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LGHL Ohio State target, four-star CB announces decommitment from Georgia
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Ohio State target, four-star CB announces decommitment from Georgia
Bret Favachio via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Kayin Lee | Rusty Mansell, 247Sports
One of the Buckeyes’ defensive targets prior to committing elsewhere is back on the open market.
Tuesday brought a few items of interest for the Buckeyes, as a former top target in the secondary has decided to open up his recruitment. Plus, a blue-chip pass-catcher from the west coast holds Ohio State, among others, in high regard.
Lee backs off UGA
If you rewind all the way back to July of last year, that was when 2023 four-star cornerback Kayin Lee of Cedar Grove (GA) took a key step in narrowing down his recruitment. The Ellenwood standout in the secondary released a top 10 that featured Georgia, Notre Dame, and Ohio State, among others.
Ultimately for Lee, it would be the Bulldogs that came away as the beneficiary in September when he announced his pledge to the program despite the Buckeyes’ efforts. That verbal commitment would not stop schools from pursuing though, as eight more schools have since dropped an offer to the 5-foot-11, 160-pounder.
On Tuesday, Lee took to Twitter that he was backing off of his commitment to Georgia. The news paves the way for Ohio State cornerbacks coach Tim Walton to get the program back into the conversation for the highly-touted defensive back.
I will still be evaluating UGA. All love pic.twitter.com/J2q0Vb54Ld
— Kayin Lee (@_kayinlee) February 22, 2022
Considering that the Buckeyes were a finalist the first time around and likely finished second in the race behind the Bulldogs, one would have to like their chances at making another run at him. For Lee, he currently comes in as the No. 144 prospect overall, the No. 17 cornerback in the class, and the 15th highest graded player from Georgia.
Flores down to five
On the other side of the ball, Ohio State and wide receiver coach Brian Hartline also received some welcome news on Tuesday when 2023 four-star wide receiver Rico Flores of Folsom (CA) revealed an updated list of programs still in the mix for his coveted commitment.
Ohio State, to the surprise of few, was one of the universities that made the cut for the California pass-catcher, and they now know that they will have to outlast the likes of Georgia, Notre Dame, Texas, and UCLA if they hope to add him to the fold.
Flores, as recently as December, shared a top 10 list and when comparing that list to the one revealed last night, the changes were simple. Over the last two months, the blue-chip receiver has decided to eliminate Alabama, LSU, Oregon, Pittsburgh, and USC. Whoever comes out on top for Flores will have the benefit of adding a prospect just outside of the Top 150 in his class. The 6-foot-1, 190-pounder also slots in as the No. 23 pass-catcher and the 13th best player from California.
Quick Hits
Continue reading...
Bret Favachio via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Kayin Lee | Rusty Mansell, 247Sports
One of the Buckeyes’ defensive targets prior to committing elsewhere is back on the open market.
Tuesday brought a few items of interest for the Buckeyes, as a former top target in the secondary has decided to open up his recruitment. Plus, a blue-chip pass-catcher from the west coast holds Ohio State, among others, in high regard.
Lee backs off UGA
If you rewind all the way back to July of last year, that was when 2023 four-star cornerback Kayin Lee of Cedar Grove (GA) took a key step in narrowing down his recruitment. The Ellenwood standout in the secondary released a top 10 that featured Georgia, Notre Dame, and Ohio State, among others.
Ultimately for Lee, it would be the Bulldogs that came away as the beneficiary in September when he announced his pledge to the program despite the Buckeyes’ efforts. That verbal commitment would not stop schools from pursuing though, as eight more schools have since dropped an offer to the 5-foot-11, 160-pounder.
On Tuesday, Lee took to Twitter that he was backing off of his commitment to Georgia. The news paves the way for Ohio State cornerbacks coach Tim Walton to get the program back into the conversation for the highly-touted defensive back.
I will still be evaluating UGA. All love pic.twitter.com/J2q0Vb54Ld
— Kayin Lee (@_kayinlee) February 22, 2022
Considering that the Buckeyes were a finalist the first time around and likely finished second in the race behind the Bulldogs, one would have to like their chances at making another run at him. For Lee, he currently comes in as the No. 144 prospect overall, the No. 17 cornerback in the class, and the 15th highest graded player from Georgia.
Flores down to five
On the other side of the ball, Ohio State and wide receiver coach Brian Hartline also received some welcome news on Tuesday when 2023 four-star wide receiver Rico Flores of Folsom (CA) revealed an updated list of programs still in the mix for his coveted commitment.
Ohio State, to the surprise of few, was one of the universities that made the cut for the California pass-catcher, and they now know that they will have to outlast the likes of Georgia, Notre Dame, Texas, and UCLA if they hope to add him to the fold.
Flores, as recently as December, shared a top 10 list and when comparing that list to the one revealed last night, the changes were simple. Over the last two months, the blue-chip receiver has decided to eliminate Alabama, LSU, Oregon, Pittsburgh, and USC. Whoever comes out on top for Flores will have the benefit of adding a prospect just outside of the Top 150 in his class. The 6-foot-1, 190-pounder also slots in as the No. 23 pass-catcher and the 13th best player from California.
Quick Hits
- According to Bond Edits on Twitter and confirmed by the player himself, 2024 tight end Tayvion Galloway of Chillicothe (OH) will make a visit to Ohio State on March 22nd. While the Buckeyes have yet to offer Galloway thus far, the 6-foot-6, 215-pounder has seen programs like Cincinnati, Indiana, Kentucky, LSU, Michigan State, and many more offer to this point.
- Also from the same class, one target well on the radar for the Buckeyes, including an offer, is 2024 cornerback Bryce West of Glenville (OH). On Tuesday, the Cleveland native revealed that he was named the Most Valuable Player among defensive backs at the "Best of the Midwest" combine, and was spotted rocking Ohio State gloves during the event.
Continue reading...
LGHL Column: It’s time for athletic departments to abandon the antiquated ‘Lady’s’ monicker
- News
- 0 Replies
Column: It’s time for athletic departments to abandon the antiquated ‘Lady’s’ monicker
1ThomasCostello via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Penn State Athletics
The Buckeyes and the Nittany Lions tip off on Thursday, but there’s something about the game that doesn’t sit right.
On Thursday, the Ohio State Buckeyes’ women’s basketball team will welcome the Penn State Nittany Lions to the Schottenstein Center. If Ohio State can continue their winning ways (11-2 since the start of 2022), they will be remain in the conversation for the Big Ten title in the regular season’s final week.
On the court, the Buckeyes are a team with strong chemistry and a pair of outstanding guards in Jacy Sheldon and Taylor Mikesell who’ve each received post season award hype, in addition to regularly adding in-season honors to their trophy cases.
For all the positives of Thursday’s game, there’s one thing that sours it, at least for me. It’s the visiting team’s nickname for their women hoopsters, the “Lady Lions.”
Now, in an effort towards full disclosure and to make sure that people realize that this isn’t coming from a place of animosity towards the Nittany Lions, I actually graduated from Penn State, and loved my experience in State College. Let’s just say I own a good amount of blue and white gear, despite the team that I now cover.
So, this isn’t an opinion piece laced with trash talk or anger towards the Nittany Lions, nor is it based off an overwhelming affection for the Buckeyes. I write about the Ohio State basketball team because I live in Central Ohio and I love of the sport.
With that out of the way, the “Lady Lions” moniker is awful. My disdain for the name isn’t even really something that impacts me directly at all; after all, I’m a 30-something male.
“Lady Lions” is a dinosaur-aged gender tag that should follow the lead of the Tyrannosaurus Rex and head into its extinct phase. I don’t know about you, but when I think of the word “Lady” ham-handedly attached to the name of a sports team, I think of the the baseball teams in “A League of Their Own.”
And for the uninitiated, the 1992 movie takes place during World War II. It’s a dramatization of the Women’s Baseball Association, a real league that was born out of the absence of Major League Baseball players who were taking up arms overseas.
In the movie, women baseball players from farms and cities across the country converge on Chicago’s Wrigley Field for a tryout to earn a spot in the league. Once players make the cut, and before they head to their new team’s cities, they’re told that “Every girl in this league is going to be a lady.”
After a few scared looks, it cuts to all the players in charm and beauty school. In it, they learn plate and utensil placement, how to walk and how to sit. All items that have no usefulness on the field whatsoever, and things that their MLB counterparts were never expected to know. It’s simply done in order to make the idea of women playing sports more palatable to a society that wasn’t used to seeing women as athletes.
Even when the play, their uniforms include skirts, which obviously does not work super well in a sport that requires sliding, as evidenced by the bloody shins seen in the movie. “A League of Their Own” took place in the 1940s, but unfortunately some things haven’t changed nearly enough.
When someone tells a person to act more lady-like (and usually the person saying it looks a lot like me), it means that they aren’t being quiet or submissive enough for that person’s liking. These are two characteristics that aren’t normally things we want in basketball players, or any athletes for that matter.
Now, Penn State isn’t the only school that uses the “Lady” qualifier. The Tennessee Volunteers are known as the “Lady Vols,” and you’ll see the phrase used unofficially to describe many teams, even the Buckeyes.
A word like “Lady” added onto a team’s nickname is just another example of how women’s sports are considered the “other,” while men’s teams and leagues are considered the standard or default.
Don’t take it from me though, here’s what the 2021 WNBA MVP has to say on the subject.
It’s all a popularity contest and politics in wbb. In mbb you just gottah be the best. In wbb you gottah be the best player, best looking, most marketable, most IG followers, just to sit at the endorsement table. Thank God for overseas because my bag would’ve been fumbled.
— Jonquel Jones (@jus242) February 18, 2022
The gap between women and men’s sports is slowly getting smaller, but it’s not moving nearly as fast as it should be, despite Tuesday’s historic agreement for the USWNT. It took until 2022 for the NCAA Basketball Tournament to distinguish between “Men’s” and “Women’s,” rather than just assuming that “Final Four” should always refer to the men’s tournament, unless otherwise indicated.
And what’s even worse is that this overdue move came not out of a recognition of their longstanding mistake, but rather from the outcry over the disparity between the men’s and women’s tournaments during last year’s the pandemic-ridden postseason.
If you’ve gotten this far and are thinking, “It’s just another name for women, it’s fine.”
Do the same thing for the men. Change the front of Penn State’s men’s jerseys to say “Gentlemen Lions.” Call Tennessee’s team the “Gentlemen Vols” or call Ohio State the “Gentlemen Bucks.”
It sounds ridiculous, but for some reason it’s widely accepted in women’s sports, especially basketball. But you want to know the good news? It doesn’t have to be that way. There’s a quick, painless, and easy way to fix it: Just stop.
Quit calling your school’s women’s team the “Lady <insert name here>.” For example, if you’re a Nittany Lion fan, call them the “Nittany Lions.” If you’re a Buckeye fan, call Sheldon, Mikesell and the other talented athletes the “Buckeyes,” because that’s their name. That’s the school where they’ve chosen to play.
Judge them on their merits on the court, not on an archaic naming convention. In fact, if you need to talk specifically about one of your favorite school’s basketball teams, throw a “women’s” or “men’s” in front to differentiate, but do it for both, because otherwise it is only slightly less patronizing than the “Lady” moniker. Heck, even the NCAA is finally doing this, and you it’s never a good look to be behind the NCAA when it comes to doing the right thing.
Thursday’s OSU vs. PSU game has the potential to be an exciting matchup. The Nittany Lions will look for their third win in as many games, while the Buckeyes will look to keep their conference title chances alive.
Continue reading...
1ThomasCostello via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Penn State Athletics
The Buckeyes and the Nittany Lions tip off on Thursday, but there’s something about the game that doesn’t sit right.
On Thursday, the Ohio State Buckeyes’ women’s basketball team will welcome the Penn State Nittany Lions to the Schottenstein Center. If Ohio State can continue their winning ways (11-2 since the start of 2022), they will be remain in the conversation for the Big Ten title in the regular season’s final week.
On the court, the Buckeyes are a team with strong chemistry and a pair of outstanding guards in Jacy Sheldon and Taylor Mikesell who’ve each received post season award hype, in addition to regularly adding in-season honors to their trophy cases.
For all the positives of Thursday’s game, there’s one thing that sours it, at least for me. It’s the visiting team’s nickname for their women hoopsters, the “Lady Lions.”
Now, in an effort towards full disclosure and to make sure that people realize that this isn’t coming from a place of animosity towards the Nittany Lions, I actually graduated from Penn State, and loved my experience in State College. Let’s just say I own a good amount of blue and white gear, despite the team that I now cover.
So, this isn’t an opinion piece laced with trash talk or anger towards the Nittany Lions, nor is it based off an overwhelming affection for the Buckeyes. I write about the Ohio State basketball team because I live in Central Ohio and I love of the sport.
With that out of the way, the “Lady Lions” moniker is awful. My disdain for the name isn’t even really something that impacts me directly at all; after all, I’m a 30-something male.
“Lady Lions” is a dinosaur-aged gender tag that should follow the lead of the Tyrannosaurus Rex and head into its extinct phase. I don’t know about you, but when I think of the word “Lady” ham-handedly attached to the name of a sports team, I think of the the baseball teams in “A League of Their Own.”
And for the uninitiated, the 1992 movie takes place during World War II. It’s a dramatization of the Women’s Baseball Association, a real league that was born out of the absence of Major League Baseball players who were taking up arms overseas.
In the movie, women baseball players from farms and cities across the country converge on Chicago’s Wrigley Field for a tryout to earn a spot in the league. Once players make the cut, and before they head to their new team’s cities, they’re told that “Every girl in this league is going to be a lady.”
After a few scared looks, it cuts to all the players in charm and beauty school. In it, they learn plate and utensil placement, how to walk and how to sit. All items that have no usefulness on the field whatsoever, and things that their MLB counterparts were never expected to know. It’s simply done in order to make the idea of women playing sports more palatable to a society that wasn’t used to seeing women as athletes.
Even when the play, their uniforms include skirts, which obviously does not work super well in a sport that requires sliding, as evidenced by the bloody shins seen in the movie. “A League of Their Own” took place in the 1940s, but unfortunately some things haven’t changed nearly enough.
When someone tells a person to act more lady-like (and usually the person saying it looks a lot like me), it means that they aren’t being quiet or submissive enough for that person’s liking. These are two characteristics that aren’t normally things we want in basketball players, or any athletes for that matter.
Now, Penn State isn’t the only school that uses the “Lady” qualifier. The Tennessee Volunteers are known as the “Lady Vols,” and you’ll see the phrase used unofficially to describe many teams, even the Buckeyes.
A word like “Lady” added onto a team’s nickname is just another example of how women’s sports are considered the “other,” while men’s teams and leagues are considered the standard or default.
Don’t take it from me though, here’s what the 2021 WNBA MVP has to say on the subject.
It’s all a popularity contest and politics in wbb. In mbb you just gottah be the best. In wbb you gottah be the best player, best looking, most marketable, most IG followers, just to sit at the endorsement table. Thank God for overseas because my bag would’ve been fumbled.
— Jonquel Jones (@jus242) February 18, 2022
The gap between women and men’s sports is slowly getting smaller, but it’s not moving nearly as fast as it should be, despite Tuesday’s historic agreement for the USWNT. It took until 2022 for the NCAA Basketball Tournament to distinguish between “Men’s” and “Women’s,” rather than just assuming that “Final Four” should always refer to the men’s tournament, unless otherwise indicated.
And what’s even worse is that this overdue move came not out of a recognition of their longstanding mistake, but rather from the outcry over the disparity between the men’s and women’s tournaments during last year’s the pandemic-ridden postseason.
If you’ve gotten this far and are thinking, “It’s just another name for women, it’s fine.”
Do the same thing for the men. Change the front of Penn State’s men’s jerseys to say “Gentlemen Lions.” Call Tennessee’s team the “Gentlemen Vols” or call Ohio State the “Gentlemen Bucks.”
It sounds ridiculous, but for some reason it’s widely accepted in women’s sports, especially basketball. But you want to know the good news? It doesn’t have to be that way. There’s a quick, painless, and easy way to fix it: Just stop.
Quit calling your school’s women’s team the “Lady <insert name here>.” For example, if you’re a Nittany Lion fan, call them the “Nittany Lions.” If you’re a Buckeye fan, call Sheldon, Mikesell and the other talented athletes the “Buckeyes,” because that’s their name. That’s the school where they’ve chosen to play.
Judge them on their merits on the court, not on an archaic naming convention. In fact, if you need to talk specifically about one of your favorite school’s basketball teams, throw a “women’s” or “men’s” in front to differentiate, but do it for both, because otherwise it is only slightly less patronizing than the “Lady” moniker. Heck, even the NCAA is finally doing this, and you it’s never a good look to be behind the NCAA when it comes to doing the right thing.
Thursday’s OSU vs. PSU game has the potential to be an exciting matchup. The Nittany Lions will look for their third win in as many games, while the Buckeyes will look to keep their conference title chances alive.
Continue reading...
LGHL You’re Nuts: Which network would you like to see as home of the Big Ten?
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- 0 Replies
You’re Nuts: Which network would you like to see as home of the Big Ten?
Brett Ludwiczak via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Photo by David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Your (almost) daily dose of good-natured, Ohio State banter.
Bidding wars for broadcasting rights are always fascinating to watch. Look what’s happening with the NFL when it comes to what networks get in on the action. The price to broadcast NFL football is in the billions, and it’s easy to understand why networks have no problems agreeing to the hefty price tag since football is the most popular game in the United States.
Soon it is going to be time for the Big Ten to cash in. The conference is currently in a $2.64 billion dollar television deal with FOX and ESPN that will expire in 2023. In late 2020, the SEC agreed to a 10-year deal with ABC/ESPN that will give each member of the conference $40 million annually. By comparison, currently members of the ACC receive $17 million annually, while the PAC-12 schools get $21 million each year.
The Big Ten isn’t going to get as much money as the SEC did, but they could improve on the over $30 million they get each year from their current television contracts. With more money, schools around the conference could use that money to improve facilities, pay more to coaches, or bolster other areas that could strength the quality of play.
What lies ahead for then Big Ten when it comes to broadcasting rights? Will ABC/ESPN still be interested in the conference after ponying up so much for the SEC rights? Is the Big Ten all about that Big Noon life with FOX? Does CBS look to the Big Ten to replace the hole left by the SEC? Is NBC serious about adding Big Ten football to their college football lineup?
Today’s question: Which network would you like to see as the home of Big Ten?
We’d love to hear your choices. Either respond to us on Twitter at @Landgrant33 or leave your choice in the comments.
Brett’s answer: NBC
Really, I just want the Big Ten to go to any network that isn’t FOX. I hate what “Big Noon Saturday” has done to marquee games around the conference, as there has been a trend towards the best games around the conference being played at noon. Also, I would be elated to never have to listen to Gus Johnson call another Ohio State football game ever again. I don’t need a broadcaster treating a 2nd-and-4 play early in the second quarter like it’s the final play of a one-score game, but I guess that is Johnson’s gimmick.
You are probably thinking I’m crazy because I want the Big Ten to head to a company that just shut down NBC Sports Network at the end of 2021. I know some of the olds of the Ohio State fan base would go nuclear if you made them watch a game on Peacock, but that’s just the route the airing of sports seems to be going. Even though Peacock is far from a perfect streaming platform, at least they have had plenty of events that have a lot of viewers, so they’ll have some time to upgrade the quality before the start of a possible deal with the Big Ten.
Say what you will about the network’s coverage of the Olympics, there are areas where NBC has been tremendous when it comes to their sports coverage. Just look at what the network has down with the English Premier League. After the EPL bounced around in the United States when it came to their broadcasting rights, the EPL found a home at NBC in 2013.
It would be great to see some of the talent that would be used by NBC when it comes to the airing of Big Ten games. I can’t stand football pregame shows, but I would most definitely watch NBC’s pregame show if they had Rebecca Lowe host it, since she has done tremendous work in the EPL studio, and with Olympics coverage. Maria Taylor would also be great for that role since she already has experience with being a part of college football broadcasts from her time with ABC/ESPN.
An area that NBC would have to improve upon would be with the depth of their broadcast crews, especially if Notre Dame football was being broadcast alongside Big Ten football. Then again, it wouldn’t take much to top what FOX currently has since dead air is better than having to listen to Tim Brando. Filling out a roster for Big Ten broadcasts might not be that hard since NBC does have guys like Dan Hicks, Terry Gannon, and Kenny Albert on their Olympics coverage, with all of them having previous football broadcasting experience.
In the end, I’m just hoping that the Big Ten goes to NBC so we get a primetime game that runs past 11:30 which results in a bunch of nerds freaking out because the airing of Saturday Night Live is delayed. In that case, give me a seven overtime game and a camera on Lorne Michaels.
Meredith’s answer: Disney
This week brought a lot of nostalgia, because the network I’d want to see take over is Disney — which means, from a channel perspective, ABC and ESPN. Ohio State was always on ABC in the 1990s and 2000s. In fact, it was rare to be on anything but ABC until the Big Ten Network came to be.
With announcers like Brad Nessler, Chris Spielman and (dare I say it?) Brent Musburger, it was always a joy to watch games on ABC from noon to the afternoon kick to the impeccably done Saturday night game. Perhaps there’s also a tinge of bias here, since every single one of Ohio State’s games from the Buckeyes’ 2002 national title season was televised on ABC or ESPN. There are plenty of good memories to go around from watching games on this network.
Even College Gameday (the old days, mind you) was another feather in the cap of the family of networks.
Of course, as Elsa from Frozen reminds us, the past is in the past. Nessler moved over to CBS. Spielman went to FOX, and is now out of the broadcast game entirely. Musburger is with the Raiders doing play-by-play on the radio.
However, there’s a reason that Disney is so magical: They can put together a darned good production (like, for example, Frozen). They already have a deep bullpen of on-air talent between the current ABC and ESPN crews, and a deal with the Big Ten might incentivize the behemoth Walt Disney Company to reach into its deep pockets to pay up for the talent that has, in recent years, been poached away from the family of networks (we miss you, Maria Taylor).
Further, there’s the consideration that, of any of the major networks, Disney has perhaps the least involvement with the NFL: There’s a much clearer delineation between the professional and collegiate sides of the house and, for Disney, a seeming preference for the college game.
Monday Night Football is the only weekly NFL game hosted on the network, and is second only to Sunday Night Football in production value (first, perhaps, if you consider the Peyton and Eli addition). ABC is not part of the Super Bowl’s yearly rotation, and instead the network capitalizes on one-off events like the NFL Draft to connect its on-air college talent with its crew of analysts. Placing the Big Ten at the epicenter of this content would only serve to benefit the conference.
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
Photo by David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Your (almost) daily dose of good-natured, Ohio State banter.
Bidding wars for broadcasting rights are always fascinating to watch. Look what’s happening with the NFL when it comes to what networks get in on the action. The price to broadcast NFL football is in the billions, and it’s easy to understand why networks have no problems agreeing to the hefty price tag since football is the most popular game in the United States.
Soon it is going to be time for the Big Ten to cash in. The conference is currently in a $2.64 billion dollar television deal with FOX and ESPN that will expire in 2023. In late 2020, the SEC agreed to a 10-year deal with ABC/ESPN that will give each member of the conference $40 million annually. By comparison, currently members of the ACC receive $17 million annually, while the PAC-12 schools get $21 million each year.
The Big Ten isn’t going to get as much money as the SEC did, but they could improve on the over $30 million they get each year from their current television contracts. With more money, schools around the conference could use that money to improve facilities, pay more to coaches, or bolster other areas that could strength the quality of play.
What lies ahead for then Big Ten when it comes to broadcasting rights? Will ABC/ESPN still be interested in the conference after ponying up so much for the SEC rights? Is the Big Ten all about that Big Noon life with FOX? Does CBS look to the Big Ten to replace the hole left by the SEC? Is NBC serious about adding Big Ten football to their college football lineup?
Today’s question: Which network would you like to see as the home of Big Ten?
We’d love to hear your choices. Either respond to us on Twitter at @Landgrant33 or leave your choice in the comments.
Brett’s answer: NBC
Really, I just want the Big Ten to go to any network that isn’t FOX. I hate what “Big Noon Saturday” has done to marquee games around the conference, as there has been a trend towards the best games around the conference being played at noon. Also, I would be elated to never have to listen to Gus Johnson call another Ohio State football game ever again. I don’t need a broadcaster treating a 2nd-and-4 play early in the second quarter like it’s the final play of a one-score game, but I guess that is Johnson’s gimmick.
You are probably thinking I’m crazy because I want the Big Ten to head to a company that just shut down NBC Sports Network at the end of 2021. I know some of the olds of the Ohio State fan base would go nuclear if you made them watch a game on Peacock, but that’s just the route the airing of sports seems to be going. Even though Peacock is far from a perfect streaming platform, at least they have had plenty of events that have a lot of viewers, so they’ll have some time to upgrade the quality before the start of a possible deal with the Big Ten.
Say what you will about the network’s coverage of the Olympics, there are areas where NBC has been tremendous when it comes to their sports coverage. Just look at what the network has down with the English Premier League. After the EPL bounced around in the United States when it came to their broadcasting rights, the EPL found a home at NBC in 2013.
It would be great to see some of the talent that would be used by NBC when it comes to the airing of Big Ten games. I can’t stand football pregame shows, but I would most definitely watch NBC’s pregame show if they had Rebecca Lowe host it, since she has done tremendous work in the EPL studio, and with Olympics coverage. Maria Taylor would also be great for that role since she already has experience with being a part of college football broadcasts from her time with ABC/ESPN.
An area that NBC would have to improve upon would be with the depth of their broadcast crews, especially if Notre Dame football was being broadcast alongside Big Ten football. Then again, it wouldn’t take much to top what FOX currently has since dead air is better than having to listen to Tim Brando. Filling out a roster for Big Ten broadcasts might not be that hard since NBC does have guys like Dan Hicks, Terry Gannon, and Kenny Albert on their Olympics coverage, with all of them having previous football broadcasting experience.
In the end, I’m just hoping that the Big Ten goes to NBC so we get a primetime game that runs past 11:30 which results in a bunch of nerds freaking out because the airing of Saturday Night Live is delayed. In that case, give me a seven overtime game and a camera on Lorne Michaels.
Meredith’s answer: Disney
This week brought a lot of nostalgia, because the network I’d want to see take over is Disney — which means, from a channel perspective, ABC and ESPN. Ohio State was always on ABC in the 1990s and 2000s. In fact, it was rare to be on anything but ABC until the Big Ten Network came to be.
With announcers like Brad Nessler, Chris Spielman and (dare I say it?) Brent Musburger, it was always a joy to watch games on ABC from noon to the afternoon kick to the impeccably done Saturday night game. Perhaps there’s also a tinge of bias here, since every single one of Ohio State’s games from the Buckeyes’ 2002 national title season was televised on ABC or ESPN. There are plenty of good memories to go around from watching games on this network.
Even College Gameday (the old days, mind you) was another feather in the cap of the family of networks.
Of course, as Elsa from Frozen reminds us, the past is in the past. Nessler moved over to CBS. Spielman went to FOX, and is now out of the broadcast game entirely. Musburger is with the Raiders doing play-by-play on the radio.
However, there’s a reason that Disney is so magical: They can put together a darned good production (like, for example, Frozen). They already have a deep bullpen of on-air talent between the current ABC and ESPN crews, and a deal with the Big Ten might incentivize the behemoth Walt Disney Company to reach into its deep pockets to pay up for the talent that has, in recent years, been poached away from the family of networks (we miss you, Maria Taylor).
Further, there’s the consideration that, of any of the major networks, Disney has perhaps the least involvement with the NFL: There’s a much clearer delineation between the professional and collegiate sides of the house and, for Disney, a seeming preference for the college game.
Monday Night Football is the only weekly NFL game hosted on the network, and is second only to Sunday Night Football in production value (first, perhaps, if you consider the Peyton and Eli addition). ABC is not part of the Super Bowl’s yearly rotation, and instead the network capitalizes on one-off events like the NFL Draft to connect its on-air college talent with its crew of analysts. Placing the Big Ten at the epicenter of this content would only serve to benefit the conference.
Continue reading...
LGHL LGHL Uncut Podcast: E.J. Liddell, Malaki Branham, both coaches discuss Ohio State’s OT victory
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LGHL Uncut Podcast: E.J. Liddell, Malaki Branham, both coaches discuss Ohio State’s OT victory
Connor Lemons via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Barbara J. Perenic/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
Ohio State handed the Hoosiers their fifth consecutive loss.
Throughout the season, Land-Grant Holy Land will be bringing you uncut audio primarily from Ohio State press conference, but also from individual interview sessions.
Listen to the episode and subscribe:
Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio
On this episode, E.J. Liddell, Malaki Branham, Chris Holtmann, and Mike Woodson discuss Ohio State’s most heart-stopping victory of the year, an 80-69 overtime win over Woodson’s Hoosiers. After leading by 11, Ohio State trailed by four points with a minute remaining before forcing overtime and ultimately winning in OT.
Branham discussed the huge play involving himself and Liddell at the end of regulation that ultimately sent the game to overtime. He also talked about his conditioning during his first season of college basketball. Liddell gave the home crowd credit for “giving them some juice” down the stretch.
Head coach Chris Holtmann called it a “gritty” win and acknowledged there were facets of this game that the Buckeyes simply did not do well — including rebounding. He talked about Branham’s transformation as a player, saying that his freshman star is “Not at all the same player he was against Seton Hall and Florida earlier this season.”
Connect with the Podcast:
Twitter: @BucketheadsLGHL
Connect with Connor:
Twitter: @lemons_connor
Theme music provided by www.bensound.com
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
Barbara J. Perenic/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
Ohio State handed the Hoosiers their fifth consecutive loss.
Throughout the season, Land-Grant Holy Land will be bringing you uncut audio primarily from Ohio State press conference, but also from individual interview sessions.
Listen to the episode and subscribe:
Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio
On this episode, E.J. Liddell, Malaki Branham, Chris Holtmann, and Mike Woodson discuss Ohio State’s most heart-stopping victory of the year, an 80-69 overtime win over Woodson’s Hoosiers. After leading by 11, Ohio State trailed by four points with a minute remaining before forcing overtime and ultimately winning in OT.
Branham discussed the huge play involving himself and Liddell at the end of regulation that ultimately sent the game to overtime. He also talked about his conditioning during his first season of college basketball. Liddell gave the home crowd credit for “giving them some juice” down the stretch.
Head coach Chris Holtmann called it a “gritty” win and acknowledged there were facets of this game that the Buckeyes simply did not do well — including rebounding. He talked about Branham’s transformation as a player, saying that his freshman star is “Not at all the same player he was against Seton Hall and Florida earlier this season.”
Connect with the Podcast:
Twitter: @BucketheadsLGHL
Connect with Connor:
Twitter: @lemons_connor
Theme music provided by www.bensound.com
Continue reading...
LGHL The next in-state prospect most likely to commit to Ohio State
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The next in-state prospect most likely to commit to Ohio State
Caleb Houser via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Malik Hartford | 247sports
Dynamic safety Malik Hartford looks to be the next big in-state priority for the Buckeyes.
Thanks to the Luke Montgomery’s commitment to the Buckeyes just last week, it looks like Ohio State’s 2023 class is ready to take off. Landing the top in-state player at a position of importance is always a key priority for the staff, but getting Montgomery in the fold as both a local and vocal player gives the Buckeyes another peer recruiter that can help build this class into a national power. As seen last year with the likes of C.J. Hicks, the Buckeyes lean on these guys to communicate to other top players on their board, and now it’s Luke’s turn.
Ohio State’s recruiting strategy is always going to be nationwide. Thanks to their brand, success, and other endless reasons, the coaching staff is always going to be able to bring in elite national targets, and that of course is going to be the same in the 2023 class as well.
On the flipside, what Ryan Day and the rest of the staff wants to do is continue keeping their best players at home. Every year under Day, the Buckeyes have been able to keep the top player in Ohio for their college career, and that’s a must. Landing that top player as well as surrounding them with multiple other top in-state guys has been the strategy all along, and when the recruiting ground is as fertile as it is within the Ohio border, it just makes sense.
At five commitments right now for the 2023 class, it’s only a matter of time before the numbers start to climb. As seen before, the Buckeyes have a tendency to land commitments in spurts, and with spring football coming up and the chance for high profile recruits to get to campus, it could very well be sooner rather than later for who will be next in line. The only question of course is who that will be.
Whether it will be a more national name or an in-state player, that’s anybody’s guess, but if the next commitment does come from Ohio, in this respect, the sights are set on Malik Hartford.
Hartford likely next in line for OSU in-state commitment
Simply put, you’d think that the obvious choice for the next in-state player to commit to Ohio State would be the top remaining player on the board. Currently, Malik Hartford is Ohio’s fourth ranked player, and with the Buckeyes having two of the top three ranked in-state players already committed, Hartford is the next priority for the coaching staff.
A 6-foot-3, 175 pound athlete out of Lakota West, Malik is the No. 17 safety in the country and the No. 167 player nationally per the 247Sports Composite. Perfect timing really, Ohio State really needs to improve in the defensive secondary, especially at safety. Having an in-state player that is this highly ranked at the position bodes well for the Buckeyes, and certainly makes Hartford that much more important to the class overall.
What may be the most impressive aspect of Hartford is the last couple of months of his recruiting process. In just a month’s timespan, Hartford received big time offers from Northwestern, Notre Dame, Michigan, Michigan State, Tennessee, and of course Ohio State to go along with the other nearly 25 schools that have offered. On his offer list alone, it shows the caliber of player he is and how fast his recruitment blew up.
Predicting a timeline for a decision
With Jim Knowles taking over the defense, there may not be a position more important than safety for Ohio State. Knowing coach Knowles likes to use three-safety looks in his scheme, the Buckeyes need a bevy of players at that spot even though each safety may play a different role and have a different body type for what they’ll be asked to do. In Malik’s case, a 6-foot-3 frame is going to do wonders defending the pass game, and obviously the Buckeyes could improve in that sense.
Recruiting followers are always going to want to know when the next commitment will come, and in regard to Hartford it’s not set in stone. On Feb. 11, Malik took to his twitter account to release a list of seven schools he was still considering. Making the cut included Ohio State, Cincinnati, Michigan State, West Virginia, Notre Dame, Kentucky, and Michigan. More importantly, Hartford listing that top seven also pointed out that he’d be narrowing it down even further with a top three schools list as he put it, “soon”.
While a commitment date hasn’t been set, seeing Hartford get down to a top seven and then share that he’d be down to a top three soon enough shows that he’s quickly going through the process and getting closer to making the final decision.
Odds are Ohio State will be in that top three, and if we’re being honest, with how crucial safety is to the class and Hartford being an in-state player that’s seeing his stock really start to raise, the Buckeyes will make him a top priority until he’s in the fold. It’s not a done deal, but if the next commitment is an in-state product, the momentum looks to be in favor of that pledge coming from Malik Hartford.
To see what Hartford could bring to the table, take a look at his latest highlight film below.
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
Malik Hartford | 247sports
Dynamic safety Malik Hartford looks to be the next big in-state priority for the Buckeyes.
Thanks to the Luke Montgomery’s commitment to the Buckeyes just last week, it looks like Ohio State’s 2023 class is ready to take off. Landing the top in-state player at a position of importance is always a key priority for the staff, but getting Montgomery in the fold as both a local and vocal player gives the Buckeyes another peer recruiter that can help build this class into a national power. As seen last year with the likes of C.J. Hicks, the Buckeyes lean on these guys to communicate to other top players on their board, and now it’s Luke’s turn.
Ohio State’s recruiting strategy is always going to be nationwide. Thanks to their brand, success, and other endless reasons, the coaching staff is always going to be able to bring in elite national targets, and that of course is going to be the same in the 2023 class as well.
On the flipside, what Ryan Day and the rest of the staff wants to do is continue keeping their best players at home. Every year under Day, the Buckeyes have been able to keep the top player in Ohio for their college career, and that’s a must. Landing that top player as well as surrounding them with multiple other top in-state guys has been the strategy all along, and when the recruiting ground is as fertile as it is within the Ohio border, it just makes sense.
At five commitments right now for the 2023 class, it’s only a matter of time before the numbers start to climb. As seen before, the Buckeyes have a tendency to land commitments in spurts, and with spring football coming up and the chance for high profile recruits to get to campus, it could very well be sooner rather than later for who will be next in line. The only question of course is who that will be.
Whether it will be a more national name or an in-state player, that’s anybody’s guess, but if the next commitment does come from Ohio, in this respect, the sights are set on Malik Hartford.
Hartford likely next in line for OSU in-state commitment
Simply put, you’d think that the obvious choice for the next in-state player to commit to Ohio State would be the top remaining player on the board. Currently, Malik Hartford is Ohio’s fourth ranked player, and with the Buckeyes having two of the top three ranked in-state players already committed, Hartford is the next priority for the coaching staff.
A 6-foot-3, 175 pound athlete out of Lakota West, Malik is the No. 17 safety in the country and the No. 167 player nationally per the 247Sports Composite. Perfect timing really, Ohio State really needs to improve in the defensive secondary, especially at safety. Having an in-state player that is this highly ranked at the position bodes well for the Buckeyes, and certainly makes Hartford that much more important to the class overall.
What may be the most impressive aspect of Hartford is the last couple of months of his recruiting process. In just a month’s timespan, Hartford received big time offers from Northwestern, Notre Dame, Michigan, Michigan State, Tennessee, and of course Ohio State to go along with the other nearly 25 schools that have offered. On his offer list alone, it shows the caliber of player he is and how fast his recruitment blew up.
Predicting a timeline for a decision
With Jim Knowles taking over the defense, there may not be a position more important than safety for Ohio State. Knowing coach Knowles likes to use three-safety looks in his scheme, the Buckeyes need a bevy of players at that spot even though each safety may play a different role and have a different body type for what they’ll be asked to do. In Malik’s case, a 6-foot-3 frame is going to do wonders defending the pass game, and obviously the Buckeyes could improve in that sense.
Recruiting followers are always going to want to know when the next commitment will come, and in regard to Hartford it’s not set in stone. On Feb. 11, Malik took to his twitter account to release a list of seven schools he was still considering. Making the cut included Ohio State, Cincinnati, Michigan State, West Virginia, Notre Dame, Kentucky, and Michigan. More importantly, Hartford listing that top seven also pointed out that he’d be narrowing it down even further with a top three schools list as he put it, “soon”.
While a commitment date hasn’t been set, seeing Hartford get down to a top seven and then share that he’d be down to a top three soon enough shows that he’s quickly going through the process and getting closer to making the final decision.
Odds are Ohio State will be in that top three, and if we’re being honest, with how crucial safety is to the class and Hartford being an in-state player that’s seeing his stock really start to raise, the Buckeyes will make him a top priority until he’s in the fold. It’s not a done deal, but if the next commitment is an in-state product, the momentum looks to be in favor of that pledge coming from Malik Hartford.
To see what Hartford could bring to the table, take a look at his latest highlight film below.
Continue reading...
OT Austin Siereveld, Captain (All B1G, National Champion)
- By LordJeffBuck
- Buckeye Football
- 143 Replies
247 Profile
Rivals Profile
HUDL Highlights
Twitter: @SiereveldAustin
Class: 2023 (high school)
School: Middletown (OH) Lakota East
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 320 lbs
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Rivals Profile
HUDL Highlights
Twitter: @SiereveldAustin
Class: 2023 (high school)
School: Middletown (OH) Lakota East
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 320 lbs
Login to view embedded media
LGHL Buck Off Podcast: Ohio State 2023 National Champs?, Michigan’s new staff, Super Bowl picks
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Buck Off Podcast: Ohio State 2023 National Champs?, Michigan’s new staff, Super Bowl picks
Chris Renne via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
ESPN released their SP+ rankings and we discuss Michigan’s finalized coaching staff
Listen to the episode and subscribe:
Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio
On today’s episode of “Buck Off with Christopher Renne,” I am joined, as always, by Jordan Williams for the fourth episode of Ohio State’s offseason and we discuss why ESPN thinks Ohio State will be national champions.
We begin the show by talking about the NFL MVP (recorded before the awards) and we discuss a former Buckeye foe. We then discuss the value of the MVP award and why it has become a postseason award as well.
After that, we discuss ESPN anointing Ohio State 2022 national championship with their Production Return Rate stats and the number one SP+ ranking. We talk about the last few leaders in these rankings and why Ohio State is poised for a huge year with all the weapons on the current roster.
We then discuss the finalized Michigan coaching staff and why lightning doesn’t always strike twice. The Wolverines hired a new defensive coordinator and we discuss the reasons this might not be the best move which relates closely to Ohio State. After the break we discuss the promotions from within in their program and why the Gattis impact is complicated.
Our final discussion, we talk about Luke Montgomery’s recruitment, and give our expert prediction. Then we get into our Super Bowl picks, talk the field turf challenge, and lastly tell you why the Spring game is awesome.
Connect with the Show
Twitter: @BuckOffPod
Connect with Chris Renne:
Twitter: @ChrisRenneCFB
Connect with Jordan Williams
Twitter: @JordanW330
Continue reading...
Chris Renne via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
ESPN released their SP+ rankings and we discuss Michigan’s finalized coaching staff
Listen to the episode and subscribe:
Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio
On today’s episode of “Buck Off with Christopher Renne,” I am joined, as always, by Jordan Williams for the fourth episode of Ohio State’s offseason and we discuss why ESPN thinks Ohio State will be national champions.
We begin the show by talking about the NFL MVP (recorded before the awards) and we discuss a former Buckeye foe. We then discuss the value of the MVP award and why it has become a postseason award as well.
After that, we discuss ESPN anointing Ohio State 2022 national championship with their Production Return Rate stats and the number one SP+ ranking. We talk about the last few leaders in these rankings and why Ohio State is poised for a huge year with all the weapons on the current roster.
We then discuss the finalized Michigan coaching staff and why lightning doesn’t always strike twice. The Wolverines hired a new defensive coordinator and we discuss the reasons this might not be the best move which relates closely to Ohio State. After the break we discuss the promotions from within in their program and why the Gattis impact is complicated.
Our final discussion, we talk about Luke Montgomery’s recruitment, and give our expert prediction. Then we get into our Super Bowl picks, talk the field turf challenge, and lastly tell you why the Spring game is awesome.
Connect with the Show
Twitter: @BuckOffPod
Connect with Chris Renne:
Twitter: @ChrisRenneCFB
Connect with Jordan Williams
Twitter: @JordanW330
Continue reading...
LGHL Why is this News? All the articles and tweets Buckeye fans need for February 11, 2022
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Why is this News? All the articles and tweets Buckeye fans need for February 11, 2022
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Barbara J. Perenic/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
All the Buckeye news thats fit to re-print.
Look, we get it. Your days are busy and you don’t have time to read all of the stories and tweets from the three dozen websites dedicated to covering Ohio State athletics, or the 237 Buckeye beat writers churning out hot takes and #content on a daily basis. But that’s ok, that’s what your friends at Land-Grant Holy Land are here for.
Monday through Friday, we’ll be collecting all of the articles, tweets, features, interviews, videos, podcasts, memes, photos, and whatever else we stumble across on the interwebz and putting them in our daily “Why is this News?” article. That way, you’ll have a one-stop-shop for all of the most important Buckeye news, jokes, and analysis.
You’re welcome!
For your Earholes...
Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio
On the Gridiron
Reserve defensive lineman Cormontae Hamilton no longer with Buckeyes program
Spencer Holbrook, Lettermen Row
Ohio State Draft Profile: Jeremy Ruckert brings everything a team needs in an NFL tight end
Chris Renne, Land-Grant Holy Land
Everyone loves Joe: Why Joe Burrow is treasured by Bulldogs and Buckeyes, Tigers and Bengals (paywall)
Jon Greenberg, The Athletic
Without a doubt. @JoeyB is the Comeback Player of the Year. pic.twitter.com/ImoN9XUfWo
— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) February 11, 2022
‘Let’s go to work and let’s get this thing right’; Eliano brings experience to Buckeye secondary staff
Patrick Murphy, Bucknuts
Midwest guy Frye wants to make sure OSU O-line is felt by opponents
Steve Helwagen, Bucknuts
Former Ohio State Defensive Lineman Mike Vrabel Named AP NFL Coach of the Year
Dan Hope, Eleven Warriors
Congratulations, @CoachVrabel50
#DevelopedHere https://t.co/w7MnA4Raze
— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) February 11, 2022On the Hardwood
Ohio State knocks off Nebraska, 80-70
Thomas Costello, Land-Grant Holy Land
That's @B1Gwbball wins for The Ohio State Women's Basketball Team
: https://t.co/uezO4YMAsf
: https://t.co/3AAAIbosvj#GoBucks pic.twitter.com/slCSU8bs8e
— Ohio State WBB (@OhioStateWBB) February 11, 2022
Ohio State’s EJ Liddell named to Naismith Trophy 2022 Midseason Team
Patrick Murphy, Bucknuts
What turned the momentum in Buckeyes’ loss at Rutgers
Adam Jardy, The Columbus Dispatch
Home, sweet home. Ohio State men’s basketball is 10-0 at the Schott this season
David M. Wheeler, Land-Grant Holy Land
Roundball Round-Up: Mike Conley and the Utah Jazz picking up their play of late
Brett Ludwiczak, Land-Grant Holy Land
Outside the Shoe and Schott
Sport-by-sport breakdown of Ohio State’s NIL deals
Joey Kaufman, The Columbus Dispatch
Ohio State Among National Leaders in First Year of Name, Image and Likeness Deals for College Athletes
Dan Hope, Eleven Warriors
Oller: NIL turns charity work into business for college athletes
Rob Oller, The Columbus Dispatch
We love a collaboration
️
Women in Sports Panel
Wednesday 02.16
️ @OSUBlockO
@OSUPeerEducator
@OhioStAthletics
@OSU_PISTOL
@OhioStateTFXC
@OhioStateWVB
@Nicole_Kraft pic.twitter.com/IU764QbK0t
— SASSO (@SASSO_OSU) February 11, 2022
Women’s Golf: Buckeyes Face Setback Finish 13th at UCF Challenge
Danny Fogarty, The Lantern
Men’s Volleyball: No. 12 Ohio State Downed in MIVA Opener
Ohio State Athletics
Men’s Lacrosse: Jack Myers Named to 2022 Tewaaraton Award Watch List
Ohio State Athletics
Women’s Tennis: No. 11 Buckeyes Head to Madison for ITA National Indoors
Ohio State Athletics
And Now for Something Completely Different
And I oop!
Congratulations, @CoachUrbanMeyer! pic.twitter.com/HO3IBbk0NJ
— #FTMLS #FireBaalke (@MattWatt5) February 11, 2022
Continue reading...
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Barbara J. Perenic/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
All the Buckeye news thats fit to re-print.
Look, we get it. Your days are busy and you don’t have time to read all of the stories and tweets from the three dozen websites dedicated to covering Ohio State athletics, or the 237 Buckeye beat writers churning out hot takes and #content on a daily basis. But that’s ok, that’s what your friends at Land-Grant Holy Land are here for.
Monday through Friday, we’ll be collecting all of the articles, tweets, features, interviews, videos, podcasts, memes, photos, and whatever else we stumble across on the interwebz and putting them in our daily “Why is this News?” article. That way, you’ll have a one-stop-shop for all of the most important Buckeye news, jokes, and analysis.
You’re welcome!
For your Earholes...
Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio
On the Gridiron
Reserve defensive lineman Cormontae Hamilton no longer with Buckeyes program
Spencer Holbrook, Lettermen Row
Ohio State Draft Profile: Jeremy Ruckert brings everything a team needs in an NFL tight end
Chris Renne, Land-Grant Holy Land
Everyone loves Joe: Why Joe Burrow is treasured by Bulldogs and Buckeyes, Tigers and Bengals (paywall)
Jon Greenberg, The Athletic
Without a doubt. @JoeyB is the Comeback Player of the Year. pic.twitter.com/ImoN9XUfWo
— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) February 11, 2022
‘Let’s go to work and let’s get this thing right’; Eliano brings experience to Buckeye secondary staff
Patrick Murphy, Bucknuts
Midwest guy Frye wants to make sure OSU O-line is felt by opponents
Steve Helwagen, Bucknuts
Former Ohio State Defensive Lineman Mike Vrabel Named AP NFL Coach of the Year
Dan Hope, Eleven Warriors
Congratulations, @CoachVrabel50
#DevelopedHere https://t.co/w7MnA4Raze— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) February 11, 2022
Ohio State knocks off Nebraska, 80-70
Thomas Costello, Land-Grant Holy Land
That's @B1Gwbball wins for The Ohio State Women's Basketball Team
: https://t.co/uezO4YMAsf
: https://t.co/3AAAIbosvj#GoBucks pic.twitter.com/slCSU8bs8e
— Ohio State WBB (@OhioStateWBB) February 11, 2022
Ohio State’s EJ Liddell named to Naismith Trophy 2022 Midseason Team
Patrick Murphy, Bucknuts
What turned the momentum in Buckeyes’ loss at Rutgers
Adam Jardy, The Columbus Dispatch
Home, sweet home. Ohio State men’s basketball is 10-0 at the Schott this season
David M. Wheeler, Land-Grant Holy Land
Roundball Round-Up: Mike Conley and the Utah Jazz picking up their play of late
Brett Ludwiczak, Land-Grant Holy Land
Outside the Shoe and Schott
Sport-by-sport breakdown of Ohio State’s NIL deals
Joey Kaufman, The Columbus Dispatch
Ohio State Among National Leaders in First Year of Name, Image and Likeness Deals for College Athletes
Dan Hope, Eleven Warriors
Oller: NIL turns charity work into business for college athletes
Rob Oller, The Columbus Dispatch
We love a collaboration
️Women in Sports Panel
Wednesday 02.16
️ @OSUBlockO @OSUPeerEducator
@OhioStAthletics
@OSU_PISTOL
@OhioStateTFXC
@OhioStateWVB
@Nicole_Kraft pic.twitter.com/IU764QbK0t
— SASSO (@SASSO_OSU) February 11, 2022
Women’s Golf: Buckeyes Face Setback Finish 13th at UCF Challenge
Danny Fogarty, The Lantern
Men’s Volleyball: No. 12 Ohio State Downed in MIVA Opener
Ohio State Athletics
Men’s Lacrosse: Jack Myers Named to 2022 Tewaaraton Award Watch List
Ohio State Athletics
Women’s Tennis: No. 11 Buckeyes Head to Madison for ITA National Indoors
Ohio State Athletics
And Now for Something Completely Different
And I oop!
Congratulations, @CoachUrbanMeyer! pic.twitter.com/HO3IBbk0NJ
— #FTMLS #FireBaalke (@MattWatt5) February 11, 2022
Continue reading...
LGHL Ohio State makes the cut for a pair of 2023 targets
- News
- 0 Replies
Ohio State makes the cut for a pair of 2023 targets
Caleb Houser via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
2023 tight end Walker Lyons | Brandon Huffman, 247Sports
The Buckeyes made the short list for a pair of prospects on the offensive side of the ball on Thursday.
While Ohio State’s staff is busy preparing for the 2022 college football season, they remain focused on making sure the talent level in Columbus remains consistent by bringing in the best possible players from the recruiting trail. At lot of work goes into landing the top targets on their board, but on Thursday the staff saw some of their labor pay off as a pair of prospects in the 2023 class listed Ohio State among their top schools.
In-state offensive lineman trims it down to six
The beat goes on as it has all week for in-state recruiting prospects. On Thursday, another Ohio native in the 2023 class updated their recruitment and gave the Buckeyes some good news. Whether Ohio State brought in a new offensive line coach or not this year, Lakota East product Austin Siereveld was going to be a priority for the coaching staff, and him being inside state lines for a position of importance makes him that much more valuable to the 2023 class.
Announcing the latest in his recruitment via his Twitter account, Siereveld released a list of six remaining schools he is still considering before shutting it down completely and committing to the school of his choice. Included in the mix were Iowa, Michigan, Cincinnati, Notre Dame, Alabama, and of course Ohio State. After having nearly 20 offers to his name, getting it down to six schools shows the process is moving for Siereveld, but there’s still time for any of the six to make major moves.
Currently, Siereveld checks in as the seventh-best player in Ohio for his class as well as the 23rd-best interior offensive lineman and No. 326 player nationally regardless of position. For Ohio State, the Buckeyes already are in solid position to land another in-state target, but position coach Justin Frye will certainly continue the pursuit in a way that really shows how important he is to Ohio State’s 2023 class overall.
Top 6! Thank you to all of the coaches and schools who have recruited me! pic.twitter.com/jdGq1Rg4fi
— Austin Siereveld (@SiereveldAustin) February 10, 2022Ohio State makes final group for top tight end
Tight end is obviously a huge position of need for Ohio State moving forward. Now that Jeremy Ruckert is off to the NFL, the depth chart at tight end is full of question marks. Guys like Joe Royer, Mitch Rossi and Gee Scott Jr. will battle it out for playing time in 2022, but the Buckeyes clearly need more at the position. After bringing in Bennett Christian in the 2022 class, Ohio State will likely look to add at least two tight ends in the 2023 cycle.
They got at least one step closer with one of their top tight end targets on Thursday, as four-star TE Walker Lyons announced his top six schools via Twitter. Cutting things down from over 30 offers, the California native is now taking a closer look at Alabama, BYU, Stanford, USC, Utah and Ohio State.
Final Six…
What the move?? pic.twitter.com/7ptHVb79I0
— Walker Lyons (@walkerly0ns) February 10, 2022
A four-star in the 2023 class, Lyons currently ranks as the No. 4 TE and the No. 73 overall player in the cycle. He is also listed as the No. 7 player in the talent-rich state of California. Standing at 6-foot-4, 230 pounds, Lyons is a very productive player at Folsom High School. Over 13 games during the 2021-22 season, he recorded 42 receptions for 646 yards and seven touchdowns for the Bulldogs.
Lyons previously visited Ohio State in June, and hopes to take another trip to Columbus this fall. In speaking with On3, Lyons said OSU was one of his first big offers outside of the Pac-12, and was the first school he visited last summer, lauding his strong relationship with head coach Ryan Day. The Buckeyes are also in pursuit of his high school teammate, 2023 four-star WR Rico Flores.
Quick Hits
I will be at @OhioStateFB on March 26 @ryandaytime @OSUCoachKDub @CoachReedLive @SWiltfong247 #GoBucks
— Mac Markway (@mac_markway) February 10, 2022
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Caleb Houser via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
2023 tight end Walker Lyons | Brandon Huffman, 247Sports
The Buckeyes made the short list for a pair of prospects on the offensive side of the ball on Thursday.
While Ohio State’s staff is busy preparing for the 2022 college football season, they remain focused on making sure the talent level in Columbus remains consistent by bringing in the best possible players from the recruiting trail. At lot of work goes into landing the top targets on their board, but on Thursday the staff saw some of their labor pay off as a pair of prospects in the 2023 class listed Ohio State among their top schools.
In-state offensive lineman trims it down to six
The beat goes on as it has all week for in-state recruiting prospects. On Thursday, another Ohio native in the 2023 class updated their recruitment and gave the Buckeyes some good news. Whether Ohio State brought in a new offensive line coach or not this year, Lakota East product Austin Siereveld was going to be a priority for the coaching staff, and him being inside state lines for a position of importance makes him that much more valuable to the 2023 class.
Announcing the latest in his recruitment via his Twitter account, Siereveld released a list of six remaining schools he is still considering before shutting it down completely and committing to the school of his choice. Included in the mix were Iowa, Michigan, Cincinnati, Notre Dame, Alabama, and of course Ohio State. After having nearly 20 offers to his name, getting it down to six schools shows the process is moving for Siereveld, but there’s still time for any of the six to make major moves.
Currently, Siereveld checks in as the seventh-best player in Ohio for his class as well as the 23rd-best interior offensive lineman and No. 326 player nationally regardless of position. For Ohio State, the Buckeyes already are in solid position to land another in-state target, but position coach Justin Frye will certainly continue the pursuit in a way that really shows how important he is to Ohio State’s 2023 class overall.
Top 6! Thank you to all of the coaches and schools who have recruited me! pic.twitter.com/jdGq1Rg4fi
— Austin Siereveld (@SiereveldAustin) February 10, 2022
Tight end is obviously a huge position of need for Ohio State moving forward. Now that Jeremy Ruckert is off to the NFL, the depth chart at tight end is full of question marks. Guys like Joe Royer, Mitch Rossi and Gee Scott Jr. will battle it out for playing time in 2022, but the Buckeyes clearly need more at the position. After bringing in Bennett Christian in the 2022 class, Ohio State will likely look to add at least two tight ends in the 2023 cycle.
They got at least one step closer with one of their top tight end targets on Thursday, as four-star TE Walker Lyons announced his top six schools via Twitter. Cutting things down from over 30 offers, the California native is now taking a closer look at Alabama, BYU, Stanford, USC, Utah and Ohio State.
Final Six…
What the move?? pic.twitter.com/7ptHVb79I0— Walker Lyons (@walkerly0ns) February 10, 2022
A four-star in the 2023 class, Lyons currently ranks as the No. 4 TE and the No. 73 overall player in the cycle. He is also listed as the No. 7 player in the talent-rich state of California. Standing at 6-foot-4, 230 pounds, Lyons is a very productive player at Folsom High School. Over 13 games during the 2021-22 season, he recorded 42 receptions for 646 yards and seven touchdowns for the Bulldogs.
Lyons previously visited Ohio State in June, and hopes to take another trip to Columbus this fall. In speaking with On3, Lyons said OSU was one of his first big offers outside of the Pac-12, and was the first school he visited last summer, lauding his strong relationship with head coach Ryan Day. The Buckeyes are also in pursuit of his high school teammate, 2023 four-star WR Rico Flores.
Quick Hits
- Speaking of tight ends, Ohio State will be getting a visit from another big tight end target next month. Four-star TE Mac Markway will be making the trip to Columbus on March 26, according to his Twitter account. The St. Louis native is the No. 5 TE in the country and the No. 95 player overall in the 2023 class.
I will be at @OhioStateFB on March 26 @ryandaytime @OSUCoachKDub @CoachReedLive @SWiltfong247 #GoBucks
— Mac Markway (@mac_markway) February 10, 2022
- Ahead of his Feb. 17 commitment date, Ohio State has continued to gain momentum for 2023 OT Luke Montgomery. There are now a total of five Crystal Ball predictions in for Montgomery, all of which are in favor of the Buckeyes with a minimum confidence rating of six. Montgomery is the No. 6 OT and No. 62 player overall in the cycle, and would be the first commitment for new offensive line coach Justin Frye at Ohio State.
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LGHL Ohio State knocks off Nebraska, 80-70
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Ohio State knocks off Nebraska, 80-70
1ThomasCostello via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Ohio State Athletics
A standout performance by freshman Taylor Thierry and a return to form for Rebeka Mikulasikova put away a strong Cornhuskers offense.
Coming into any season, certain games are circled on the schedule. In the Big Ten, games against Michigan, Maryland and Indiana grab some attention, but one team surprised the conference this year: the Nebraska Cornhuskers.
Nebraska is a team that sat in ninth place in conference standings in 2020-21 with a record of 13-13. Starting the ‘21-22 season, the Cornhuskers won their first 13 games, and sat just one game back from the Buckeyes coming into Thursday night. Although the Cornhuskers have surprised opponents throughout the season, the Buckeyes weren’t caught off guard, defeating Nebraska, 80-70.
A big matchup coming into the game was about just that — the bigs. Ohio State Buckeyes forward/center Rebeka Mikulasikova took on freshman phenom Alexis Markowski. Starting the game, Markowski got the best of the two, scoring four points and adding three rebounds in the first 10 minutes, On the other end, Mikulasikova hit an early three, but otherwise struggled offensively, missing all other attempts.
Nebraska took advantage of those missed chances, making 55.6% of their field goals and 40% from three, taking a first quarter lead of 22-19. Then, with 1:25 remaining in the first quarter, the Buckeyes introduced their own exciting freshman, Taylor Thierry.
Before Thierry started taking control of the game, almost singlehandedly, Nebraska held their first quarter momentum to expand their lead to eight in the second quarter. The swing began with a monster block, but it wasn’t on a layup. Nebraska guard Sam Haiby received the ball in the corner on what looked like a blown defensive assignment. Thierry ran towards Haimby and leapt to block her shot immediately after release.
Thierry followed that block up with three rebounds (two on the offensive end), two assists, two steals and two points. The Cleveland native’s individual effort combined with a surging Buckeye offense — Mikulasikova especially. Making up for a difficult start to the game, the Buckeye forward scored eight points, hitting both threes she attempted plus a layup. In addition, she added three second quarter rebounds. Ohio State ended the half on a 9-0 run, putting the Buckeyes up 36-31 at halftime.
The third quarter saw the Buckeyes return to their offensive form. Leading the charge was Taylor Mikesell, recently named to the 10-player Ann Meyers-Drysdale finalist list for the best shooting guard in the nation. Mikesell went a perfect 3-for-3 from deep. Those put her at 50% from three-point range on the year, increasing her NCAA-leading shooting percentage.
In the fourth quarter, Ohio State wouldn’t let Nebraska get close. Markowski hit a layup and a free throw to get the Cornhuskers within nine points, but it’s the closest they would get to an upset. Thierry added five fourth quarter points on top of her already impressive defensive night. Her nine points tied a season high for Thierry, and her seven rebounds was one shy of her high of eight. The Buckeyes held the pressure through the final minute, winning 80-70.
Bouncing Back
Before Thursday’s victory, Ohio State’s Mikulasikova had a string of inconsistency. Ending 2021, the Buckeye center went three-straight games without scoring any points. In B1G play over the past few weeks, Mikulasikova fell into another scoring slump, scoring just 27 total points over four games. Against Nebraska, who has one of the top centers in the conference in Markowski, Mikulasikova showed up in a big way.
Against tough competition, Mikulasikova scored 15 points, nine of which came from beyond the arc, while also adding seven rebounds. Even though Mikulasikova’s night didn’t start out looking the best, a complete performance in the remaining three quarters bodes well for the Buckeyes as they fight to stay near the top of the B1G standings.
Defensive Effort
An area the Buckeyes aren’t necessarily known for this season is on the defensive end of the court. Before Thursday’s win, Ohio State was ninth in the B1G in points per game allowed (67.5). Going up against a Nebraska offense that averages 78.8 points per game was a tall task.
Ohio State responded, led by Thierry and senior guard Braxtin Miller. The two combined for four out of the Buckeyes’ six steals, leading to 19 points off Cornhusker turnovers. Even though Markowski had a double-double of 23 points and 15 assists, Ohio State neutralized the rest of Nebraska’s attack, allowing only three players to reach double figures in points.
What’s Next
Next up for the Buckeyes is a Valentine’s Day trip to Illinois to face the Fighting Illini. The game tips at 9:00 p.m. ET, airing live on B1G Network. Illinois sits in second-to-last place in the B1G, but have only played 19 games due to COVID-19 postponements. The last time these two teams met, on Jan. 6, the Buckeyes beat the Fighting Illini, 90-69, at the Schottenstein Center.
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1ThomasCostello via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Ohio State Athletics
A standout performance by freshman Taylor Thierry and a return to form for Rebeka Mikulasikova put away a strong Cornhuskers offense.
Coming into any season, certain games are circled on the schedule. In the Big Ten, games against Michigan, Maryland and Indiana grab some attention, but one team surprised the conference this year: the Nebraska Cornhuskers.
Nebraska is a team that sat in ninth place in conference standings in 2020-21 with a record of 13-13. Starting the ‘21-22 season, the Cornhuskers won their first 13 games, and sat just one game back from the Buckeyes coming into Thursday night. Although the Cornhuskers have surprised opponents throughout the season, the Buckeyes weren’t caught off guard, defeating Nebraska, 80-70.
A big matchup coming into the game was about just that — the bigs. Ohio State Buckeyes forward/center Rebeka Mikulasikova took on freshman phenom Alexis Markowski. Starting the game, Markowski got the best of the two, scoring four points and adding three rebounds in the first 10 minutes, On the other end, Mikulasikova hit an early three, but otherwise struggled offensively, missing all other attempts.
Nebraska took advantage of those missed chances, making 55.6% of their field goals and 40% from three, taking a first quarter lead of 22-19. Then, with 1:25 remaining in the first quarter, the Buckeyes introduced their own exciting freshman, Taylor Thierry.
Before Thierry started taking control of the game, almost singlehandedly, Nebraska held their first quarter momentum to expand their lead to eight in the second quarter. The swing began with a monster block, but it wasn’t on a layup. Nebraska guard Sam Haiby received the ball in the corner on what looked like a blown defensive assignment. Thierry ran towards Haimby and leapt to block her shot immediately after release.
Thierry followed that block up with three rebounds (two on the offensive end), two assists, two steals and two points. The Cleveland native’s individual effort combined with a surging Buckeye offense — Mikulasikova especially. Making up for a difficult start to the game, the Buckeye forward scored eight points, hitting both threes she attempted plus a layup. In addition, she added three second quarter rebounds. Ohio State ended the half on a 9-0 run, putting the Buckeyes up 36-31 at halftime.
The third quarter saw the Buckeyes return to their offensive form. Leading the charge was Taylor Mikesell, recently named to the 10-player Ann Meyers-Drysdale finalist list for the best shooting guard in the nation. Mikesell went a perfect 3-for-3 from deep. Those put her at 50% from three-point range on the year, increasing her NCAA-leading shooting percentage.
In the fourth quarter, Ohio State wouldn’t let Nebraska get close. Markowski hit a layup and a free throw to get the Cornhuskers within nine points, but it’s the closest they would get to an upset. Thierry added five fourth quarter points on top of her already impressive defensive night. Her nine points tied a season high for Thierry, and her seven rebounds was one shy of her high of eight. The Buckeyes held the pressure through the final minute, winning 80-70.
Bouncing Back
Before Thursday’s victory, Ohio State’s Mikulasikova had a string of inconsistency. Ending 2021, the Buckeye center went three-straight games without scoring any points. In B1G play over the past few weeks, Mikulasikova fell into another scoring slump, scoring just 27 total points over four games. Against Nebraska, who has one of the top centers in the conference in Markowski, Mikulasikova showed up in a big way.
Against tough competition, Mikulasikova scored 15 points, nine of which came from beyond the arc, while also adding seven rebounds. Even though Mikulasikova’s night didn’t start out looking the best, a complete performance in the remaining three quarters bodes well for the Buckeyes as they fight to stay near the top of the B1G standings.
Defensive Effort
An area the Buckeyes aren’t necessarily known for this season is on the defensive end of the court. Before Thursday’s win, Ohio State was ninth in the B1G in points per game allowed (67.5). Going up against a Nebraska offense that averages 78.8 points per game was a tall task.
Ohio State responded, led by Thierry and senior guard Braxtin Miller. The two combined for four out of the Buckeyes’ six steals, leading to 19 points off Cornhusker turnovers. Even though Markowski had a double-double of 23 points and 15 assists, Ohio State neutralized the rest of Nebraska’s attack, allowing only three players to reach double figures in points.
What’s Next
Next up for the Buckeyes is a Valentine’s Day trip to Illinois to face the Fighting Illini. The game tips at 9:00 p.m. ET, airing live on B1G Network. Illinois sits in second-to-last place in the B1G, but have only played 19 games due to COVID-19 postponements. The last time these two teams met, on Jan. 6, the Buckeyes beat the Fighting Illini, 90-69, at the Schottenstein Center.
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LGHL Roundball Round-Up: Mike Conley and the Utah Jazz picking up their play of late
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Roundball Round-Up: Mike Conley and the Utah Jazz picking up their play of late
Brett Ludwiczak via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images
There are currently five former Ohio State basketball players in the NBA, and we’ll update you weekly on how they are doing.
Business is picking up around the league. The NBA trade deadline is Thursday (for transparency, this article is written on Wednesday evening) and we have already seen some moves being made. The Cleveland Cavaliers traded for Caris LeVert, the Indiana Pacers have moved Domantas Sabonis out west to Sacramento, and there are still questions as to whether guys like James Harden, Ben Simmons, and Russell Westbrook will be moved.
Of course, those questions will be answered by the time this article is published.
Mike Conley
Point Guard | Utah Jazz
All the Utah Jazz needed was to see the calendar turn to February for their fortunes to start to turn. January was a frustrating month for Conley and the Jazz, with Utah going 4-12 in the first month of 2022. The Jazz have already almost matched their win total from last month, winning their first three games of February.
The return of Donovan Mitchell to the Utah lineup not only helped the team return to their winning ways, it also helped to boost the production from Mike Conley. Even though Conley went just 2-of-10 from behind the arc on Monday night against the Knicks, the former Ohio State guard still scored 18 points in the 113-104 win.
The area where Conley has picked up his play lately has been on the defensive end. In five of Utah’s last seven games, Conley has recorded at least two steals. The best of those performances came last Wednesday in a 108-104 win against Denver, when he was credited with four steals against the Nuggets, tying a season-high. Conley has also blocked one shot in each of Utah’s last three games. Even though Conley isn’t quite at the level on the defensive end that he was a decade ago when he was averaging over two steals per game, the veteran is still a force on defense.
Duane Washington Jr.
Point Guard | Indiana Pacers
Just as it looked like Duane Washington Jr. was getting comfortable in his role with the Indiana Pacers, things got turned upside down. Washington had one of his best weeks in the NBA, scoring at least 10 points in three of the four games that he played. Even though the Pacers lost all four of their games, Washington scored 17 points against Chicago on Friday night and against Cleveland on Sunday. The seven rebounds Washington pulled down against Chicago and the three steals he recorded on Tuesday against Atlanta were both career-high marks.
Over the weekend it looked as if Washington might see his role expand since the Pacers traded Caris LeVert to Cleveland. The good vibes didn’t last too long though, as on Tuesday Indiana acquired Tyrese Haliburton and Buddy Hield from Sacramento in a trade. Now with Haliburton and Hield in the mix along with Malcolm Brogdon and Chris Duarte, it remains to be seen where Washington fits in the mix in the backcourt.
Jae’Sean Tate
Small Forward | Houston Rockets
Wins have been rare for the Houston Rockets this year. One of the few victories on Houston’s record came last Wednesday when they defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 115-104. Jae’Sean Tate only had six points, but he did contribute in other ways, grabbing five rebounds, and recording a season-high four steals. The victory snapped a four-game losing streak by the Rockets.
Unfortunately for Houston, the win last Wednesday didn’t snowball into more wins, as the Rockets have lost their last three games. During that time, Tate’s best performance came on Tuesday in a 110-97 loss to New Orleans, when he almost recorded a double-double by scoring nine points and pulling down nine rebounds. The former Buckeye also nabbed three steals against the Pelicans.
The Rockets may be one of the worst teams in the NBA this year, but at least Tate does have something to look forward to in a couple weeks. As announced a couple weeks ago, Tate has been selected to play in the Rising Stars Challenge. The format has been tweaked a bit, with those selected divided up into four teams of seven players. Tate will be on Team Barry, which will be coached by Rick Barry, and includes Evan Mobley of the Cleveland Cavaliers and top overall draft pick Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons.
D’Angelo Russell
Point Guard | Minnesota Timberwolves
After last playing on Jan. 27 against Golden State, D’Angelo Russell returned to the court on Sunday. Russell scored 22 points and dished out eight assists in the 118-105 victory over Detroit. The former Buckeye followed his return up with 14 points and seven assists in a blowout win over Sacramento on Tuesday. The Timberwolves have now won their last five games overall, with the first three of those wins coming with Russell unavailable due to injury.
Keita Bates-Diop
Small Forward | San Antonio Spurs
Pop said Keita Bates-Diop has suffered a setback after clearing protocols.
Bates-Diop is out tonight after playing against the Warriors. It was his first game after clearing health and safety protocols.
"He can't play back to backs, that's what I was told," Pop said.
— Tom Orsborn (@tom_orsborn) February 3, 2022
Keita Bates-Diop has had a rough go of things lately. After missing some time after entering health and safety protocols due to a positive COVID-19 diagnosis, Bates-Diop hasn’t bounced back as quickly as other have after being able to leave protocols. According to San Antonio head coach Gregg Popovich, Bates-Diop isn’t able to play back-to-back games at this point. While that could change in the future, Bates-Diop will have to work on his conditioning to get to that point.
Bates-Diop was able to play in one game last week, scoring four points in 14 minutes in a 131-106 win over Houston. Luckily for Bates-Diop he doesn’t have to be in a hurry to return to 100% since the Spurs are just 20-34 on the year, so they aren’t exactly threatening for a playoff spot. Since the start of 2022, San Antonio is 6-14.
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Brett Ludwiczak via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images
There are currently five former Ohio State basketball players in the NBA, and we’ll update you weekly on how they are doing.
Business is picking up around the league. The NBA trade deadline is Thursday (for transparency, this article is written on Wednesday evening) and we have already seen some moves being made. The Cleveland Cavaliers traded for Caris LeVert, the Indiana Pacers have moved Domantas Sabonis out west to Sacramento, and there are still questions as to whether guys like James Harden, Ben Simmons, and Russell Westbrook will be moved.
Of course, those questions will be answered by the time this article is published.
Mike Conley
Point Guard | Utah Jazz
All the Utah Jazz needed was to see the calendar turn to February for their fortunes to start to turn. January was a frustrating month for Conley and the Jazz, with Utah going 4-12 in the first month of 2022. The Jazz have already almost matched their win total from last month, winning their first three games of February.
The return of Donovan Mitchell to the Utah lineup not only helped the team return to their winning ways, it also helped to boost the production from Mike Conley. Even though Conley went just 2-of-10 from behind the arc on Monday night against the Knicks, the former Ohio State guard still scored 18 points in the 113-104 win.
The area where Conley has picked up his play lately has been on the defensive end. In five of Utah’s last seven games, Conley has recorded at least two steals. The best of those performances came last Wednesday in a 108-104 win against Denver, when he was credited with four steals against the Nuggets, tying a season-high. Conley has also blocked one shot in each of Utah’s last three games. Even though Conley isn’t quite at the level on the defensive end that he was a decade ago when he was averaging over two steals per game, the veteran is still a force on defense.
Duane Washington Jr.
Point Guard | Indiana Pacers
Just as it looked like Duane Washington Jr. was getting comfortable in his role with the Indiana Pacers, things got turned upside down. Washington had one of his best weeks in the NBA, scoring at least 10 points in three of the four games that he played. Even though the Pacers lost all four of their games, Washington scored 17 points against Chicago on Friday night and against Cleveland on Sunday. The seven rebounds Washington pulled down against Chicago and the three steals he recorded on Tuesday against Atlanta were both career-high marks.
Over the weekend it looked as if Washington might see his role expand since the Pacers traded Caris LeVert to Cleveland. The good vibes didn’t last too long though, as on Tuesday Indiana acquired Tyrese Haliburton and Buddy Hield from Sacramento in a trade. Now with Haliburton and Hield in the mix along with Malcolm Brogdon and Chris Duarte, it remains to be seen where Washington fits in the mix in the backcourt.
Jae’Sean Tate
Small Forward | Houston Rockets
Wins have been rare for the Houston Rockets this year. One of the few victories on Houston’s record came last Wednesday when they defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 115-104. Jae’Sean Tate only had six points, but he did contribute in other ways, grabbing five rebounds, and recording a season-high four steals. The victory snapped a four-game losing streak by the Rockets.
Unfortunately for Houston, the win last Wednesday didn’t snowball into more wins, as the Rockets have lost their last three games. During that time, Tate’s best performance came on Tuesday in a 110-97 loss to New Orleans, when he almost recorded a double-double by scoring nine points and pulling down nine rebounds. The former Buckeye also nabbed three steals against the Pelicans.
The Rockets may be one of the worst teams in the NBA this year, but at least Tate does have something to look forward to in a couple weeks. As announced a couple weeks ago, Tate has been selected to play in the Rising Stars Challenge. The format has been tweaked a bit, with those selected divided up into four teams of seven players. Tate will be on Team Barry, which will be coached by Rick Barry, and includes Evan Mobley of the Cleveland Cavaliers and top overall draft pick Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons.
D’Angelo Russell
Point Guard | Minnesota Timberwolves
After last playing on Jan. 27 against Golden State, D’Angelo Russell returned to the court on Sunday. Russell scored 22 points and dished out eight assists in the 118-105 victory over Detroit. The former Buckeye followed his return up with 14 points and seven assists in a blowout win over Sacramento on Tuesday. The Timberwolves have now won their last five games overall, with the first three of those wins coming with Russell unavailable due to injury.
Keita Bates-Diop
Small Forward | San Antonio Spurs
Pop said Keita Bates-Diop has suffered a setback after clearing protocols.
Bates-Diop is out tonight after playing against the Warriors. It was his first game after clearing health and safety protocols.
"He can't play back to backs, that's what I was told," Pop said.
— Tom Orsborn (@tom_orsborn) February 3, 2022
Keita Bates-Diop has had a rough go of things lately. After missing some time after entering health and safety protocols due to a positive COVID-19 diagnosis, Bates-Diop hasn’t bounced back as quickly as other have after being able to leave protocols. According to San Antonio head coach Gregg Popovich, Bates-Diop isn’t able to play back-to-back games at this point. While that could change in the future, Bates-Diop will have to work on his conditioning to get to that point.
Bates-Diop was able to play in one game last week, scoring four points in 14 minutes in a 131-106 win over Houston. Luckily for Bates-Diop he doesn’t have to be in a hurry to return to 100% since the Spurs are just 20-34 on the year, so they aren’t exactly threatening for a playoff spot. Since the start of 2022, San Antonio is 6-14.
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Review of Ohio State's Class of 2022
- By LordJeffBuck
- College Football
- 14 Replies
General Thoughts
LordJeffBuck: Ohio State signed the #4 class in 2022 (21 signees, 300.51 total points, 94.05 points per recruit according to 247 Composite), which marks the sixth time in seven years that the Buckeyes have landed a top-5 recruiting class. All that talent coming to Columbus has resulted in exactly zero national championships during that time, from which we can infer that stars do matter but they don't tell the entire story - you also need coaching, player development, play calling, scheme, and quite bit of luck to get to the top of the CFB mountain. Will this newly-signed crew - along with the historically great class of 2021 (321.68 total points; 94.98 points per recruit) and key members of the class of 2020 (C.J. Stroud, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Paris Johnson) - be enough to seize the brass ring in 2022? If not now, then when....?
RB07OSU: A top 5 recruiting class is certainly nothing to scoff at and prior to UFM we would be through the moon. We still should be by and large. We brought in yet another killer WR class, a stud QB to make up for the Quinn Ewers exit, and restocked on the DL with serious talent. Plus our LB class brings in two of the best in C.J. Hicks and Gabe Powers, plus I am excited about DeaMonte Trayanum coming home via transfer. But for all the star power at that position, OL and DB were major letdowns overall. We somewhat salvaged OL with Carson Hinzman (absolute beast btw), but DB could be a huge problem when it looked on pace to be epic when Jaheim Singletary and Terrance Brooks were in the fold...and that is even if we have a stellar 2023 DB class. Overall though, great class with lots of potential stars.
Earliest Impact
LordJeffBuck: C.J. Hicks is the highest-ranked signee in this class (.9949 rating; #7 overall prospect) and he plays the biggest position of current need (linebacker), so I will nominate him for my player to make the earliest impact. On offense, I don't see anyone making an early impact due to a stacked roster (including not one, not two, but three legitimate Heisman candidates), but if I had to choose one prospect l would probably select wide receiver Kojo Antwi, who looks like he could be the next JSN (smooth, quick, excellent route runner).
RB07OSU: I was actually going to say C.J. Hicks too like LJB, but that would be boring to replicate the answer and will say Caden Curry. There is going to be PT available at DL and on top of being super athletic and aggressive, he has decent polish in his technique. I think Curry plays early and often. My runner up is Sonny Styles if he doesn't outgrow safety this season...need help there and kid has the goods. So many talented guys at WR that are tempting despite our depth there...I would say Kyion Grayes if a WR sticks out, but Caleb Burton is another one that could force his way onto the field.
Most Star Potential
LordJeffBuck: Quarterbacks almost always have the most star potential, and Devin Brown (.9808 rating; #43 overall prospect in the 247 Composite, but the #1 overall recruit in the new On3 rankings) has the actual talent to become the next starting quarterback at Ohio State after C.J. Stroud leaves for the NFL. With excellent mobility (but not a running QB), above-average arm talent (but not a rocket arm), adequate size (but not physically imposing), and a bit of a gunslinger mentality (12.9 yards per attempt, but also 14 INTs in 14 games), Brown reminds me of another former Buckeye QB, namely Joey Burrow (they even look like they could be brothers, or at least first cousins).
RB07OSU: Give me C.J. Hicks, Captain Buckeye himself. Long, out of this world athletic, absolute wrecking ball and missile as a tackler, and extremely versatile and can cover. Probably a shock to some being at the LB position, but I think he ends up being a top 10 pick in the NFL draft one day if he puts in the work (and he will btw). His film is probably the best I have seen from any LB in Ohio ever and that is saying something. On the offensive side of the ball, give me Caleb Burton. Crazy athletic, big catch radius, and flat out gets open...maybe it is the Texas thing, but he screams Garrett Wilson to me. Lots of guys could go here (like LJB said, Devin Brown is a potential star...any of our WRs are an easy pick...the DL is just loaded).Most Intriguing
LordJeffBuck: Alex "Sonny" Styles was one of the top prospects in the Class of 2023, then reclassified to the Class of 2022 and managed to retain his lofty 5-star status (.9938 rating; #12 overall prospect). Listed as a safety prospect by 247 Recruiting, Sonny has already outgrown that position (6-foot-4, 215 pounds). Only one question remains: Will Sonny eventually end up at linebacker or defensive end, or will he be stuck somewhere in between? Athletic tweeners have a high risk, high-reward profile, and I present two former Buckeye safety prospects as evidence: 2014 signee Sam Hubbard (6-foot-6, 223 pounds), who morphed into a star defensive end with a long future in the NFL; and 2019 signee Craig Young (6-foot-5, 200 pounds), who couldn't add weight, couldn't play in space, and barely saw the field at Ohio State before transferring to Kansas after last season. Styles certainly has the athleticism and talent, but he might need a year or three to grow into his body and find his best position on the field.
RB07OSU: Hero Kanu. Dude is a specimen that has barely played the game and has massive upside at a position that is wide open in the near future for PT. One of the most important gets in that class imo. Tegra Tshabola is another one, kid has an amazing frame and size, and a lot of room to develop in his technique at yet another position that is pretty open in the upcoming years. Kenyatta Jackson is another one I think just oozes with potential, kid has the frame and athleticism to be a nightmare on the edge. I know that is three guys but I can't help it on this category.
Biggest Reach
RB07OSU: Avery Henry. I mean, I like his frame and you always want to root for the Ohio OL with special powers and all. However, this one feels like Stud knew he missed on his targets not named Tegra Tshabola and had to plug a hole. Plus he played against awful competition and I don't even know that we saw him in person at camp? Fingers crossed he proves me wrong.
Sleeper
RB07OSU: Kye Stokes. Super long and athletic with big upside, could be the next Malik Hooker type for us at safety with some development from our staff. Ryan Turner is another that I think could turn out like a Damon Arnette for us. I also would have said Kyion Grayes but the cat got out of the bag how talented he is, and he is in the top 100 now.
Biggest Surprise
RB07OSU: Omari Abor. I thought we would not ever get a verbal, let alone keep it. I don't care if Bama perhaps took a pass on him, there were many top-tier programs that wanted this kid and we landed him. Omari and Kenyatta Jackson should wreck the edges for years to come. Kojo Antwi is another that I thought was sure to stay in the south and he stayed solid the whole time. Carson Hinzman was also a shock, when do we ever get a top OL from WI? The answer I believe is never and man did we absolutely need that commitment.
The Ones Who Got Away
RB07OSU: Unfortunately there are many candidates on this list. But I would say Jaheim Singletary because we really needed a top-flight CB and he was it. Throw Terrance Brooks right up there while we are at it, but Singletary is going to be a top 10 draft pick and we really needed him. Perhaps it was never going to stick, but he "got away" imo. Dasan McCullough was also unfortunate to lose but I don't think that one would have ever stuck given the circumstances. Also see my comments below for what the class lacks.
What This Class Lacks
RB07OSU: Take a dart, close your eyes, and pick either DB or OL. DB has to be it for me...from losing Jaheim Singletary and Terrance Brooks, to losing a lead on Zion Branch and Xavier Nwankpa, I am truly concerned about our DBs unless we kill it in 2023 and get some developed transfer portal guys for next year. I know I identified Kye Stokes and Ryan Turner as potential sleepers, but those are sleepers you want in addition to the guys I just listed, not the only guys in your class. On OL we whiffed on about every major target except Tegra Tshabola and Carson Hinzman, many of which we probably had a legit shot at... Kiyaunta Goodwin, Tyler Booker, Jaylen Early, Addison Nichols, Aamil Wagner, Kam Dewberry, and Earnest Greene were all legit possibilities, and truly we probably just needed one of those to make this a good OL class.
Recruiting Impact of Coaching Changes
RB07OSU: Well, there are plenty this year. Biggest of which is new DC Jim Knowles and I think we are all excited about his coaching prowess. However, his recruiting prowess better be darned good because here is the reality on defense.... LJ Sr has to be getting close to retirement. DB Coach Tim Walton is intriguing but we will see how he recruits. OL Coach Justin Frye I think sounds like a better recruiter than Stud, but we will have to see on him as well. I think the machine will keep chugging with Ryan Day at the helm, but I think us fans should try to temper expectations on getting the early commits as recruits get to know the new staff better.
2023 Outlook
RB07OSU: DB and OL are a major focus, we have to hit some big targets there. We cannot afford to come up short at either position this cycle. We stocked up the DL and obviously you want to swing for the fences and keep bringing in big guys there, but I am not concerned on that position except bringing in at least one elite DT. But we HAVE to hit some major safety and CB prospects in 2023. I think we won't see a ton of commits early on, but will start rolling in about April-May.