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Google Buckeyes young wide receivers with some one-handed grabs - CBSSports.com

Buckeyes young wide receivers with some one-handed grabs - CBSSports.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Buckeyes young wide receivers with some one-handed grabs
CBSSports.com
Buckeyes young wide receivers with some one-handed grabs. Buckeyes young wide receivers with some one-handed grabs. Loading. Take a look inside at the Buckeyes??? young wide receivers during practice, including some impressive one-handed ...


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LGHL Urban Meyer says running backs are neck-and-neck to start

Urban Meyer says running backs are neck-and-neck to start
Alexis Chassen
via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


meyer.0.0.JPG

Mike Weber and Bro'onte Dunn are competing for the starting RB role this fall.

Now with a few weeks of spring practices under their belts, the Buckeyes are inching toward the season, and filling in spots on the depth chart. Urban Meyer took some time to talk to the media following Tuesday's practice, and gave updates on several injuries, how position competitions are shaking out and which newcomers could stand out this fall.

* The running back position is one of the biggest voids that needs filled following Ezekiel Elliott's departure for the pros. Meyer noted Bri'onte Dunn -- who missed practice due to class -- is neck and neck with Mike Weber for the starting role, and that freshman running back Antonio Williams could be the first one in his class to have his black stripe removed from his helmet.

* Meyer noted that the D-line was the area of most concern, but added that Michael Hill and Sam Hubbard are doing good and Jalyn Holmes is coming along, so their focus will probably shift over to the O-line now.

* He noted that they were really concerned with offensive line, but that Michael Jordan really stood out at Saturday's scrimmage, and showed a lot of energy, along with Isaiah Prince. "Isaiah Prince is doing better and better and so is Jemarco Jones", there are a few players who are close to rounding out the starting five on the line, noting too that Demetrious Knox is close, but rolled his ankle Saturday.

* Saturday's scrimmage saw a lot of young talent take the field, and some players to stand out for Urban Meyer include: Davon Hamilton, Sam Hubbard, Jalyn Holmes, Austin Mack and Michael Jordan.

* Michael Jordan impressed so much, that he took first team reps at practice Tuesday. Meyer got animated when talking about Jordan's love for the game -- whether it's on the right or left -- and how he comes in for extra work, enjoys the game, enjoys the work and that the head coach is "really impressed by him".

* Joe Burrow was "just OK" during the scrimmage, but noted there was some issue with pressure due to the right guard missing a block, and that four of their top receivers are out with injuries right now. Meyer and coaches are still trying to assess what the young quarterback can bring to the offense.

* Meyer was asked about last season's quarterback competition compared to this year, and despite what he enjoys, he'd rather have four quarterbacks to choose from, rather than a given starter. The team likes to have four scholarship quarterbacks on roster, and he says college football learned a valuable lesson in 2014 when the Buckeyes won with their third signal caller.

* On the thin wide receiver group heading into the season, Meyer says a lot of guys have potential, but that's only a positive thing for the first few months. After six months if you're still saying a guy has potential, that means he's not living up to it and either he or the coaches aren't doing enough to get that to evolve.

* DL Donovan Munger was noted as having some health concerns, and is not practicing due to a potential blood clot issue, which will be re-checked soon. Meyer said that the team doesn't know enough yet to make any further decisions.

* Next Saturday, the Buckeyes host their student appreciation practice, one of Urban Meyer's favorite events. "Oh I love it, don't ever forget about the students," Meyer quipped. "The minute you forget about thanking them, the minute people feel unappreciated." It trickles down to alumni and boosters, it's an important vibe to put out.

* In lieu of the press conference scheduled to discuss upcoming renovations for the Horseshoe, Meyer was asked about the importance of state-of-the-art facilities. He noted that it's important for the current players and is also a big part of recruiting. He promises these incoming players that they will get the very best academic support, the best nutrition and the best locker room. Specifically on the Horseshoe, he thinks "the 'Shoe is as fine a facility as there is," also noting that he wasn't here during the last renovations, but that they did a "wonderful job".

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Google Meyer says Buckeyes have “potential” but that's not always a compliment - NBC4i.com

Meyer says Buckeyes have “potential” but that's not always a compliment - NBC4i.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Meyer says Buckeyes have “potential” but that's not always a compliment
NBC4i.com
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Urban Meyer says some of his young Buckeyes have great potential, but sometimes that word is not intended as a compliment. “After 6 months or so, if you're tagged with that term it means you're not very good but you should be.” Meyer ...
Ohio State Football: Buckeyes Practice ObservationsScout
Who are the young Ohio State players who stood out to Urban Meyer after the team's first scrimmage?cleveland.com
Ohio State hosting No. 4 prospect of 2018, a monster at defensive endLand-Grant Holy Land
BuckeyeGrove.com (subscription) -Eleven Warriors
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Google Ohio State Football: Buckeyes Practice Observations - Scout

Ohio State Football: Buckeyes Practice Observations - Scout
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Ohio State Football: Buckeyes Practice Observations
Scout
After Urban Meyer addressed the team for more than six minutes, an animated speech that featured the head coach throwing his papers to the ground in frustration, the Buckeyes began position drills. The quarterback depth chart is clear. Obviously J.T ...
An inside look at Ohio State coach Urban Meyer's sales pitch to five-star WR Tyjon Lindseycleveland.com
News and Notes on Ohio State's Defense Following Spring Practice No. 6Eleven Warriors

all 7 news articles »


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LGHL What's wrong with Ohio State basketball?

What's wrong with Ohio State basketball?
Matt Brown
via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


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With everything that has happened to the program over the last few months, it's hard to argue things are going in the right direction.

Let's get this out of the way right up front. I am not on Team #FireMatta. I never have been. I think I speak for everybody who writes for this website when I say that.

In fact, if you were to try and figure out a general theme of the basketball coverage on this website over the last few years, it might be contrarian optimism. We might have been Amir Williams' last friend -- not even defender, just proponents of treating him with basic human decency -- on Buckeye Internet. We've pointed out that while we're sorry you're offended by his body language, Marc Loving is also not worth harassment (or worse) multiple times this season. I've personally written something to kick off the last two seasons about how I expected the team to be fun and interesting, even in the face of challenges, and I totally meant it. By and large, I don't think we've been given to too much Chicken Little-ing.

So we don't think the sky is falling. At least, not yet. But it is very hard to look at the state of Ohio State basketball over the last few seasons, and especially the last few weeks, and not grow concerned.

What's happened? Let's take a quick look:

Unexpected roster turnover


Monday night, it was reported that Daniel Giddens would be transferring away, making him the second member of the Class of 2015 to leave the program (Austin Grandstaff left for Oklahoma before Big Ten play started). Rumors are flying that Giddens won't be the last player to leave the program in the near future, as one, or potentially more young players could be transferring soon too.

The loss of Giddens especially hurts, given Ohio State's struggles with big man recruiting over the previous classes. Giddens was an especially raw player, particularly on offense, and his free throw shooting and high foul rate made it difficult to use him in late game situations, or with heavy minutes. But it was easy to see how with the right seasoning, he could become a star. Right out of the box, he established himself as an excellent shot blocker, and with his athleticism and intensity, he could have become something Ohio State hasn't really had in years, a true rim protector. He will be missed.

One transfer, and maybe even two, isn't the end of the world. Players leaving in college basketball has become more and more common, and players have individual circumstances where a change of scenery might do them good. Hell, I transferred schools after my freshman year myself. But potentially losing the bulk of what was the best recruiting class in the Big Ten only a year later would absolutely set Ohio State back significantly, given the timing. It also doesn't bode well for the internal leadership situation of this program.

These sudden losses are compounded by a string of bad recruiting swings-and-misses.

Ohio State's recruiting misses have added up


Unexpectedly having a few extra scholarships isn't always a bad thing, but the way the last few recruiting classes have gone for Ohio State, there may not be cause for as much optimism. The misevaluation of players, poor timing of scholarships, and failure to lock down talent close to home has clearly begun to catch up with the Buckeyes. Ohio State hasn't a problem picking up kids who may look good on the ol' 247 Sports Composite, but the results on the court haven't really matched up.

Ohio State's two man 2016 recruiting class is only 9th in the Big Ten, which especially stings given how deep the 2016 basketball class was in the state of Ohio. You can forgive the Buckeyes for missing on the top two kids in the state, as Omari Spellman and V.J. King played HS ball out of state and didn't have the same emotional ties to Ohio, but 3rd ranked Nick Ward and 5th ranked Matt Moyer, both kids from right down the street in Gahanna, went elsewhere. Xavier Simpson, a 4-star point guard out of Lima, is Michigan bound. Seth Towns, a four-star, easily B1G caliber swingman from Columbus, is off to Harvard. Other Big Ten caliber players dot the rankings and will head elsewhere.

If Ohio State knew they'd have three or four scholarships in 2016 thanks to roster attrition, they probably would have gone after these players harder, but instead, they'll either have to fill up on graduate transfers, or roll over to 2017, which doesn't have nearly as many targets.

Ohio State missing on other, out of state prospects hurts too. The program went all-in on five star point guard Kobi Simmons, only to lose him to Arizona, where he is now a major recruiter. The Buckeyes went in on multiple big name targets before Giddens in 2015, only to come up empty as well.

There are two many three-star Ohio kids that Ohio State passed on that have become productive players, and too many recent Ohio State signees that have either left early, or not panned out. You can take a few Ls on the trail, but not over multiple years. Otherwise, things can start to snowball.

The team has gotten worse every year for multiple years in a row


It's harder to sell momentum on the recruiting trail, or to fans, when the product has sagged for years. Ohio State has won only a single game in the NCAA Tournament over the last three years. Since making the Elite Eight in 2012-2013, Ohio State's win total has fallen every season (25, 24, 21). This year's result was defendable, given the youth, schedule, and injuries, but now with transfers threatening to rob depth, next year's unit could be prevented from taking a significant step up.

There are other worrisome signs, too. The Buckeyes haven't had a reliable secondary scoring option since the Sully years. They haven't had great post options on offense since about that time as well. There's reason to be worried about the internal culture of the team as well. Nearly an entire class looking to bail isn't promising, and neither is the fact that D'Angelo Russell essentially called out his old Ohio State teammates, minus Kam Williams, for not working hard enough. And now, attendance has fallen to the lowest level since 1998. All of these things are related.

It isn't all doom and gloom right now. As far as we know, at least Ohio State's top six starters will be back. A starting lineup of JaQuan Lyle, Keita-Bates Diop, Jae'Sean Tate, Marc Loving and Trevor Thompson, with Kam Williams, can still do a lot of damage in Big Ten play. Depending on who Ohio State is able to bring in the augment the bench, and whether Derek Funderburk or Micah Potter can contribute anything right away, this is still a team that should, at the very least, make the NCAA Tournament.

But it's hard to look at everything that's happened, especially if more players decide to transfer, and think that nothing is wrong. That doesn't mean that Matta and company can't fix it. But this needs to be a big season in a lot of ways for Ohio State to reestablish a culture, the expectations, and their ability to assess, recruit and retain top talent, and to get back in the picture in the Big Ten.

Given everything that's happened, if the Buckeyes struggle again and fail to improve, this program may need to ask some very difficult questions. It's not an easy thing to say, but it's tough to play that contrarian when the data starts to show something different.

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tBBC Script Ohio: Who will be Ohio State’s Secondary Offensive Weapon?

Script Ohio: Who will be Ohio State’s Secondary Offensive Weapon?
Joe Dexter
via our good friends at Buckeye Battle Cry
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Clair Crawford and Joe Dexter discuss what players have the best chance at being Ohio State’s number two weapon in the offense.

Can the Buckeyes’ inexperienced receiving corps answer the bell in 2016?

The post Script Ohio: Who will be Ohio State’s Secondary Offensive Weapon? appeared first on The Buckeye Battle Cry: Ohio State News and Commentary.

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Google Buckeyes true freshman Michael Jordan battles for starting job on offensive line: Ohio...

Buckeyes true freshman Michael Jordan battles for starting job on offensive line: Ohio State football offensive ... - cleveland.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Buckeyes true freshman Michael Jordan battles for starting job on offensive line: Ohio State football offensive ...
cleveland.com
With the black stripe on his helmet still in place, signifying that he has not yet graduated to full status as a Buckeye (which none of the freshmen have yet this spring) Jordan lined up between Jones and Elflein as strength coach Mickey Marotti called ...


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tBBC Ten Questions With Vladimir Nazlymov

Ten Questions With Vladimir Nazlymov
jcollingsworth
via our good friends at Buckeye Battle Cry
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


vlad_FOTH-150x150.jpg

(Image courtesy fencersofthecorn.org)

I am honored to have this week’s participate in Ten Questions Vladimir Nazlymov the Head Coach of The Ohio State University’s Fencing Program. Coach Nazlymov is a World Class – well accomplished fencer in his own right. With his expertise he has brought the Buckeyes into the fold of NCAA Champions and a team to take quite seriously each year. Twice tBBC has written about this wondrous program that we all should take more notice of.

You have quite a history – what inspired you to accept the job as the Head Coach of the Fencing Program at The Ohio State University?


Mostly because of Archie Griffin. I had a strong and successful club in Kansas City. I wasn’t looking for a new job. True, he showed me around campus, at facilities for many different sports. Showed me how impressive and big the sports program was at Ohio State. But it was this man that made the difference. He explained to me that OSU was going to have the best program, with or without me. And I realized during my time with him that while this was one of the biggest Athletic Departments… it felt like a small family, and that felt good. My decision to come to Columbus surprised everyone, including myself.

You are a very accomplished athlete. As a fencer you are a three-time Gold medalist (’68, ’76, ’80) a Silver Medalist (’72) and an individual Silver and Bronze Medalist (Silver ’76 – Bronze ’72). You are also a 10-time World Champion, two of which are individual crowns (’75, ’79). Twice you were named the World’s best Sabre fencer by F.I.E. Is there any one of these achievements, or one in which I failed to mention, that you are most proud of?


The most important Gold Medals for me have always been the Team events more than the Individual events. The team was always more important to me, than what I was doing for myself. Of course I wanted (needed) to be the best in the world, but I had more to give when I was fighting for my friends.

Your Coaching career is as impressive. You began in Moscow as the Head Coach of the Soviet Union Military Fencing team, also serving as the Coach of the USSR National Team. Once in the USA you served as the sabre coach for the US National team, for the US at the Pan Am Games, and the Senior World Championship. Now at The Ohio State University you brought Buckeye Nation an NCAA Championship in 2004, 2008 and 2012. I wonder if there is one place you feel you accomplished the most as a teacher (coach) or is it presumptuous of me to assume such a place exists in your mind?


Each new coaching job, and city, and country, and team has been a new step in my life. Each step in this path has been a new test for me. I am proud of how I have met each new challenge, including what mistakes that I have learned from, along the way. It is all of these places and coaching jobs that make me who I am.

Back in the June 1, 1992 edition of Sports Illustrated they ran an article on your journey and your amazing decision to turn down prestigious offers from national teams to teach an inner-city school in Kansas City – can you share with us the process of that decision?


I met with several top people from the New York Athletic Club, and didn’t fully understand all that was being offered. They already had a coach, and I didn’t want him to be fired. I explained that I didn’t want to be responsible for somebody else losing their job. It would be different if they needed to fill a position that was already empty. I knew that I would be successful anywhere. Instead, I worked with some incredible fencers that also became very good coaches. I am glad that I made this mistake. I am glad for the way things are, but I do sometimes think about it.

I believe that everyone associated with The Ohio State University, student, teacher, coach, or any employee, regardless of their position, has that special spot on campus they yearn to escape to for either personal quiet time or even positive interaction – do you have such a spot, and if so – where is it?


When I want to get away and relax, or I just need some time to think… there is only one place I go. I go to the fencing gym and give lessons. I can always find someone that wants a lesson.

Many may not know you are actually an internationally ranked referee (Category A) officiating in the ’88 Olympics and several World Championships. How intense and involved are such responsibilities?


Being a referee is not an easy job. You must be a very strong, and correct, person. You cannot have a strong national team if you do not also have good referees. They are like security, and provide a stability that is very necessary. I did not want to have this job, but my country insisted.

Who is your favorite Ohio State athlete of all-time – it can be anyone from any era?


Absolutely Archie Griffin! As a man. As an athlete. When I think of Ohio State University, I think of Archie Griffin. I would like to add that there are many from which to choose, and they are all impressive. They all impress me with their ability to be champions in every step of their lives, from athlete to coach or business person.

Can you educate us novice fencing fans what is Foil, Epée, and Sabre?


Historically… we have three weapons, with the intention of learning all three. Each weapon would teach a different aspect of sword fighting and it was the mastery of all three that made you a swordsman. As a sport, it became clear that each weapon was better suited to a different personality and style. Over time these weapons developed into their own game with their own set of rules, based on their “historical” lesson. It is the difference between Zorro or a Musketeer, and a Pirate or Cavalry-man. The weapon chooses the fencer, so to speak.

Please share with us about Fencing Alliance of Ohio?


This is my private club that I run here in Columbus. I have students that are as young as 6 years old, all the way to 50 years of age. It is something that I do for fun and as support for the community that I am happy to be part of.

Please tell your fellow Buckeyes what you love about The Ohio State University and what it means to you to be a Buckeye?


To be a Buckeye, is to be part of a family. Whether you are a new student or old alumni, a facility worker, a teacher, a coach… This is family!

I would like to thank Coach Nazlymov for the time he took out of his busy schedule, which included a current run towards the NCAA Championships, to answer my Ten Questions. It is always a joy to see a little of the personal side of a great Buckeye – but it is always even a little “nicer” knowing that such an accomplished man of his sport is humble enough to share his thoughts with his fans. I enjoyed this week’s preparation and am grateful for the time allowed me. I hope that Coach Nazlymov will stay in touch with us here at tBBC to give us any insight or share any thoughts that he desires. It’s always nice hearing from the head honcho and I know that I will be watching The Ohio State University’s Fencing Program.

The post Ten Questions With Vladimir Nazlymov appeared first on The Buckeye Battle Cry: Ohio State News and Commentary.

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LGHL Ohio State hosting No. 4 prospect of 2018, a monster at defensive end

Ohio State hosting No. 4 prospect of 2018, a monster at defensive end
Dan Hessler
via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


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Big things are coming to Columbus, Ohio, as the Buckeyes are playing host to the No. 1 DE of 2018

After hosting two five-star recruits last week, Ohio State will be looking to continue that momentum with a visit from the top-rated DE of the 2018 recruiting class. Xavier Thomas is making waves in the college football world and he is only a sophomore in high school. Reigning from Florence, SC, Thomas is already a popular name among many of the country's elite college football programs. Standing at 6'3, 242 pounds, Thomas already holds offers from the likes of Alabama, Clemson, Florida State, Georgia, South Carolina, LSU, Notre Dame and Ohio State. The list goes on.

Thomas has been busy this year, as he has already visited both Alabama and Clemson with a visit to South Carolina in the works for next month. But the big news is he will be in Columbus with Urban Meyer and the Ohio State football team today.

The hype surrounding Thomas is backed by incredible play. He has the size and strength to literally throw opposing players down to the ground. As if that wasn't enough, Thomas can also run through people. In fact, Thomas is so good at running through players, he lines up on offense periodically as a QB out of the wildcat formation. Yes, you read that correctly, a DE with the athleticism to line up at QB.

Thomas will be a force at whatever program he chooses to join. The Buckeyes haven't had much of an opportunity to make an impression on Thomas yet, but a visit to the Ohio State campus will give them the best chance they have had to date.

He seemed to be excited for the visit, counting down the hours on the car ride to the Buckeye state. His recruitment will be one for Buckeye Nation to follow for the coming years, as Meyer and co. could get another solid addition to the D-line.


Exactly 3 hours away from #BuckeyeNation ⭕https://t.co/9fCOnYDeNA

— Xavier Thomas (@atxlete) March 28, 2016


Buckeye hoops targeting graduate transfer


With the closing of Ohio State's most disappointing basketball season in recent memory, many around Buckeye Nation began looking towards next year before March even began. Such is the case following any rebuilding season and expectations should be raised for next season.

With news of Buckeye big man Daniel Giddens requesting a dismissal from the team in order to transfer and the possibility of fellow big man Trevor Thompson pulling off the upset of the year and declaring for the NBA Draft, there is suddenly room on the Buckeyes' roster.

Transfers have become common in the past few years for Thad Matta and the Buckeye coaching staff. Thompson was a transfer from Virginia Tech while former Buckeye center Anthony Lee transferred into the program after initially attending Temple. Keeping with the trend, it seems like Matta has caught the attention of another transfer possibility.

Cullen Neal's story is strange. Originally playing for the New Mexico Lobos, Neal was coached by his father, Craig Neal. The 6'5, 190-pound SG averaged 12.3 points, 3.7 assists and 2.8 rebounds in just over 30 minutes per contest, while playing under his father. These numbers suggest he could provide the Buckeyes with a bit more juice, as he would have qualified as the Buckeyes' second-best scorer last season, behind Marc Loving.

The Buckeyes already have Derek Funderburk and Micah Potter joining the team next year, with a scholarship recently being offered to Westerville South senior Andre Wesson. Neal could be the last piece to fall for this team.

It will be interesting to see how the relationship between the two grows over the coming months, as he has also expressed interest in Ole Miss and Tennessee. Ohio State needs to improve on last season, and if Matta thinks Neal could increase the Buckeyes' skill level, we very well might see him play in Columbus, as he has two years of eligibility left and can begin playing immediately.

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Google WATCH: Jones on 'Gruden's QB Camp' - 247Sports

WATCH: Jones on 'Gruden's QB Camp' - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


WATCH: Jones on 'Gruden's QB Camp'
247Sports
Cardale Jones is somewhat of an enigma to NFL teams, and even to Ohio State fans, who had a chance to watch him as the on-and-off starter of the Buckeyes over the last two seasons. What's next for the Buckeyes? Make sure you're in the loop -- take five ...

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Google Buckeyes open season with victory - Athens Messenger (registration)

Buckeyes open season with victory - Athens Messenger (registration)
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Buckeyes open season with victory
Athens Messenger (registration)
Nelsonville-York will host Harvest Prep on Tuesday. The Buckeyes have four games in five days, capped off with Friday's league opener against Wellston at Blackburn Fields. Monday gave the Bucks a chance to get on the diamond and get a convincing win.


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Google Men's basketball | Daniel Giddens likely to transfer from Ohio State - Columbus Dispatch

Men's basketball | Daniel Giddens likely to transfer from Ohio State - Columbus Dispatch
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Men's basketball | Daniel Giddens likely to transfer from Ohio State
Columbus Dispatch
The Buckeyes have signed two post players for the 2016-17 season in Derek Funderburk and Micah Potter, both native Ohioans. He is the second member of Ohio State's freshman class to transfer this year after guard Austin Grandstaff left the program in ...
Clark's idea features Buckeye commits and targets in action247Sports
Freshman center Daniel Giddens to exit Ohio State men's basketball programOSU - The Lantern
Buckeye Basketball: OSU confirms Giddens has asked for releaseABC6OnYourSide.com
cleveland.com -Land-Grant Holy Land -247Sports
all 15 news articles »


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Google Buckeyes quarterback Cardale Jones to get private workout with Bills - Bills Blitz - The...

Buckeyes quarterback Cardale Jones to get private workout with Bills - Bills Blitz - The Buffalo News
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Buckeyes quarterback Cardale Jones to get private workout with Bills
Bills Blitz - The Buffalo News
Tyrod Taylor will start under center for the Buffalo Bills in 2016. Behind him? Nothing is guaranteed. All signs point to the Bills drafting someone, at some point, next month in the NFL Draft. On Monday, Ohio State's Cardale Jones told Sirius XM Radio ...
WATCH: Jones on 'Gruden's QB Camp'247Sports

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Google 'Rebuild' not in ex-Buckeyes' vocabulary - Mansfield News Journal

'Rebuild' not in ex-Buckeyes' vocabulary - Mansfield News Journal
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


'Rebuild' not in ex-Buckeyes' vocabulary
Mansfield News Journal
"It's the Buckeyes. ... It's always a reload, not a rebuild, whether you know their names or not. Nobody knew my name," said Smith, who also played for four teams in the NFL. "Coach Meyer will have these guys locked in. You might not know their names ...
Notre Dame Lacrosse Beat Ohio State Buckeyes 9-8 at the HorseshoeOne Foot Down
Ohio State diving | Colin Zeng wins national championshipColumbus Dispatch
Recent Campus Visitors Show Ohio State's National Recruiting Brand Has Never Been StrongerEleven Warriors
Bleacher Report -Land-Grant Holy Land -LaxPower
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LGHL Daniel Giddens has requested his release and is expected to transfer, per report

Daniel Giddens has requested his release and is expected to transfer, per report
Harry Lyles Jr.
via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


usa-today-9095659.0.jpg

Ohio State's freshman big is reportedly on his way out.

Ohio State freshman Daniel Giddens has requested his release and is expected to transfer, according to ESPN recruiting insider Jeff Borzello.

Giddens was a four-star recruit coming out of high school according to 247Sports, and chose Ohio State over Indiana, Mizzou, Florida, Georgia, and Marquette, among other schools. His athleticism complemented with his defensive skills made Giddens an intriguing prospect coming out of high school.

The 6'10 center out of Mableton, Georgia, averaged 18.2 minutes for the Buckeyes, and averaged 3.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game. One of Giddens' best games as a Buckeye was against Florida in the NIT, where he had 11 points, six rebounds, and three blocks.

Giddens is now the second member of Ohio State 2015 recruiting class to transfer, after Austin Grandstaff announced in December he would be leaving Ohio State. Grandstaff eventually announced that he would be transferring to Oklahoma. Micah Potter and Derek Funderburk are two bigs committed to the Buckeyes in the 2016 class, and with the transfer of Giddens, could be able to expect a different landscape in Columbus come next basketball season.

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Google Bucknuts 90: Savoring a golden era - 247Sports

Bucknuts 90: Savoring a golden era - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Bucknuts 90: Savoring a golden era
247Sports
This is a truly golden era of Buckeye recruiting and Mark Neal and I discussed that and more in-depth for a good 90 minutes at the Rooster's in Huber Heights on Saturday afternoon instead of our usual Sunday show time. What's next for the Buckeyes?

and more »


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LGHL J.T. Barrett is without a doubt the Big Ten's best quarterback

J.T. Barrett is without a doubt the Big Ten's best quarterback
Meredith Hein
via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


usa-today-9048651.0.jpg

Plus, Jim Harbaugh explains his Twitter feud with Gene Smith, Ohio State records two national championships in the pool and next year's cornerback lineup begins to take shape. All your Ohio State news, in one helpful place.

"All those struggles, or obstacles, are gone this spring. This is Barrett’s team--and it’s worth reminding just how good he was when all that wasn’t an issue in the past."

-Josh Moyer, ESPN


Despite losing two of the three quarterbacks who initially battled for the starting spot last spring, there is little doubt in regards to the status of the quarterback position at Ohio State. Redshirt junior J.T. Barrett is unrivaled in his role starting at the helm of the offense. While controversy abounded last season--whether senior Braxton Miller would return to his former role after missing a season due to injury, if Cardale Jones, the hero of the post-season national championship run, would continue in his undefeated stretch, or if Barrett, who was the on-field general in 2014, would come back to the job after recovering from his own broken ankle--the battle this spring is much more clear-cut.

In fact, according to ESPN analysts, Ohio State is currently set up with the best quarterback in the Big Ten, ahead of Iowa with C.J. Beathard and Illinois’ Wes Lunt. Especially given the loss of many of the perennial starting Big Ten quarterbacks to the draft, including Michigan State’s Connor Cook, Penn State’s Christian Hackenberg and Indiana’s Nate Sudfeld, Barrett has little veteran competition remaining in the conference for the top-spot at quarterback.

Now, returning for his third season of play, and able to complete a full spring practice schedule, which he missed last season, Barrett is poised to improve on the momentum he built at the end of last season. Despite bumps after being reinstated in the starting role in the middle of conference play, Barrett improved as the season wore on, almost matching the prowess he showed during the 2014 season when he set 17 school records. Looking forward, he is already a Heisman contender for next year.

"It felt like one got shot over our bow. It wasn’t a knee-jerk reaction...So when no explanation came, thought it was time to fire one over their bow. Consider things even right now."

-Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh, via Angelique S. Chengelis, The Detroit News


Following Michigan’s spring practice Saturday, head coach Jim Harbaugh took the opportunity to explain the reasoning behind his Twitter battle with Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith. Earlier in the week, when asked whether the Buckeyes would consider taking their spring practice on the road, Smith had made comments to reporters which may have suggested that Michigan was aiming to "jump start" its program by taking its spring practice to Florida and other public venues such as Ford Field in Detroit. While Smith says that he did not intend for his comments to "discredit our rivals," Harbaugh took to Twitter to retaliate, stating that it was "Good to see Director Smith being relevant again after the tattoo fiasco. Welcome back!"

Harbaugh says that he held back several hours before responding to Smith’s comments, awaiting an explanation which would shed light on the perceived slight. When none ever came, Harbaugh took to social media to get back at Smith, stating that "scribes and pundits" were interpreting Smith’s comments the way Harbaugh had.

Smith had called Warde Manuel, Michigan’s newly instated athletic director, to explain the situation. Manuel, who also had a conversation with Harbaugh following the remarks, said that his talk with Smith was positive. Still, Harbaugh claims that he and his athletic director saw the comments the same way. Several Michigan players have also weighed in on the issue, including cornerback Jourdan Lewis, who said that Smith’s comments were "unprofessional" but that it was nice to see that his coach "doesn’t mind getting his hands dirty" in response.



SPLASH!
S/O to Emma Baranski & Colin Zeng, my NATIONAL CHAMPS crowned in the pool today. #GoBucks pic.twitter.com/tt8PfS8DEm

— Brutus Buckeye (@Brutus_Buckeye) March 27, 2016

The Ohio State Buckeyes notched two more individual national championships in the pool over the weekend with wins in platform diving and synchronized swimming.

Redshirt freshman Colin Zeng, a diver from China, earned the Buckeyes’ first national championship in men’s diving since 2008, and the 59th individual championship in program history. The win is just Ohio State’s third title in platform diving. This season, Zeng also secured two Big Ten Championships, and earned first-place finishes in 24 of 30 events in which he competed. In the NCAA meet, Zeng recorded three dives which scored at least 90 on a 100 point scale--with only two other dives meeting that mark on the night. On his last dive of the meet, Zeng managed a score of 90 to overcome a narrow deficit to earn the individual title.

The men’s swim team earned a 15th-overall finish in the NCAA Championships, making 2016 the 10th-straight season the team has finished in the top-20 nationally. In addition to Zeng, junior swimmer Matt McHugh earned all-American honors in the 100 meter backstroke and butterfly.

Meanwhile, junior Emma Baranski earned her own national title in synchronized swimming at the UC Collegiate Championships in Florida over the weekend, earning the Buckeyes their first individual title since 2012. Baranski and per partner, Monica Velazquez-Stiak, also earned a second-place finish in the duet. The two trio teams tied for third in the competition behind the two Stanford squads. Overall, Ohio State earned a second-place finish in the team competition behind Stanford.

"I’ve just got to show I can play. It’s a lot of players and I’m just going to battle, try to be tough, and just lock down the receivers...We’re head to head right now. The better man wins."

-Ohio State cornerback Marshon Lattimore, via Tim May, The Columbus Dispatch


With the departure of cornerback Eli Apple, likely in the first round, of the 2016 NFL Draft, questions remain as to who will fill the void left opposite fellow corner Gareon Conley for the Ohio State Buckeyes secondary. Now, however, the choice seems clear to cornerbacks coach Kerry Coombs, as redshirt sophomore Marshon Lattimore, who is able to participate fully in practice for the first time since his hamstring surgery last fall, has stepped up early in spring practice to be the frontrunner for the other starting spot. Lattimore, who has been slowed by hamstring injuries and ultimately surgery in the past, has plenty of competition for the role, however, including sophomore Denzel Ward and redshirt freshmen Damon Arnette and Joshua Norwood. While Ward, one of four true freshman who saw the field last season, got some playing time on special teams last year, the cornerback position itself was locked down almost exclusively to Apple and Conley, who each played in the area of 1,000 defensive and special teams plays last season.

The number of plays for the starters this year should not be as great, according to Coombs, who noted that the high number was the result of the fact that the starters, in fact, were so outstanding, but also that the backups were not up to par. This year, however, with one of the starting spots wide open, Coombs hopes that all four of the hopeful starters will see playing time this season.

The group has a long way to go in terms of practice, however, needing to gain experience with getting burned on the deep ball to be able to improve. Coombs noted in particular the perpetual need for cornerbacks to have short memories, and to be able to remain aggressive against the deep ball in spite of whatever happened on the previous play.

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BTN Rachel Banham, Kelsey Mitchell named AP first-team All-America

Rachel Banham, Kelsey Mitchell named AP first-team All-America
BTN.com staff via Big Ten Network

The Big Ten claimed two of the five spots on the 2016 Associated Press All-America First Team, it was announced Monday. [ MORE: Read more about Rachel Banham | Read more about Kelsey Mitchell ] Minnesota’s Rachel Banham and Ohio State’s Kelsey Mitchell join UConn’s Breanna Stewart and Moriah Jefferson and South Carolina’s A’ja Wilson on the annual postseason team. Banham, the Big Ten Player of the Year, averaged a Big Ten-record 30.5 points in conference play, including a conference single-game record and NCAA-tying 60 points in a double-overtime victory at Northwestern, and is just Minnesota’s second player to earn
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LGHL Ohio State's Kelsey Mitchell named AP first-team All-American

Ohio State's Kelsey Mitchell named AP first-team All-American
Ben Martens
via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


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The Buckeye sophomore put together another amazing season.

Ohio State sophomore guard Kelsey Mitchell was named to the AP's first-team All-America list on Monday after a season that saw her finish fourth in the country in scoring at 26.1 points per game. It is just the third time that a Buckeye has received first-team honors.

The Cincinnati native was a second-team selection a season ago, as well as being named National Freshman of the Year after becoming the first freshman to lead the country in scoring.

Ohio State finished second in the Big Ten regular season and earned a No. 3 seed in the NCAA tournament. The Buckeyes lost in the Sweet 16 to Tennessee, but finished with a 26-8 record in 2015-16.

Mitchell broke program records for single season scoring, single game scoring, and NCAA tournament game scoring this year, and was a unanimous first-team All-Big Ten honoree. She is also finalist for the Nancy Lieberman and Dawn Staley Awards, and is on the Wooden Award Late Season Top-20 list.

Previous AP first-teamers at Ohio State include Jessica Davenport in 2005 and Jantel Lavender in 2010 and 2011.

Also of note, senior guard Ameryst Alston, the fourth-leading scorer in program history, was named an AP honorable mention All-American.

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LGHL Ohio State graduate transfer target Cullen Neal might not make sense for the Buckeyes

Ohio State graduate transfer target Cullen Neal might not make sense for the Buckeyes
Grant Freking
via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


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Neal's scoring ability could aide the Buckeyes, but the fit would likely not be an ideal one.

Ohio State basketball is coming off an arduous but necessary rebuilding season. The Buckeyes missed the NCAA Tournament for the first time since the 2007-08 season, but are slated to return all 10 players that saw significant action in 2015-16.

Having said that, Ohio State would surely welcome any potential upgrades from outside of the program, and it appears Thad Matta has caught the interest of a notable graduate transfer.


New Mexico transfer Cullen Neal will visit Ohio State the third week of April.

— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanESPN) March 28, 2016


Neal, who is the son of New Mexico coach Craig Neal, averaged 12.3 points, 3.7 assists, 2.8 rebounds, and 3.3 turnovers in just over 30 minutes per game for the Lobos in 2015-16. The 6'5, 195-pound Neal also averaged 3.8 free throws per game (74 percent conversion rate) and 5.2 3-point attempts per game (made 33 percent). Neal is a unique transfer case for four reasons.

Neal has two seasons of eligibility remaining


Neal, who will graduate from New Mexico this spring, received a medical hardship waiver for the 2014-15 campaign -- which would have been his sophomore season -- after he missed the Lobos' final 28 games with an ankle injury. Neal is eligible for two more seasons because his going to acquire his undergraduate degree shortly and because he's only played two years of college ball.

Ohio State is in a scholarship crunch


When factoring in Ohio State's 10 returning players and two incoming freshmen (Derek Funderburk, Micah Potter), the Buckeyes only have one open scholarship for the 2016-17 season, and that scholarship was reportedly offered to 6-7 Westerville South senior Andre Wesson on March 22.

Now, offering a scholarship to a transfer is a far leap from squiring a transfer around campus, but Ohio State's interest in Neal is certainly notable. Also, with Marc Loving penciled in as only senior next winter, inserting Neal onto the roster for two seasons would limit the Buckeyes' flexibility in the 2017 class, with collateral damage potentially coming in the form of waning interest from four-star guard Markell Johnson, a Cleveland-area product and a prime Ohio State target.

Of course, a scholarship could open up if Trevor Thompson, currently testing the evaluation waters, hires an agent and makes himself eligible for the NBA Draft, or if another member of the roster declared for the draft or transferred.

Neal is a loose fit for what the Buckeyes need


Neal's usage rate of 20.6 percent ranked second on New Mexico and would've been fourth on Ohio State behind JaQuan Lyle, Loving, and Jae'Sean Tate, so the Buckeyes -- in need of a secondary ball handler and another legitimate scoring option -- would likely benefit from a player like Neal: someone who is used to a heavy playmaking and decision-making load offensively.

There are two clear drawbacks to Neal's game, one of which being his lack of proficiency from the 3-point line. But, while Neal's 33 percent mark from 3 isn't great, it would've been the fourth-best mark on Ohio State, which ranked 11th out of 14 Big Ten teams in 3-point shooting. As a freshman, Neal converted nearly 36 percent of the 3.4 triples he hoisted each game, so he is capable of a better showing beyond the arc and would certainly benefit from Lyle's ingenuity at the point.

Neal also has a penchant for turnovers, notching nearly as many turnovers (101) as assists (114) in 2015-16. The Buckeyes' assist-to-turnover ratio of .88 was 13th in the Big Ten this past season.

Some of New Mexico's fans could not stand Neal


Coaches' sons are often easy targets of vitriol from fan bases, but the criticism Neal received appeared to be particularly unsavory and borderline dangerous. In February, Craig Neal revealed that Cullen had been the target of "excessive harassment and even threats." Neal was forced to change his phone number twice and shut down his social media accounts.


"Walk in his shoes for one day," Craig Neal said on Feb. 12. "It's not fair that you get threats and death threats. It's not right."

SB Nation's Mountain West Connection penned a detailed post about "black eye" left on New Mexico's fan base following Neal's decision to transfer.

Neal, who reportedly drew interest from other major programs like Butler, Purdue, Xavier, and Utah, has already visited Mississippi and Texas A&M.

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Google Hoops: Buckeyes in mix to land graduate transfer guard - 247Sports

Hoops: Buckeyes in mix to land graduate transfer guard - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Hoops: Buckeyes in mix to land graduate transfer guard
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! As a freshman in 2013-14, he averaged 7.1 points and 1.9 assists per game, while shooting 35.9 percent from long distance.

and more »


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tBBC Script Ohio: Can Marshon Lattimore Fill Eli Apple’s Shoes?

Script Ohio: Can Marshon Lattimore Fill Eli Apple’s Shoes?
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 discuss the open competition opposite of Gareon Conley at defensive back and how Conley’s experience last year should tell us that guys with little experience can still have a huge impact.

Marshon Lattimore is the next man up for the Ohio State secondary.

The post Script Ohio: Can Marshon Lattimore Fill Eli Apple’s Shoes? appeared first on The Buckeye Battle Cry: Ohio State News and Commentary.

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Google Notre Dame Lacrosse Beat Ohio State Buckeyes 9-8 at the Horseshoe - One Foot Down

Notre Dame Lacrosse Beat Ohio State Buckeyes 9-8 at the Horseshoe - One Foot Down
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Notre Dame Lacrosse Beat Ohio State Buckeyes 9-8 at the Horseshoe
One Foot Down
The #2 Fighting Irish traveled to The Horseshoe for a rematch of their 9-0 pasting of the then #15 Ohio State Buckeyes last year at Arlotta Stadium (Aprox. 0.025% of Div. I lacrosse games are shutouts). Coming into the game this year, Ohio State had ...


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