Ohio State Moments: Michael Thomas
Ken via our good friends at Buckeye Battle Cry
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


(Image courtesy Columbus Dispatch)

The NFL Draft is right around the corner and over the next few days, the staff here at The Buckeye Battle Cry want to share with you our favorite Buckeye Moments from the draft eligible players from the Ohio State program.

Today, we look at wide receiver Michael Thomas. The Los Angeles CA native finished the 2015 season as Ohio State’s leading receiver with 781 yards, which accounted for nearly 1/3 of the Buckeyes’ passing offense. His 56 receptions included 9 TD catches.

Here are my five top moments during Thomas’ Ohio State career.

5. October 24, 2015 – The “Sidestep-Sprint-Score” vs. Rutgers


Ohio State was leading 7-0 midway through the 2nd quarter. J.T. Barrett found Thomas on a short sideline route. Thomas catches the pass, squares up, feints the defender then sprints to the end zone. This demonstrated his field awareness and acceleration. As a bonus, Paul Keels calls the play.




4. October 17, 2015 – “One Hand TD” vs. Penn State


Ohio State was already putting the wood to PSU, but the Buckeyes can always score more in this game, right? With the Buckeyes up 31-10 with 4 minutes remaining, J.T. Barrett throws a back-shoulder fade to Thomas. Michael proceeds to fend off the defender with his left arm while making one-handed catch with his right.


The annoying thing about the telecast is that color commentator Kirk Herbstreit does not once mention what a good catch it was. Yes, Herbie, it was a very good throw, but good-god, give the receiver some credit!.

3. September 7, 2015 – “See-ya Move” vs. Virginia Tech

In the “Revenge Game” against Virginia Tech, Ohio State had things pretty well in hand all evening. With the Buckeyes leading 31-17, Michael Thomas absolutely freezes Kendall Fuller for a TD to ice the game for OSU.


Fuller was one of, if not the, best corner in CFB last season. For Thomas to embarrass a player of that capability that early in the season was a confidence builder for the rest of the year.


2. January 1, 2015 – “The Catch” vs. Alabama, National Playoff Game


Yes, I’m sure that Herbie would agree this is a very well thrown pass, but it’s an even better catch. It showed Michael’s perfect field awareness, athleticism and ability to make a play “in the moment”. And “in the moment” gave Ohio State a breath of life in the game.

This was quite the catch. And pass.


1. November 28, 2015 – “The Celebration” vs. Michigan

Probably my favorite moment in Michael Thomas’ career at Ohio State was when he took the field with :06 remaining in the game as part of OSU’s “victory” formation. The Buckeyes had just dismantled the Wolverines in the initial meeting between Urban Meyer and Jim Harbaugh, leaving no doubt who the alpha male is.

This is sheer joy.

Well done, Michael, well done. And thank you.

What are your favorite Michael Thomas’ moments? Share your thoughts below and stay tuned for more in the Ohio State Moments series throughout the week leading to the NFL Draft.

The post Ohio State Moments: Michael Thomas appeared first on The Buckeye Battle Cry: Ohio State News and Commentary.

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Ohio State sends offer to WR from Lone Star State
Austin Kemp via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Ohio State extended an offer to Omar Manning. Do the Buckeyes have a chance at making him become a member of the scarlet and gray family?

With spring practice over, the full attention of the Ohio State coaching staff will be spent on the recruiting trail. We are entering the spring evaluation period which is always one of the busiest times for coaches when it comes to recruiting. The Buckeyes' staff will be in to see many prospects over the next month as they try and add onto an already loaded class for this cycle.

A new offer went out on Tuesday night to wide receiver prospect Omar Manning (Lancaster, Texas / Lancaster). Manning checks in at 6 feet 3 inches tall, 200 pounds and is a beast in every sense of the word. He's an instant mismatch for defensive backs because of his size and he's also strong enough to break through the arm tackles of linebackers.

Holding 31 total offers, Manning can be selective and take his recruiting process slow. TCU and Texas A&M are thought to be the favorites at this point, according to 247Sports. For Ohio State to have a shot, they'll need to get Manning on campus sometime this summer. Though there are limited spots left in the 2017 class, Manning is a talent that wouldn't be passed on if he wanted to commit. Still, Ohio State will be fighting an uphill battle in this one, trying to get back in the race for the four-star receiver. Overall, Manning is rated as the 21st best receiver.




Checking in with the RB from the Magnolia State


According to reports, Ohio State running back coach Tony Alford will be in Mississippi today to check in on Cam Akers (Clinton, Miss. / Clinton). As you know, Akers is one of the top running backs in the country and will likely be a consensus five-star prospect by the time his senior season is underway. Ohio State is in a great position with Akers as it stands right now. He's already been to Columbus twice on his own dime and had Urban Meyer and Alford go visit him months back. There's a real connection between Akers and Ohio State. Though he's from the south, he's very much in play for the Buckeyes.

It might be too early to call Ohio State the favorite, but if he's able to make it back to campus sometime this summer, it would be telling where Ohio State stands – though it's not crucial he reports back to Columbus before his official visit. The challengers to Ohio State in this one will be home-state team Ole Miss as well as Georgia and Tennessee. Any other year, Akers would be the No.1 rated running back in his class, but the honor this year goes to Najee Harris (Antioch, Calif. / Antioch), but that's not a knock. Akers is an elite talent with a very good shot to eventually land in Columbus.


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Cage talks Buckeyes, others still recruiting him, more - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Cage talks Buckeyes, others still recruiting him, more
247Sports
What's next for the Buckeyes? Make sure you're in the loop -- take five seconds to sign up for our FREE Buckeyes newsletter now! Coombs was asked if he was confident that Lattimore and Ward will be able to handle the workload. “Absolutely … in every ...


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Ohio State memorial service honors late Buckeyes - OSU - The Lantern
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Ohio State memorial service honors late Buckeyes
OSU - The Lantern
A memorial service to remember and honor the lives of 18 Ohio State students who died this academic year was held Monday night in the Great Hall Meeting Room of the Ohio Union. Family, friends and classmates of the fallen Buckeyes were in attendance to ...
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NFL Draft props telling on latest buzz for Buckeyes - 247Sports
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NFL Draft props telling on latest buzz for Buckeyes
247Sports
The NFL Draft begins on Thursday and there has been a lot of buzz this week already as to how the draft could play out. That buzz is certainly flowing in Las Vegas, as bookmakers across Sin City have released prop bets on many different players, teams ...
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Young receivers will get chance in fall for Ohio State Buckeyes - MyDaytonDailyNews
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Young receivers will get chance in fall for Ohio State Buckeyes
MyDaytonDailyNews
The Buckeyes did win a national championship in the 2014 season, capturing the first College Football Playoff title, and this week, they could have the best draft class ever with as many as 15 Buckeyes expected to hear their name called Thursday ...

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Ohio State's Darron Lee has the speed to be a hot pick in the NFL draft
Ian Cuevas via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


With the recent trend of pass-catching running backs and tight ends in the NFL, defenders with speed are a must-have for any team - and Darron Lee provides plenty of it.

"That's probably one of the more bizarre things about all this. One of lowest-rated recruits. Had no position. And now at a position that is becoming a need in the NFL. It's so funny. What are the odds of that happening?"

- Darron Lee via Bill Rabinowitz, The Columbus Dispatch


Ohio State linebacker Darron Lee is one of the many former Buckeyes looking to see where they end up in the NFL draft, which starts on Thursday. Lee is one of the top prospects coming from Columbus, including Joey Bosa, Ezekiel Elliott, Taylor Decker, and Vonn Bell, among others. The linebacker had quite a journey to get to where he is today (Lee is projected to be drafted somewhere mid-round, but has been projected as high as 10th). Lee didn't even play linebacker, really, until he came to Ohio State. He was a high school quarterback that also played some defensive back for his team. That changed when he joined the Buckeyes, and after a redshirt, Lee quickly became a household name for Ohio State en route to a national championship run.

Lee's speed is what makes all the difference when evaluating his play and especially his worth in the upcoming draft. With teams shifting to make their defensive players as fast as possible - and not just the secondary - Lee's value has gone up as he's progressed through the ranks of college. Now he could go from a high school quarterback to being a high draft pick in the NFL. He's proven to be a consistent performer for the Buckeyes and will look to do it on the next stage with a sizable paycheck.

"Torrance had good days and bad days, good reps and bad reps. He was a typical freshman that moved from quarterback to receiver. He's as talented as anybody in the country. I mean, his ceiling is unbelievably high. It's just all about consistency for him, so it's going to be a big two or three months before two-a-days and all that to get ready."

- Zach Smith via Austin Ward, ESPN


Torrance Gibson is still in the learning process right now. The former high-profile recruit has been making his transition to wide receiver the past year or so and is on his way to becoming a dangerous threat for Ohio State. Right now, Gibson isn't quite ready, but the coaching staff has praised his willingness to put in the required effort to eventually make it there. He made some solid plays during the spring game but was also hit with some teaching moments by head coach Urban Meyer after failing to go up and get a pass. After all, his six catches and touchdown day during the spring game was a sign of improvement and especially showcased the potential Gibson has to play wide receiver at the college level.

With his 6'4 frame, Gibson could be a huge asset for Ohio State's quarterbacks and would draw a fair amount of attention from opposing defenses when you also consider his speed. There was talk last season that the Buckeyes needed a deep threat with Devin Smith having moved on to the next level and it often times showed, as both Cardale Jones and J.T. Barrett struggled to find open receivers down the field. Had Gibson been ready last season, he might have found himself in that role, but instead redshirted. Now is Gibson's chance to make an early mark, and don't be surprised to see him making some plays this fall.

"The former Buckeye possesses plenty of potential and athleticism, but a receiver that has never been provided with more than five targets in a game at the position leaves far too much to chance for that early of a selection."

- Wes Huber, Pro Football Focus


Former Ohio State star Braxton Miller is a curious case in this upcoming NFL draft. On one hand, you have a hyper-athletic wide receiver that can stop on a dime and has a knack for simply making plays. On the other, you have a former quarterback that played one season at his new position and even still didn't get many opportunities compared to a bevy of other talented receivers looking to get drafted. As Wes Huber of Pro Football Focus above mentions, Miller didn't have a single game where he was targeted more than five times. For a player as talented as he is, there's still some learning and growing to do. Because of this, Huber listed Miller under his "buyer beware" for wide receivers (a list that also included Ole Miss' Laquon Treadwell and Notre Dame's Will Fuller). In all fairness, he's not wrong to include Miller - there isn't anyone really doubting that the former quarterback has a lot of unpolished and under developed skills at wideout.

For any team that drafts Miller, they'll likely have to dedicate time to teaching him about being a wide receiver in the NFL. That's why Huber is cautioning an early pick of Miller (who's had his draft stock somewhat rising because of his playmaking ability and the impressive performances in practice for the Senior Bowl with scouts in attendance). It makes sense, but even if Miller were to fall to the middle or late rounds of the draft, at that point it might be considered an excellent pickup. His raw ability and work ethic are unquestioned, and any team would likely be better for it - especially if they can develop him correctly.

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Five Buckeyes on All-Draft team - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Five Buckeyes on All-Draft team
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Elliott finished his Buckeyes career with the second-most rushing yards in school history (3,961). The durable and smart back will block and has plus-type hands for the position." Taylor Decker: "Decker has good anchor strength and is very durable and ...
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Lady Vikings record 19 hits in win over Buckeyes
Vinton County Courier (registration)
The Lady Vikings pounded out 19 hits en route to an 11-1 victory over Nelsonville-York on Monday night. After four times at bat, the Lady Vikings had jumped out to an 8-0 lead. The home Buckeyes tacked on a run in the fourth off pitcher Cayla Allen ...


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Science confirms that Cardale Jones has an absolute cannon for an arm
Dan Vest via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


The former Ohio State quarterback was featured on ESPN's "Sports Science."

You don't need to be an expert to know that Cardale Jones, if nothing else, has an absolute cannon for an arm.

Ohio State won a Big Ten and a national title in 2015 in large part due to Jones' ability to drop bombs into the hands of Devin Smith. Just a few weeks ago at the Ohio State Spring game Jones out threw J.T. Barrett from a standstill despite Barrett getting a running start.

Well now we have some hard science to back up the obvious as Jones was recently featured on ESPN's popular "Sports Science" segment. The segment, which has also featured Buckeyes like Ezekiel Elliott in the past measured Jones' velocity and accuracy on a number of different throws.

So how did he do? Well, from his knees Jones delivered a 53mph pass which is actually six percent harder than the typical "hard" pass delivered in an NFL game. Time will tell if Cardale Jones has the intangibles to make it in the NFL but at 6'5 and 240 pounds with an arm like that he unquestionably has the physical tools.

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Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, Joey Bosa, will be making an event appearance hours before he finds out where he will be playing professional football.


The event will include an on-stage interview with Bosa where he will talk about his training routine, how he’s feeling heading into the draft, and how he has gotten where he is today.




Event will take place on draft day, Thursday, April 28 @ 11:45 A.M. (Rain or Shine) at the corner of W. Waveland Ave and N. Sheffield Ave, directly across from Wrigley Field

NFL Draft: Hall of Fame GM pulling Buckeyes' Ezekiel Elliott bandwagon - Canton Repository
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NFL Draft: Hall of Fame GM pulling Buckeyes' Ezekiel Elliott bandwagon
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Ohio State Buckeye Moments: Adoluphus Washington
Joe Dexter via our good friends at Buckeye Battle Cry
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


The NFL Draft is right around the corner and over the next few days, the staff here at The Buckeye Battle Cry want to share with you our favorite Buckeye Moments from the draft eligible players leaving the Ohio State program.

Today, we take a closer look at defensive tackle Adolphus Washington, who finished his Buckeye career with 142 tackles, 25 tackles for loss, 13.5 sacks and a career best 49 tackles at a senior. Washington was a three-year starter for Ohio State and a first-team Sporting News All-American as a senior.

Here are some top moments from Washington’s career at Ohio State.


September 26, 2015 — “Big Man Pick Six” vs. Western Michigan


Do I need to say anything more about this? The most remembered play of Adolphus Washington’s career — without a doubt.


October 17, 2015 — “Defensive Black Out” vs Penn State


If you ask Christian Hackenberg what he remembers most about his college career, he might respond with, “#92”.

Hack took a beating in his final season at Penn State, especially on this night, where Adolphus Washington damn near took him off the field himself.

Penn State was able to run the ball against the Silver Bullets, but thanks to a stingy pass rush that forced turnovers, the Buckeyes were able to take over the game.

Adolphus had two sacks and a forced fumble. More importantly, it was his pressure inside the pocket that helped lead Hackenberg to a 6.1 QBR.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2poL5nSl18A

September 19, 2015 — “A Hare in the Grass” vs. Northern Illinois


Remember when Ohio State’s defense saved the season for the offensive side of the ball early in 2015?

The defensive line pressure had a lot to do with that in their wins against Virginia Tech, Western Michigan, Hawaii and Northern Illinois.

A major part of that was Washington, who had three quarterback pressures and a huge sack that helped stun momentum for the NIU offense.

Washington led college football in quarterback pressures in 2015, with a majority of those coming on third down.


September 8th, 2015 — “Delivering Much More” vs. Virginia Tech


Michael Brewer took a beating against Ohio State on the road in 2014, but he was able to score two touchdowns and get the better of Ohio State at Ohio Stadium.

So Brewer knew what he was getting into when he took the field in 2015 and was escorted off it shortly after halftime.

Everyone talks about Joey Bosa face-planting Jake Ruddock at the end of the season.

The two hits that took Brewer out of the game might have been the biggest pressure finishes of the 2015 season.

Have a look for yourself above, Adolphus Washington is a monster tackler.

Washington had three QB pressures in the season opener and was part of two huge goal-line stops for Ohio State.

What are your favorite Adolphus Washington moments? Share your thoughts below and stay tuned for more in the Ohio State Moments series throughout the week leading to the NFL Draft.

The post Ohio State Buckeye Moments: Adoluphus Washington appeared first on The Buckeye Battle Cry: Ohio State News and Commentary.

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Why Ohio State WR Michael Thomas is the Buckeye the Browns should target in NFL Draft 2016 - cleveland.com
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Why Ohio State WR Michael Thomas is the Buckeye the Browns should target in NFL Draft 2016
cleveland.com
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Those around Ohio State don't think Michael Thomas will be available when the Browns pick at No. 32 to start the second round in the 2016 NFL Draft on Friday. Talking to NFL teams, the Buckeyes believe Thomas will be a first-round ...
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NFL Draft: Hall of Fame GM pulling Buckeyes' Ezekiel Elliott bandwagon
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Ohio State Buckeye Moments: Vonn Bell
jcollingsworth via our good friends at Buckeye Battle Cry
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


The NFL Draft is upon us. It is a favorite time of all of ours…

Don’t say it isn’t … it’ll be fibbing!

Personally speaking I look forward to it. I plant myself in front of the television with my notes, my predictions, and I watch it all fall apart – proving why I sit alone during this highlighted moment I look forward to every year.

As the NFL Draft approaches – scheduled for Thursday (04/28/16) @ 2000 hours on ESPN & The NFL Network in Chicago – we at tBBC decided to have a greatest moment for each of the Buckeye draftees.
I am pleased to discuss Vonn Bell.

A while back, as the mass exodus appeared underway, of Buckeye’s announcing their intent to pursue possibilities in the NFL, I wrote a piece stating that I felt Vonn Bell would be the steal of the draft. I still feel this.

Vonn Bell was a star in High School – first in TN at Chattanooga Central High School. He was noticed and received all district honors. Bell then attended Ridgeland High School in Rossville, Georgia. In Bell’s senior year he led Ridgeland to the Georgia class AAAA state championship but lost to Sandy Creek 41-10. He was rated by both Rivals.com and Scout.com as a five-star recruit and was ranked as the number two safety in the country. Vonn was picked to play in the 2013 Under Amour All-American game. On February 6, 2013 he committed to The Ohio State University.

Bell played in all 13 games as a backup in his freshman season (2013). He would not officially make his first start until January 3, 2014 in the Discover Orange Bowl where he made his first collegiate interception. Bell became a full time starter for the Buckeyes his sophomore season in 2014. He played in all 15 games recording 91 tackles and a conference-leading six interceptions. In the 2015 CFP National Championship victory over Oregon, he had six tackles and a sack.

In 2015 he’d have a total of 63 tackles – 41 of which were solo. There’d also be 2 interceptions one of which was returned for a 16-yard TD.

I personally find a host of highlights that I could share reference Mr. Bell. I love the Defensive side of the ball and its stars. One of my favorite players of all-time is Jack Tatum (I need to say no more!). Vonn Bell on this Championship team with so many stars is a star. I like his style. Back a short time ago when I ran off some thoughts on Buckeyes heading into the 2016 Draft and where they may end up I predicted Vonn Bell would go in the 2nd to Buffalo. I like to amend that pick. I personally think he’s going in the first and now to the Carolina Panthers … just a hunch.


It is always refreshing too to share moments against the Road-kill heap also known as TTUN:


Vonn Bell will be the steal of the draft. I am still convinced of this. I also look for him to having a wondrous and long career in the NFL … just as so many great OSU defensive backs enjoyed. Vonn Bell now is all part of that glorious category.

The post Ohio State Buckeye Moments: Vonn Bell appeared first on The Buckeye Battle Cry: Ohio State News and Commentary.

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Draft Ready: Jalin Marshall - 247Sports
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Draft Ready: Jalin Marshall
247Sports
The NFL Draft will take place April 28-30 in Chicago, and many eyes will be on the Ohio State Buckeyes. Ohio State has 16 draft-eligible prospects that could hear their names called during the event, as the program looks to break Miami's first round ...

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Ohio State Buckeye Moments: Braxton Miller
jcollingsworth via our good friends at Buckeye Battle Cry
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


The NFL Draft will be blasting from all of our televisions this coming Thursday (April 28th) at 8:00 EST from the Chicago Auditorium Theatre on ESPN or the NFL Network.

With the horde of Buckeyes in the pool of Draft eligibility it only seems appropriate that we of Buckeye Nation take a look at each of these Buckeyes and what it was that appears to be taking them to the next level – and if stardom will be attained in the Land of Dreams (a.k.a. the NFL).

I am honored to share some of the fantastic thrills that Braxton Miller provided Buckeye fans over the course of his career. In truth there are so many Braxton moments – we logically must limit it to a handful.

So shall we begin?

Miller committed to Ohio State on June 3, 2010. He held scholarship offers from Alabama, Cincinnati, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, North Carolina, Notre Dame, Tennessee, Southern California, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. He chose The Ohio State University.

In his first season (2011) Miller was a backup to Joe Bauserman. In the season opener against Akron he would see some action – finishing that game 8 of 12 in passing for 130 yards and a touchdown. He would see limited action until the fourth game of the season against Colorado. It would be magic. He threw 2 touchdown passes, while going just 5 for 13 for 83 yards in the game. He also amassed 83 yards on the ground for the Buckeyes as well.


After their bye week of the same year the Buckeyes were facing # 15 Wisconsin and won on a last minute 40 yard touchdown pass by Miller. He was 7 of 12 in the game with one touchdown, having 99 yards and two touchdowns on the ground.


Braxton would become the 7th Buckeye to take home the Big Ten’s Freshman of the Year award. He’d also win the 2011 CFPA National Freshman Trophy.

The magic would continue come 2012 (Sophomore Year):

Miller threw for 2,039 yards and 15 passing touchdowns with 1,271 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. He led the Buckeyes to an undefeated 12-0 record and was named the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year.

To me one of the greatest highlight videos was versus Penn State in this season. Even though the Buckeyes won handily 35-23 …. Well, you let me know if you agree …


In 2013, his Junior Year, Braxton – like a good wine – bettered with age …
A season quick highlight video of 3 minutes and 19 seconds is worth the look:


But what best represents just how Dynamic Braxton Miller is came the 2015 season as he switched positions:


Braxton Miller is a great Buckeye. And as I egotistically rumbled through a Mock Draft of Buckeyes for this 2016 Draft I had Braxton going to Dallas in the 2nd Round. I suspect that pick still holds some value (though I would prefer to say insight!) If Braxton is still available come Dallas time in the 2nd Jerry Jones will not allow him to be bypassed. But, and do understand this dear Buckeye friends – the possibilities of Braxton going in the first is strong. I personally hope he heads to Cincinnati …. But we shall see.

Just to comprehend what I am saying:

At the NFL scouting combine, Miller was a top 3 performer in the 3 cone drill, the 20 yard shuttle and the 60 yard shuttle.

Ht: 6’1” Wt: 201 Arm length: 31 ¾ in Hand size: 9 1/8 in Vert: 35 in

40-yd dash: 4.43 s 10-yd split: 1.54 s 20-yd split: 2.56 s 20-ss 4.07 s

3-cone: 6.65 s Broad: 10’ 3” BP (Lifting 225 lbs. as many times as possible 17 reps.

The post Ohio State Buckeye Moments: Braxton Miller appeared first on The Buckeye Battle Cry: Ohio State News and Commentary.

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What a Buckeyes offer to Kyle Young would mean: 7 thoughts on Ohio State basketball recruiting - cleveland.com
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What a Buckeyes offer to Kyle Young would mean: 7 thoughts on Ohio State basketball recruiting
cleveland.com
Ohio State clearly likes him, but Young is also the kind of prospect who maybe the Buckeyes would let slide in the past in favor of chasing someone from out of state. An offer would mean Ohio State is serious about getting more Ohio-centric with its ...

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Script Ohio: Pro Comparisons For Ohio State Draft Eligible Players
Joe Dexter via our good friends at Buckeye Battle Cry
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here

Joe Dexter and Clair Crawford do their best to compare some of Ohio State’s best draft prospects to current and former players at the pro level.
For more Ohio State Buckeyes podcasts, follow us on Twitter: @BuckeyesRadio

The post Script Ohio: Pro Comparisons For Ohio State Draft Eligible Players appeared first on The Buckeye Battle Cry: Ohio State News and Commentary.

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Heard Around the ‘Shoe – 4-26-2016
Ben Van Ooyen via our good friends at Men of the Scarlet and Gray
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here

Sorry for the break in daily social media updates! Heard Around the ‘Shoe is back!

Mel Kiper Jr’s. Last Big Board:

2 – Joey Bosa

8 – Ezekiel Elliott

15 – Darron Lee

16 – Taylor Decker

26 – Vonn Bell

28 – Eli Apple

61 – Joshua Perry

63 – Adolphus Washington

66 – Michael Thomas

70 – Braxton Miller

101 – Nick Vannett

153 – Cardale Jones

171 – Jalin Marshall

179 – Tyvis Powell

Todd McShay’s Tier’d Prospects:

Tier 2:

1 – Joey Bosa

4 – Ezekiel Elliott

Tier 3:

13 – Darron Lee

16 – Taylor Decker

Tier 4:

25 – Eli Apple

30 – Vonn Bell

37 – Michael Thomas

Tier 5:

51 – Braxton Miller

58 – Nick Vannett

Tier 6:

71 – Joshua Perry

77 – Adolphus Washington

Todd McShay’s Ultimate Draft Preview:

Highest Floor:

#2 – Taylor Decker

Most Consistent Tape:

#1 – Joey Bosa

#2 – Ezekiel Elliott

Most Physical Players

#5 – Ezekiel Elliott

Best fit for today’s NFL:

#3 – Darron Lee

Most pro-ready from Day 1:

#1 – Joey Bosa

Quarterback Strongest Arm:

#2 – Cardale Jones

Running back Best vision/patience:

#1 – Ezekiel Elliott

Tight End Best Ball Skills

#2 – Nick Vannett

Offensive Line Best run-blocker (tackles)

#2 – Taylor Decker

Defensive Line Best motor:

#3 – Joey Bosa

Defensive Line Best counter puncher:

Joey Bosa – Very slippery as a pass-rusher, in large part because of his ability to keep OTs off his pads with his exceptional hand-to-hand combat skills.

Linebacker Best in coverage:

#3 – Darron Lee

Safety Best in coverage:

Vonn Bell – Can match up against most slot WRs and TEs one-on-one. Has outstanding range in deep zone coverage.

Defensive Backs Best ball skills:

#2 – Vonn Bell

Buckeye Target Chase Young:



The Rise of Ezekiel Elliott Part 2:






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Buckeyes to visit East Coast star, offer on the way? - 247Sports.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Buckeyes to visit East Coast star, offer on the way?
247Sports.com
Earlier this month Bucknuts.com reported the Buckeyes were interested in Andover (Mass.) tight end Alexander Marshall. Marshall had been talking with Ohio State Director of Player Personnel Mark Pantoni and Buckeye tight ends coach Ed Warinner.

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Ohio State Buckeye Moments: Darron Lee
Ken via our good friends at Buckeye Battle Cry
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


(Image courtesy Bleacherreport.com)

The NFL Draft is right around the corner and over the next few days, the staff here at The Buckeye Battle Cry want to share with you our favorite Buckeye Moments from the draft eligible players from the Ohio State program.

Today, we look at redshirt sophomore Darron Lee – the high school quarterback turned linebacker. The New Albany, OH native finished the 2015 season with impressive statistics. He was 4th on the team in tackles, 3rd in TFL, 4th in sacks, led the team in forced fumbles and had a 61 yard interception return.

Here are my five top moments during Lee’s Ohio State career.

5. August 30, 2014 – The “Scoop-and-Score” vs. Navy


This play provided a temporary lead for the buckeyes – it was their first TD of the game. This was a precursor of Darron’s big-play capabilities over his next two seasons. The play occurs at the 1:42 mark in the video. below.


(Video courtesy of MenofTheScarletandGray.com)

4. November 29, 2014 – “Scoop-and-Score II” vs. Michigan


Darron benefited from a Joey Bosa strip for another fumble recovery and return for a touchdown. Although Ohio State held the lead 35-21 with four minutes remaining in the game, it’s always a highlight to score in the Game, especially for a defender. The play starts at the 1:22 mark in the video, below.


There is also so poetic symmetry in the 2014 season for Darron Lee. He scored the team’s first TD of the regular season in a scoop-n-score versus Navy and the team’s last TD with a scoop-n-score versus Michigan.

3. September 19, 2015 – “Pick-6” vs. Northern Illinois University


Ohio State’s offense was sluggish against a very inspired Northern Illinois team. With the Buckeyes holding a very slim (13-10) lead late in the 3rd quarter, Darron jumps a NIU wide receiver screen pass and sprints 41 yards for the score. Yet again, this was Darron’s play-making ability putting points on the board for the Buckeyes.




2. January 12, 2015 – “The Tackle” vs. Oregon, National Championship Game


So much for Darron scoring points. These next two ‘highlight’ memories of mine probably stand out most clearly to me. Early in the 4th quarter, Ohio State held a 28-20 lead; a one possession game versus Oregon. The Ducks liked to get their play-makers in space, where they felt the advantage was to Oregon. Not always.

Here is Darron shedding an attempted block and bringing down the ball carrier.


1. January 12, 2015 – “The Breakup” vs. Oregon, National Championship Game


On the very next play, Mariota tries to hit TE Pharaoh Brown on a seam route down the right side. On coverage, Lee adjusts his body in mid-air to deflect the pass. This play is at the 27:45 mark of this video. Lee’s run-stuff is the preceding play. Feel free to watch the entire video. And bring your popcorn.


Here’s what those plays meant to Ohio State (play by play from OSU athletics):


It meant the Ducks had to punt. Ohio State scored on the ensuing drive to move their lead to 35-20.

My #2 and #1 plays showed Lee’s awareness, strength and athleticism. Darron was not the strongest in gap-filing, but sideline to sideline, he was tough to beat..

What are your favorite Darron Lee moments? Share your thoughts below and stay tuned for more in the Ohio State Moments series throughout the week leading to the NFL Draft.

The post Ohio State Buckeye Moments: Darron Lee appeared first on The Buckeye Battle Cry: Ohio State News and Commentary.

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