G).
Kofi Cockburn (17.3 PTS, 10.1 AST) and Ayo Dosunmu (22.4 PTS, 6.9 REB, 4.8 AST) are superstars, but they’re combining for over five turnovers per game just between the two of them. The Illini don’t convert at the charity stripe either, knocking down less than 70% of their free throws.
Illinois could win the national championship, but they could also get bounced in the second round of the NCAA Tournament if they have a sloppy day like they’re prone to having.
Wisconsin
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Mary Langenfeld-USA TODAY Sports
Record: 10-3 (4-2)
KenPom Rank: 9
Big wins: No. 23 Louisville (by 37), at No. 12 Michigan State, No. 21 Minnesota
Bad losses: At Marquette, Maryland
Last week: Tier 1
This week, Wisconsin edged out a pretty average Indiana team 80-73 in double overtime and then got absolutely pooped on by Michigan (see: Michigan).
The Badgers are the most experienced team in the Big Ten and one of the most well-rounded teams in the country. Their entire starting lineup can knock down shots inside and outside the three-point line, and they play the same blue-chip, hard-nosed defense that’s been played at Wisconsin all the way back to the Bo Ryan days.
But after what just happened in Ann Arbor....we have to pause. The Wolverines did it on all levels, driving to the basket and shooting from distance. Everything was working for them, and nothing was dropping for the Badgers. I think this team is still one of the best in the conference, but we need to keep and eye on them and make sure this loss doesn’t snowball into something worse.
Tier 2: The Troublemakers
Not top tier yet, but nobody wants to play these teams if they can avoid it. Could all slide up at some point.
Ohio State
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Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
Record: 10-3 (4-3)
KenPom Rank: 16
Big wins: No. 11 Rutgers, No. 15 Rutgers
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 3 (⬆1)
I wanted to wait until after the Northwestern game to decide on Ohio State, and here we are. Without their starting point guard and their backup point guard, the Buckeyes withstood a furious Northwestern rally to exact revenge on the windy city kitties, 81-71. E.J. Liddell finished with six points and 10 rebounds, but did not make one basket. All of his points came off free throws, while other Buckeyes such as Justin Ahrens (12 points) and Duane Washington Jr. (23 points, six assists) stepped up.
This Ohio State team is extremely balanced and playing very well despite being down a few men. Their game against Illinois this weekend probably won’t be pretty, but the long-term picture is looking good for the Buckeyes.
Rutgers
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Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
Record: 7-4 (3-4)
KenPom Rank: 40
Big wins: No. 13 Illinois
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 2
Since last week, Rutgers went on the road and got blasted by Michigan State 68-45 — their lowest point total of the year— and then came home and were promptly swept by Ohio State. Rutgers looked completely inept while playing Michigan State, hitting 30.5% of their shots and knocking down just six of their 17 free throws (35.3%).
Then, after talking up a big game against the Buckeyes, they went flat, losing at the RAC by 11 points in a game that wasn’t nearly as close as that final score would indicate.
Rutgers has lost three in a row and are dealing with lingering injuries to Ron Harper Jr. and Jacob Young, while starting center Cliff Omoruyi is still out with a knee issue. If Rutgers can get healthy, they’re a top-10 team in the country. But will that happen in time to turn this ship around?
Minnesota
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Harrison Barden-USA TODAY Sports
Record: 10-4 (3-4)
KenPom Rank: 23
Big wins: St. Louis, No. 4 Iowa, No. 17 Michigan State, No. 25 Ohio State
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 2
It was a tough week for Minnesota, who went on the road twice to play top-10 teams and got abused by both Iowa and Michigan at their places. Minnesota kept it close into the second half in both games, but the Gophers’ inability to knock down the triple doomed them while playing two teams who excel at just that.
After starting the season on fire, Marcus Carr is struggling over his last three games (14 PTS, 27.7% FG), and Liam Robbins has not been able to replicate the same success he had against the Buckeyes (7.5 PTS, 5 REB per game since beating Ohio State). Minnesota is one of the better teams in the conference, but they’re clearly a notch below the big boys.
Tier 3: Purgatory
At one point seemed to have a high ceiling and still may, but they need to show us some sign of life to climb into Tier 2.
Northwestern
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Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
Record: 6-5 (3-4)
KenPom Rank: 58
Big wins: No. 4 Michigan State, No. 23 Ohio State
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 2 (⬇1)
The Wildcats’ depth is enticing, but too many of their major contributors have gone ice cold at the same time, and Northwestern is reeling. Boo Buie has been especially bad, scoring just seven points over the last four games. They’ve now lost four in a row after starting out 3-0, and have No. 5 Iowa coming up next.
KenPom has them all the way down at 58 and gives them less than a 50% chance to win each of their remaining 13 games, which includes six games against ranked teams. I don’t get into stocks, but this is one team you definitely want to sell now.
Michigan State
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Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
* This team has paused activities due to COVID-19 cases within the program. Their next game has been postponed. *
Record: 8-4 (2-4)
KenPom Rank: 43
Big wins: At No. 6 Duke, No. 15 Rutgers
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 3
The Spartans stuffed Rutgers into a locker defensively, holding them to just 45 points during their 23-point win last week. It seemed like Michigan State had finally woken up after playing opossum for the first month of the season, and now were ready to wreak havoc on the Big Ten, zombie Izzo-style.
Wrong.
They followed up the win over Rutgers with a head-scratching loss at home versus Purdue in a game where they led by 15 points at halftime. The Spartans couldn’t figure out how to guard Trevion Williams, nor can they figure out who their own go-to scorer is. Their defense is stout, but the Spartans have some work to do on the offensive end.
Indiana
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Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports
Record: 8-5 (3-3)
KenPom Rank: 24
Big wins: None
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 3
The Hoosiers nearly shocked Wisconsin in Madison last week, taking them to double overtime before ultimately falling, 80-73. Trayce Jackson-Davis (20.1 PTS, 9.3 REB) is one of the most talented bigs in the country, but without Armaan Franklin (ankle) Indiana doesn’t have enough support for their sophomore star. Al Durham (15.7 PPG over last four games) has been great the last two weeks, and he’ll need to continue at that pace if Indiana wants to tread water while Franklin is out.
Purdue
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Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Record: 8-5 (3-3)
KenPom Rank: 38
Big wins: No. 20 Ohio State
Bad losses: At Miami
Last week: Tier 3
Purdue is still a really boring team that scores the fewest points in the Big Ten and also moves slower than molasses, but this buzzer-beater against Michigan State last week was fantastic.
PURDUE STEALS ONE IN EAST LANSING!
Trevion Williams hits the game-winning bucket in @BoilerBall's comeback victory: pic.twitter.com/h7FhZHY3XV
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) January 9, 2021
The Boilermakers don’t have enough support for Williams, but that win at Michigan State brought them back to .500 in B1G play. They have winnable games against Indiana and Penn State coming up; if they win both, then maybe I’ll change my tune about them.
Tier 4: Bottom Feeders
Pretty much the worst of the conference, but not a gimme-win. Also not Nebraska.
Maryland
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Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Record: 7-6 (2-5)
KenPom Rank: 46
Big wins: At No. 6 Wisconsin, at No. 12 Illinois
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 4
To give Maryland credit, they have played an insanely tough schedule so far, with four of their last five games coming against top-20 teams. I think if you picked up Maryland and plopped them back into the ACC (where they belong), they would probably be a mid-level team and lock up an NCAA Tournament bid.
Unfortunately this isn’t the little leagues, and it’s unfortunate that their upcoming game against Nebraska is postponed, because the ‘Terps could’ve used that win. Maryland still has a ceiling of just 6-7 conference wins.
Penn State
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Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
* This team has paused activities due to COVID-19 cases within the program *
Record: 3-4 (0-3)
KenPom Rank: 47
Big wins: VCU, at No. 15 Virginia Tech
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 4
Penn State’s last four games have been postponed due to COVID-19 cases within the PSU program. They jumped from 48 to 47 in KenPom’s rankings, despite not playing last week. Their next scheduled game is Sunday at Purdue. Refer to last week’s Penn State analysis for a more in-depth breakdown of PSU up to this point.
Tier 5: Nebraska
Nebraska.
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Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports
* This team has paused activities due to COVID-19 cases within the program *
Record: 4-8 (0-5)
KenPom Rank: 121
Big wins: None
Bad losses: Nevada
Last week: Tier 5
I’ve got nothing here.
Continue reading...
Connor Lemons via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
A clear top four seem to have separated themselves from the pile, while three programs are now on a temporary pause due to COVID-19 cases.
In baseball, the catcher wears a complete suit of armor to protect himself from everything that could hit, clip, or smack him. A catcher’s mask, chest protector, knee savers, shin guards, all of that. This equipment is affectionately known as “the tools of ignorance” because you’re willingly putting this stuff on to sit in the line of fire of a 90+ mph fastball. If playing catcher is so risky, why do so many athletes choose to don the tools of ignorance?
Because it’s fun, duh.
Similarly, trying to decide who the elite teams in the Big Ten are compared to the rest is a task of pure ignorance. Even worse: looking down the line and trying to decide which middle of the road teams stand out from the others.
One of those middling teams really made a statement this week and climbed into my top tier. Another tier two team from last week completely spilled the chili this week, and therefore will drop. And Nebraska is..... Nebraska.
Last week’s Tier Talk was a bit lengthy, so I’m going to try and cut it back a bit. Let’s get ignorant, shall we?
Tier 1: The Contenders
The clear best teams in the conference.
Iowa
Record: 11-2 (5-1)
KenPom Rank: 3
Big wins: No. 16 North Carolina, No. 19 Northwestern, at No. 14 Rutgers, No. 16 Minnesota
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 1
Iowa continues to blow the doors off their opponents. Since last week, they went on the road to Maryland and bludgeoned the Terrapins by 22, and then came home and beat a very talented Minnesota team by 15 points. Luka Garza will continue grabbing the headlines (deservedly so), as he averaged 28.5 points per game in those two wins, but the Hawkeyes are absolutely loaded with talent.
Jordan Bohannon, who returned to Iowa after missing his entire fourth year with a hip issue, was the unsung hero in Iowa’s win over Minnesota. He scored 19 points to go along with 14 assists and seven rebounds in 36 minutes, and has scored at least 13 points in each of the past four games. Iowa’s defense is bad, but it’s not horrendous. When you score 85 points per game, you don’t need to play a ton of defense anyways.
Michigan
Record: 11-0 (6-0)
KenPom Rank: 4
Big wins: No. 19 Northwestern, No. 16 Minnesota, No. 9 Wisconsin
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 2 (⬆1)
The knock on Michigan before this week wasn’t that they weren’t good, it was their schedule. The Wolverines beat up Northwestern pretty nicely, but the Wildcats are sliding now. We were waiting for Michigan to step up to the plate and make a statement, and my goodness, did they.
Michigan blew out No. 16 Minnesota at home by 25, which was shocking at the time. The Gophers had already upset Iowa and had just embarrassed Ohio State, but the Wolverines’ balanced scoring attack and aggressive defense were too much too handle.
However, that was only the appetizer, as Michigan then pantsed No. 9 Wisconsin on Tuesday night, 77-54. This game was never close, and Michigan led by as many as 40 points before calling off the dogs with over six minutes to go. This game was so lopsided that Michigan could have dribbled the ball out every possession starting at the 15:07 mark of the second half, and still won. The Badgers scored 54 points on Tuesday. Michigan scored their 55th point with 15:07 to go.
Light. Work.
Illinois
Record: 9-4 (5-2)
KenPom Rank: 8
Big wins: At No. 10 Duke
Bad losses: Maryland
Last week: Tier 1
During the preseason I picked Illinois to win the conference, but I’ve backed off that a bit. While Illinois is the most talented team in the B1G, they turn the ball over far too often for a team with their level of talent (13.5 TO per game, 2nd in B1G).
Kofi Cockburn (17.3 PTS, 10.1 AST) and Ayo Dosunmu (22.4 PTS, 6.9 REB, 4.8 AST) are superstars, but they’re combining for over five turnovers per game just between the two of them. The Illini don’t convert at the charity stripe either, knocking down less than 70% of their free throws.
Illinois could win the national championship, but they could also get bounced in the second round of the NCAA Tournament if they have a sloppy day like they’re prone to having.
Wisconsin
Record: 10-3 (4-2)
KenPom Rank: 9
Big wins: No. 23 Louisville (by 37), at No. 12 Michigan State, No. 21 Minnesota
Bad losses: At Marquette, Maryland
Last week: Tier 1
This week, Wisconsin edged out a pretty average Indiana team 80-73 in double overtime and then got absolutely pooped on by Michigan (see: Michigan).
The Badgers are the most experienced team in the Big Ten and one of the most well-rounded teams in the country. Their entire starting lineup can knock down shots inside and outside the three-point line, and they play the same blue-chip, hard-nosed defense that’s been played at Wisconsin all the way back to the Bo Ryan days.
But after what just happened in Ann Arbor....we have to pause. The Wolverines did it on all levels, driving to the basket and shooting from distance. Everything was working for them, and nothing was dropping for the Badgers. I think this team is still one of the best in the conference, but we need to keep and eye on them and make sure this loss doesn’t snowball into something worse.
Tier 2: The Troublemakers
Not top tier yet, but nobody wants to play these teams if they can avoid it. Could all slide up at some point.
Ohio State
Record: 10-3 (4-3)
KenPom Rank: 16
Big wins: No. 11 Rutgers, No. 15 Rutgers
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 3 (⬆1)
I wanted to wait until after the Northwestern game to decide on Ohio State, and here we are. Without their starting point guard and their backup point guard, the Buckeyes withstood a furious Northwestern rally to exact revenge on the windy city kitties, 81-71. E.J. Liddell finished with six points and 10 rebounds, but did not make one basket. All of his points came off free throws, while other Buckeyes such as Justin Ahrens (12 points) and Duane Washington Jr. (23 points, six assists) stepped up.
This Ohio State team is extremely balanced and playing very well despite being down a few men. Their game against Illinois this weekend probably won’t be pretty, but the long-term picture is looking good for the Buckeyes.
Rutgers
Record: 7-4 (3-4)
KenPom Rank: 40
Big wins: No. 13 Illinois
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 2
Since last week, Rutgers went on the road and got blasted by Michigan State 68-45 — their lowest point total of the year— and then came home and were promptly swept by Ohio State. Rutgers looked completely inept while playing Michigan State, hitting 30.5% of their shots and knocking down just six of their 17 free throws (35.3%).
Then, after talking up a big game against the Buckeyes, they went flat, losing at the RAC by 11 points in a game that wasn’t nearly as close as that final score would indicate.
Rutgers has lost three in a row and are dealing with lingering injuries to Ron Harper Jr. and Jacob Young, while starting center Cliff Omoruyi is still out with a knee issue. If Rutgers can get healthy, they’re a top-10 team in the country. But will that happen in time to turn this ship around?
Minnesota
Record: 10-4 (3-4)
KenPom Rank: 23
Big wins: St. Louis, No. 4 Iowa, No. 17 Michigan State, No. 25 Ohio State
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 2
It was a tough week for Minnesota, who went on the road twice to play top-10 teams and got abused by both Iowa and Michigan at their places. Minnesota kept it close into the second half in both games, but the Gophers’ inability to knock down the triple doomed them while playing two teams who excel at just that.
After starting the season on fire, Marcus Carr is struggling over his last three games (14 PTS, 27.7% FG), and Liam Robbins has not been able to replicate the same success he had against the Buckeyes (7.5 PTS, 5 REB per game since beating Ohio State). Minnesota is one of the better teams in the conference, but they’re clearly a notch below the big boys.
Tier 3: Purgatory
At one point seemed to have a high ceiling and still may, but they need to show us some sign of life to climb into Tier 2.
Northwestern
Record: 6-5 (3-4)
KenPom Rank: 58
Big wins: No. 4 Michigan State, No. 23 Ohio State
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 2 (⬇1)
The Wildcats’ depth is enticing, but too many of their major contributors have gone ice cold at the same time, and Northwestern is reeling. Boo Buie has been especially bad, scoring just seven points over the last four games. They’ve now lost four in a row after starting out 3-0, and have No. 5 Iowa coming up next.
KenPom has them all the way down at 58 and gives them less than a 50% chance to win each of their remaining 13 games, which includes six games against ranked teams. I don’t get into stocks, but this is one team you definitely want to sell now.
Michigan State
* This team has paused activities due to COVID-19 cases within the program. Their next game has been postponed. *
Record: 8-4 (2-4)
KenPom Rank: 43
Big wins: At No. 6 Duke, No. 15 Rutgers
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 3
The Spartans stuffed Rutgers into a locker defensively, holding them to just 45 points during their 23-point win last week. It seemed like Michigan State had finally woken up after playing opossum for the first month of the season, and now were ready to wreak havoc on the Big Ten, zombie Izzo-style.
Wrong.
They followed up the win over Rutgers with a head-scratching loss at home versus Purdue in a game where they led by 15 points at halftime. The Spartans couldn’t figure out how to guard Trevion Williams, nor can they figure out who their own go-to scorer is. Their defense is stout, but the Spartans have some work to do on the offensive end.
Indiana
Record: 8-5 (3-3)
KenPom Rank: 24
Big wins: None
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 3
The Hoosiers nearly shocked Wisconsin in Madison last week, taking them to double overtime before ultimately falling, 80-73. Trayce Jackson-Davis (20.1 PTS, 9.3 REB) is one of the most talented bigs in the country, but without Armaan Franklin (ankle) Indiana doesn’t have enough support for their sophomore star. Al Durham (15.7 PPG over last four games) has been great the last two weeks, and he’ll need to continue at that pace if Indiana wants to tread water while Franklin is out.
Purdue
Record: 8-5 (3-3)
KenPom Rank: 38
Big wins: No. 20 Ohio State
Bad losses: At Miami
Last week: Tier 3
Purdue is still a really boring team that scores the fewest points in the Big Ten and also moves slower than molasses, but this buzzer-beater against Michigan State last week was fantastic.
PURDUE STEALS ONE IN EAST LANSING!
Trevion Williams hits the game-winning bucket in @BoilerBall's comeback victory: pic.twitter.com/h7FhZHY3XV
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) January 9, 2021
The Boilermakers don’t have enough support for Williams, but that win at Michigan State brought them back to .500 in B1G play. They have winnable games against Indiana and Penn State coming up; if they win both, then maybe I’ll change my tune about them.
Tier 4: Bottom Feeders
Pretty much the worst of the conference, but not a gimme-win. Also not Nebraska.
Maryland
Record: 7-6 (2-5)
KenPom Rank: 46
Big wins: At No. 6 Wisconsin, at No. 12 Illinois
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 4
To give Maryland credit, they have played an insanely tough schedule so far, with four of their last five games coming against top-20 teams. I think if you picked up Maryland and plopped them back into the ACC (where they belong), they would probably be a mid-level team and lock up an NCAA Tournament bid.
Unfortunately this isn’t the little leagues, and it’s unfortunate that their upcoming game against Nebraska is postponed, because the ‘Terps could’ve used that win. Maryland still has a ceiling of just 6-7 conference wins.
Penn State
* This team has paused activities due to COVID-19 cases within the program *
Record: 3-4 (0-3)
KenPom Rank: 47
Big wins: VCU, at No. 15 Virginia Tech
Bad losses: None
Last week: Tier 4
Penn State’s last four games have been postponed due to COVID-19 cases within the PSU program. They jumped from 48 to 47 in KenPom’s rankings, despite not playing last week. Their next scheduled game is Sunday at Purdue. Refer to last week’s Penn State analysis for a more in-depth breakdown of PSU up to this point.
Tier 5: Nebraska
Nebraska.
* This team has paused activities due to COVID-19 cases within the program *
Record: 4-8 (0-5)
KenPom Rank: 121
Big wins: None
Bad losses: Nevada
Last week: Tier 5
I’ve got nothing here.
Continue reading...
LGHL Buckeyes make the cut for top 2022 LB, five-star DB hints at possible commitment date
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Buckeyes make the cut for top 2022 LB, five-star DB hints at possible commitment date
Caleb Houser via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Five-star 2022 LB Shawn Murphy | Bill Kurelic, 247Sports
With the season completed, Ohio State’s attention can now be focused on recruiting.
Now that the season is completed, though it didn’t end how Ohio State wanted, the time to finally unwind is here. After hearing Ryan Day in the championship post-game presser talk about how long of a road this season has been, you can really sense the exhaustion in he, the players and the rest of the coaching staff as well. Day mentioned it’s time for those in the program to get away and see their families, which they haven't been able to do much in the face of a pandemic. While the Buckeyes take some much deserved time away, the program will be looking to what is on the horizon in the near future.
Simply put, recruiting will once again take the first priority when this coaching staff starts to hit it again. Ryan Day and his crew are always focused on recruiting, but it’s obviously easier to give that area of the program your full attention when games aren’t being played. Doing their very best to hammer down the one or two remaining spots in 2021 and continuing their incredible hot-streak in 2022, the loss this past Monday night stings, but shouldn’t worry you too much. Considering the amount of elite talent continuing to choose Ohio State, there’s every reason to believe the Buckeyes will be back on the biggest stage in no time at all.
Buckeyes make the cut for Murphy
In Ohio State’s 2022 class, the linebacker position is a major priority. With the current veteran status of the position group and the fact that Ohio State only took one true linebacker in 2021, Al Washington knows this next cycle is a big one for the health of his crew. Fortunately, the Buckeyes and Washington have been able to get off to an incredible start already having three top caliber linebackers in the fold and committed.
Thanks to C.J. Hicks, Dasan McCullough, and Gabe Powers, the class is already pretty much set in terms of both quality and quantity. However, that doesn’t mean Ohio State won’t try their best to add even more elite talent to the fold.
One target the Buckeyes would love to make it four linebackers is the nation’s top inside linebacker and the 17th-best player nationally, Shawn Murphy. The five-star has been a recurring topic of discussion in regards to Ohio State recruiting because of the mutual interest between the two sides. Boasting nearly 50 offers from any and every top college program in the country, Murphy will be pursued relentlessly by everyone until he signs on the dotted line. Whether the Buckeyes were the thought to be leaders at one time and have since fizzled a bit or not, Murphy is a can’t miss prospect and would be another gem in an already loaded class.
Yesterday, the Virginia native updated his recruitment with the latest news that he’s come to a final list of eight schools still in the running to land his services. Making the cut for the top linebacker in the class included Alabama, Clemson, Penn State, Oregon, Georgia, Florida, Oklahoma, and Ohio State. Trimming the list down to a final eight from the nearly 50 offers he has is quite impressive, and for any program to make this list is a great feat considering how talented Murphy is.
Thank you you yo all the schools who have been recruiting me @Hayesfawcett3 pic.twitter.com/7JurIGkGXw
— Shawn Murphy (@Theicedupshawn) January 14, 2021
As this recruitment moves on, the Buckeyes will do their very best to not only stay in the mix but separate themselves from the rest of the pack. Currently, there is not a single prediction forecasted on the 247Sports Crystal Ball, but it looks as if Alabama has become a serious player here. While Ohio State does have three guys already in the fold, they’ll still work tirelessly to bring in a fourth with the likes of Murphy.
A commitment date being set?
Much like the linebacker position, Ohio State will continue to recruit with relentless effort at defensive back even with top-10 national prospect Jaheim Singletary committed in the 2022 class as a cornerback. The Buckeyes are going to reload at the position of importance and as usual are off to a great start but want more. Fortunately, in the 2022 class the cornerback position is as loaded as it has ever been with five corners ranked within the top 10 overall players in the entire country. Ridiculous depth like this couldn’t come at a better time with the priority the staff has at adding elite talent in the secondary.
The top corner in the country and the No. 3 player overall, Domani Jackson isn’t a new name to Ohio State fans, and sent shockwaves just months ago when it seemed he was on the verge of committing to the Buckeyes after several social media posts of his hinted towards a pledge. Fast forward a bit and things have definitely slowed down. He has since visited rival Michigan, and USC is the nearby program that has also seemed to gain some serious momentum in the last few weeks. Still, Ohio State has more than a puncher’s chance at eventually landing Jackson and adding him to their stellar 2022 class.
Yesterday, Jackson took to his Twitter account to release something of importance coming on Jan. 23, which is of course now just over a week away. Whether it’s Jackson releasing an updated final schools list or him actually giving a program his commitment, no one yet knows, but certainly something worth paying attention to is coming down the pipeline. Until then, Ohio State will have to pick back up their momentum and stay in his ear.
Regardless of the nature of the announcement, a top caliber player like Jackson would be someone Ohio State will be in on until the very end. In the coming days we should know where they sit in regards to their chances with the five-star CB.
Quick Hits
All glory goes God, I’m beyond blessed to have everyone that supported and helped me through this long journey. #top12
Editor: @Hayesfawcett3 pic.twitter.com/E3odYQZ4nE
— Terrance (@mTerrance122) January 13, 2021
Continue reading...
Caleb Houser via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Five-star 2022 LB Shawn Murphy | Bill Kurelic, 247Sports
With the season completed, Ohio State’s attention can now be focused on recruiting.
Now that the season is completed, though it didn’t end how Ohio State wanted, the time to finally unwind is here. After hearing Ryan Day in the championship post-game presser talk about how long of a road this season has been, you can really sense the exhaustion in he, the players and the rest of the coaching staff as well. Day mentioned it’s time for those in the program to get away and see their families, which they haven't been able to do much in the face of a pandemic. While the Buckeyes take some much deserved time away, the program will be looking to what is on the horizon in the near future.
Simply put, recruiting will once again take the first priority when this coaching staff starts to hit it again. Ryan Day and his crew are always focused on recruiting, but it’s obviously easier to give that area of the program your full attention when games aren’t being played. Doing their very best to hammer down the one or two remaining spots in 2021 and continuing their incredible hot-streak in 2022, the loss this past Monday night stings, but shouldn’t worry you too much. Considering the amount of elite talent continuing to choose Ohio State, there’s every reason to believe the Buckeyes will be back on the biggest stage in no time at all.
Buckeyes make the cut for Murphy
In Ohio State’s 2022 class, the linebacker position is a major priority. With the current veteran status of the position group and the fact that Ohio State only took one true linebacker in 2021, Al Washington knows this next cycle is a big one for the health of his crew. Fortunately, the Buckeyes and Washington have been able to get off to an incredible start already having three top caliber linebackers in the fold and committed.
Thanks to C.J. Hicks, Dasan McCullough, and Gabe Powers, the class is already pretty much set in terms of both quality and quantity. However, that doesn’t mean Ohio State won’t try their best to add even more elite talent to the fold.
One target the Buckeyes would love to make it four linebackers is the nation’s top inside linebacker and the 17th-best player nationally, Shawn Murphy. The five-star has been a recurring topic of discussion in regards to Ohio State recruiting because of the mutual interest between the two sides. Boasting nearly 50 offers from any and every top college program in the country, Murphy will be pursued relentlessly by everyone until he signs on the dotted line. Whether the Buckeyes were the thought to be leaders at one time and have since fizzled a bit or not, Murphy is a can’t miss prospect and would be another gem in an already loaded class.
Yesterday, the Virginia native updated his recruitment with the latest news that he’s come to a final list of eight schools still in the running to land his services. Making the cut for the top linebacker in the class included Alabama, Clemson, Penn State, Oregon, Georgia, Florida, Oklahoma, and Ohio State. Trimming the list down to a final eight from the nearly 50 offers he has is quite impressive, and for any program to make this list is a great feat considering how talented Murphy is.
Thank you you yo all the schools who have been recruiting me @Hayesfawcett3 pic.twitter.com/7JurIGkGXw
— Shawn Murphy (@Theicedupshawn) January 14, 2021
As this recruitment moves on, the Buckeyes will do their very best to not only stay in the mix but separate themselves from the rest of the pack. Currently, there is not a single prediction forecasted on the 247Sports Crystal Ball, but it looks as if Alabama has become a serious player here. While Ohio State does have three guys already in the fold, they’ll still work tirelessly to bring in a fourth with the likes of Murphy.
A commitment date being set?
Much like the linebacker position, Ohio State will continue to recruit with relentless effort at defensive back even with top-10 national prospect Jaheim Singletary committed in the 2022 class as a cornerback. The Buckeyes are going to reload at the position of importance and as usual are off to a great start but want more. Fortunately, in the 2022 class the cornerback position is as loaded as it has ever been with five corners ranked within the top 10 overall players in the entire country. Ridiculous depth like this couldn’t come at a better time with the priority the staff has at adding elite talent in the secondary.
The top corner in the country and the No. 3 player overall, Domani Jackson isn’t a new name to Ohio State fans, and sent shockwaves just months ago when it seemed he was on the verge of committing to the Buckeyes after several social media posts of his hinted towards a pledge. Fast forward a bit and things have definitely slowed down. He has since visited rival Michigan, and USC is the nearby program that has also seemed to gain some serious momentum in the last few weeks. Still, Ohio State has more than a puncher’s chance at eventually landing Jackson and adding him to their stellar 2022 class.
Yesterday, Jackson took to his Twitter account to release something of importance coming on Jan. 23, which is of course now just over a week away. Whether it’s Jackson releasing an updated final schools list or him actually giving a program his commitment, no one yet knows, but certainly something worth paying attention to is coming down the pipeline. Until then, Ohio State will have to pick back up their momentum and stay in his ear.
Regardless of the nature of the announcement, a top caliber player like Jackson would be someone Ohio State will be in on until the very end. In the coming days we should know where they sit in regards to their chances with the five-star CB.
Quick Hits
- Five-star cornerback Will Johnson is slated to visit USC this coming weekend. Johnson has trimmed his list to a final five schools including Ohio State, Michigan, Arizona State, USC, and Oklahoma. Before committing, Johnson wanted to see his other finalists, and USC was one of the remaining schools he’s yet to visit. With this trip coming, look for Johnson to commit within the coming weeks. It will be tough to fend off Michigan here, but Ohio State does have a legitimate chance.
- 2022 four-star running back prospect Terrance Gibbs named a top 12 schools list yesterday. The Winter Park, Florida native included Ohio State, LSU, Auburn, Georgia, Florida, West Virginia, Miami, Texas A&M, Michigan, Penn State, Texas, and Alabama. Though the Buckeyes are in it for the 16th-best running back in the country, it doesn’t look as if Ohio State has a real shot here — at least right now. Other backs look to be more of a priority to the program at this point.
All glory goes God, I’m beyond blessed to have everyone that supported and helped me through this long journey. #top12
Editor: @Hayesfawcett3 pic.twitter.com/E3odYQZ4nE
— Terrance (@mTerrance122) January 13, 2021
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LGHL What we saw in Ohio State’s 81-71 win over Northwestern
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What we saw in Ohio State’s 81-71 win over Northwestern
Gene Ross via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
The Buckeyes split the season series with the Wildcats on Wednesday night behind a career-high 23 points from Duane Washington Jr.
The No. 21 Ohio State Buckeyes hosted the Northwestern Wildcats on Wednesday night looking to win back-to-back Big Ten contests for the first time this season. Chris Holtmann’s team came up just short the last time these two teams met, with Duane Washington Jr.’s potential game-winning layup just barely missing as OSU fell 71-70 in Evanston less than a month ago. Ohio State was able to get the best of Chris Collin’s guys this time around, defeating the ‘Cats 81-71 in Columbus to move to 10-3 overall on the year and one game above .500 (4-3) in conference play.
The Buckeyes got a fantastic effort from Washington, scoring a career-high 23 points to go along with six assists and three boards while turning the ball over only once as the team’s primary ball-handler. Justice Sueing was strong with 13 points and seven rebounds, while Justin Ahrens added 12 points on a 4-of-5 effort from three-point land including some big shots down the stretch. Ohio State was able to survive a career game from Northwestern guard Chase Audige, as he led the Wildcats with 25 points.
Ohio State had one of its best shooting performances of the season, hitting 50% from the field and 40% from beyond the arc. They won the battle on the boards 39-35, led by E.J. Liddell’s 10 rebounds and Kyle Young’s nine. It was an impressive effort all around from a Buckeyes unit that was playing without a few key guys.
Beat up backcourt
Before things tipped off on Wednesday night, Ohio State knew it would be down a pair of guards. The Buckeyes were already without starting point guard C.J. Walker last time out in the win against Rutgers, as the senior remains out indefinitely with torn ligaments in his right hand. On top of that, Chris Holtmann’s team has now lost Walker’s replacement in the starting lineup, as Jimmy Sotos missed tonight’s matchup against Northwestern with a shoulder injury he sustained in the final minutes against the Scarlet Knights.
The Bucknell transfer played well last game in Walker’s absence, playing a season-high 28 minutes with six points and four assists. In addition to Sotos and Walker, Ohio State was already without grad transfer Abel Porter, whose basketball playing days came to a halt after the discovery of a career-ending heart condition this offseason. This leaves the Buckeyes incredibly thin at guard, but especially so when it comes to running the point.
Holtmann’s starting five against Northwestern saw Duane Washington Jr. lined up at point guard, with Justin Ahrens joining him in the backcourt and the usual trio of Justice Sueing, E.J. Liddell and Kyle Young as the forwards. The lack of guard depth will likely lead to more playing time for guys like Ahrens, Musa Jallow and Eugene Brown. Reclassified freshman Meechie Johnson Jr. could also see increased minutes moving forward.
Our starting ️ vs. Northwestern:
Justin Ahrens (@ahrensjustin12)
Justice Sueing (@JusticeSueing)
Kyle Young (@kyle_young25)
EJ Liddell (@EasyE2432)
Duane Washington (@dwizthekid4)#GoBuckeyes #Team122 pic.twitter.com/ig1bjuDy6F
— Ohio State Hoops (@OhioStateHoops) January 13, 2021An Audige-ous start
It was the Chase Audige show for Northwestern to open things up. The sophomore guard scored the Wildcats’ first 11 points of the game, and scored 15 of the team’s first 17 points overall on an impressive 7-of-8 from the field over the first 10 minutes of action. It quickly turned into a one-on-one battle between Audige and Washington, as the Ohio State guard had 11 of the Buckeyes’ first 19 points at the other end over that same stretch.
Having seen Ohio State’s previous shooting woes, the ‘Cats were giving up a bit of space at the three-point line early on, but this time around the Buckeyes were knocking it down. The home team drilled five of their first eight attempts from beyond the arc, including Washington’s 3-of-4 start from deep. With guard depth an issue, Ohio State looked to Sueing and Washington to run the offense, and the pair were facilitating things well despite the unusual assignment.
Audige had a field day in the first half, heading into the locker room with 21 points on 9-of-15 shooting to go along with four rebounds and an assist.
.@dwizthekid4 has 11 points on 4-5 FG, keeping @OhioStateHoops in the lead so far. pic.twitter.com/mC5cTyA8gO
— Ohio State on BTN (@OhioStateOnBTN) January 14, 2021Meechie for three!
The 6-foot-2 freshman guard from Cleveland is supposed to be a senior in high school. Instead, he elected to reclassify to the 2020 class, knowing that he was ready and could make an impact right away in Columbus. With so many guys down for Ohio State in the backcourt, Johnson got his first real chance to show his stuff on Wednesday night, and he made the most of it as he knocked down his very first career shot in a Buckeye uniform on a corner three in the opening period of action.
Speaking of three-point shooting, Northwestern looked like they had taken a page out of the Ohio State playbook with how poorly they shot the rock from downtown in the first period. As a team, the Wildcats managed to hit just one of their first 11 shots from beyond the arc. Conversely, the Buckeyes — who ranked 12th in the Big Ten hitting at a 32.1% clip from range coming into the game — managed to hit at a higher than average 8-of-18 (44.4%) from three-point land through the opening 20 minutes. Led by Washington’s 17 points, Ohio State was able to take a 42-33 lead into halftime.
Johnson finished the first period with six points on a pair of three-balls with one rebound and one assist as the young man was clearly building confidence with every additional minute he saw the floor.
Meechie Johnson jr. knocks down the three and @OhioStateHoops stays hot in the first half pic.twitter.com/H1TYKH3GCc
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) January 14, 2021Getting sloppy with it
Ohio State was outplaying Northwestern in almost all facets of the game, but the one area they really started to struggle — especially in the second half — was in the turnover department. The Buckeyes came into the night with the second-least turnovers per game in the Big Ten at 9.8 per contest, but on the other end the Wildcats rank in the upper half of the conference averaging 5.9 steals per game. Something had to give, and Ohio State gave indeed to the tune of 11 turnovers.
These giveaways seemed to come in bunches in the second half, and after leading by as much as 13 points, the Buckeyes allowed Northwestern to get back within six points less than midway through the second period. What was especially troubling were the points off turnovers, where the Wildcats had 16 points off Ohio State’s giveaways. On the flip side, the ‘Cats turned the ball over just four times all game, helping to offset some of their poor shooting and allowing them to hang around for longer than they should've.
There was, however, this key Northwestern turnover:
WITH THE FOUL! @OhioStateHoops | @m2jallow pic.twitter.com/Jg0N9VE6ZB
— Ohio State on BTN (@OhioStateOnBTN) January 14, 2021Deja vú — or not!
In almost a mirror image of the last time these two teams met, Ohio State went cold down the stretch and allowed Northwestern right back into a game that the Buckeyes had largely dominated for the first 30 minutes. After Young’s layup made it 64-52 Ohio State with 9:32 remaining, Holtmann’s team proceeded to miss seven of their next eight shots as the Wildcats opened up an 8-0 run. With 4:05 to go, all of the sudden Northwestern trailed just 67-66 as the Buckeyes continued to sputter on the offensive end.
Luckily for Ohio State, this time around they got a massive bucket from Justin Ahrens. The forward drilled a three — his fourth of the game — to break the Northwestern run and put the Buckeyes back up by four. A few possessions later, Justice Sueing drove down the court and converted a layup through contact for an and-one. Shortly thereafter, Ohio State got yet another and-one by Kyle Young. The trio of highlight plays really sparked the home team, and momentum seemed to swing back in the Buckeyes’ favor as they opened up a nine-point lead with a little over two minutes remaining.
@kyle_young25 with the STRONG finish for @OhioStateHoops pic.twitter.com/xPt3ijDdhN
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) January 14, 2021
Continue reading...
Gene Ross via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
The Buckeyes split the season series with the Wildcats on Wednesday night behind a career-high 23 points from Duane Washington Jr.
The No. 21 Ohio State Buckeyes hosted the Northwestern Wildcats on Wednesday night looking to win back-to-back Big Ten contests for the first time this season. Chris Holtmann’s team came up just short the last time these two teams met, with Duane Washington Jr.’s potential game-winning layup just barely missing as OSU fell 71-70 in Evanston less than a month ago. Ohio State was able to get the best of Chris Collin’s guys this time around, defeating the ‘Cats 81-71 in Columbus to move to 10-3 overall on the year and one game above .500 (4-3) in conference play.
The Buckeyes got a fantastic effort from Washington, scoring a career-high 23 points to go along with six assists and three boards while turning the ball over only once as the team’s primary ball-handler. Justice Sueing was strong with 13 points and seven rebounds, while Justin Ahrens added 12 points on a 4-of-5 effort from three-point land including some big shots down the stretch. Ohio State was able to survive a career game from Northwestern guard Chase Audige, as he led the Wildcats with 25 points.
Ohio State had one of its best shooting performances of the season, hitting 50% from the field and 40% from beyond the arc. They won the battle on the boards 39-35, led by E.J. Liddell’s 10 rebounds and Kyle Young’s nine. It was an impressive effort all around from a Buckeyes unit that was playing without a few key guys.
Beat up backcourt
Before things tipped off on Wednesday night, Ohio State knew it would be down a pair of guards. The Buckeyes were already without starting point guard C.J. Walker last time out in the win against Rutgers, as the senior remains out indefinitely with torn ligaments in his right hand. On top of that, Chris Holtmann’s team has now lost Walker’s replacement in the starting lineup, as Jimmy Sotos missed tonight’s matchup against Northwestern with a shoulder injury he sustained in the final minutes against the Scarlet Knights.
The Bucknell transfer played well last game in Walker’s absence, playing a season-high 28 minutes with six points and four assists. In addition to Sotos and Walker, Ohio State was already without grad transfer Abel Porter, whose basketball playing days came to a halt after the discovery of a career-ending heart condition this offseason. This leaves the Buckeyes incredibly thin at guard, but especially so when it comes to running the point.
Holtmann’s starting five against Northwestern saw Duane Washington Jr. lined up at point guard, with Justin Ahrens joining him in the backcourt and the usual trio of Justice Sueing, E.J. Liddell and Kyle Young as the forwards. The lack of guard depth will likely lead to more playing time for guys like Ahrens, Musa Jallow and Eugene Brown. Reclassified freshman Meechie Johnson Jr. could also see increased minutes moving forward.
Our starting ️ vs. Northwestern:
Justin Ahrens (@ahrensjustin12)
Justice Sueing (@JusticeSueing)
Kyle Young (@kyle_young25)
EJ Liddell (@EasyE2432)
Duane Washington (@dwizthekid4)#GoBuckeyes #Team122 pic.twitter.com/ig1bjuDy6F
— Ohio State Hoops (@OhioStateHoops) January 13, 2021
It was the Chase Audige show for Northwestern to open things up. The sophomore guard scored the Wildcats’ first 11 points of the game, and scored 15 of the team’s first 17 points overall on an impressive 7-of-8 from the field over the first 10 minutes of action. It quickly turned into a one-on-one battle between Audige and Washington, as the Ohio State guard had 11 of the Buckeyes’ first 19 points at the other end over that same stretch.
Having seen Ohio State’s previous shooting woes, the ‘Cats were giving up a bit of space at the three-point line early on, but this time around the Buckeyes were knocking it down. The home team drilled five of their first eight attempts from beyond the arc, including Washington’s 3-of-4 start from deep. With guard depth an issue, Ohio State looked to Sueing and Washington to run the offense, and the pair were facilitating things well despite the unusual assignment.
Audige had a field day in the first half, heading into the locker room with 21 points on 9-of-15 shooting to go along with four rebounds and an assist.
.@dwizthekid4 has 11 points on 4-5 FG, keeping @OhioStateHoops in the lead so far. pic.twitter.com/mC5cTyA8gO
— Ohio State on BTN (@OhioStateOnBTN) January 14, 2021
The 6-foot-2 freshman guard from Cleveland is supposed to be a senior in high school. Instead, he elected to reclassify to the 2020 class, knowing that he was ready and could make an impact right away in Columbus. With so many guys down for Ohio State in the backcourt, Johnson got his first real chance to show his stuff on Wednesday night, and he made the most of it as he knocked down his very first career shot in a Buckeye uniform on a corner three in the opening period of action.
Speaking of three-point shooting, Northwestern looked like they had taken a page out of the Ohio State playbook with how poorly they shot the rock from downtown in the first period. As a team, the Wildcats managed to hit just one of their first 11 shots from beyond the arc. Conversely, the Buckeyes — who ranked 12th in the Big Ten hitting at a 32.1% clip from range coming into the game — managed to hit at a higher than average 8-of-18 (44.4%) from three-point land through the opening 20 minutes. Led by Washington’s 17 points, Ohio State was able to take a 42-33 lead into halftime.
Johnson finished the first period with six points on a pair of three-balls with one rebound and one assist as the young man was clearly building confidence with every additional minute he saw the floor.
Meechie Johnson jr. knocks down the three and @OhioStateHoops stays hot in the first half pic.twitter.com/H1TYKH3GCc
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) January 14, 2021
Ohio State was outplaying Northwestern in almost all facets of the game, but the one area they really started to struggle — especially in the second half — was in the turnover department. The Buckeyes came into the night with the second-least turnovers per game in the Big Ten at 9.8 per contest, but on the other end the Wildcats rank in the upper half of the conference averaging 5.9 steals per game. Something had to give, and Ohio State gave indeed to the tune of 11 turnovers.
These giveaways seemed to come in bunches in the second half, and after leading by as much as 13 points, the Buckeyes allowed Northwestern to get back within six points less than midway through the second period. What was especially troubling were the points off turnovers, where the Wildcats had 16 points off Ohio State’s giveaways. On the flip side, the ‘Cats turned the ball over just four times all game, helping to offset some of their poor shooting and allowing them to hang around for longer than they should've.
There was, however, this key Northwestern turnover:
WITH THE FOUL! @OhioStateHoops | @m2jallow pic.twitter.com/Jg0N9VE6ZB
— Ohio State on BTN (@OhioStateOnBTN) January 14, 2021
In almost a mirror image of the last time these two teams met, Ohio State went cold down the stretch and allowed Northwestern right back into a game that the Buckeyes had largely dominated for the first 30 minutes. After Young’s layup made it 64-52 Ohio State with 9:32 remaining, Holtmann’s team proceeded to miss seven of their next eight shots as the Wildcats opened up an 8-0 run. With 4:05 to go, all of the sudden Northwestern trailed just 67-66 as the Buckeyes continued to sputter on the offensive end.
Luckily for Ohio State, this time around they got a massive bucket from Justin Ahrens. The forward drilled a three — his fourth of the game — to break the Northwestern run and put the Buckeyes back up by four. A few possessions later, Justice Sueing drove down the court and converted a layup through contact for an and-one. Shortly thereafter, Ohio State got yet another and-one by Kyle Young. The trio of highlight plays really sparked the home team, and momentum seemed to swing back in the Buckeyes’ favor as they opened up a nine-point lead with a little over two minutes remaining.
@kyle_young25 with the STRONG finish for @OhioStateHoops pic.twitter.com/xPt3ijDdhN
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) January 14, 2021
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LGHL Buckeye Bits: Jimmy Sotos out for tonight’s game, ESPN’s Mel Kiper, Todd McShay think...
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Buckeye Bits: Jimmy Sotos out for tonight’s game, ESPN’s Mel Kiper, Todd McShay think Justin Fields should stay at Ohio State, more
Tia Johnston via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
All of the latest Ohio State news from around the beat and beyond.
How we feeling Buckeye fans? Still mourning? Over it? Glad the season’s over? At least we beat Clemson? A little of everything? Look, this college football season was pure insanity, and the fact that the Buckeyes played football at all, let alone made it to the national championship, is pretty amazing.
Moving on. There isn’t a lot happening across the Ohio State beat (for once), so today’s round up is pretty short and sweet! So check out today’s headlines below, and then turn on Big Ten Network to catch the Ohio State men’s basketball team take on the Northwestern Wildcats at 7 p.m. ET!
From around Land-Grant Holy Land...
From around the gridiron...
Heading into the national championship game, Thayer Munford had 224 pass-block snaps, two QB pressures allowed and zero sacks allowed, earning him the fourth-highest grade in PFF’s rankings of Big Ten OT seasons.
Highest-graded Big Ten OT seasons:
1. Jack Conklin, MSU ('15) - 94.6
2. Ryan Ramczyk, Wisconsin ('16) - 92.3
2. Tristan Wirfs, Iowa ('19) - 92.3
4. Thayer Munford, Ohio State ('20) - 91.8 pic.twitter.com/x4R75D4OlP
— PFF College (@PFF_College) January 13, 2021
Let’s not dwell on the past and, instead, direct our gaze to the future. Because friends, the future is oh so bright in Columbus. Keep an eye on some of the Buckeyes’ rising stars, including an extremely talented group of freshmen wide receivers, linebacker Cody Simon, kicker Jake Seibert, safety Lathan Ransom, and many more who are expected to have much bigger roles come September.
Freshman Tracker: Jake Seibert didn't miss a kick, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba nearly had a touchdown. https://t.co/ZfZNmyjodS
— Eleven Warriors (@11w) January 13, 2021
Why does it feel like the 2020 NFL Draft was two days ago? It’s somehow time to reenter the world of mock drafts, and what better way to begin than with the ESPN draft expert himself, Todd McShay. In his latest mock draft, released on Jan. 7 before the national championship game, McShay has Shaun Wade going No. 13 to the Chargers, Justin Fields going No. 15 to the Patriots and Chris Olave with the No. 25 pick to the Jets. However, after the Buckeyes’ loss to Alabama, McShay adjusted his predictions. During his First Draft Podcast with Mel Kiper, McShay said Wade’s draft stock decreased:
“I think he proved he belongs inside. He’s a nickel corner. He can play a little free safety. He can move around. He’s physical. He’s tough. He can tackle in the open field really well. We saw that last night. But he is not cut out, at least at this point, to be a perimeter, cover corner that takes away your No. 1 wide receiver. He’s just not. We’ve seen it all year. It’s too bad to see. Everyone expected it because you watch Jeff Okudah go to the NFL Draft and he was kind of waiting his turn. And everyone expected he’s the next guy up, the five-star recruit. And he just hasn’t been.
“Wade’s a slot cover corner who can play that overhang. He can be physical. He can play the run. He can be very effective. He can play on special teams. I think he’s a day-two pick. He’s probably a second-round pick when it’s said and done.”
Olave’s draft stock increased:
“I think he’s one of the best five or six wide receivers in this class. If he’s not late first, he’s going to be early second round. You see his routes and you see what he’s able to do getting in and out of breaks. It’s a great class. That’s the problem. You’ve got DeVonta Smith. You’ve got Ja’Marr Chase from LSU, Jaylen Waddle coming off the injury, Rashod Bateman, Terrace Marshall, who has emerged from LSU. Elijah Moore is emerging, really had a great season coming out of Ole Miss this year. But Chris Olave, in my opinion, he has the ability to accelerate out of cuts and get down the field. That’s something NFL teams are really going to love. I’ll be shocked if we get to pick 50, and he’s not off the board.”
and Kiper said that Fields would benefit from staying another year:
“I think going back to Ohio State for another year, as opposed to coming into the National Football League without the momentum from having a great season like he did two years ago, (he can) right things. He can work on things fundamentally. Ohio State’s got a ton of talent coming in every year. They’re always reloading, they’re not rebuilding there. Ryan Day will have plenty of talent. I think it’s worth a minute or two discussion as to whether Justin Fields would be better off going back to Ohio State for the 2021 season.”
https://t.co/OOcOiPIFTT
— Todd McShay (@McShay13) January 7, 2021
Dabo: Not Over It.
#Clemson coach Dabo Swinney talking again about his final Coaches Poll. Reiterates his vote wasn't about Ohio State. "Ohio State fought as hard as anybody to play. It wasn't their fault." Swinney said he didn't consider any team that played less than nine games for his Top 10.
— Adam Rittenberg (@ESPNRittenberg) January 13, 2021From around the hardwood...
Both of Ohio State’s top point guards will be out in Wednesday’s game against Northwestern. It was announced Wednesday afternoon that senior guard Jimmy Sotos has been ruled out due to a shoulder injury, joining senior guard CJ Walker, who is out due to torn ligaments in his right hand.
Ohio State's Jimmy Sotos (shoulder) will not play tonight against Northwestern, per Chris Holtmann.
— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) January 13, 2021From around the mat?...
Apparently we should keep our eyes and ears on Ohio State’s wrestling team, as the head coach just teased us all via Twitter on Wednesday afternoon.
Continue reading...
Tia Johnston via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
All of the latest Ohio State news from around the beat and beyond.
How we feeling Buckeye fans? Still mourning? Over it? Glad the season’s over? At least we beat Clemson? A little of everything? Look, this college football season was pure insanity, and the fact that the Buckeyes played football at all, let alone made it to the national championship, is pretty amazing.
Moving on. There isn’t a lot happening across the Ohio State beat (for once), so today’s round up is pretty short and sweet! So check out today’s headlines below, and then turn on Big Ten Network to catch the Ohio State men’s basketball team take on the Northwestern Wildcats at 7 p.m. ET!
From around Land-Grant Holy Land...
From around the gridiron...
Heading into the national championship game, Thayer Munford had 224 pass-block snaps, two QB pressures allowed and zero sacks allowed, earning him the fourth-highest grade in PFF’s rankings of Big Ten OT seasons.
Highest-graded Big Ten OT seasons:
1. Jack Conklin, MSU ('15) - 94.6
2. Ryan Ramczyk, Wisconsin ('16) - 92.3
2. Tristan Wirfs, Iowa ('19) - 92.3
4. Thayer Munford, Ohio State ('20) - 91.8 pic.twitter.com/x4R75D4OlP
— PFF College (@PFF_College) January 13, 2021
Let’s not dwell on the past and, instead, direct our gaze to the future. Because friends, the future is oh so bright in Columbus. Keep an eye on some of the Buckeyes’ rising stars, including an extremely talented group of freshmen wide receivers, linebacker Cody Simon, kicker Jake Seibert, safety Lathan Ransom, and many more who are expected to have much bigger roles come September.
Freshman Tracker: Jake Seibert didn't miss a kick, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba nearly had a touchdown. https://t.co/ZfZNmyjodS
— Eleven Warriors (@11w) January 13, 2021
Why does it feel like the 2020 NFL Draft was two days ago? It’s somehow time to reenter the world of mock drafts, and what better way to begin than with the ESPN draft expert himself, Todd McShay. In his latest mock draft, released on Jan. 7 before the national championship game, McShay has Shaun Wade going No. 13 to the Chargers, Justin Fields going No. 15 to the Patriots and Chris Olave with the No. 25 pick to the Jets. However, after the Buckeyes’ loss to Alabama, McShay adjusted his predictions. During his First Draft Podcast with Mel Kiper, McShay said Wade’s draft stock decreased:
“I think he proved he belongs inside. He’s a nickel corner. He can play a little free safety. He can move around. He’s physical. He’s tough. He can tackle in the open field really well. We saw that last night. But he is not cut out, at least at this point, to be a perimeter, cover corner that takes away your No. 1 wide receiver. He’s just not. We’ve seen it all year. It’s too bad to see. Everyone expected it because you watch Jeff Okudah go to the NFL Draft and he was kind of waiting his turn. And everyone expected he’s the next guy up, the five-star recruit. And he just hasn’t been.
“Wade’s a slot cover corner who can play that overhang. He can be physical. He can play the run. He can be very effective. He can play on special teams. I think he’s a day-two pick. He’s probably a second-round pick when it’s said and done.”
Olave’s draft stock increased:
“I think he’s one of the best five or six wide receivers in this class. If he’s not late first, he’s going to be early second round. You see his routes and you see what he’s able to do getting in and out of breaks. It’s a great class. That’s the problem. You’ve got DeVonta Smith. You’ve got Ja’Marr Chase from LSU, Jaylen Waddle coming off the injury, Rashod Bateman, Terrace Marshall, who has emerged from LSU. Elijah Moore is emerging, really had a great season coming out of Ole Miss this year. But Chris Olave, in my opinion, he has the ability to accelerate out of cuts and get down the field. That’s something NFL teams are really going to love. I’ll be shocked if we get to pick 50, and he’s not off the board.”
and Kiper said that Fields would benefit from staying another year:
“I think going back to Ohio State for another year, as opposed to coming into the National Football League without the momentum from having a great season like he did two years ago, (he can) right things. He can work on things fundamentally. Ohio State’s got a ton of talent coming in every year. They’re always reloading, they’re not rebuilding there. Ryan Day will have plenty of talent. I think it’s worth a minute or two discussion as to whether Justin Fields would be better off going back to Ohio State for the 2021 season.”
https://t.co/OOcOiPIFTT
— Todd McShay (@McShay13) January 7, 2021
Dabo: Not Over It.
#Clemson coach Dabo Swinney talking again about his final Coaches Poll. Reiterates his vote wasn't about Ohio State. "Ohio State fought as hard as anybody to play. It wasn't their fault." Swinney said he didn't consider any team that played less than nine games for his Top 10.
— Adam Rittenberg (@ESPNRittenberg) January 13, 2021
Both of Ohio State’s top point guards will be out in Wednesday’s game against Northwestern. It was announced Wednesday afternoon that senior guard Jimmy Sotos has been ruled out due to a shoulder injury, joining senior guard CJ Walker, who is out due to torn ligaments in his right hand.
Ohio State's Jimmy Sotos (shoulder) will not play tonight against Northwestern, per Chris Holtmann.
— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) January 13, 2021
Apparently we should keep our eyes and ears on Ohio State’s wrestling team, as the head coach just teased us all via Twitter on Wednesday afternoon.
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2020 tOSU Defense
- By pnuts34
- Buckeye Football
- 273 Replies
I guess this makes me feel a little better...
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Toys you wanted as a kid...
- By ScriptOhio
- Open Discussion (Work-safe)
- 67 Replies
Anybody have one of these?
Gilbert U-238 Atomic Energy Laboratory
In 2006, the pop culture publication Radar Magazine called the lab set one of "the 10 most dangerous toys of all time, ... exclud[ing] BB guns, slingshots, throwing stars, and anything else actually intended to inflict harm", because of the radioactive material it included (it was number 2 on the list; number 1 was lawn darts)
Entire article: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gilbert_U-238_Atomic_Energy_Laboratory
**NOTE...this must be like the set that George's parents bought him in the 50's as he blew up the back of their house on an Air Force Base and suddenly the family was moving.....his dad was transferred. Hmmmm wonder why?
Gilbert U-238 Atomic Energy Laboratory
In 2006, the pop culture publication Radar Magazine called the lab set one of "the 10 most dangerous toys of all time, ... exclud[ing] BB guns, slingshots, throwing stars, and anything else actually intended to inflict harm", because of the radioactive material it included (it was number 2 on the list; number 1 was lawn darts)
Entire article: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gilbert_U-238_Atomic_Energy_Laboratory
**NOTE...this must be like the set that George's parents bought him in the 50's as he blew up the back of their house on an Air Force Base and suddenly the family was moving.....his dad was transferred. Hmmmm wonder why?
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Drink up. Beer fights prostate cancer.
- By ScriptOhio
- Open Discussion (Work-safe)
- 29 Replies
Shotgunning a Beer in the Hospital is a Legendary Way to Celebrate Finishing Chemo And Kicking Cancer's Ass
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