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Google Buckeyes Make the Cut for Top-Ranked Wrestler David Carr - Eleven Warriors

Buckeyes Make the Cut for Top-Ranked Wrestler David Carr - Eleven Warriors
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Buckeyes Make the Cut for Top-Ranked Wrestler David Carr
Eleven Warriors
The Iowa State legacy is a high priority for Buckeye coach Tom Ryan, who wants to keep the hottest in-state prospects at home whenever possible. Carr will visit Columbus this weekend, and will visit his father Nate Carr's alma mater in Ames in two ...

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LGHL I Got Five on it: Ohio State grounds Oklahoma into dust

I Got Five on it: Ohio State grounds Oklahoma into dust
Colton Denning
via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


usa_today_10250618.0.jpg

J.T. Barrett, Mike Weber, and J.K. Dobbins will bludgeon your defense, AT THE SAME DAMN TIME.

Welcome to I Got Five on it, where last week I wondered how J.K. Dobbins would do in his first collegiate game (pretty well, it turns out), waxed poetic about the depth of the defensive line (they are the truth), proclaimed that Robert Landers is on the verge on stardom (IT SHOULD HAVE COUNTED), and other fun things.

This week, I’m back with five more things to watch for, as the Oklahoma Sooners come to Columbus for a top-five showdown with Ohio State, this time with significantly less quotable material from their backup quarterback:

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Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Oops

As fate would have it, OU hasn’t lost since then —their 11-game win streak is the nation’s longest— and they’re looking to avenge the loss that ultimately cost them a shot at last year’s College Football Playoff.

All-World quarterback Baker Mayfield is back in Norman, and if his opening line versus UTEP last week is any indication —19-20 passing, 329 yards and three touchdowns— OU’s offense will be as explosive as ever, despite the loss of Joe Mixon, Samaje Perine, and Dede Westbrook.

The biggest news for OU this offseason was legendary Head Coach Bob Stoops’ decision to retire, seemingly out of nowhere. Offensive coordinator Lincoln Riley takes over, and if you ask Urban Meyer, not much is going to change. Riley passed his first test in the Sooners 56-7 win over the Miners, but facing a No. 2 ranked Meyer team on the road is a hell of a task in your second game as a Head Coach.

With all that in mind, here are five things to watch for as Ohio State takes on Oklahoma:

Triple up


Noah Brown’s four touchdowns got all the headlines last year, but where Ohio State really torched OU was on the ground. The Buckeyes rolled up 291 yards rushing, using a inside-outside attack with Curtis Samuel, Mike Weber, and J.T. Barrett all getting in on the fun:

Ohio_State_vs._Oklahoma___Box_Score___September_17__2016___ESPN.jpeg


Samuel’s no longer a Buckeye, but J.K. Dobbins already looks like That Dude™, and with Weber’s return from injury, plus Barrett’s ability to bludgeon when needed, Ohio State might have the most devastating three-headed ground attack since Dugtrio:

super_effective.jpg

Ohio State used RUN THE DANG BALL. It’s super effective!

Dobbins will start, but it will be interesting to see how Offensive Coordinator Kevin Wilson divies up carries early on. How often will Dobbins and Weber be on the field at the same time? Will Weber be used more in short yardage situations? Either way, their contrasting running styles give Ohio State the ability to attack OU on the ground in different ways. If the Buckeyes build a lead into the second half, expect them to wear down the Sooners’ defense just like they did last year.

Separation anxiety


Success running the ball will be key because duh, obviously, but also because it looks like #Zone6 still enjoys feeling defensive backs attached to their hips way too much. Buckeye receivers had a tough time shaking coverage in the first half last week, which was a story we saw far too often last season.

Things opened up in the second half as the Buckeyes worked the middle of the field to create mismatches, and give their top-notch athletes needed room to use their speed.

Dixon_td.gif


Generating deep passing plays is still an issue, but a ‘throw the ball to the really fast dude and let him run’ strategy isn’t the worst fallback option.

OU has some nice pieces in its secondary, but it shouldn’t be impossible for Ohio State receivers to find adequate room, especially if the run game is working well. If they’re able to do so, this offense can reach the next level its been grasping at for the past two seasons.

Record setter

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King of Touchdowns, J.T. Barrett

In case you weren’t aware, J.T. Barrett is three touchdowns away from breaking Drew Brees’ conference record for career touchdowns responsible for. Disregarding how Big Ten it is to have a touchdown record from the 1990’s still standing, it’s going to be a great moment for the Barrett, and the program.

Weber’s return probably means less of Barrett’s running the ball (praying hands emoji), but if the run game opens up enough for the receivers, he has a good chance at breaking the record through the air against an OU defense he threw four touchdowns on last year.

Barring injury, Barrett is going to end up responsible for 135 or so touchdowns in his career by the end of the season, and there isn’t anyone in the Big Ten at the moment who will make a run at that new mark. It hasn’t always been smooth sailing with Barrett, but he’s undoubtedly had a hell of a career in Columbus, with possibly the best yet to come.

In the middle


Indiana’s decision to throw the ball almost exclusively outside the numbers and disregard the run, left Ohio State’s linebackers and safeties without the opportunity to make a lot of plays. That won’t be the case against OU.

The Sooners thrive in the middle of the field, and the biggest matchup of the game might be how Ohio State defends tight end/wide receiver/cyborg Mark Andrews:


Andrews is every talking head’s NFL Draft cliche about modern tight ends come to life. He’s too big for defensive backs, too fast for linebackers, and has plenty of athleticism. It’s not like Ohio State is at a lack for athletes at either position, but limiting Andrews’ production is probably priority number one, at least through the air.

31-0


Yeah, I know that you’re sick of seeing it. Ohio State’s goose egg in last year’s playoff semifinal became a running meme that continued last week when Clemson’s marching band threw down this vicious tomahawk dunk on the Buckeyes, and got a good laugh from us in the process. Despite dropping 49 points against Indiana, a primetime matchup with OU is the perfect setting to put what happened against Clemson to rest.

(Also, controversial take: If you’re still upset at people making fun of Ohio State getting pantsed on a national stage, maybe college football isn’t for you ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ )

Based off the IU game, passing the ball is still a work in progress. There are options at receiver, but is there a deep threat? Has Barrett’s accuracy downfield improved? Do we really know about the offensive line yet? What will happen when they play a top-flight defense?

We’ve seen this before. Once upon a time, Ohio State couldn’t win big games, until they did. They couldn’t hang with SEC Speed™ until they could. Until Ohio State’s offense shows up against a top-tier opponent, the memory of their dud against Clemson will stick in the public’s eye. A good performance tomorrow from Barrett and co. won’t change what happened against the Tigers, but it’s a great opportunity to put it in the rear view for good.

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LGHL Ohio State-Oklahoma is one of the most talent-rich games of the 2017 season

Ohio State-Oklahoma is one of the most talent-rich games of the 2017 season
Kyle Sumner McKinnon
via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


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Quite a few NFL prospects will take the field Saturday night in Columbus.

There’s more on the line than just a W when No. 5 Oklahoma squares off with No. 2 Ohio State Saturday night.

Okay, I lied about that. But there is something you should be paying closer attention to; the future NFL players actually on the field.

No, seriously. This weekend’s matchup is one of the most talent-rich college football games of the year. The Sooners v. Buckeyes 2017-edition is filled with future first-round picks and pro-caliber players.

So who do you have to keep an eye out for? Let’s take a look (hint, there are a lot of Buckeyes).

Oklahoma

Baker Mayfield


The Sooners’ fiery leader at quarterback has placed in the top four of Heisman Trophy voting both of his years in Norman and could take home the hardware as a senior. Last season was Mayfield’s best to date, completing 71 percent of his passes for 3,965 yards with 40 touchdowns and eight interceptions.

Orlando Brown


Already seen as one of the premier offensive linemen in the 2018 draft class, the 6-foot-8, 360-pound Brown won’t be hard to spot in Ohio Stadium. He’s the son of a former NFL offensive tackle and routinely bulldozes defenders. OSU’s stacked defensive line should be a fun test for Brown.

Mark Andrews


Despite compiling 14 touchdowns over the past two years, Andrews hasn’t been a major focal point for Oklahoma. He’s still a mismatch for opposing defenses and could be the first tight end off the board in the 2018 NFL Draft. Andrews got off to a fantastic start Week 1, hauling in seven receptions for 134 yards and a touchdown.


Mark Andrews opened the season with a career performance: 7 receptions for 134 yards + his 15th career TD. #Sooners pic.twitter.com/p6Wd50mfVB

— SoonerScoop.com (@SoonerScoop) September 3, 2017
Jordan Thomas


A four year-starter, Thomas is one of the top cornerbacks in the country. He can take away an opponent’s No. 1 receiving threat and blanket an entire side of the field. After recording 17 pass-breakups in 2016, it’s safe to say Thomas could be a real problem on Saturday.

Ogbonnia Okoronkwo


In his first season as a starter in 2016, Okoronkwo tallied 71 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, nine sacks and two forced fumbles. He’s a disruptive force off the edge and it looks like he’ll be even better this year after his one sack, two tackle for a loss performance against UTEP last week.

Steven Parker


The glue guy of Mike Stoops’ defense, Parker has the prototypical NFL frame and playmaking ability needed to really thrive at the next level. He’s a two-year starter and will be the best safety on the field Saturday night.

Ohio State

J.T. Barrett


His future as a quarterback will be debated all season long; we know this. But Barrett’s dominance at OSU is undeniable. He’s 27–4 as a starter and is primed to break multiple records, including Drew Brees’ career Big Ten touchdown mark. Rarely does Barrett shrink in big games and with Oklahoma on the docket, we should see No. 16 at his best.

Mike Weber


Freshman phenom J.K. Dobbins may be getting all the headlines lately, but he’s not leaving college anytime soon. Now that Mike Weber guy? The first OSU freshman running back to rush for more than 1,000 yards? He good. Weber will be back splitting carries with Dobbins after a nagging hamstring injury forced him to sit out Week 1.

Marcus Baugh


No Buckeye gets overlooked more often than Baugh. Is that because OSU barely ever uses tight ends in the passing game? Probably. While he doesn’t possess the physical tools or playmaking ability of someone like Mark Andrews, Baugh can definitely play. He’s sneaky athletic, a solid blocker and has a knack for finding open pockets in coverage. He would’ve scored a touchdown last week if not for a J.T. Barrett overthrow.

Billy Price


The anchor of OSU’s offensive line, Price moved from guard to center this offseason and fared well in Bloomington. He made a great decision to stick around another year in college to refine his game and it seems to be really paying off. What Price lacks in size he makes up for in technique, versatility, and leadership.

Jamarco Jones


Yes, Billy Price is indeed the anchor of the Buckeyes O-line, however, Jamarco Jones isn’t too far off. He’s grown a lot in recent years and has worked hard to get stronger with a more fluid weight distribution. Ogbonnia Okoronkwo will likely match up with Jones at least a few times (strictly for our enjoyment, of course).

Jerome Baker


Had the rules permitted, Baker would’ve bolted for the NFL when last season ended. He’s an absolute freak athlete with potential through the roof. Baker finished 2016 second on the team in tackles, second in tackles for a loss, and third in sacks. Not to mention two interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown against…

Sam Hubbard


A surefire draft pick had he elected to leave for the pros as a junior, Hubbard instead chose to stay in Columbus and refine his game. He’s hasn’t quite lived up to expectations as a Buckeye, but Hubbard’s athleticism, skill and motor are why he remains so dangerous coming off the line.

Jalyn Holmes


Hats off to the player that gets drafted without ever starting a game in college. Well, Holmes might end up being that player, as he totaled 8.5 sacks in 2016 coming off the bench. His stock will improve with another productive season.

Tyquan Lewis


Why did Tyquan Lewis, the reigning Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year that led one of the best D-lines in the country in sacks for a second straight season, decide to stay in school for his senior year? He has his reasons. Regardless, Lewis’ two sacks in Week One say more than enough and speak to the type of player the Buckeyes get back for a final go-round.


Tyquan Lewis SACK! pic.twitter.com/Gfc18VTezh

— Billy Marshall (@BillyM_91) September 1, 2017
Chris Worley


With the likes of Raekwon McMillan, Darron Lee, Joshua Perry, and Ryan Shazier long gone in the NFL, Chris Worley has carried the linebacker torch at OSU. He’s shifted from the outside to the inside with McMillan out of the picture, and could enjoy a career-high in tackles this year.

Denzel Ward


Another platoon swap in the Buckeyes secondary left potential future first-round pick Denzel Ward as the only experienced cornerback on the roster. He has enough on his plate this season as the leader of a defensive back group that was searching for answers after being thoroughly humbled by Indiana.

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Google First Sooners-Buckeyes Meeting in 1977 Resulted in “The Kick” - kfor.com

First Sooners-Buckeyes Meeting in 1977 Resulted in “The Kick” - kfor.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


First Sooners-Buckeyes Meeting in 1977 Resulted in “The Kick”
kfor.com
Uwe von Schamann kicked a 41-yard field goal with 3 seconds to play to lead OU to the win over the Buckeyes. It's a play that's still known as simply "The Kick," and it's had a lasting impact in the minds and hearts of Sooner fans and for von Schamann.

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LGHL Ohio State goes to enemy territory, offers multiple Michigan OTs

Ohio State goes to enemy territory, offers multiple Michigan OTs
Caleb Houser
via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


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The Buckeyes are looking to plant flags in rival quarters.

The Buckeyes have easily a top game not only for their personal season this weekend, but in all of college football for the year. A top ten matchup against the Oklahoma Sooners at home brings Ohio State football back to the Horseshoe, and with it a seemingly never-ending star-studded list of recruits who will be on hand to see the electricity within Ohio Stadium come tomorrow night. While recruiting may take a little bit of a backseat to Oklahoma this week, Thursday proved to be different as the recruiting trail was hotter than ever.

Another move into Michigan?


One of the greatest rivalries in all of sports is Ohio State versus Michigan. However, Michigan hasn’t beaten the Buckeyes in 2,112 days. In a rivalry that has completely been owned by Ohio State since the turn of the century, Urban Meyer will look to continue that tradition with another win this coming November. Until then, Ohio State will do their best to recruit for the future, and what better place to do so than in the land of your most hated rival?

Yesterday, 2019 offensive tackle Logan Brown (Grand Rapids, MI/East Kentwood) took to twitter to announce that he had received his latest offer from The Ohio State University. A monster-sized product standing at 6'6, 285 pounds, Brown clearly not only looks the part, but can surely play the part as well. Ranked as the seventh-best tackle in the country for the 2019 class, Brown is also the third-best prospect in all of Michigan for 2019. With a whole two years left of prep football to be played, it’s truly scary to think what improvements Brown can still make.


Blessed to say I've received an offer from The Ohio State University!!! Go Buckeyes ‼️ pic.twitter.com/4hRwHkHQKu

— Logan Brown (@loganbrown53) September 7, 2017

Currently, the East Kentwood Falcon possesses 17 offers from the likes of Michigan, Alabama, Wisconsin, Michigan State, Penn State, and most recently, Ohio State. With the thought that the in-state star is leaning towards the Wolverines, now is a perfect time for the Buckeyes and Urban Meyer to swoop in and get into the mix. Beating Michigan on the field is wonderful, but it’s even better if you can do it with players who are from the very state. Will Brown be the next? Only time will tell.

Bradford lands OSU offer


Let’s stay in the state up north and talk about another prospect who received good news concerning Ohio State yesterday. Again, it can’t be overstated how dominant Ohio State has been in its rivalry versus Michigan in the last 15 years. With only two losses coming since 2001, it’s pretty easy to see who truly has the upper hand in this war.

Make your way to Muskegon, Michigan, home to the state power Big Reds coached by legendary head coach Shane Fairfield, and you will find not only some of Michigan’s best high school players, but really, some of the best prep players in the entire Midwest. From a team that has no shortage of talent, 2019 offensive tackle Anthony Bradford was the second at the position in Michigan to have an offer extended his way from the Buckeyes on Thursday.


Blessed to say I have received my 7th offer from THE UNIVERSITY OF OHIO STATE #GOBUCKEYES pic.twitter.com/KXjWnR1C0s

— Anthony_Bradford75 (@AnthonyBradfors) September 7, 2017

At 6'5, 320 pounds, Bradford is a top-40 tackle in the country and also the ninth-best prospect in the very deep Michigan class of 2019. With seven offers from the likes of Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Michigan State, and Ohio State, it’s only a matter of time before more come beckoning on the prized recruit’s door. With Muskegon being a dominant run team, Ohio State has to love what they see on Bradford’s film as a run blocker. The success the Buckeyes have had on the ground in the Meyer era is no secret and it’s due to a great line in front of the stellar backs in Columbus. Can Ohio State and Meyer strike gold in Michigan for another to bolster the trenches?

A look into the future


When you hear the term “Cadillac Position” in regards to Ohio State, you think of the running back spot. However, with the way Urban Meyer and his staff have recruited and developed their players since day one, any position on the field can be considered the prize. On defense though, the cornerback spot has been a serious moneymaker for the Buckeyes and their players, literally. With the past two NFL Drafts seemingly belonging to the Ohio State secondary, it’s easy to see why top recruits continue to choose the Buckeyes each and every cycle that comes through. With the 2018 class sure to be the exact same, it’s a great time not only for the fans, but the players themselves, as the formula for success is pretty simple. Work hard, become a starting Ohio State corner, and it’s onto the big stage.


Blessed to receive an offer from The Ohio State University @Ensworthfb @nparecruiting @BallHawkU pic.twitter.com/H8SbHbhU0r

— Keshawn Lawrence (@KeShawn2x) September 7, 2017

With so much success at one spot, position coach Kerry Coombs may be looking to the future, as yesterday an offer was sent to 2020 stud Keshawn Lawrence (Nashville, Tennessee/Ensworth). Lawrence has yet to own a 247Sports ranking due to his class, but being a high school sophomore and already standing at 6'2, 185 pounds, there’s no question why Ohio State came knocking at the door.

With tall, lengthy corners with great coverage skills being a serious need in the league, Lawrence’s size not only fits that bill, but also makes him a great size for safety if he ever switches positions. An athlete with the ability to do both nonetheless is a huge asset to have and the Buckeyes being all-in so early may just help solidify a relationship before Keshawn decides on a school in the coming years.

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Google OU GAMEDAY: 5 things to watch against the Buckeyes - Norman Transcript

OU GAMEDAY: 5 things to watch against the Buckeyes - Norman Transcript
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


OU GAMEDAY: 5 things to watch against the Buckeyes
Norman Transcript
OU's defense would prefer to keep the entire Buckeye offense quiet, but big performances from the backs, Barrett's arm and Barrett's legs simultaneously is a disastrous recipe. “We approach every quarterback differently,” OU linebacker Ogbonnia ...
Everything you need to know about Oklahoma-Ohio StateESPN
OU Football: Sooners, Buckeyes gear up for trench battleTimes Record
No. 5 Sooners face first test in visit to No. 2 BuckeyesWashington Post
The Morning Sun -Quad City Times
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Google Huge Week 2 for Buckeyes, Irish - The Hillsdale Daily News

Huge Week 2 for Buckeyes, Irish - The Hillsdale Daily News
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Huge Week 2 for Buckeyes, Irish
The Hillsdale Daily News
If you thought Week 1 of college football season was fun, just wait until you see the slate of games in Week 2. Over Labor Day weekend, we were treated to Michigan-Florida and Alabama-Florida State. This Saturday is even better, with matchups like ...
Irish look to remain perfect against Buckeyes on Ohio tripObserver Online

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Google Ohio State to wear LeBron James cleats in clash vs. Oklahoma - ESPN

Ohio State to wear LeBron James cleats in clash vs. Oklahoma - ESPN
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Ohio State to wear LeBron James cleats in clash vs. Oklahoma
ESPN
Several OSU players wore Lebron Soldier X cleats in last season's game against Michigan. The announcement came Thursday, days before the Buckeyes' top-five matchup with the Sooners, in which Ohio State will host quite a few top recruiting targets.
Ohio State wearing custom new LeBron James cleats for Oklahoma game: Buckeyes football newscleveland.com

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Google Buckeye related Crystal Ball picks: Like, love, or leave them - 247Sports

Buckeye related Crystal Ball picks: Like, love, or leave them - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Buckeye related Crystal Ball picks: Like, love, or leave them
247Sports
Make sure you're in the loop -- take five seconds to sign up for our FREE Buckeyes newsletter now! Today I do the same with five more top Ohio State related recruits. Be sure to enjoy VIP access to Bucknuts.com with our 7-day Free trial offer. DL Jowon ...

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Google Barrett, Buckeyes out to build resume against Sooners again - FOXSports.com

Barrett, Buckeyes out to build resume against Sooners again - FOXSports.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Barrett, Buckeyes out to build resume against Sooners again
FOXSports.com
Oklahoma at Ohio State. The second-ranked Buckeyes host No. 5 Oklahoma for the first time in 40 years in a matchup of two of the all-time winningest programs and 2017 College Football Playoff hopefuls. J.T. Barrett threw four touchdowns in a 45-24 win ...

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Google Buckeyes offer Tennessee defensive back - 247Sports

Buckeyes offer Tennessee defensive back - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Buckeyes offer Tennessee defensive back
247Sports
What's next for the Buckeyes? Make sure you're in the loop -- take five seconds to sign up for our FREE Buckeyes newsletter now! In addition to Ohio State, Lawrence has a list of offers that includes Tennessee, LSU, Georgia Tech and Memphis. The 6-foot ...


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Google Togiai: 'Ohio State is definitely at the top;' Sooners invade - 247Sports

Togiai: 'Ohio State is definitely at the top;' Sooners invade - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Togiai: 'Ohio State is definitely at the top;' Sooners invade
247Sports
I'll probably decide after the season.” But could a spectacular visit with the Buckeyes change Togiai's thinking and he perhaps commit this weekend? “Unless I was really completely blown away I would not think so,” Togiai said. “(But) Ohio State is ...

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Google Ohio State will see Jowon Briggs for Oklahoma game, more visitor updates for big weekend -...

Ohio State will see Jowon Briggs for Oklahoma game, more visitor updates for big weekend - Landof10.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Ohio State will see Jowon Briggs for Oklahoma game, more visitor updates for big weekend
Landof10.com
Walnut Hills (Cincinnati) 4-star defensive tackle Jowon Briggs, a 2019 prospect and perhaps Ohio's best at the position regardless of class, told Land of 10 on Wednesday night that he's heading to Columbus to watch the Buckeyes on Saturday night.


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LGHL Ohio State’s cornerbacks are hoping to build off their season opening performance

Ohio State’s cornerbacks are hoping to build off their season opening performance
Brett Ludwiczak
via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


usa_today_10250904.0.jpg

Denzel Ward and the rest of the Buckeye cornerbacks will have their hands full trying to slow down the Oklahoma passing attack.

“When you play corner, it’s not the five you made that stick out, it’s the two you missed. That’s the position. If you don’t like it, go play something else. Around here, the standard is you don’t allow catches.”

-Ohio State defensive coordinator Greg Schiano via Bill Rabinowitz, The Columbus Dispatch


Early on against Indiana it looked like Ohio State might be in for a bit of a rude awakening if they thought they wouldn’t miss cornerbacks Gareon Conley and Marshon Lattimore. The Hoosiers utilized some quick throws which allowed Indiana quarterback Richard Lagow to get into an early rhythm and give the Hoosiers a lead. The Buckeyes were able to make some adjustments, moving from man-to-man coverage to a zone, which slowed Indiana down and let the Buckeyes take control of the game in the second half.

With Baker Mayfield and Oklahoma coming to town, Ohio State can’t afford any early lapses in coverage or the Sooners might put the Buckeyes in a hole they can’t dig out of. Last year in Norman, Ohio State’s secondary found a lot of success in shutting down Mayfield and the rest of the Oklahoma attack, intercepting two passes and holding Mayfield to just 226 yards through the air.

There are plenty of differences between how Indiana tried to attack the Buckeyes and how Oklahoma will. Indiana tried to use short passes to not only offset Ohio State’s talented defensive line, but also to allow the Hoosiers to create some tempo. Oklahoma has one of the best offensive lines in the country, which will see them try and mix in more of the run game than Indiana did. Ohio State’s cornerbacks will be forced to hold their coverage longer in this game than they did against the Hoosiers, which will give the Buckeyes an even better idea of what they have in the secondary as they try and replace Conley and Lattimore.

“I mean, he walked in as a grown man. I wasn’t surprised at all. I kind of tempered my emotions with you guys early on, because we have seen that since spring practice. He had a hell of a camp.”

-Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer on running back J.K. Dobbins via Paul Myerberg, USA Today


What a luxury it is to be Ohio State. Just a couple hours before Ohio State’s season opener against Indiana last week it was announced that true freshman running back J.K. Dobbins would start due to a hamstring injury that Mike Weber was dealing with. For most teams this would be a big loss, especially considering Weber rushed for over 1,000 yards as a redshirt freshman last year. For the Buckeyes, the injury just gave Ohio State fans an early look at their running back of the future.

Dobbins impressed in his Ohio State debut, with his 182 rushing yards, breaking Maurice Clarett’s school record for rushing yards by a true freshman in his debut. Now with Weber returning for this week’s clash with Oklahoma, the Buckeyes will be even stronger in the backfield.

The two running backs complement each other nicely, with Weber giving Ohio State a more physical runner in the backfield, while Dobbins is a more speedy and shifty running back. Not only does the addition of Dobbins into the backfield allow J.T. Barrett to not have to carry the football so much, but it could help Weber as well if Meyer splits carries between the two, subjecting Weber to less contact and allowing the sophomore to stay fresher later in the season. If the Sooners aren’t able to find a way to slow down the duo, it could make for a long night for the Oklahoma defense inside Ohio Stadium on Saturday night.

“We’re excited just because [Oklahoma’s offensive line is] hyped up as the No. 1 O-line and we’ve been hyped up as the best D-line for so long that it’s starting to get annoying. It’s time to prove it.”

-Ohio State defensive end Nick Bosa via Colin Hass-Hill, The Lantern


What certainly won’t be annoying on Saturday night for fans of both schools is watching the matchup between Oklahoma’s offensive line and Ohio State’s defensive line. Oklahoma’s offensive line, which is led by junior tackle Orlando Brown, has started a combined 85 games in their careers, but will certainly face their toughest test when they try and slow down the Buckeye defensive line. Brown is ranked as one of the best tackles in the country, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him jump to the NFL after this season.

Ohio State’s defensive line has a number of players who will eventually make their way to the pros. The Buckeyes showed against Indiana the kind of disruption they are capable of causing, registering five sacks against the Hoosiers. Tyquan Lewis led the way with two sacks in the game, while Sam Hubbard, Nick Bosa, and Jashon Cornell each registered one.

Oklahoma’s offensive line might provide the toughest challenge for the Ohio State defensive line this year, but there is no question Oklahoma won’t see another team on their schedule with the depth Ohio State possesses on the defensive line. The difference in the game will likely hinge on if Ohio State can find their way through the Oklahoma offensive line to allow the Buckeyes to harass quarterback Baker Mayfield, much like the Buckeyes did last year in Norman.

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Google Florida Buckeyes are dealing with Hurricane Irma concerns - 247Sports

Florida Buckeyes are dealing with Hurricane Irma concerns - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Florida Buckeyes are dealing with Hurricane Irma concerns
247Sports
The Buckeyes certainly have their attention on the game with the Sooners on Saturday, but the potential devastation is hard not to think about, especially for those players who are from Florida and have family and friends in that part of the country ...

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