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LGHL No. 2 Ohio State women remain unbeaten with 84-54 win over Northwestern
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No. 2 Ohio State women remain unbeaten with 84-54 win over Northwestern
1ThomasCostello via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Ohio State University athletic department
The Buckeyes returned to Columbus for their first of two-straight home games.
Ohio State women’s basketball returned home Thursday for a stretch of three home games in their next four contests. It began with the second meeting of the season with the Northwestern Wildcats.
In the first game, the Buckeyes started somewhat slow but pulled away for an 81-48 victory. Thursday, the Buckeyes repeated their performance, keeping Northwestern winless in conference play with a 84-54 victory.
Northwestern’s known for a vigorous “blizzard” zone defense, and early on it was forcing the Buckeyes to shoot from deep. Fortunately for Ohio State, it was working in their favor. Forward Rebeka Mikulášiková picked up where she left off from Saturday’s win over the Nebraska Cornhuskers, hitting her first two attempts from beyond the arc.
Following Mikulášiková was the guard pairing of Rikki Harris and Taylor Mikesell. Harris hit a three-pointer followed by two from Mikesell, plus a layup of her own. Mikesell led Ohio State with eight points in the quarter.
Defensively, the Buckeyes were strong. The Wildcats had difficulties all quarter hitting shots, making only 28.6% of their 14 shots attempted.
While the Scarlet & Gray had trouble attacking inside the arc, 5-for-10 shooting from three-point range gave the home team a 19-9 lead to end the first quarter.
Even though it was a game that saw the top team in the conference go up against the bottom team, Buckeyes head coach Kevin McGuff wanted the Scarlet & Gray performing at their best. Early in the second quarter, as Northwestern forward Caileigh Walsh hit a spin move and a layup, McGuff screamed, “wake up!” to his side.
It wasn’t that Ohio State was playing particularly poor defensively, but the Buckeyes were missing shots on offense and putting the Wildcats on the free throw line. The Buckeyes cleaned up their fouling as the second quarter went on, but neither side could find the momentum to go on a run.
Part of the reason was the carousel of players for Ohio State. Coach McGuff rotated guards Hevynne Bristow, Emma Shumate and forward Eboni Walker frequently in the first half, with Walker earning seven first half minutes compared to five total Saturday against the Cornhuskers.
Also, the three-point shooting diminished in the second quarter. The Buckeyes went 1-for-7 from range, but Northwestern still had trouble breaking through the Scarlet & Gray defense. Ohio State extended their lead to 14 points before halftime, heading into the break up 38-24.
Coming out of the locker room for the second half was a familiar story for the Buckeyes. Ohio State came out on fire, scoring eight of the first 10 points of the period. Leading the way early in the third quarter was Cotie McMahon. The forward scored six points, four coming off steals by guards Thierry and Harris, pushing the home team’s lead up to 20 points.
The Buckeyes would stretch that lead to 26 by the end of the quarter. Both McMahon and Mikulášiková were strong in the paint in the third period, scoring a combined seven points from the free throw line, and 15 of the Buckeyes’s 27 points in the quarter.
Northwestern couldn’t seem to find a way to get back into the game, making an already difficult year for the 2020 regular season conference champions even worse. Ohio State outscored the visitors 13-5 in the second half of the third quarter, needing to hold the lead for only 10 more minutes to reach 19-0.
Coach McGuff kept his starters out for start of the fourth quarter, minus McMahon who didn’t return after being substituted in the third quarter. The Wildcats scored six of the first eight, but their comeback attempt was short-lived.
Ohio State hit the gas and pulled away further from Northwestern, earning the 84-54 win. With the victory, the Buckeyes are one win away from matching their program record winning streak. The 20-game win streak has been achieved twice, in the 1984-85 and 2005-06 seasons.
Thursday was a second-straight standout performance for the Slovakian forward — on International Night of all games. Mikulášiková started the night shooting from deep, but again found her stride throughout the offensive half of the court.
After a 25-point performance against Nebraska, Mikulášiková had 18 points against Northwestern and seven rebounds. Back to consecutive double-digit scoring performances for the first time since the end of November, the forward’s found her form just as Ohio State welcomes a top-10 team in the Hawkeyes, Monday.
Last season, Mikulášiková scored 17 points against Iowa, going 5-for-6 from the three-point line. A performance Ohio State might need again to compete with Caitlin Clark and the Hawkeyes.
The word’s getting out in the Big Ten that McMahon is going to attack the basket. After Saturday’s game in Lincoln, Nebraska where the forward had to sit due to turning an ankle, plus a hard fall on her arm in the fourth, Northwestern was physical with the freshman.
McMahon took the first eight free throws for the Buckeyes. It took three minutes into the third quarter for another player to get to the free throw line. That’s because McMahon was using the speed and power she’s exhibited in her first year to get to the charity stripe.
The No. 2 Buckeyes are off until Monday, but they return for a huge contest. Ohio State welcomes the No. 10 Iowa Hawkeyes to Columbus for their lone regular season meeting of the year.
Last season, the two teams combined for 180 points in a 92-88 Ohio State win. It’s also a rematch of the two teams who shared last season's Big Ten regular season championship — a battle of co-champions.
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
Ohio State University athletic department
The Buckeyes returned to Columbus for their first of two-straight home games.
Ohio State women’s basketball returned home Thursday for a stretch of three home games in their next four contests. It began with the second meeting of the season with the Northwestern Wildcats.
In the first game, the Buckeyes started somewhat slow but pulled away for an 81-48 victory. Thursday, the Buckeyes repeated their performance, keeping Northwestern winless in conference play with a 84-54 victory.
Northwestern’s known for a vigorous “blizzard” zone defense, and early on it was forcing the Buckeyes to shoot from deep. Fortunately for Ohio State, it was working in their favor. Forward Rebeka Mikulášiková picked up where she left off from Saturday’s win over the Nebraska Cornhuskers, hitting her first two attempts from beyond the arc.
Following Mikulášiková was the guard pairing of Rikki Harris and Taylor Mikesell. Harris hit a three-pointer followed by two from Mikesell, plus a layup of her own. Mikesell led Ohio State with eight points in the quarter.
Defensively, the Buckeyes were strong. The Wildcats had difficulties all quarter hitting shots, making only 28.6% of their 14 shots attempted.
While the Scarlet & Gray had trouble attacking inside the arc, 5-for-10 shooting from three-point range gave the home team a 19-9 lead to end the first quarter.
Even though it was a game that saw the top team in the conference go up against the bottom team, Buckeyes head coach Kevin McGuff wanted the Scarlet & Gray performing at their best. Early in the second quarter, as Northwestern forward Caileigh Walsh hit a spin move and a layup, McGuff screamed, “wake up!” to his side.
It wasn’t that Ohio State was playing particularly poor defensively, but the Buckeyes were missing shots on offense and putting the Wildcats on the free throw line. The Buckeyes cleaned up their fouling as the second quarter went on, but neither side could find the momentum to go on a run.
Part of the reason was the carousel of players for Ohio State. Coach McGuff rotated guards Hevynne Bristow, Emma Shumate and forward Eboni Walker frequently in the first half, with Walker earning seven first half minutes compared to five total Saturday against the Cornhuskers.
Also, the three-point shooting diminished in the second quarter. The Buckeyes went 1-for-7 from range, but Northwestern still had trouble breaking through the Scarlet & Gray defense. Ohio State extended their lead to 14 points before halftime, heading into the break up 38-24.
Coming out of the locker room for the second half was a familiar story for the Buckeyes. Ohio State came out on fire, scoring eight of the first 10 points of the period. Leading the way early in the third quarter was Cotie McMahon. The forward scored six points, four coming off steals by guards Thierry and Harris, pushing the home team’s lead up to 20 points.
The Buckeyes would stretch that lead to 26 by the end of the quarter. Both McMahon and Mikulášiková were strong in the paint in the third period, scoring a combined seven points from the free throw line, and 15 of the Buckeyes’s 27 points in the quarter.
Northwestern couldn’t seem to find a way to get back into the game, making an already difficult year for the 2020 regular season conference champions even worse. Ohio State outscored the visitors 13-5 in the second half of the third quarter, needing to hold the lead for only 10 more minutes to reach 19-0.
Coach McGuff kept his starters out for start of the fourth quarter, minus McMahon who didn’t return after being substituted in the third quarter. The Wildcats scored six of the first eight, but their comeback attempt was short-lived.
Ohio State hit the gas and pulled away further from Northwestern, earning the 84-54 win. With the victory, the Buckeyes are one win away from matching their program record winning streak. The 20-game win streak has been achieved twice, in the 1984-85 and 2005-06 seasons.
Mikulášiková Heating Up at the Right Time
Thursday was a second-straight standout performance for the Slovakian forward — on International Night of all games. Mikulášiková started the night shooting from deep, but again found her stride throughout the offensive half of the court.
After a 25-point performance against Nebraska, Mikulášiková had 18 points against Northwestern and seven rebounds. Back to consecutive double-digit scoring performances for the first time since the end of November, the forward’s found her form just as Ohio State welcomes a top-10 team in the Hawkeyes, Monday.
Last season, Mikulášiková scored 17 points against Iowa, going 5-for-6 from the three-point line. A performance Ohio State might need again to compete with Caitlin Clark and the Hawkeyes.
Physical Game for McMahon
The word’s getting out in the Big Ten that McMahon is going to attack the basket. After Saturday’s game in Lincoln, Nebraska where the forward had to sit due to turning an ankle, plus a hard fall on her arm in the fourth, Northwestern was physical with the freshman.
McMahon took the first eight free throws for the Buckeyes. It took three minutes into the third quarter for another player to get to the free throw line. That’s because McMahon was using the speed and power she’s exhibited in her first year to get to the charity stripe.
What’s Next
The No. 2 Buckeyes are off until Monday, but they return for a huge contest. Ohio State welcomes the No. 10 Iowa Hawkeyes to Columbus for their lone regular season meeting of the year.
Last season, the two teams combined for 180 points in a 92-88 Ohio State win. It’s also a rematch of the two teams who shared last season's Big Ten regular season championship — a battle of co-champions.
Continue reading...
2025 GA QB Julian “Ju Ju” Lewis (Colorado Signee)
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Carrollton (GA)
Ht: 6’1”
Wt: 175 lbs
Class: 2026 (High School)
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Young, but that film looks legit.
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Carrollton (GA)
Ht: 6’1”
Wt: 175 lbs
Class: 2026 (High School)
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Young, but that film looks legit.
LGHL Ohio State women’s basketball’s Taylor Thierry, from freshman to foundational
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Ohio State women’s basketball’s Taylor Thierry, from freshman to foundational
1ThomasCostello via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Ben Cole - Land-Grant Holy Land
After playing a bench role in 2021-22, the sophomore has cemented her place as a pivotal piece of the No. 2 ranked Buckeyes.
Before the start of the 22/23 season, the Ohio State women’s basketball team featured a roster full of returning veterans, and a lot of questions. So it goes in college basketball, players from multiple positions either finished their NCAA eligibility or transferred to other programs. That left a void to fill, and sophomore Taylor Thierry has filled it and then some.
Last season, the Buckeyes started all upperclassmen in their Big Ten regular season co-championship year. When forwards Braxtin Miller and sixth player Tanaya Beacham each ended their college careers, a starting spot opened, and head coach Kevin McGuff had a decision to make.
In October, Land-Grant Holy Land incorrectly predicted the names of the starting five, thinking that it’d look like last season’s three guards, two forwards set. Thierry was part of that starting five, reluctantly.
After all, the Shaker Heights, Ohio native was the seventh/eighth player on the roster and didn’t make a noticeable impact until the calendar flipped to 2022. Defensively, the freshman was great. Thierry grabbed steals, made game-altering blocks, and provided a needed boost of energy at moments of the game when play fell flat.
This season, Thierry’s still doing that but in a starting role. It’s not only boosts of energy or the occasional block anymore. Thierry’s playing consistently on both ends of the floor.
Thierry’s offense wasn’t part of her freshman season. The Division II First Team recruit from Northeast Ohio possesses the ability to get to the basket, and leaping ability to reach heights players taller than her still can’t reach but seemed to keep them under wraps last year.
The forward’s quiet demeanor off the court crept onto it as Thierry made the transition to a faster-paced, more physical, NCAA game. That’s gone now.
This season, Thierry averages 12.6 points per game, shooting up from last year’s 2.9 points per game average. Also, the efficiency with which Thierry scores those baskets is unmatched on the Buckeyes’ roster, and almost anywhere else in the entire country.
Across all of Division I NCAA basketball, Thierry is third in the country, scoring baskets at a 68.12% clip. That’s just below fellow Big Ten senior forward/center Mackenzie Holmes who, if not for the Iowa Hawkeyes’ Caitlin Clark, would be a frontrunner for conference player of the year.
“One of the things, and it’s kind of simple, is that she rarely takes a bad shot,” said McGuff. “She doesn’t force anything. She takes what comes to her and what the defensive gives her. Sometimes people get a little anxious out there, but she doesn’t do that.”
Take Saturday’s game against the Nebraska Cornhuskers for example. Thierry went 6-for-6 from the floor, mostly exploiting single coverage to attack the paint. It’s the third time Thierry’s been perfect from the field this season too. Something the freshman Thierry would’ve dished to a teammate.
That improvement’s intentional. Thierry is a coach’s dream. Someone who takes practice as seriously as the games themselves. When asked what she’d like to improve upon for the remainder of the season, it went further than practice.
“Continuing to put in the work outside of practice, shooting a lot,” said Thierry. “Just working on good skills in practice so when it comes game time, I’m ready.”
Thierry’s been ready, and she’s doing it alongside someone playing a similar role to herself: Freshman Cotie McMahon.
Looking at the Scarlet and Gray’s starting five against then No. 5 Tennessee Volunteers to tip off the season, seeing both Thierry and McMahon was a surprise. Ohio State of course won that game and every subsequent contest, and the two have started every game together.
Away from the court, they couldn’t be more different in terms of personalities. Thierry is quieter and McMahon shares what she’s thinking and has an endless supply of confidence. Even so, the two are propelling each other, and building trust.
“It’s always me and TT, no matter what, we’re always behind each other,” said McMahon. “That’s helped motivate each other a lot because we’re both very honest with each other and we both know what we’re capable of doing.”
The two forwards average a combined 24.9 points per game and 10.7 rebounds. Each of the Ohioans has also led a game in scoring for the Buckeyes, a stat that only three Ohio State players could claim in last season’s guard-heavy Taylor Mikesell and Jacy Sheldon scoring offense.
While Thierry isn’t competing with the Mikesells and McMahons of the world to be a leading scorer, Thierry’s role is laying a foundation for the rest of the team.
Thierry leads Ohio State in rebounds, and it isn’t close. Her 119 total rebounds are 23 more than the next player on the team and nobody is touching Thierry’s 52 offensive rebounds. What’s also nice about her rebounding ability is that the forward grabs them whether the Scarlet and Gray are up or down.
Against the Minnesota Golden Gophers, as Ohio State was cutting away at a deficit, Thierry grabbed eight second-half rebounds to keep the ball with the Buckeyes. That sentence works for most of the Buckeyes’ comebacks too, just switch out the team and number of rebounds.
Also, with Sheldon out, recovering from a foot injury, Theirry’s picked up the load to force more turnovers, leading the team with 39 steals. She does it through scrumming with opponents for the ball or using that same jumping on layups to pick passes out of the air like a cornerback in football.
Her game is consistent too.
It’s natural for players to have on and off nights, but no matter what, Thierry is performing in one or multiple areas game in and game out. Which has a lasting impact not only on the game but her teammates.
“It takes a lot of pressure because we know we can always count on her,” said McMahon. “There’s not a game where she’s not scoring then definitely, she’s killing on the boards or if she’s not killing on the boards, she’s doing amazing defensively and offensively. So, we can always count on her so there’s never a doubt with her.”
The scary thing to consider for Ohio State’s opponents is that Thierry is improving by the game and she’s working on becoming another deep shooter for McGuff’s 5-out motion offense. Teams are leaving Thierry open from three-point range, and if those shots start falling, the No. 2 team in the country gets better.
Deep game or not, the Scarlet & Gray isn’t a one-dimensional shooting team anymore and there’s a strong chance that the world hasn’t seen Thierry’s ceiling yet.
“She works incredibly hard in practice and I’m just really happy for her and proud of her for how much progress she’s made,” said McGuff. “She’s a terrific player and really an important part of our team.”
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
Ben Cole - Land-Grant Holy Land
After playing a bench role in 2021-22, the sophomore has cemented her place as a pivotal piece of the No. 2 ranked Buckeyes.
Before the start of the 22/23 season, the Ohio State women’s basketball team featured a roster full of returning veterans, and a lot of questions. So it goes in college basketball, players from multiple positions either finished their NCAA eligibility or transferred to other programs. That left a void to fill, and sophomore Taylor Thierry has filled it and then some.
Last season, the Buckeyes started all upperclassmen in their Big Ten regular season co-championship year. When forwards Braxtin Miller and sixth player Tanaya Beacham each ended their college careers, a starting spot opened, and head coach Kevin McGuff had a decision to make.
In October, Land-Grant Holy Land incorrectly predicted the names of the starting five, thinking that it’d look like last season’s three guards, two forwards set. Thierry was part of that starting five, reluctantly.
After all, the Shaker Heights, Ohio native was the seventh/eighth player on the roster and didn’t make a noticeable impact until the calendar flipped to 2022. Defensively, the freshman was great. Thierry grabbed steals, made game-altering blocks, and provided a needed boost of energy at moments of the game when play fell flat.
This season, Thierry’s still doing that but in a starting role. It’s not only boosts of energy or the occasional block anymore. Thierry’s playing consistently on both ends of the floor.
Thierry’s offense wasn’t part of her freshman season. The Division II First Team recruit from Northeast Ohio possesses the ability to get to the basket, and leaping ability to reach heights players taller than her still can’t reach but seemed to keep them under wraps last year.
The forward’s quiet demeanor off the court crept onto it as Thierry made the transition to a faster-paced, more physical, NCAA game. That’s gone now.
This season, Thierry averages 12.6 points per game, shooting up from last year’s 2.9 points per game average. Also, the efficiency with which Thierry scores those baskets is unmatched on the Buckeyes’ roster, and almost anywhere else in the entire country.
Across all of Division I NCAA basketball, Thierry is third in the country, scoring baskets at a 68.12% clip. That’s just below fellow Big Ten senior forward/center Mackenzie Holmes who, if not for the Iowa Hawkeyes’ Caitlin Clark, would be a frontrunner for conference player of the year.
“One of the things, and it’s kind of simple, is that she rarely takes a bad shot,” said McGuff. “She doesn’t force anything. She takes what comes to her and what the defensive gives her. Sometimes people get a little anxious out there, but she doesn’t do that.”
Take Saturday’s game against the Nebraska Cornhuskers for example. Thierry went 6-for-6 from the floor, mostly exploiting single coverage to attack the paint. It’s the third time Thierry’s been perfect from the field this season too. Something the freshman Thierry would’ve dished to a teammate.
That improvement’s intentional. Thierry is a coach’s dream. Someone who takes practice as seriously as the games themselves. When asked what she’d like to improve upon for the remainder of the season, it went further than practice.
“Continuing to put in the work outside of practice, shooting a lot,” said Thierry. “Just working on good skills in practice so when it comes game time, I’m ready.”
Thierry’s been ready, and she’s doing it alongside someone playing a similar role to herself: Freshman Cotie McMahon.
Looking at the Scarlet and Gray’s starting five against then No. 5 Tennessee Volunteers to tip off the season, seeing both Thierry and McMahon was a surprise. Ohio State of course won that game and every subsequent contest, and the two have started every game together.
Away from the court, they couldn’t be more different in terms of personalities. Thierry is quieter and McMahon shares what she’s thinking and has an endless supply of confidence. Even so, the two are propelling each other, and building trust.
“It’s always me and TT, no matter what, we’re always behind each other,” said McMahon. “That’s helped motivate each other a lot because we’re both very honest with each other and we both know what we’re capable of doing.”
The two forwards average a combined 24.9 points per game and 10.7 rebounds. Each of the Ohioans has also led a game in scoring for the Buckeyes, a stat that only three Ohio State players could claim in last season’s guard-heavy Taylor Mikesell and Jacy Sheldon scoring offense.
While Thierry isn’t competing with the Mikesells and McMahons of the world to be a leading scorer, Thierry’s role is laying a foundation for the rest of the team.
Thierry leads Ohio State in rebounds, and it isn’t close. Her 119 total rebounds are 23 more than the next player on the team and nobody is touching Thierry’s 52 offensive rebounds. What’s also nice about her rebounding ability is that the forward grabs them whether the Scarlet and Gray are up or down.
Against the Minnesota Golden Gophers, as Ohio State was cutting away at a deficit, Thierry grabbed eight second-half rebounds to keep the ball with the Buckeyes. That sentence works for most of the Buckeyes’ comebacks too, just switch out the team and number of rebounds.
Also, with Sheldon out, recovering from a foot injury, Theirry’s picked up the load to force more turnovers, leading the team with 39 steals. She does it through scrumming with opponents for the ball or using that same jumping on layups to pick passes out of the air like a cornerback in football.
Her game is consistent too.
It’s natural for players to have on and off nights, but no matter what, Thierry is performing in one or multiple areas game in and game out. Which has a lasting impact not only on the game but her teammates.
“It takes a lot of pressure because we know we can always count on her,” said McMahon. “There’s not a game where she’s not scoring then definitely, she’s killing on the boards or if she’s not killing on the boards, she’s doing amazing defensively and offensively. So, we can always count on her so there’s never a doubt with her.”
The scary thing to consider for Ohio State’s opponents is that Thierry is improving by the game and she’s working on becoming another deep shooter for McGuff’s 5-out motion offense. Teams are leaving Thierry open from three-point range, and if those shots start falling, the No. 2 team in the country gets better.
Deep game or not, the Scarlet & Gray isn’t a one-dimensional shooting team anymore and there’s a strong chance that the world hasn’t seen Thierry’s ceiling yet.
“She works incredibly hard in practice and I’m just really happy for her and proud of her for how much progress she’s made,” said McGuff. “She’s a terrific player and really an important part of our team.”
Continue reading...
LGHL Ohio State opens up their new lacrosse stadium this weekend
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- 0 Replies
Ohio State opens up their new lacrosse stadium this weekend
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 Mitchell Layton/Getty Images
The men’s lacrosse team will be the first to play at the state-of-the-art facility.
On Saturday Ohio State will open up their new lacrosse stadium when the Buckeyes host Lafayette in a scrimmage. The new stadium will be located between the Covelli Center and the Ty Tucker Tennis Center. The Board of Trustees approved stadium construction in August 2021, with groundbreaking of the $24.9 million dollar facility coming in early November 2021.
The new lacrosse stadium will be able to seat 1,894 people, which includes standing-room only seats. 772 of those seats are grandstand seats, with 112 of those seats having seatbacks. Every seat has a clear line of sight, whether it be from the grandstand seatbacks, under the grandstand, or from the rooftop viewing section.
A huge addition to the new stadium is going to be heated artificial turf. The turf will have 24 heat sensors, and over 21 miles of piping which will be used to heat the surface. The heated surface will make some cold weather matches in February and March a lot easier to handle for players.
Student-athletes will also benefit from a number of other additions that will help them hone their skills. The lacrosse-specific training areas include a practice room, training room, and outdoor wall ball. The new stadium will not only feature two locker rooms, as there will also be a locker room for officials.
What stood out most to me in renderings of the new stadium was the rooftop viewing areas and concession areas that have clear line of sight to the field. Even though it had to be quite an experience to play lacrosse at Ohio Stadium from the student-athletes, the size of the legendary stadium had a very cavernous feel. This new stadium feels like it fits a lot better, and should give the Buckeyes more of a home-field advantage.
The first team to take the field was the men’s lacrosse team, who held their first practice at the new stadium on Jan. 9. The Buckeyes will have two scrimmages at the facility before kicking off their season. This Saturday, Ohio State will host Lafayette, followed by another scrimmage next Saturday against Robert Morris.
The first regular season game for the Buckeye men’s team will come on Feb. 4 against Air Force. Overall, Ohio State will have seven regular season games at their new stadium, with the first of two Big Ten contests in Columbus coming on March 26 against Rutgers. The most interesting home game on the schedule will certainly be the regular season home finale on Sunday, April 9 at 7:00 p.m. against defending national champion Maryland.
Ohio State will be looking to make a deeper run in this year’s NCAA Tournament than they did last year, when they fell 15-8 at Cornell in the first round. With plenty of talent returning from last year’s team, expectations are high for the Buckeyes this year. Returning for another season is Jack Myers, who scored 38 goals and was credited with 45 assists last year.
Not only does Ohio State return eight of their top-ten scores from last year’s team, they also brought in a number of transfers who should add to an already talented team. The Buckeyes certainly have the pieces to make a deep run in this year’s tournament.
While the men’s team will get most of the headlines this year, don’t sleep on what the Ohio State’s women’s lacrosse team could do. The Buckeyes are coming off a 9-7 season in 2022, and will be looking to reach double digits in wins for the first time since the 2016 season.
The women’s team plays their first game at the new stadium on Feb. 10 when they host Robert Morris. Overall, the women’s team has nine games at the new stadium, with their final regular season home contest coming on April 15 against Northwestern.
Much like the men’s team, the women’s team has plenty of offense returning this year. Jamie Lasada scored 35 goals last year for Ohio State as a sophomore. Just behind Lasada was Nicole Ferrara, who is returning for her senior season after scoring 31 goals and recording 21 assists last year. Chloë Johnson and Jamie Level also cracked the 20-goal mark last season.
One area the Buckeyes shouldn’t have to worry about is in the net. Last year Regan Alexander started 15 of the 16 games for the Buckeyes, posting an 8-7 record with a 11.12 goals against average. With a year of starting experience already under her belt, the junior should be even better this year. If Alexander can find her groove early in the season in goal, it will go a long way in helping the Buckeyes possibly earn a bid to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2015.
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 Mitchell Layton/Getty Images
The men’s lacrosse team will be the first to play at the state-of-the-art facility.
On Saturday Ohio State will open up their new lacrosse stadium when the Buckeyes host Lafayette in a scrimmage. The new stadium will be located between the Covelli Center and the Ty Tucker Tennis Center. The Board of Trustees approved stadium construction in August 2021, with groundbreaking of the $24.9 million dollar facility coming in early November 2021.
The new lacrosse stadium will be able to seat 1,894 people, which includes standing-room only seats. 772 of those seats are grandstand seats, with 112 of those seats having seatbacks. Every seat has a clear line of sight, whether it be from the grandstand seatbacks, under the grandstand, or from the rooftop viewing section.
A huge addition to the new stadium is going to be heated artificial turf. The turf will have 24 heat sensors, and over 21 miles of piping which will be used to heat the surface. The heated surface will make some cold weather matches in February and March a lot easier to handle for players.
Student-athletes will also benefit from a number of other additions that will help them hone their skills. The lacrosse-specific training areas include a practice room, training room, and outdoor wall ball. The new stadium will not only feature two locker rooms, as there will also be a locker room for officials.
What stood out most to me in renderings of the new stadium was the rooftop viewing areas and concession areas that have clear line of sight to the field. Even though it had to be quite an experience to play lacrosse at Ohio Stadium from the student-athletes, the size of the legendary stadium had a very cavernous feel. This new stadium feels like it fits a lot better, and should give the Buckeyes more of a home-field advantage.
Men’s lacrosse outlook
The first team to take the field was the men’s lacrosse team, who held their first practice at the new stadium on Jan. 9. The Buckeyes will have two scrimmages at the facility before kicking off their season. This Saturday, Ohio State will host Lafayette, followed by another scrimmage next Saturday against Robert Morris.
The first regular season game for the Buckeye men’s team will come on Feb. 4 against Air Force. Overall, Ohio State will have seven regular season games at their new stadium, with the first of two Big Ten contests in Columbus coming on March 26 against Rutgers. The most interesting home game on the schedule will certainly be the regular season home finale on Sunday, April 9 at 7:00 p.m. against defending national champion Maryland.
Ohio State will be looking to make a deeper run in this year’s NCAA Tournament than they did last year, when they fell 15-8 at Cornell in the first round. With plenty of talent returning from last year’s team, expectations are high for the Buckeyes this year. Returning for another season is Jack Myers, who scored 38 goals and was credited with 45 assists last year.
Not only does Ohio State return eight of their top-ten scores from last year’s team, they also brought in a number of transfers who should add to an already talented team. The Buckeyes certainly have the pieces to make a deep run in this year’s tournament.
Women’s lacrosse outlook
While the men’s team will get most of the headlines this year, don’t sleep on what the Ohio State’s women’s lacrosse team could do. The Buckeyes are coming off a 9-7 season in 2022, and will be looking to reach double digits in wins for the first time since the 2016 season.
The women’s team plays their first game at the new stadium on Feb. 10 when they host Robert Morris. Overall, the women’s team has nine games at the new stadium, with their final regular season home contest coming on April 15 against Northwestern.
Much like the men’s team, the women’s team has plenty of offense returning this year. Jamie Lasada scored 35 goals last year for Ohio State as a sophomore. Just behind Lasada was Nicole Ferrara, who is returning for her senior season after scoring 31 goals and recording 21 assists last year. Chloë Johnson and Jamie Level also cracked the 20-goal mark last season.
One area the Buckeyes shouldn’t have to worry about is in the net. Last year Regan Alexander started 15 of the 16 games for the Buckeyes, posting an 8-7 record with a 11.12 goals against average. With a year of starting experience already under her belt, the junior should be even better this year. If Alexander can find her groove early in the season in goal, it will go a long way in helping the Buckeyes possibly earn a bid to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2015.
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LGHL Maybe 2023 will be the year Ryan Day finally lets the backups get some reps
- News
- 1 Replies
Maybe 2023 will be the year Ryan Day finally lets the backups get some reps
Gene Ross via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Ohio State’s head coach has yet to learn from prior mistakes.
After Justin Fields departed for the NFL Draft at the conclusion of the 2020 season, Ohio State entered the offseason with a quarterback battle between two players that had not thrown a pass in a college football game in C.J. Stroud and Jack Miller. Stroud of course won the race for the starting job, with Miller transferring to Florida, but the California kid struggled at the beginning of his first year at the helm of the offense.
Whether due to a shoulder injury or lack of experience, Stroud’s first three games were solid, but not elite, culminating in a 15-of-25 passing day for 185 yards with just one touchdown and an interception against Tulsa. He would sit out the team’s following game against Akron, and whether the benching allowed him to get healthy or to get his head right, Stroud was dominant for the rest of his career with the Buckeyes.
It made sense, it would appear, for Ohio State to avoid that sort of scenario moving forward by getting the backup QBs some real passing reps in blowout games. However, that is not at all what happened this year, even though everyone knew this would be Stroud’s last collegiate year as he’s potentially QB1 in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Despite the Buckeyes winning 11 games in 2022 by double-digits, with six of those wins being by at least 30 points, backup QBs Kyle McCord and Devin Brown got next to no playing time.
Looking at the snap counts for Ohio State’s quarterbacks not named Stroud, McCord led the way with a whopping 67 total snaps in 2022 — according to the Eleven Warriors snap counts — with only two games of more than 10 snaps against Toledo (14) and Michigan State (16). In those 67 snaps, McCord attempted only 20 total passes, completing 16 of them for 190 yards and a touchdown.
Brown saw even less time, recording only 15 total snaps on the year (nine against Toledo and six against Rutgers) while not attempting a single pass.
Those numbers look somewhat similar to the ones from 2020, when Fields was the only quarterback on the roster to attempt a pass with Stroud and Miller combining for just 18 total snaps. Obviously things were different with the COVID-shortened season, but it still hampered the development of the backup quarterbacks, much in the same way the 2022 season did not prepare the room to have a new starter in 2023.
The lack of playing time for backups is an issue for Ohio State that isn’t exclusive to the quarterback position, either.
When the Buckeyes lost Marvin Harrison Jr. in the Peach Bowl against Georgia, the offense lost its way. Ohio State has a ridiculous amount of talent stocked up at the wide receiver position, but nobody behind Emeka Egbuka and Xavier Johnson was ready to step up in that moment because they simply have not seen the field at the collegiate level in a real game scenario.
There likely isn’t another guy out there to match what Harrison Jr. brings to the field as one of the most elite receivers in the game, but there is no reason to have all these other blue-chippers waiting in the wings if they aren’t able to contribute when they are needed.
Kojo Antwi, Jayden Ballard, Caleb Burton, Kaleb Brown and Kyion Grayes were all four-star prospects are higher coming out of high school. Ballard played the most snaps of the bunch with 101 on the season, but nobody else on that list saw the field more than 27 times outside of special teams duty. Of that group, there were only 10 combined receptions on the year — eight of which were by Ballard, including a long 72-yard touchdown.
None of these guys were expected to see 500+ snaps similar to that of Harrison Jr., Egbuka and Julian Fleming, but it wouldn’t have hurt to see what these guys could do in a game and potentially contribute in the event of an injury — like the one that sidelined Harrison Jr. in the final game of the year.
When you’re winning games 45-12 (Arkansas State), 77-21 (Toledo), 52-21 (Wisconsin), 49-10 (Rutgers), 54-10 (Iowa), 56-14 (Indiana) and so on, there is no discernable reason to not be getting your backups reps to help you down the line, whether that be in the current year or when those guys become starters in the future.
Ryan Day has made it a habit of leaving the starters in too long in blowouts. Most of the time, even when the second-stringers do get a chance to enter the game, the offense gets watered down to hand-offs only — good for guys like Dallan Hayden, who saw 214 snaps as a freshman this year, but bad for quarterbacks and receivers.
The same can be said on the defensive side of the ball, where we didn’t get to see much of either of Ohio State’s five-star freshmen in C.J. Hicks and Sonny Styles this year, but these issues are more glaring on offense.
So now we enter the 2023 season with a quarterback battle between two guys with hardly any experience — something that was entirely preventable. McCord, of course, has the one start at Ohio State under his belt against Akron in 2021, but Day and the offensive staff did he and Brown no favors by not letting them get meaningful reps this year when there were ample opportunities to do so.
The receivers and running backs all coming back should make things a little easier for whoever earns the job as QB1, but it would behoove the Buckeyes’ coaches to let their talented underclassmen play a little here and there when you’re beating everyone by a million.
Continue reading...
Gene Ross via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Ohio State’s head coach has yet to learn from prior mistakes.
After Justin Fields departed for the NFL Draft at the conclusion of the 2020 season, Ohio State entered the offseason with a quarterback battle between two players that had not thrown a pass in a college football game in C.J. Stroud and Jack Miller. Stroud of course won the race for the starting job, with Miller transferring to Florida, but the California kid struggled at the beginning of his first year at the helm of the offense.
Whether due to a shoulder injury or lack of experience, Stroud’s first three games were solid, but not elite, culminating in a 15-of-25 passing day for 185 yards with just one touchdown and an interception against Tulsa. He would sit out the team’s following game against Akron, and whether the benching allowed him to get healthy or to get his head right, Stroud was dominant for the rest of his career with the Buckeyes.
It made sense, it would appear, for Ohio State to avoid that sort of scenario moving forward by getting the backup QBs some real passing reps in blowout games. However, that is not at all what happened this year, even though everyone knew this would be Stroud’s last collegiate year as he’s potentially QB1 in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Despite the Buckeyes winning 11 games in 2022 by double-digits, with six of those wins being by at least 30 points, backup QBs Kyle McCord and Devin Brown got next to no playing time.
Looking at the snap counts for Ohio State’s quarterbacks not named Stroud, McCord led the way with a whopping 67 total snaps in 2022 — according to the Eleven Warriors snap counts — with only two games of more than 10 snaps against Toledo (14) and Michigan State (16). In those 67 snaps, McCord attempted only 20 total passes, completing 16 of them for 190 yards and a touchdown.
Brown saw even less time, recording only 15 total snaps on the year (nine against Toledo and six against Rutgers) while not attempting a single pass.
Those numbers look somewhat similar to the ones from 2020, when Fields was the only quarterback on the roster to attempt a pass with Stroud and Miller combining for just 18 total snaps. Obviously things were different with the COVID-shortened season, but it still hampered the development of the backup quarterbacks, much in the same way the 2022 season did not prepare the room to have a new starter in 2023.
The lack of playing time for backups is an issue for Ohio State that isn’t exclusive to the quarterback position, either.
When the Buckeyes lost Marvin Harrison Jr. in the Peach Bowl against Georgia, the offense lost its way. Ohio State has a ridiculous amount of talent stocked up at the wide receiver position, but nobody behind Emeka Egbuka and Xavier Johnson was ready to step up in that moment because they simply have not seen the field at the collegiate level in a real game scenario.
There likely isn’t another guy out there to match what Harrison Jr. brings to the field as one of the most elite receivers in the game, but there is no reason to have all these other blue-chippers waiting in the wings if they aren’t able to contribute when they are needed.
Kojo Antwi, Jayden Ballard, Caleb Burton, Kaleb Brown and Kyion Grayes were all four-star prospects are higher coming out of high school. Ballard played the most snaps of the bunch with 101 on the season, but nobody else on that list saw the field more than 27 times outside of special teams duty. Of that group, there were only 10 combined receptions on the year — eight of which were by Ballard, including a long 72-yard touchdown.
None of these guys were expected to see 500+ snaps similar to that of Harrison Jr., Egbuka and Julian Fleming, but it wouldn’t have hurt to see what these guys could do in a game and potentially contribute in the event of an injury — like the one that sidelined Harrison Jr. in the final game of the year.
When you’re winning games 45-12 (Arkansas State), 77-21 (Toledo), 52-21 (Wisconsin), 49-10 (Rutgers), 54-10 (Iowa), 56-14 (Indiana) and so on, there is no discernable reason to not be getting your backups reps to help you down the line, whether that be in the current year or when those guys become starters in the future.
Ryan Day has made it a habit of leaving the starters in too long in blowouts. Most of the time, even when the second-stringers do get a chance to enter the game, the offense gets watered down to hand-offs only — good for guys like Dallan Hayden, who saw 214 snaps as a freshman this year, but bad for quarterbacks and receivers.
The same can be said on the defensive side of the ball, where we didn’t get to see much of either of Ohio State’s five-star freshmen in C.J. Hicks and Sonny Styles this year, but these issues are more glaring on offense.
So now we enter the 2023 season with a quarterback battle between two guys with hardly any experience — something that was entirely preventable. McCord, of course, has the one start at Ohio State under his belt against Akron in 2021, but Day and the offensive staff did he and Brown no favors by not letting them get meaningful reps this year when there were ample opportunities to do so.
The receivers and running backs all coming back should make things a little easier for whoever earns the job as QB1, but it would behoove the Buckeyes’ coaches to let their talented underclassmen play a little here and there when you’re beating everyone by a million.
Continue reading...
LGHL Tale of the Tape: Ohio State has a real quarterback competition on its hands
- News
- 0 Replies
Tale of the Tape: Ohio State has a real quarterback competition on its hands
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
Both Kyle McCord and Devin Brown bring blue chip pedigree, but that won’t be enough to win the job
Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud officially declared for the 2023 NFL Draft earlier this week. The Buckeyes now have a quarterback competition on their hands to find the next signal caller in the line of succession.
There are two likely candidates, the first of whom comes by way of the Philadelphia Catholic School League in now third-year QB Kyle McCord. McCord brings a five-star pedigree, two years of experience in Ryan Day’s system, and a relationship with Ohio State’s No. 1 receiving target Marvin Harrison Jr. that dates back to their days at St. Joseph’s (PA.) Preparatory Academy.
The second quarterback is Devin Brown, an early-enrollee just wrapping up his freshman season. Brown hails from Arizona, and originally played for Joe Germaine. After a tenuous end to his recruitment that changed on a dime with Clay Helton being fired from USC, Brown left his second high school in Corner Canyon (Utah) to push his chips into the middle of the table at Ohio State.
Both quarterbacks bring the arm-talent and competitive fire that is necessary when coming to play at a place like Ohio State. Neither quarterback wavered in their commitment to the school and the competition that would ensue after Stroud left. For the Buckeyes, they now have the Spring – and potentially summer – to decide on the player who will get the keys to the Ferrari come Week 1.
Ryan Day and Corey Dennis have been through this once together already. Just over two years ago, Justin Fields announced his decision to leave Ohio State for the NFL. The competition that ensued ended up being more talk than an actual competition, but this one already feels different. There is little gap between the talent levels of the McCord and Brown. McCord has an experience edge, but he has not played an otherworldly amount of snaps in relief duty.
Looking at the two side by side from their spring game performances and limited game action can give an initial look at the two players who will define the expectations of the 2023 Ohio State Buckeyes.
Kyle McCord’s skillset
McCord has one start under his belt. In that game against Akron in 2021, he flashed some tools that could translate to him being a serviceable starter. With Ryan Day keeping the harness on him for that game, there was no real look into the upside he potentially has, which takes us to the tools he has that makes him an interesting option at quarterback.
As a more pure pocket passer, McCord has enough athleticism to get out and throw on the move with designed rollouts. This keeps that dynamic in the Day offense, but that is not where McCord will make his money. McCord has shown a willingness to maneuver in the pocket in his limited opportunities, and has flashed excellent arm talent many quarterbacks couldn’t dream of.
Looking at the play below gives us a significant glimpse at what McCord is capable of as a passer. The timing shown here comes from understanding the concept, which starts with experience in the system. McCord looks off to the left at the start of the play, and knows if the safety stays in the middle there will be a huge window to hit the tight end up the field.
McCord uses his eyes to set up the safety, but makes a nuanced play in the pocket with his feet side stepping the rush. This allows him to stay on schedule and deliver a strike on time downfield with some mustard on the throw.
via GIPHY
The arm-talent was on display in the previous play. In the next one, McCord works the pocket and delivers another nice throw.
McCord reads through his progressions, and knows where the open receiver is going to be based on the coverage. In this play, McCord has to maneuver in the pocket, and the slight shuffle to the left gives him the breathing room to throw. This play shows the timing and pocket presence that McCord developed in his first year at Ohio State.
via GIPHY
The last Spring Game play here, McCord flashes the exact trait that made him such an appealing quarterback prospect. This throw wasn’t dropped into a bucket, but the ability to throw the ball 50 yards downfield with no wind up is impressive. McCord also throws this ball again with timing and delivers a strike.
via GIPHY
For McCord, his two significant advantages in the competition are having another year in the program and a start under his belt. In that start, McCord was a point guard responsible for getting the ball in his elite players hands. This resulted in a lot of screens and pop-completions on jet sweeps, but he made a few throws that stood out.
After getting off to a rough start on the first few series, Day and company found some creative ways to get the ball moving downfield. With a few successful drives, McCord’s confidence grew as his play time went on.
In the next play, we can see him starting to get into a rhythm. He goes through his progressions and the ball flies off his hand to Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
via GIPHY
Last play on the day, the arm strength is really what separates McCord. From the pocket McCord can widen the field of play with his ability to throw sideline to sideline. The play below shows that even when the play takes forever to develop, he still has the arm to stretch the field and deliver throws. Sure, it was against Akron’s secondary, but that’s still a live opponent he completed passes against.
The Buckeyes used McCord in spot-duty this year, but never really allowed him to run the entire offense. Most throws he was tasked with were timing throws or quick game. He never really had an opportunity to stretch the field in 2022. That being said, he had moments of sharpness, but also had a few throws where it felt like he was pressing due to limited opportunity.
For McCord, showing he can move the chains and strike in key moments will be what separates him in the competition.
Devin Brown’s skillset
After committing to Ohio State, watching Devin Brown’s high school highlights gave me an immediate impression of a top-level starting quarterback. Moving to a more vertically inclined passing offense that has had its fair share of talented signal-callers make their way through, Brown showed an ability to layer the football few quarterbacks possess.
Adding to this is his ability to make plays off script and outside the pocket, which the Buckeyes did not get routinely with Stroud, and likely won’t get much of with McCord. If Day reels him in, the competition will come down to decision making, timing, and ability to distribute the ball effectively. If he doesn’t, then Brown has a skillset the Buckeyes might need with the offensive line questions.
The first play when looking at Brown was his throw on his first touchdown. This is a straight read. If the corner has leverage, the quarterback is going to throw it. With the coverage the defense was playing, the read was obvious, and Brown delivered the ball on time. This shows his arm strength and the raw ability that will be brought to the table.
via GIPHY
With the cards down, Brown showed a willingness to run the ball in the Spring Game and in his limited opportunity in live game action. Coach Day probably will not go against his habits, opting to not run his quarterback. Brown still has the ability and is comfortable in read option situations.
There is no doubt this can be a significant part of the offense with Brown if he wins the job, and this adds another dimension as well as provides another play type for the Buckeye offense to help the young quarterback.
via GIPHY
Brown’s best throw in the spring game was an incompletion later in the game. Brown takes his drop and scans the field until he finds a matchup with leverage. The receiver is able to beat the man guarding him and find space on the safety, and despite being in double coverage, Brown delivers a strike where only his receiver could catch it.
This is a tough catch which ends up not being made, but not many quarterbacks on the planet have the confidence – or arm talent – to make this throw.
via GIPHY
Now Brown had a number of throws that flashed his arm strength in the spring game, but none of that fully translates to a real game. For Brown, he has to earn enough trust in the coaching staff that the lack of game experience does not matter. The talent is there, and the ceiling for Brown due to his athleticism in my eyes is higher, but that won’t matter if the consistency doesn’t match the upside.
Like with Stroud, this competition will come down to the player who gives the team the most reliable ability to keep the offense moving. Whichever quarterback wins the job will have definitely earned it.
Why each quarterback can win the job?
Both quarterbacks ran head first into a loaded quarterback room, and that says a lot about the two guys this will likely come down to.
McCord has the experience edge, and has been living with the two best receivers in the country entering next season since he got to school. The reps behind the scenes have to have added up by this point. Entering the Spring, McCord was the definitive back up last season, and that goes a long way in how he enters the offseason. If he can maintain his standing and have a strong showing early, he can keep this thing at an arms length.
On the other side, Brown brings in an uncanny ability to throw off-platform. He does all the fun stuff you want from a quarterback as a fan with his arm strength outside the pocket and on the run. If the offensive line isn’t up to the task, Brown might be the best option due to his escapability. If he can harness the wow throws and the brazen style of play, his ceiling to me is greater.
In a way, this battle will come down to consistency, as both players have the ability to lead the offense. With the differing skillsets, the design of the offense can be entirely different depending on who wins the job. For the first time in a while there’s a real quarterback competition at Ohio State. Both honest suitors for the role come in with high pedigree.
The winner is a long way from being decided, but I’m not one to limit the debate. Devin Brown, Kyle McCord — the chips are on the table. Let the games begin.
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
Both Kyle McCord and Devin Brown bring blue chip pedigree, but that won’t be enough to win the job
Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud officially declared for the 2023 NFL Draft earlier this week. The Buckeyes now have a quarterback competition on their hands to find the next signal caller in the line of succession.
There are two likely candidates, the first of whom comes by way of the Philadelphia Catholic School League in now third-year QB Kyle McCord. McCord brings a five-star pedigree, two years of experience in Ryan Day’s system, and a relationship with Ohio State’s No. 1 receiving target Marvin Harrison Jr. that dates back to their days at St. Joseph’s (PA.) Preparatory Academy.
The second quarterback is Devin Brown, an early-enrollee just wrapping up his freshman season. Brown hails from Arizona, and originally played for Joe Germaine. After a tenuous end to his recruitment that changed on a dime with Clay Helton being fired from USC, Brown left his second high school in Corner Canyon (Utah) to push his chips into the middle of the table at Ohio State.
Both quarterbacks bring the arm-talent and competitive fire that is necessary when coming to play at a place like Ohio State. Neither quarterback wavered in their commitment to the school and the competition that would ensue after Stroud left. For the Buckeyes, they now have the Spring – and potentially summer – to decide on the player who will get the keys to the Ferrari come Week 1.
Ryan Day and Corey Dennis have been through this once together already. Just over two years ago, Justin Fields announced his decision to leave Ohio State for the NFL. The competition that ensued ended up being more talk than an actual competition, but this one already feels different. There is little gap between the talent levels of the McCord and Brown. McCord has an experience edge, but he has not played an otherworldly amount of snaps in relief duty.
Looking at the two side by side from their spring game performances and limited game action can give an initial look at the two players who will define the expectations of the 2023 Ohio State Buckeyes.
Kyle McCord’s skillset
McCord has one start under his belt. In that game against Akron in 2021, he flashed some tools that could translate to him being a serviceable starter. With Ryan Day keeping the harness on him for that game, there was no real look into the upside he potentially has, which takes us to the tools he has that makes him an interesting option at quarterback.
As a more pure pocket passer, McCord has enough athleticism to get out and throw on the move with designed rollouts. This keeps that dynamic in the Day offense, but that is not where McCord will make his money. McCord has shown a willingness to maneuver in the pocket in his limited opportunities, and has flashed excellent arm talent many quarterbacks couldn’t dream of.
Looking at the play below gives us a significant glimpse at what McCord is capable of as a passer. The timing shown here comes from understanding the concept, which starts with experience in the system. McCord looks off to the left at the start of the play, and knows if the safety stays in the middle there will be a huge window to hit the tight end up the field.
McCord uses his eyes to set up the safety, but makes a nuanced play in the pocket with his feet side stepping the rush. This allows him to stay on schedule and deliver a strike on time downfield with some mustard on the throw.
via GIPHY
The arm-talent was on display in the previous play. In the next one, McCord works the pocket and delivers another nice throw.
McCord reads through his progressions, and knows where the open receiver is going to be based on the coverage. In this play, McCord has to maneuver in the pocket, and the slight shuffle to the left gives him the breathing room to throw. This play shows the timing and pocket presence that McCord developed in his first year at Ohio State.
via GIPHY
The last Spring Game play here, McCord flashes the exact trait that made him such an appealing quarterback prospect. This throw wasn’t dropped into a bucket, but the ability to throw the ball 50 yards downfield with no wind up is impressive. McCord also throws this ball again with timing and delivers a strike.
via GIPHY
For McCord, his two significant advantages in the competition are having another year in the program and a start under his belt. In that start, McCord was a point guard responsible for getting the ball in his elite players hands. This resulted in a lot of screens and pop-completions on jet sweeps, but he made a few throws that stood out.
After getting off to a rough start on the first few series, Day and company found some creative ways to get the ball moving downfield. With a few successful drives, McCord’s confidence grew as his play time went on.
In the next play, we can see him starting to get into a rhythm. He goes through his progressions and the ball flies off his hand to Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
via GIPHY
Last play on the day, the arm strength is really what separates McCord. From the pocket McCord can widen the field of play with his ability to throw sideline to sideline. The play below shows that even when the play takes forever to develop, he still has the arm to stretch the field and deliver throws. Sure, it was against Akron’s secondary, but that’s still a live opponent he completed passes against.
The Buckeyes used McCord in spot-duty this year, but never really allowed him to run the entire offense. Most throws he was tasked with were timing throws or quick game. He never really had an opportunity to stretch the field in 2022. That being said, he had moments of sharpness, but also had a few throws where it felt like he was pressing due to limited opportunity.
For McCord, showing he can move the chains and strike in key moments will be what separates him in the competition.
Devin Brown’s skillset
After committing to Ohio State, watching Devin Brown’s high school highlights gave me an immediate impression of a top-level starting quarterback. Moving to a more vertically inclined passing offense that has had its fair share of talented signal-callers make their way through, Brown showed an ability to layer the football few quarterbacks possess.
Adding to this is his ability to make plays off script and outside the pocket, which the Buckeyes did not get routinely with Stroud, and likely won’t get much of with McCord. If Day reels him in, the competition will come down to decision making, timing, and ability to distribute the ball effectively. If he doesn’t, then Brown has a skillset the Buckeyes might need with the offensive line questions.
The first play when looking at Brown was his throw on his first touchdown. This is a straight read. If the corner has leverage, the quarterback is going to throw it. With the coverage the defense was playing, the read was obvious, and Brown delivered the ball on time. This shows his arm strength and the raw ability that will be brought to the table.
via GIPHY
With the cards down, Brown showed a willingness to run the ball in the Spring Game and in his limited opportunity in live game action. Coach Day probably will not go against his habits, opting to not run his quarterback. Brown still has the ability and is comfortable in read option situations.
There is no doubt this can be a significant part of the offense with Brown if he wins the job, and this adds another dimension as well as provides another play type for the Buckeye offense to help the young quarterback.
via GIPHY
Brown’s best throw in the spring game was an incompletion later in the game. Brown takes his drop and scans the field until he finds a matchup with leverage. The receiver is able to beat the man guarding him and find space on the safety, and despite being in double coverage, Brown delivers a strike where only his receiver could catch it.
This is a tough catch which ends up not being made, but not many quarterbacks on the planet have the confidence – or arm talent – to make this throw.
via GIPHY
Now Brown had a number of throws that flashed his arm strength in the spring game, but none of that fully translates to a real game. For Brown, he has to earn enough trust in the coaching staff that the lack of game experience does not matter. The talent is there, and the ceiling for Brown due to his athleticism in my eyes is higher, but that won’t matter if the consistency doesn’t match the upside.
Like with Stroud, this competition will come down to the player who gives the team the most reliable ability to keep the offense moving. Whichever quarterback wins the job will have definitely earned it.
Why each quarterback can win the job?
Both quarterbacks ran head first into a loaded quarterback room, and that says a lot about the two guys this will likely come down to.
McCord has the experience edge, and has been living with the two best receivers in the country entering next season since he got to school. The reps behind the scenes have to have added up by this point. Entering the Spring, McCord was the definitive back up last season, and that goes a long way in how he enters the offseason. If he can maintain his standing and have a strong showing early, he can keep this thing at an arms length.
On the other side, Brown brings in an uncanny ability to throw off-platform. He does all the fun stuff you want from a quarterback as a fan with his arm strength outside the pocket and on the run. If the offensive line isn’t up to the task, Brown might be the best option due to his escapability. If he can harness the wow throws and the brazen style of play, his ceiling to me is greater.
In a way, this battle will come down to consistency, as both players have the ability to lead the offense. With the differing skillsets, the design of the offense can be entirely different depending on who wins the job. For the first time in a while there’s a real quarterback competition at Ohio State. Both honest suitors for the role come in with high pedigree.
The winner is a long way from being decided, but I’m not one to limit the debate. Devin Brown, Kyle McCord — the chips are on the table. Let the games begin.
Continue reading...
The 2023 Spring Game, Sat. 4/15, 12pm EST, BTN
- By ScriptOhio
- 2023 Football Season Capsule
- 101 Replies
Ohio State to host annual Spring Game on April 15; tickets on sale Feb. 10
The exhibition will be the first chance to fans to see quarterbacks Kyle McCord and Devin Brown compete in 2023.
www.10tv.com
Ohio State football will host the program’s annual Spring Game on Saturday, April 15 at noon in Ohio Stadium.
Tickets will go on sale at 10 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 10 at this link. General admission tickets are $7, plus there will be a limited number of reserved seating options available at $15 and $30.
The Spring Game exhibition will be the first chance to fans to see quarterbacks Kyle McCord and Devin Brown compete in 2023. The two are the frontrunners to replace C.J. Stroud, who declared for the 2023 NFL Draft.
LGHL Why is this News? All the articles and tweets Buckeye fans need for January 19, 2023
- News
- 1 Replies
Why is this News? All the articles and tweets Buckeye fans need for January 19, 2023
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
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!
Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio
Ohio State picks up offensive line transfer from Louisiana Monroe
Joey Kaufman, The Columbus Dispatch
New O-line commit ready to get started, discusses decision to be a Buckeye and future at Ohio State
Bill Kurelic, Bucknuts
What adding OL transfer Victor Cutler means for Buckeyes (paywall)
Bill Landis, Dotting the Eyes
Welcome to the fam, Victor.
A larger coaching role should lead to a larger recruiting role for Brian Hartline and Ohio State
Caleb Houser, Land-Grant Holy Land
Five Questions for Buckeyes after NFL Draft deadline
Austin Ward, Dotting the Eyes
Making way-too-early projection for Buckeyes defensive depth chart next season (paywall)
Spencer Holbrook, Lettermen Row
I mean, it’s only four; one is a placekicker and another is a long-snapper, but ok.
You’re Nuts: Who will replace C.J. Stroud as Ohio State’s quarterback?
Matt Tamanini and Jami Jurich, Land-Grant Holy Land
Three takeaways from Ohio State’s painful loss on the road to Nebraska
Justin Golba, Land-Grant Holy Land
At Nebraska, Buckeyes suffer fifth straight single-digit Big Ten loss
Adam Jardy, The Columbus Dispatch
B1G WBB Week 10: Indiana and Maryland battle, Ohio State shines in award predictions
Thomas Costello, Land-Grant Holy Land
Column: The Urban Meyer NFL experiment was an even bigger disaster than we realized
Meredith Hein, Land-Grant Holy Land
Wrestling: Freshman Mendez Earns his Black Shirt
Ohio State Athletics
Women’s Tennis: Bereznyak Recognized as B1G Athlete of the Week
Ohio State Athletics
Men’s Swimming and Diving: Quach, Campbell Claim B1G Weekly Awards
Ohio State Athletics
lolz
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
All the Buckeye news thats fit to re-print.
Look, we get it. Your days are busy and you don’t have time to read all of the stories and tweets from the three dozen websites dedicated to covering Ohio State athletics, or the 237 Buckeye beat writers churning out hot takes and #content on a daily basis. But that’s ok, that’s what your friends at Land-Grant Holy Land are here for.
Monday through Friday, we’ll be collecting all of the articles, tweets, features, interviews, videos, podcasts, memes, photos, and whatever else we stumble across on the interwebz and putting them in our daily “Why is this News?” article. That way, you’ll have a one-stop shop for all of the most important Buckeye news, jokes, and analysis.
You’re welcome!
For your Earholes...
Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio
On the Gridiron
Ohio State picks up offensive line transfer from Louisiana Monroe
Joey Kaufman, The Columbus Dispatch
New O-line commit ready to get started, discusses decision to be a Buckeye and future at Ohio State
Bill Kurelic, Bucknuts
What adding OL transfer Victor Cutler means for Buckeyes (paywall)
Bill Landis, Dotting the Eyes
Welcome to the fam, Victor.
A larger coaching role should lead to a larger recruiting role for Brian Hartline and Ohio State
Caleb Houser, Land-Grant Holy Land
Five Questions for Buckeyes after NFL Draft deadline
Austin Ward, Dotting the Eyes
Making way-too-early projection for Buckeyes defensive depth chart next season (paywall)
Spencer Holbrook, Lettermen Row
I mean, it’s only four; one is a placekicker and another is a long-snapper, but ok.
You’re Nuts: Who will replace C.J. Stroud as Ohio State’s quarterback?
Matt Tamanini and Jami Jurich, Land-Grant Holy Land
On the Hardwood
Three takeaways from Ohio State’s painful loss on the road to Nebraska
Justin Golba, Land-Grant Holy Land
At Nebraska, Buckeyes suffer fifth straight single-digit Big Ten loss
Adam Jardy, The Columbus Dispatch
B1G WBB Week 10: Indiana and Maryland battle, Ohio State shines in award predictions
Thomas Costello, Land-Grant Holy Land
Outside the Shoe and Schott
Column: The Urban Meyer NFL experiment was an even bigger disaster than we realized
Meredith Hein, Land-Grant Holy Land
Wrestling: Freshman Mendez Earns his Black Shirt
Ohio State Athletics
Women’s Tennis: Bereznyak Recognized as B1G Athlete of the Week
Ohio State Athletics
Men’s Swimming and Diving: Quach, Campbell Claim B1G Weekly Awards
Ohio State Athletics
And now for something completely different...
lolz
Continue reading...
LGHL Game Preview: No. 2 Ohio State women’s basketball vs. Northwestern
- News
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Game Preview: No. 2 Ohio State women’s basketball vs. Northwestern
1ThomasCostello via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Twitter | @NUWBBall
The Buckeyes return home to wrap up their regular season series against the Wildcats.
As the Big Ten season is heating up for the Ohio State women’s basketball team, Thursday night welcomes the Northwestern Wildcats to the Schottenstein Center. The Wildcats bring their blizzard defense, hoping to cool down the streak of the Buckeyes before next week’s games against the No. 10 Iowa Hawkeyes and No. 6 Indiana Hoosiers.
It’s also the first game of the season against a repeat opponent. Ohio State versus Northwestern Pt. 2 features the teams on the top and bottom of the standings, but anything can happen in the Big Ten.
On Dec. 28, the Buckeyes traveled to Evanston, Illinois and grabbed a convincing 81-48 against the Wildcats, but Thursday might not be the same team from December.
Sure, Northwestern isn’t doing fantastic. They haven’t won any of their seven conference games this season, but in the Buckeyes’ previous meeting with Northwestern, the Wildcats struggled to keep role players on the court.
Forwards Paige Mott and Caileigh Walsh, who average a combined 18.9 points and 9.1 rebounds per game, got into foul trouble early. The two forwards played 13 and 15 minutes respectively, and Walsh was especially a tough miss for coach Joe McKeown’s side. The forward averaged 13.4 before the meeting with Ohio State but scored seven points.
Thursday, the venue changes, and Northwestern hopes that comes with less whistles.
Northwestern is a dangerous team for a few reasons. The first is added motivation. McKeown’s Wildcats won the regular season Big Ten title in 2019-20. Now, they’re in the cellar of the conference.
Another is having a dominant forward. Walsh is only a sophomore, but has the ability to do what other bigs have done against Ohio State this season. If Northwestern finds Walsh in the paint, if the Buckeyes aren’t ready the Wildcats will keep the game close. See the previous home game against Illinois Fighting Illini’s forward Kendall Bostic for proof, putting up 27 points and 15 rebounds on the Scarlet & Gray.
The third is their defense. Northwestern plays a zone called the “blizzard.” It’s the equivalent of the Buckeyes full court press but shrunk down into a half court defense. The Wildcats will double-team and charge at any ball carrier in the half court. Ohio State’s passing side-to-side should break it up like it did in December, but the Buckeyes have moments where their play isn’t there.
Fewer of those moments for head coach Kevin McGuff’s side and a win seems likely. However, with the Hawkeyes looming four days later, eyes might not be too focused on Northwestern.
“You know how it is, you get ranked No. 2 and win 18 games and everyone’s telling you how good you are,” said McGuff. “So I try to really hammer home every single day that the goal for us right now is to continue to get better, get prepared for the next game on the schedule and that’s where we really put our emphasis and focus.”
Ohio State’s overcome everything that has come their way this season, so Northwestern shouldn’t surprise the Buckeyes.
The Scarlet & Gray will feed off the home crowd, and continue working on improving their half court defense against Northwestern. It won’t likely be the constant full court press that fans are used to, so the game will be closer than expected at times.
Even so, the home team wins this game in the end. Thierry will get her first double-double of her career, but certainly not her last.
Date: Thursday, Jan. 19, 2023
Time: 6:30 p.m. ET
Where: Schottenstein Center, Columbus, Ohio
Television: Big Ten Network
Stream: Fox Sports with a Big Ten Network subscription
While high school athletes are setting out their college hats on a table and streaming their decisions across social media, the Buckeyes have been quiet. The Buckeyes signed two players earlier in the season, but none of the top 2023 names have chosen Ohio State.
Wednesday, coach McGuff shared that there are a few players the Buckeyes are in contact with, but their recruiting overall has changed.
“It’s making sure we continue to find the right kids that fit our program because I think that’s a big part of our success right now,” said McGuff. “We’ve got outstanding kids that they really fit Ohio State and our culture and our program overall.”
The formula’s worked last season and this year, so it might not be going for the top-10 recruits, but finding the mid-level recruits who fit what McGuff and Ohio State is building.
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
Twitter | @NUWBBall
The Buckeyes return home to wrap up their regular season series against the Wildcats.
As the Big Ten season is heating up for the Ohio State women’s basketball team, Thursday night welcomes the Northwestern Wildcats to the Schottenstein Center. The Wildcats bring their blizzard defense, hoping to cool down the streak of the Buckeyes before next week’s games against the No. 10 Iowa Hawkeyes and No. 6 Indiana Hoosiers.
It’s also the first game of the season against a repeat opponent. Ohio State versus Northwestern Pt. 2 features the teams on the top and bottom of the standings, but anything can happen in the Big Ten.
Preview
On Dec. 28, the Buckeyes traveled to Evanston, Illinois and grabbed a convincing 81-48 against the Wildcats, but Thursday might not be the same team from December.
Sure, Northwestern isn’t doing fantastic. They haven’t won any of their seven conference games this season, but in the Buckeyes’ previous meeting with Northwestern, the Wildcats struggled to keep role players on the court.
Forwards Paige Mott and Caileigh Walsh, who average a combined 18.9 points and 9.1 rebounds per game, got into foul trouble early. The two forwards played 13 and 15 minutes respectively, and Walsh was especially a tough miss for coach Joe McKeown’s side. The forward averaged 13.4 before the meeting with Ohio State but scored seven points.
Thursday, the venue changes, and Northwestern hopes that comes with less whistles.
Northwestern is a dangerous team for a few reasons. The first is added motivation. McKeown’s Wildcats won the regular season Big Ten title in 2019-20. Now, they’re in the cellar of the conference.
Another is having a dominant forward. Walsh is only a sophomore, but has the ability to do what other bigs have done against Ohio State this season. If Northwestern finds Walsh in the paint, if the Buckeyes aren’t ready the Wildcats will keep the game close. See the previous home game against Illinois Fighting Illini’s forward Kendall Bostic for proof, putting up 27 points and 15 rebounds on the Scarlet & Gray.
The third is their defense. Northwestern plays a zone called the “blizzard.” It’s the equivalent of the Buckeyes full court press but shrunk down into a half court defense. The Wildcats will double-team and charge at any ball carrier in the half court. Ohio State’s passing side-to-side should break it up like it did in December, but the Buckeyes have moments where their play isn’t there.
Fewer of those moments for head coach Kevin McGuff’s side and a win seems likely. However, with the Hawkeyes looming four days later, eyes might not be too focused on Northwestern.
“You know how it is, you get ranked No. 2 and win 18 games and everyone’s telling you how good you are,” said McGuff. “So I try to really hammer home every single day that the goal for us right now is to continue to get better, get prepared for the next game on the schedule and that’s where we really put our emphasis and focus.”
Projected Lineups
Lineup Notes
- Forward Taylor Thierry was perfect from the field against Nebraska on Saturday, hitting all seven of her shot attempts.
- Freshman forward Cotie McMahon led Ohio State in scoring the last time they faced Northwestern, scoring 24 points and grabbing four rebounds.
- Three Buckeyes were a shot or rebound or two away from a double-double for the away trip against Northwestern. Guard Taylor Mikesell, Rikki Harris and Thierry were each a possession away from the feat.
Lineup Notes
- Walsh enters Columbus scoring 32 points in the last two games, with 22 points coming against the Iowa Hawkeyes.
- Guard Jillian Brown and forward Courtney Shaw led Northwestern against Ohio State, both coming in off the bench, with 13 and 12 points, respectively
- Guard Sydney Wood is second in the Big Ten in steals and steals per game, totalling 43 for 2.5 steals per game.
Prediction
Ohio State’s overcome everything that has come their way this season, so Northwestern shouldn’t surprise the Buckeyes.
The Scarlet & Gray will feed off the home crowd, and continue working on improving their half court defense against Northwestern. It won’t likely be the constant full court press that fans are used to, so the game will be closer than expected at times.
Even so, the home team wins this game in the end. Thierry will get her first double-double of her career, but certainly not her last.
How to Watch
Date: Thursday, Jan. 19, 2023
Time: 6:30 p.m. ET
Where: Schottenstein Center, Columbus, Ohio
Television: Big Ten Network
Stream: Fox Sports with a Big Ten Network subscription
LGHL Prediction: 78-55 Ohio State Buckeyes
Recruiting Update
While high school athletes are setting out their college hats on a table and streaming their decisions across social media, the Buckeyes have been quiet. The Buckeyes signed two players earlier in the season, but none of the top 2023 names have chosen Ohio State.
Wednesday, coach McGuff shared that there are a few players the Buckeyes are in contact with, but their recruiting overall has changed.
“It’s making sure we continue to find the right kids that fit our program because I think that’s a big part of our success right now,” said McGuff. “We’ve got outstanding kids that they really fit Ohio State and our culture and our program overall.”
The formula’s worked last season and this year, so it might not be going for the top-10 recruits, but finding the mid-level recruits who fit what McGuff and Ohio State is building.
Continue reading...
