Buckeyes top Michigan with 2018 quarterback - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Buckeyes top Michigan with 2018 quarterback
247Sports
Curtis Samuel is expected to be one of the biggest components of the offense for Ohio State as a junior in 2016. The 5-foot-11, 200-pound Samuel is missing spring practices right now with a foot/toe injury, but is expected to be the Buckeyes' starting ...


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Ohio State sends out offer to build secondary, hosts SEC quarterback commit
Caleb Houser via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Ohio State is in the heart of spring ball and the list of visitors on campus to watch the Buckeyes is about as good as it can be.

Ohio State concluded its fourth spring ball practice yesterday and while that is enough work as it is, Urban Meyer also played host to many of the nation's elite prospects for the 2017 and 2018 classes. As well as entertaining those in attendance, a new offer was sent out to a 2018 prospect. Without further adieu, let's jump right into the news the came about Thursday.

Radley-Hiles lands OSU offer


The Buckeyes are looking excellent so far for the 2017 class in terms of their secondary commits. However, an elite program such as Ohio State knows that recruiting is a business that never stops and momentum only helps carry into the future. Such was true when yesterday, via his Twitter, 2018 Calabasas, California prospect Brendan Radley-Hiles let it be known that his latest offer was from the Buckeyes.

The 5'10, 175-pound cornerback has seen his recruitment really take off as of late. With offers from 11 total schools and Michigan State, Penn State, Florida, Tennessee, and Ohio State all offering within the last month, it shows just how highly he is being looked at. There's plenty of time before a decision will be made, but with nearly two years until 2018's signing day, Ohio State has put themselves in great position to build a great relationship with the California standout in the meantime.





Martell's OSU visit successful


We all know you're wondering, so let's not waste any time and jump right into the latest rumblings with the nation's top quarterback and his Ohio State visit. Tate Martell is a name that needs no introduction. The Las Vegas, Nevada Bishop Gorman signal caller is currently committed to Texas A&M, but is currently in Columbus, Ohio as he spent his entire day yesterday on an unofficial visit at Ohio State and looked to be having a great time.

Starting his day off at 7 am with a team meeting at the Woody Hayes Football Facility, Martell was also in attendance for the Buckeyes' fourth spring practice, followed by a tour of Ohio Stadium. Ohio State certainly rolled out the red carpet for him. With the on-campus visit now concluded, Martell's status with the Texas A&M Aggies has been questioned.

Last night, several 247Sports crystal ball predictions were "flipped" from Texas A&M to Ohio State for Martell. While Ohio State does currently have a quarterback already committed to the 2017 class in Danny Clark of Akron Archbishop Hoban, if Martell wants in, Ohio State would certainly welcome him with more than open arms. His family certainly wouldn't mind an Ohio State destination either as Tate has mentioned he has family in Ohio who love the Buckeyes. Nothing is set in stone of course, but things are trending toward Ohio State for Martell and that is news that would set the already top-ranked 2017 recruiting class at a level that may be unreachable by any other program.









Thompson-Robinson visit update


Ohio State has nearly perfected a pipeline with out-of-state schools such as Florida's St. Thomas Aquinas and even IMG Academy. However, a new pipeline may be forming for Ohio State. Bishop Gorman in Las Vegas, Nevada is home to current Buckeye commit Haskell Garrett (who is currently on his first visit to Columbus since committing), Tate Martell (who is on campus), as well as another Bishop Gorman prospect, 2018 quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson (who is also on campus) to round out the Nevada trio.

While Thompson-Robinson is currently Tate Martell's backup at Bishop Gorman, after the 2016 football season, he'll take the reigns and is already seeing his recruitment take off without ever starting a varsity football game. On his visit to Ohio State, Thompson-Robinson was able to be with his current teammates and see what the Buckeyes have to offer. Things for the 2018 prospect looked to have gone more than well. As Urban Meyer says quite frequently, "the future is bright at Ohio State." The Buckeyes are certainly building for now and the future.





Lindsey on OSU campus today


A former Bishop Gorman teammate to Tate Martell and Haskell Garrett, Tyjon Lindsey, recently moved back to California to finish his prep football career. The nation's fifth best receiver for the 2017 class, according to 247Sports, will be in Columbus today visiting Ohio State and news has already been circulating of what this visit could bring. Last night via his Twitter, Tyjon sent a tweet that had many Buckeye fans guessing as to what will come. As his visit starts today, stay locked in with us at Land-Grant Holy Land.

The 5'9, 180-pound speedster has offers from nearly every top program in the country, but Ohio State certainly sits near the top of the list for Lindsey. As of late, the Buckeyes have even been pegged as the team leading for him. While there's plenty that can happen regarding his recruitment, things sit well for Urban Meyer and Zach Smith.









Holmes heading to Ohio State soon


Yesterday via his Twitter, the nation's top ranked cornerback for 2017 (according to 247Sports), Darnay Holmes, gave Ohio State some good news as he let it be known that he plans to make a trip to Columbus soon to see what the Buckeyes are all about. His plans right now most likely include a visit for the spring football game as the conclusion to spring ball. Ohio State's 2017 defensive secondary is already loaded, but Ohio State being a player for another top prospect isn't anything new for the 2017 class.





Quick Hits:

• 2017 4-star defensive lineman prospect Donovan Jeter placed Ohio State in his top 10 schools via his Twitter yesterday afternoon.
• 2018 Huber Heights Wayne prospect Alex Reigelsperger made a return trip back to Ohio State yesterday, his second trip in a week. An offer could be coming very soon.
• 2017 Ohio State commit and IMG Academy star Isaiah Pryor was on campus visiting his future home yesterday.
• Pickerington, Ohio 2017 prospect Garon Howard was in attendance for Ohio State's spring practice yesterday.
• 2018 running back prospect Markese Stepp, from Indianapolis, is making his way to Ohio State this weekend.

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Ohio State football: Who will be the Buckeyes best offensive skill player in 2016? - cleveland.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Ohio State football: Who will be the Buckeyes best offensive skill player in 2016?
cleveland.com
Watch the video above to see who Ari Wasserman, Doug Lesmerises and Bill Landis think will be the Buckeyes best offensive skill player in 2016. And give us your player in the comments section below. It can't be Barrett. We're talking receivers, running ...
Noah Brown plans to be 'ready to go' for Ohio State Buckeyes in fallMyDaytonDailyNews
Men's basketball | NCAA Tournament: Oregon wears down DukeColumbus Dispatch
Ohio State's Noah Brown ready to start generating new buzzESPN (blog)

all 8 news articles »

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Buckeyes top Michigan with 2018 quarterback - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Buckeyes top Michigan with 2018 quarterback
247Sports
Curtis Samuel is expected to be one of the biggest components of the offense for Ohio State as a junior in 2016. The 5-foot-11, 200-pound Samuel is missing spring practices right now with a foot/toe injury, but is expected to be the Buckeyes' starting ...


Continue reading...

Buckeyes hosting annual 'Student Appreciation Day' next week - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Buckeyes hosting annual 'Student Appreciation Day' next week
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! Per Urban Meyer's Tweet (above), the event will also feature free food, a DJ playing music, and more. Highlights from last ...
Buckeye for a Day gives high school students look at college lifeNBC4i.com

all 3 news articles »

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Samuel ready to 'put on a show' for Ohio State Buckeyes - MyDaytonDailyNews
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Samuel ready to 'put on a show' for Ohio State Buckeyes
MyDaytonDailyNews
The college football world, or at least Buckeye Nation, got a look at Samuel's abilities early in his freshman season in 2014. In the first three games, Samuel and Ezekiel Elliott split carries. Elliott separated himself with a 182-yard rushing ...
Ohio State football | Curtis Samuel wants to be dual threat upon return from surgeryColumbus Dispatch
Curtis Samuel's fixed foot another reason he could be Ohio State's breakout offensive starcleveland.com

all 14 news articles »

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Lady Vols hope to run with Buckeyes - The Tennessean
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Lady Vols hope to run with Buckeyes
The Tennessean
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Tennessee arrived at its next NCAA Tournament stop Wednesday amid blizzard-like conditions. Lady Vols assistant Dean Lockwood and strength and conditioning coach Lee Taylor threw down a gauntlet of sorts by pitching snowballs ...
Lady Vols must try to slow OSU's Mitchell -- but most have failedESPN

all 7 news articles »

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Women's basketball | Cait Craft's injury forces Buckeyes to adjust - Columbus Dispatch
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Women's basketball | Cait Craft's injury forces Buckeyes to adjust
Columbus Dispatch
The Buckeyes (26-7) will face the seventh-seeded Lady Volunteers (21-13) with senior guard Ameryst Alston back in the starting lineup but still favoring a sprained right wrist that she suffered three weeks ago. OSU's three-player bench all have dealt ...
Buckeyes' Cait Craft suffers broken hand, out for rest of NCAAsESPN
Lady Vols hope to run with BuckeyesThe Tennessean
Tennessee's mission: Slow down OSU's MitchellESPN
cleveland.com -OSU - The Lantern -KING5.com
all 16 news articles »

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Top 5 prospect in 2018 to visit Buckeyes - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Top 5 prospect in 2018 to visit Buckeyes
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! Thomas showed initial excitement about landing the offer from the Buckeyes, and is wasting no time in checking out what the ...


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The Hurry Up: Najee Harris Reportedly Visiting Buckeyes for Spring Game, Darnay Holmes Considering Another Visit ... - Eleven Warriors
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


The Hurry Up: Najee Harris Reportedly Visiting Buckeyes for Spring Game, Darnay Holmes Considering Another Visit ...
Eleven Warriors
Harris is committed to Alabama, but the relationship between Tony Alford and the star running back has been one that has steadily grown over the last handful of months, and he's expressed regularly a desire to get to campus with the Buckeyes.
Watch: Curtis Samuel on health status, role for 2016247Sports

all 4 news articles »

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Buckeyes' Cait Craft suffers broken hand, out for rest of NCAAs - ESPN
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Buckeyes' Cait Craft suffers broken hand, out for rest of NCAAs
ESPN
Ohio State senior guard Cait Craft suffered a broken left hand in practice Tuesday night and is out for the rest of the season. The Buckeyes, the No. 3 seed in the Sioux Falls regional, play seventh-seeded Tennessee on Friday (9:30 p.m., ESPN2) in the ...
Ohio State women's basketball | Cait Craft's career ends with broken handColumbus Dispatch
Ohio State women's basketball: Cait Craft's career ends before Sweet Sixteen with broken handcleveland.com
Ohio State guard Cait Craft (broken hand) out for NCAA tournamentKnoxville News Sentinel

all 7 news articles »

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2016 NCAA Tournament TV schedule: Sweet 16, game times and TV channels
Luke Zimmermann via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Everything to get setup to watch all tonight's awesome NCAA Tournament action.

The Madness is back.

After a brief reprieve, the NCAA Tournament kickstarts back into high gear tonight, with the Sweet 16 beginning a loaded four-game slate will determine the matchups for the South and West regional finals.

Starting with the South, No. 2 Villanova sees if they can finally get the monkey off the back against the mastermind of that brilliant George Mason Final Four run, Jim Larrañaga and No. 3 seeded Miami. Both teams do it well on both sides of the ball. Though the Hurricanes nearly gave up a massive comeback to recent tourney darlings Wichita State, they more than earned their way into tonight's opener.

In the South's late matchup, top seeded Kansas -- as in the number one over all seed in the entire tourney -- looks to win their first championship since 2008 and get back in the Final Four for the first time since 2013. Their opponent? The Big Ten's own, four-seeded Maryland. Kansas alum UMD head coach Mark Turgeon and the Terps haven't tasted an Elite Eight since 2002, the last time they won a national title.

Shifting coasts, two former Big 12 rivals collide as No. 2 Oklahoma looks to stop No. 3 Texas A&M's semi-miraculous run. A&M looked dead to rights until a historic, shocking comeback against Northern Iowa in 2 OT helped catapult them into the Sweet 16. Lon Kruger and OU, meanwhile, looks to get back to the Final Four for the first time since 2002.

In the nightcap, No. 4 Duke, the defending national champs, takes on Oregon, a one-seed for the first time in school history, and a team that hasn't made a Final Four since 1939. You read that right.

It should be a great night of college hoops, and it all gets going at 7:10 p.m. ET.

Below is your full TV schedule. All games can also be viewed online through the NCAA's March Madness Live website and accompanying smart phone and tablet apps.

Sweet 16 TV schedule and tip times (all Eastern)

Thursday, Mar. 24


No. 2 Villanova vs. No. 3 Miami (South), 7:10 p.m., CBS
No. 2 Oklahoma vs. No. 3 Texas A&M (West), 7:37 p.m., TBS
No. 1 Kansas vs. No. 4 Maryland (South), 9:40 p.m., CBS
No. 1 Oregon vs. No. 4 Duke (West), 9:55 p.m., TBS

Announcing teams


South: Jim Nantz, Bill Raftery, Grant Hill, Tracy Wolfson
West: Verne Lundquist, Jim Spanarkel, Allie LaForce

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Big Ten Football: A look at offensive line situations
Tom Dienhart, BTN.com Senior Writer via Big Ten Network

Spring practices are in full swing across the Big Ten, as schools begin to answer questions as they prepare for 2016. And no position across the conference may be under more scrutiny than offensive line, which from my estimations will be a top priority for nine schools to shore up. Here is a look at the most critical offensive line situations in the Big Ten, listed alphabetically. Illinois Guard Ted Karras was the team’s top blocker. Now, he’s gone. This unit needs to get a better push after the Illini ranked last in the Big Ten in rushing (129.3 ypg)

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Noah Brown plans to be 'ready to go' for Buckeyes in fall - MyDaytonDailyNews
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Noah Brown plans to be 'ready to go' for Buckeyes in fall
MyDaytonDailyNews
The Buckeyes could have used Brown last season. Although they had two productive wide receivers in Michael Thomas and Jalin Marshall, they never found a way to work Braxton Miller into the mix consistently, and their wide receiver depth took another ...
Watch: Noah Brown on recovering from broken leg, more247Sports

all 8 news articles »

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J.T. Barrett is Ohio State's clear-cut starting quarterback, and he's relishing the leadership role that comes with it
Brett Ludwiczak via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


With all the starters on offense Ohio State has to replace in 2016, J.T. Barrett knows he has to be a leader for the Buckeyes.

"Now the focus is always trying to get better, developing skills, working on my craft. Then personally, as the leader of this team, how can I bring the young guys to the level where I'm at?"

- Ohio State quarterback J.T. Barrett via Tim May, The Columbus Dispatch


For Ohio State quarterback J.T. Barrett, this year's spring practices compared to last year's has to feel like night and day. Not only was Barrett recovering from injury during last year's spring practices, there was also a logjam at quarterback, with Cardale Jones and Braxton Miller also in the mix to take the snaps for Ohio State last year. This spring not only is Barrett healthy, he is the undisputed starting quarterback heading into the 2016 season. Even with a tough schedule and the loss of a lot of talent, Ohio State still has big expectations this year just because of what Barrett can do on the field.

Being the undisputed starting quarterback has its perks, but it also comes with added responsibility. With Ohio State losing so much offensive talent to the NFL, even more will be expected out of Barrett this year. The fourth-year junior knows he not only has to play to the best of his abilities, but he also has to make those around him better to take some of the pressure off some of the younger players. So far Barrett has gotten off to a good start with his added responsibilities, as Urban Meyer has said Barrett has been a leader in the weight room so far this offseason.


"I wanted to go to an organization I feel really is a playoff contender and a team that has a chance to contend for a Super Bowl trophy. I wanted to be part of something with an offense and a quarterback that was established, and the Saints were the first team to call."

- New Orleans Saints linebacker James Laurinaitis via Christopher Dabe, NOLA.com


Once the NFL season ended, James Laurinaitis had to have a feeling that he'd have a new home next year. The former Ohio State linebacker was probably banking on that home being Los Angeles, since the Rams were going to be relocating there. It probably came as a shock to Laurinaitis that after seven seasons, and 112 consecutive starts at linebacker, he was released by the team. Laurinaitis wasn't on the open market long, signing with the New Orleans Saints, who were the first team to call and inquire about his services.

After New Orleans has struggled the last few years on the defensive side of the football, Laurinaitis will be the Saints some veteran leadership that they desperately need. Should Laurinaitis start at middle linebacker for the Saints, it will likely push last year's first round pick Stephone Anthony to an outside linebacker position. At least Laurinaitis will head into this season healthy, after suffering an elbow injury last season that hampered him from week 6 on. The former Buckeye says he has been working out fully since mid-February, which will definitely help if the Saints have any designs on returning to the playoffs.

"Our main focus is pushing the ball as fast as possible. My team helped me maintain the energy and focus to keep the ball in my hands. I think it helps our team when I'm driving right at people."

- Ohio State guard Kelsey Mitchell via Mechelle Voepel, espnW.com


There's no question that Ohio State's women's basketball team is one of the best teams in the country when the basketball is in Kelsey Mitchell's hands. Sunday's win over West Virginia to earn a spot in the regional semifinals saw Mitchell score 45 points. In three of the last five games, Mitchell has scored at least 40 points. The 45 points Mitchell scored was not only the fourth-highest point total for an NCAA Tournament game, but also most be a true guard. The attention that trying to stop Mitchell demands also helps her teammates to get open, which is evidenced by the 86.8 points per game the Buckeyes are averaging so far this season.

The next team who will try their hand at slowing down Mitchell will be Tennessee, who will face the Buckeyes in Friday's regional semifinal in Sioux Falls. The Lady Vols know they'll have to try to put the pressure on Mitchell early to try and slow her down. Making Mitchell change directions is key for Tennessee, because if they let Mitchell take a straight line to the basket it could be a long night for the Lady Vols. Tennessee will look to slow down the fast pace Ohio State is looking to play at, since the Lady Vols only averaged 65.2 points per game this season.

"He's got the skills and abilities of the D'Angelo (Russells) and the Denzel Valentines because of that size and he can really pass. The sky's the limit for him."

- Michigan assistant coach LaVall Jordan on JaQuan Lyle via Bill Landis, Cleveland.com


JaQuan Lyle's first season in Columbus had it's up and downs, but there is no question that the guard has the talent to become a star for the Buckeyes. Not only did Lyle post a triple-double earlier in the year against Rutgers, but he became just the fourth player to put up 20 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists in a Big Ten Tournament game. Lyle joined D'Angelo Russell as the only two freshmen during Thad Matta's 12 years as Ohio State head coach to average 10 points, four rebounds, and four assists during a season. Accomplishments like that make some of the games he struggled in this year a little easier to swallow.

Lyle also might have had some unrealistic expectations placed upon him since he had to follow D'Angelo Russell, who was taken with the second pick in the NBA Draft in June. What stands out most about Lyle is his size. At 6-foot-5, he is able to see the floor better than some of the other point guards out there, which should help to boost his assist totals in the future. Also, with a year under his belt now, Lyle has a better feel for the college basketball game. During his freshman season, Lyle struggled at times with turnovers, which might not be quite as much of an issue next year. If Lyle spends the offseason working on his game, not only should big things be on the horizon for him, but also for the Buckeyes, who return all their starters from this year's squad.

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• A VHS rental of "Freddy Got Fingered" landed this North Carolina man in jail.

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Buckeyes hosting annual 'Student Appreciation Day' next week - 247Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Buckeyes hosting annual 'Student Appreciation Day' next week
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! Per Urban Meyer's Tweet (above), the event will also feature free food, a DJ playing music, and more. Highlights from last ...

and more »

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Lady Vols must try to slow OSU's Mitchell -- but most have failed - ESPN
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Lady Vols must try to slow OSU's Mitchell -- but most have failed
ESPN
7 seed Lady Vols a victory when they meet Mitchell's third-seeded Buckeyes on Friday in the Sioux Falls regional semifinals (ESPN2, 9:30 p.m. ET). Ohio State does have other weapons, and they've all done their damage throughout this season, too, for a ...

and more »

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Let’s talk Men’s Basketball
Ken via our good friends at Buckeye Battle Cry
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


.. for a minute. Or two.

(Thad knows what I’m talking about.)

Ohio State men’s basketball just endured a season that certainly wasn’t the best of times, nor was it the worst of times. It was a season that, if we were sane and realistic with ourselves, was what we expected.

Before I get into the weeds with this, let’s be clear that I am not a Thad Matta apologist. My views have been jaundiced about his 20-win seasons. I’ve never been happy with OSU’s piss-poor FT shooting. I am disappointed with Ohio State’s indifference to offensive rebounding. So, no, I do not think that (professionally) Thad is pristine.

However, I do think he is a very good coach. In fact, I hold Thad in higher esteem as a coach higher now that I ever have, despite the “disappointment of another 20 win season. If you take the time to peel the onion you’ll have a better appreciation, compared to others.

In his article, 11W’s Ramzy seems to buddy up with Andy. To be honest, in the past three years, when I’ve been paying attention to this stuff, I’ve always admired Ramzy’s works. He just happened to whiff on this one. All quotations are per his article:


First, this is not a “shuffled staff”, I don’t know where in the hell Ramzy gets this. Greg Gard has been with Wisconsin for 15 years. If anyone was the heir apparent to Bo Ryan, this gentleman was the guy. He was at Wisconsin as long as Ryan was for god’s sake.


This was a throw-away paragraph. Yes, Tresselball sent players to the NFL, but how many have stuck with the NFL? Yeah, not as many as he’d have you think. Professional team rosters are vastly different between NFL/NBA teams. Don’t get sucked into the comparison. And lets not lose sight of the fact that a “successful” player in college may not translate into a “successful” professional athlete. This is not a valid comparison.


Jesuschrist, I couldn’t disagree more with this statement. If anything this season, their effort far exceeded their capabilities. I will grant the point of sluggishness the last 2-3 games. But I also pointed out in articles that with a frosh laden lineup, fatigue will/did set in. The team was physically/mentally exhausted at the end of the season. In no way does that diminish their efforts.


Ruminations on one player’s motivations is a pretty weak sauce argument to use to baste the entire program with. Moving on to other non-sequitur comparisons:


Since we’re on the Thad-Urban comparison train; coaches Fickell, Warinner, Coombs and Smith are at/beyond the 3 year mark. If you remember, the Buckeye offense looked pretty dicey for most of the season, compared to the previous year, it headed in the wrong direction. Perhaps we need to move them out before the football team gets stale as well. Off with their heads!

Wrap Up

Look, this Ohio State team performed about as well as I thought it would. Hell, it won more games than I thought it would. This team had one junior, who was probably not of the right personality to assume the “Cloak of Leadership” on this team. That’s fine, not everyone is cut of that cloth. It had several sophomores that had intermittent/sporadic game time last season. It had a lot of freshmen that were put into significant game-time minutes due to attrition. It takes time to mesh individuals into a team. If you don’t understand that, then you don’t understand anything.

The other point is that a team’s roster/capabilities takes the ebb and flow of eligibility/recruiting cycles. This was an ‘ebb’ period. I’ll be honest; I thought this was one of Thad’s more challenging, and better years of coaching that I’ve seen., and I’ve seen all his year at Ohio State. This was not so much a ‘coaching’ challenge as it was a ‘teaching’ challenge’. To not acknowledge that is an error.

To be blunt, his article was written from the fainting couch. This team will be fine next yer, and beyond. We’re not talking about a cure for cancer; we’re talking about college basketball. Keep things in perspective. We’ll be fine. The Ohio State basketball program is in good hands.









The post Let’s talk Men’s Basketball appeared first on The Buckeye Battle Cry: Ohio State News and Commentary.

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Where Ohio State Buckeyes in the NFL landed after free agency
Alexis Chassen via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Some players signed extensions and others are headed to a new team in 2016.

Just a month before the NFL Draft, teams have been making moves preparing for the 2016 season. Several former Ohio State stars tested the waters of free agency, before either re-signing with their team or heading to a new city for a fresh start. Not all Buckeyes have found their way onto a roster, but there is still plenty of time this offseason for moves to be made and contracts to be signed.

Here's a look at how free agency played out for various pro Buckeyes:

Alex Boone (49ers -> Vikings)

After being openly frustrated with his time in San Francisco, it was little surprise that the guard would try and find a spot elsewhere for the next phase of his career. He couldn't resist at least one more parting shot at the Niners and Colin Kaepernick, saying what he liked best about the opportunity to play with Teddy Bridgewater was that the quarterback wasn't a "prima donna".

As one of the best lineman in the League, it's no surprise he earned the 7th highest contract among guards in the NFL. He signed a four-year deal with the Vikings for $26.8 million, including $10 million guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $6.7 million.

Nate Ebner (Patriots re-signed)

The 26 year old free safety has been a solid special team player for New England over the past four seasons. Heading into the offseason, Ebner was an unrestricted free agent, but the Patriots decided to re-sign the former Buckeye to a two-year deal worth $2.4 million.

Just after signing his new contract, Ebner requested a leave of absence to pursue a dream of his to compete at the Olympics in rugby -- the game he played before pursuing a career in football.

James Laurinaitis (Rams -> Saints)

After being cut by the Rams following seven years with the team, record-breaking linebacker took meetings with several teams -- including the Falcons -- before signing a deal with the New Orleans Saints. Details of his new contract haven't been released yet, but he was the 5th highest paid inside linebacker (among 103) in 2015.

Terrelle Pryor (Browns re-signed)

The former quarterback-turned receiver wasn't nearly as effective as the Browns had hoped last season -- but he also didn't have the whole season to find a groove. Despite only recording three catches for 42 yards in 2015, Pryor got a good sign, when Cleveland hired Hue Jackson as the new head coach.

Having worked together in Oakland, Pryor and Jackson have a rapport, and the head coach -- known for liking tall receivers -- knows the talent potential in the former Buckeye. Jackson is reportedly interested in Pryor's quarterback skills as well, which could lead to some interesting offense from the Browns in 2016.

The team extended a qualifying offer to the restricted free agent, for a one-year deal worth $1.67 million.





John Simon (Texans re-signed)

Heading into his fourth year in the League, the outside linebacker finally found his footing down in Houston. Joining former Ohio State assistant Mike Vrabel, who had a heavy hand in bringing Simon to the Texans. He spent the 2015 season being an impressive stand-in for J.J. Watt and Jadeveon Clowney due to various injuries and other issues. The team rewarded his talent by tendering the restricted free agent, offering a one-year deal worth $1.67 million.


Not all former Buckeyes have found a home in free agency, with Will Allen and Dan "Boom" Herron still looking for new contracts. Allen is heading into his 13th season in the League, and at 33 years old, might have a hard time finding a team to risk a roster spot on him. Herron on the other hand, is only a few years removed from Ohio State, but bounced from team-to-team in his time since college -- his lack of production makes him an RB3 at best, which limits his signing options.

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Ohio State roundup | Nennig's home run lifts Buckeyes - Columbus Dispatch
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Ohio State roundup | Nennig's home run lifts Buckeyes
Columbus Dispatch
The Buckeyes rolled up more than 500 yards in total offense against Western Michigan, but Urban Meyer still sees room for improvement. Tim May and Bill Rabinowitz talk about that game and Ohio State's upcoming Big Ten opener against Indiana.


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Upon further review: How did our Big Ten predictions shake out?
Tom Dienhart, BTN.com Senior Writer via Big Ten Network

At the beginning of the basketball season, our panel of Big Ten men's basketball experts came together and made some predictions. Some were pretty good, others not so much. See what they predicted and how it compares to the end results.

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Big Ten Recruiting Rundown: Buckeyes Doing Battle With Conference Powerhouses For Some of the Nation's Top Talent - Eleven Warriors
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Big Ten Recruiting Rundown: Buckeyes Doing Battle With Conference Powerhouses For Some of the Nation's Top Talent
Eleven Warriors
The Buckeyes top-ranked recruiting class has seen its share of noteworthy battles with the best of the Midwest, but with over ten months until signing day, things are just getting started. Today we look at some of the top players left on the Buckeyes ...
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Tate Martell, a five-star QB and Texas A&M commit, on his way to Columbus for Ohio State visitcleveland.com
Scarlet and Game
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Johnny Manziel loses; No. 1 seeds for Buckeyes, Indians, Cavs reach Sweet Sixteen: Cleveland Sports March ... - cleveland.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".


Johnny Manziel loses; No. 1 seeds for Buckeyes, Indians, Cavs reach Sweet Sixteen: Cleveland Sports March ...
cleveland.com
Overall, 13 of the top 16 seeds advanced in our Browns, Buckeyes, Indians and Cavs regions, with No. 5 seed Albert Belle (over No. 4 Manny Ramirez), No. 6 seed Zydrunas Ilgauskas (over No. 3 Kyrie Irving) and No. 9 seed Sipe the only interlopers ...


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Ahhh! Calm Down – There’s Always Next Year
jcollingsworth via our good friends at Buckeye Battle Cry
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


(Photo courtesy of The Lantern)

The 2015-16 OSU MBB season can be labeled a disappointment. But is it really? The Buckeyes ended overall at 21-14 and in the Big Ten 11-7. After losing five substantial contributors from the 2014-15 season: D’Angelo Russell, Shannon Scott, Sam Thompson, Amir Williams, and Anthony Lee – was the prognosis really so rosy?

The Buckeyes ended their regular season this year not being included in the NCAA Tournament .. *ichigan State Spartans assured that reality. So off to the NIT they went only to slip by the Zips of Akron in OT before elimination was handed to them in a recognizable defeat by the Gators of Florida. So, thus goes the 2015-16 season.

Optimistically the Buckeyes are returning the entire roster. Marc Loving the leading scorer with 13.5 points per game will be a senior. Jae’Sean Tate the leading rebounder with 6.4 per game will be a junior. The assist leader – JaQuan Lyle with 4.3 per game will be a sophomore. Keita Bates-Diop, of whom I personally will be the next big star for the Buckeyes, will be a junior. But allow me to remind you – Bates-Diop, Bell, Giddens, Harris, Lane, Loving, Lyle, Mitchell, Tate, Thompson, and Williams are all returning to Columbus for the 2016-17 MBB season.

Now with all that being said – what exactly does it mean?

On the surface it means that a team that throughout this past season who played a “little” Jekyll and Hyde-ish with memorable victories over Kentucky on December 19th (74-67); TTUN on February 16th (76-66) & Iowa on February 28th (68-64). Just as we selectively store those wondrous wins into the back of our minds we recall the recent – *ichigan State three-fold & Florida.

It all comes down to the mind-set these kids have coming into next year. Thad Matta is a top notch coach and I cannot perceive allowing a repeat of this season now that they have that “rebuilding” label withdrawn.

But, realistically, it all still comes down to the opposition. In the case of the Big Ten for the 2015-16 season let us take a look:

INDIANA HOOSIERS (2015-16: 27-7 overall 15-3 Big Ten)


The Hoosiers and Tom Crean are still in the mix for the NCAA Championship. In my East Regional Bracketology I boldly (as some would profess) picked Indiana to be the last team standing (we shall see). The seniors they stand to lose will be Jackson Tharp (a non-factor) and Yogi Ferrell the Hoosiers leading scorer with 17.1 points per game – will be a substantial loss. James Blackmon, Jr. will be returning as a junior with his 15.8 point average. Troy Williams and his 13 point average will be back as well as Thomas Bryant and his 11.5 point average. Collin Hartman and his feistiness too will be returning.

Conclusion:


Indiana is a serious contender.

*ICHIGAN STATE SPARTANS (2015-16: 29-6 overall 13-5 Big Ten)


Their star – Denzel Valentine will be gone as will his 19.6 point average and 7.5 rebounds per game. The rest of the Big Ten is elated. Tom Izzo though showed he is not. Also gone will be Matt Costello the team’s leading rebounder with 8.5 per game and the 3rd leading scorer with 10.5 points. Bryn Forbes too is gone – as is his 15.1 points per game. These are substantial losses. But in next season’s play watch for Eron Harris to get more time on the court from his 20.5 minutes this year. The same will be the case for Deyonta Davis from his 18.3 minutes of this year.

Conclusion:


MSU is always in the thick of it … don’t be so naïve to assume they’ll have a typical rebuilding year. Absolutely a contender!

MARYLAND TERRAPINS (2015-16: 27-8 overall 12-6 Big Ten)


Maryland is always in the mix come College Basketball discussions. This year certainly was no different. The Terrapins though stand to lose Senior Robert Carter and his 6.8 rebounds per game along with his 12.6 point average. Also gone will be Jake Layman who in 31 games averaging 31 minutes on the floor per game will be taking his 10.8 points per game average and 3.5 rebounds with him. Rasheed Sulaimon is also gone along with his substantial play time – 32 games and 32.4 minutes – along with his 11.2 point average and 3.6 rebounds. Their leading scorer Melo Trimble (14.4 point average) will be back as well as the team’s second rebounding leader Diamond Stone (5.4 boards per game). Also look for Jaylen Brantley’s time on the court (8.4 minutes in 27 games) to improve as well as his point average from this year’s 2.7.

Conclusion:


Personally I am not a Mark Turgeon fan … I cannot explain in detail without running into an apparent ludicrous summation. So I won’t. But Maryland is Maryland. They attract great recruits. Each year they are in College Basketball discussions. They are a contender.

PURDUE BOILERMAKERS (2015-16: 26-9 overall 12-6 Big Ten)


Purdue’s leading scorer is gone. As a senior AJ Hammons and his 14.8 points per game along with his respectable 7.8 rebounds per game will be departing the Boilermakers’ facilities. This is a big loss. Raphael Davis is also gone. In 27 games he averaged 29.4 minutes on the floor and delivered with 8.6 points on the average and 4.0 rebounds. Caleb Swanigan and his 8.2 rebounds per game and his 10.4 points average though will be returning. Vince Edwards (not the actor) too is returning with his 10.5 point average, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.0 assists.

Conclusion:


Just like Maryland – Purdue attracts good recruits and are always in the mix in the Big Ten. Contenders for the Big Ten Title? No! Invited to the NCAA Tournaments in 2017? Yes!

IOWA HAWKEYES (2015-16: 22-11 overall 12-6 Big Ten)


The Hawkeyes stand to lose the most come next season – of all the Big Ten. Jarrod Uthoff, a redshirted senior and his team leading 18.8 points per game along with his 6.5 rebounds will be hoping to land notice in the NBA. Also gone will be Adam Woodbury and his team leading rebounding skills – 8.5 per game. Mike Gesell also is leaving with his team leading 6.2 assists. Anthony Clemmons too will be leaving Iowa City along with his 9.3 point average and 3.5 assists. It almost makes you feel bad for Hawkeye fans … but then a gush of cool air comes by and wakes you from such a silly state.

Conclusion:


The Hawkeyes will be in a rebuilding year come next season. But Iowa seemingly always finds a way to surprise. So be prepared!

WISCONSIN BADGERS (2015-16: 22-12 overall 12-6 Big Ten)


The Badgers are still looking for some of last year’s magic this year. They are hardly done … but we are talking about next season, aren’t we? At the moment the Badgers are looking good. Senior Jordan Smith was simply no factor this year. Returning – perhaps – will be Nigel Hayes and his Badger leading 16.5 point average and 5.8 rebounding(s) and his 3.1 assists. Also slated to return is Bronson Koenig and his 13.5 point average; along Ethan Happ and his 11.9 point average and his team leading rebounding – 7.8 average.

Conclusion:


Wisconsin looks to be in contention for the Big Ten Title … and if they do not make that road happen they will be in the same position they are this year and last year … moving right along in the NCAA Tournaments.

TTUN (2015-16: 23-13 overall 10-8 Big Ten)


The Wolverines will lose their leading scorer Caris Levert and his 16.5 point average. Also gone will be non-factor Spike Albrecht. Returning for TTUN will be Derrick Walton, Jr. and his 12.3 point average and 5.7 rebounding skills. Zak Irvin, too, returns with his 11.3 point average and 4.3 rebounds per game. The Wolverines depth chart is not as impressive as some of the other Big Ten teams for next season. But recruiting seems to change landscapes. TTUN is a noted school and will get quality help.

Conclusion:


The rebuilding will continue in Ann Arbor.

NORTHWESTERN WILDCATS (2015-16: 20-12 overall 8-10 Big Ten)


The team’s leading scorer will be gone – Tre Demps and his 15.5 points as will the team’s leading rebounder – Alex Olah – 11.1. Bryant McIntosh will return next year as a junior. His average this year – 13.6 points looks to improve as he’ll move into the driver seat for the Wildcats.

Conclusion:


Overall, let’s be real, Northwestern could beat the pants off everyone in the Big Ten on a Math Quiz – but not basketball.

PENN STATE NITTANY LIONS (2015-16: 16-16 overall 7-11 Big Ten)


Leading scorer Brandon Taylor will be gone along with his 16.3 point average and 6.5 rebounding skills. Shep Garner though returns with his 14.5 point average. This leaves some hope for Penn State. Otherwise the notion that the Nittany Lions are more than a Football School just isn’t in place for the moment.

Conclusion:


Not much to say here – maybe NIT – but probably not.

NEBRASKA CORNHUSKERS (2015-16: 16-18 overall 6-12 Big Ten)


The Cornhuskers leading scorer Andrew White III and his 16.5 points per game will be back. The team’s second leading scorer Shavon Shields with his 16.4 points per game and 4.7 boards will be departing. The player on this squad that I like is Tai Webster – the New Zealander. He’ll be back and look for his 9.7 point average and 4.1 rebounds to improve.

Conclusion:


The Cornhuskers will need more than Webster and White III to compete successfully in the Big Ten. They will continue to get beat up.

ILLINOIS FIGHTING ILLINI (2015-16: 15-19 overall 5-13 Big Ten)


The leading scorer for the Fighting Illini will be back – Malcolm Hill along with his 18.6 point average and 6.6 rebounds and 3.3 assists. Mr. Hill can play basketball. But he cannot do it alone. Gone for Illinois will be Mike Thorne, Jr. and his 12.9 point average. The teams’ second leading scorer Kendrick Nunn does return as well as his 15.6 point average and his 5.1 rebounds. I like this kid too – but who knows?

Conclusion:


I suspect this team may surprise … but then maybe not. They have the ability in Hill and Nunn but more weapons are needed.

MINNESOTA GOLDEN GOPHERS (2015-16: 8-23 overall 2-16 Big Ten)


The Golden Gophers return Nate Mason and his 13.8 point average and Jordan Murphy and his team leading rebounding of 8.0 per game. I feel a player that will eventually shine for the Golden Gophers is Dupree McBrayer out of Queens (NYC). His 5.1 point average will improve with both time on the court and presence in big-time basketball.

Conclusion:


Minnesota isn’t heading anywhere next season.

RUTGERS SCARLET KNIGHTS (2015-16: 7-23 overall 1-17 Big Ten)


Perhaps the only positive for the Scarlet Knights is Steve Pikiell’s hiring. But then again how patient is Rutgers and their Athletic Department? Steve will need time. Let’s hope he gets it. Other than that I see one bright spot for Rutgers and that is their leading scorer Corey Sanders will be returning with his 16.2 point average. Also a player to watch beyond this year is their Senior (not returning) Bishop Daniels a 6-3 Guard who averaged 8.6 points per game with 3.8 rebounds. Look for Daniels to be drafted in the D-League … yep! You heard it here first.

Conclusion:


Rutgers basketball? Not next year!

So there we go … somewhat of a breakdown for next year. The Buckeyes just like the Badgers of Wisconsin will be in good shape for the 2016-17 season. To say that these Buckeyes will be right in the thick of it all with teams such as Indiana, *ichigan State, Maryland, Wisconsin – even Purdue come next season may seem like a pipe dream to Buckeye Nation … but do not perceive the future based on the past … history often deals different hands in the progression of time … it is how those cards are played. Thad Matta is as good of a coach as anyone in the Big Ten and if you look at his roster today – which will be next year’s too – just remember one year of experience on these kids will add wonders. Watch Thad to make the most of their talents too. The Buckeyes may not be the Big Ten Champions next year – but look for them on your bracket sheet come 2017.

The post Ahhh! Calm Down – There’s Always Next Year appeared first on The Buckeye Battle Cry: Ohio State News and Commentary.

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