2008 Troy Trojans Game Preview
written by: BB73, BuckeyeRyn, Buckeyeskickbuttocks, Bucklion, DaddyBigBucks, JCOSU86, jwinslow, and 3yardsandacloud
Preface
Just in case we didn't see enough Trojans last week, the guys from Troy University in Alabama visit the 'Shoe on Saturday. This will be the first time that Ohio State has played a football game against a member of the Sun Belt Conference. And please don't call them Troy State - the Board of Trustees officially changed the University's name to Troy in April, 2004.
Troy started taking football somewhat seriously in 1931, when former Alabama star Albert Elmore became head coach and gave the team the nickname "Red Wave", an obvious variation of the Crimson Tide. That nickname lasted until 1973.
Troy has moved up in football classification several times. Before reaching NAIA status, they played in the inaugural Paper Bowl following the 1948 season, where on a Pensacola High School field with only one set of bleachers they lost to Jacksonville State 19-0. They were an NAIA team from 1952-69, winning a National Championship with a 12-1 record in 1968.
In 1970 the team joined the NCAA as a small college, and played in Division II from 1973-92. During the 1973 season, the team's nickname officially became the Trojans after a vote by the student body.
They won a pair of National Championships in Division II; the 12-1 season in 1984 was capped with an 18-17 title game win over North Dakota State on a 50-yard field goal by Tom Clem as time expired in the Palm Bowl in McAllen, Texas. That team was coached by Chan Gailey, who later led the Dallas Cowboys and Georgia Tech. Troy also won the 1987 Division II Championship with a 12-1-1 mark.
In June of 1990, their Board of Trustees voted to pursue Division I membership. A few months earlier, a Pat Dye coached Auburn team, with an offensive assistant/receivers coach named Larry Blakeney, had defeated Ohio State 31-14 in the Hall of Fame Bowl. Blakeney had been the starting QB at Auburn from 1967-69 under Shug Jordan. In 1991 he became the head coach at Troy, where he has remained ever since. He became only the second head coach to lead a team during their transition all the way from Division II to I-A (now called FBS) - Gene McDowell at UCF was the first.
From 1993-2000, the Trojans were in Division 1-AA. They started quickly, finishing the 1993 regular season #1 in the I-AA polls before losing 24-21 to Marshall in the playoffs. They joined the Southland Conference in 1996, and won a league title in their first season. They also won the league title in 2000, their last year as a member.
During the transitional year of 2001, Troy played both of the teams that met in the BCS Title game that year (Miami and Nebraska), and still went 7-4, including a 21-9 win at Mississippi State. Their first year as a 1-A team saw a 4-8 record, followed by a 6-6 mark in 2003, which included a 48-7 loss at Minnesota in their only game ever against a Big Ten opponent.
They became a member of the Sun Belt Conference in 2004. During that 7-5 season, they defeated #19 Missouri 24-14, and lost a hard-fought 24-20 contest at LSU, who were the defending National Champions (although some other Trojans claimed a non-BCS title that year). Troy earned a bowl berth, but fell 34-21 to Northern Illinois when a 50-yard run by Garrett Wolfe began a 34-point Huskies scoring streak after the Trojans had jumped out to a 14-0 lead.
The team has been Sun Belt Co-champions the past two seasons, and defeated Rice 41-17 in the 2006 New Orleans Bowl. Last year, they played 4 teams from BCS Conferences (Arkansas, Florida, Oklahoma State, and Georgia), and averaged 33 points on offense in those games. They defeated Oklahoma State 41-23, just one week before Mike Gundy boldly declared his gender and age to the sports nation.
Recently Troy has sent some well-known defensive players to the NFL: both Demarcus Ware and Leodis McKelvin were selected #11 overall, and Osi Umenyiora's 16 sacks in 2002 indicated the pass-rushing skills he displayed in earning a Super Bowl ring for the Giants earlier this year.
Date and Time Troy has moved up in football classification several times. Before reaching NAIA status, they played in the inaugural Paper Bowl following the 1948 season, where on a Pensacola High School field with only one set of bleachers they lost to Jacksonville State 19-0. They were an NAIA team from 1952-69, winning a National Championship with a 12-1 record in 1968.
In 1970 the team joined the NCAA as a small college, and played in Division II from 1973-92. During the 1973 season, the team's nickname officially became the Trojans after a vote by the student body.
They won a pair of National Championships in Division II; the 12-1 season in 1984 was capped with an 18-17 title game win over North Dakota State on a 50-yard field goal by Tom Clem as time expired in the Palm Bowl in McAllen, Texas. That team was coached by Chan Gailey, who later led the Dallas Cowboys and Georgia Tech. Troy also won the 1987 Division II Championship with a 12-1-1 mark.
In June of 1990, their Board of Trustees voted to pursue Division I membership. A few months earlier, a Pat Dye coached Auburn team, with an offensive assistant/receivers coach named Larry Blakeney, had defeated Ohio State 31-14 in the Hall of Fame Bowl. Blakeney had been the starting QB at Auburn from 1967-69 under Shug Jordan. In 1991 he became the head coach at Troy, where he has remained ever since. He became only the second head coach to lead a team during their transition all the way from Division II to I-A (now called FBS) - Gene McDowell at UCF was the first.
From 1993-2000, the Trojans were in Division 1-AA. They started quickly, finishing the 1993 regular season #1 in the I-AA polls before losing 24-21 to Marshall in the playoffs. They joined the Southland Conference in 1996, and won a league title in their first season. They also won the league title in 2000, their last year as a member.
During the transitional year of 2001, Troy played both of the teams that met in the BCS Title game that year (Miami and Nebraska), and still went 7-4, including a 21-9 win at Mississippi State. Their first year as a 1-A team saw a 4-8 record, followed by a 6-6 mark in 2003, which included a 48-7 loss at Minnesota in their only game ever against a Big Ten opponent.
They became a member of the Sun Belt Conference in 2004. During that 7-5 season, they defeated #19 Missouri 24-14, and lost a hard-fought 24-20 contest at LSU, who were the defending National Champions (although some other Trojans claimed a non-BCS title that year). Troy earned a bowl berth, but fell 34-21 to Northern Illinois when a 50-yard run by Garrett Wolfe began a 34-point Huskies scoring streak after the Trojans had jumped out to a 14-0 lead.
The team has been Sun Belt Co-champions the past two seasons, and defeated Rice 41-17 in the 2006 New Orleans Bowl. Last year, they played 4 teams from BCS Conferences (Arkansas, Florida, Oklahoma State, and Georgia), and averaged 33 points on offense in those games. They defeated Oklahoma State 41-23, just one week before Mike Gundy boldly declared his gender and age to the sports nation.
Recently Troy has sent some well-known defensive players to the NFL: both Demarcus Ware and Leodis McKelvin were selected #11 overall, and Osi Umenyiora's 16 sacks in 2002 indicated the pass-rushing skills he displayed in earning a Super Bowl ring for the Giants earlier this year.
Date: Saturday, September 20nd, 2008
Time: 12:00 EDT Kick-off
Location: Ohio Stadium - "The Horseshoe" (Columbus, OH)
Constructed: 1922 (Renovated in 2001)
Seating Capacity: 102,329 (Originally 66,210)
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Events:
Location: Ohio Stadium - "The Horseshoe" (Columbus, OH)
Constructed: 1922 (Renovated in 2001)
Seating Capacity: 102,329 (Originally 66,210)
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Events:
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: Big Ten Network
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
TV Broacast: Big Ten Network
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
Returning starters: 7
Well after being whitewashed by the Trojans from Troy, the Buckeyes next get to play...the Troy Trojans. The Trojans are off to a 2-0 start, and were busy proving their FBS worth by demolishing FCS opponent Alcorn State last week. They are also off to a 1-0 conference start after beating Middle Tennessee on the road, and the offense has contributed significantly to those results. As their game with LSU had to be postponed due to weather concerns, it is difficult to get a good read of the quality of this offense against Middle Tennessee and Alcorn State, and how it will measure up to upper level competition. However, racking up 525 yards and 48 points per game are nothing to sneeze at, regardless of who the competition is. Their very good balance (278.5 passing yard per game, 239.5 rushing yards per game, both top 25 nationally) demonstrates that this offensive scheme can be an effective weapon for this team, with versatility keeping defenses on their toes. Their weaknesses so far appear to be vulnerability to turnovers and 3rd down conversions, as they have turned the ball over as a team a total of 8 times (5 fumbles) in 2 games and only converted on 31% of their 3rd downs thus far. Make no mistake though...this head coach knows what he is doing, and this team runs a very effective offense. The Buckeyes will need to be geared up after their less-than-stellar performance last weekend, and a good challenge against a decent opponent will hopefully provide that motivation.
Quarterbacks
QB #7 Jamie Hampton (6-2, 206, SO, Cedar Bluff HS, Cedar Bluff, AL)
After playing sparingly in 2007 (with one start at Georgia), Hampton won a tight 3-way battle for the starting QB job in camp, and has made the most of his opportunity. So far in Troy's 2 wins, he's completed 43 of his 65 throws (66%) for 459 yards, with 5 TDs and 3 INTs. He's been sacked twice in 2 games, but is 3rd on the team in rushing with 86 yards and 2 TDs, scoring once each game. In last week's decimation of Alcorn State, he threw for 323 yards and 4 TDs, running for a 5th, and he didn't even play anywhere close to the entire game. He's an obvious dual threat, carrying on a tradition at the position at Troy, and will be a focal point for the Buckeye defense Saturday. Though he seems to complete a high percentage of his throws, he has been, at least thus far, relatively turnover prone, which the Buckeyes will be attempting to exploit. He does, however, seem to have a firm grasp of the complex offense, and has performed well in leading his team to 2 victories.
The Trojans have 2 quality backups in Levi Brown (#12) and Tanner Jones (#11). Jones has more experience, having garnered limited playing time last season. Both saw plenty of action last week, with Brown completing 6 of 10 for 56 yards, and Jones completing 5 of 10 for 42 yards. Both also chipped in a few carries, so it is clear that running the football is something that the QB is still expected to do in this offense, regardless of who is under center.
QB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Troy versus Ohio State QBs
The Trojans have a seemingly solid QB who can run or throw, despite his relative lack of experience, and there are 2 quality players behind him. Many of the questions in Buckeyeland of course revolve around the present and near future of the QB position as it relates to the rest of this season. Boeckman has excelled in these types of games, so it wouldn't be phenomenally surprising to see him bounce back with a solid effort if he is in fact the starter. Whether that ultimately helps him or his team down the road is unclear. If Pryor gets the call, or gets the call quite a bit more, then expect some more passing plays especially to continue to diversify his attack. He played well in spots in the USC game and even Coach Carroll admitted they blew a couple of calls with him in the game, so clearly he adds a dimension unto himself that can be difficult for coordinators to know what to do with. Stay tuned.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
RB #32 DuJuan Harris (5-7, 190, SO, Brooksville Central HS, Brooksville, FL)
FB #30 Nate Nolin (6-0, 213, JR, Graceville HS, Graceville, FL)
Harris was 3rd on the team in rushing in 2007 with 372 yards, playing in all 12 games, so he has plenty of game experience coming in to this season. So far he's gained 187 yards and scored 3 TDs in 2008, averaging a gaudy 6.7 yards a carry. He gained 148 yards in week 1 against Middle Tennessee, collecting the team's offensive player of the week award, before playing sparingly last week as playing time was spread around. He's a quick, solid back who seems ready to take the reins and become the feature player at the position. He has also caught 3 passes so far this season, so he can be a threat out of the backfield on occasion.
Backing up Harris is Maurice Greer (#26). Greer is an absolutely awesome comeback story, overcoming cancer as a junior college freshman to recover and return to the playing field at an FBS school. He is a bigger back at 5-11, 224, and after getting only a yard on 2 carries in week 1, he exploded last week for 113 yards on only 9 carries, scoring a TD. Given the amount of passing Troy does out of the spread, it is unclear what opportunities he will have in more competitive ball games, but he clearly showed some flashes last week, and offers a good frame for short yardage carries. Junior Fernandus Edwards (#26) also made the most of playing time last week, gaining 79 yards on 12 carries and scoring a TD. It would be a surprise, however, if he sees the field much Saturday.
Nolin is a former walk-on linebacker who will come in for blocking purposes.
RB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Troy versus Ohio State RBs
Harris looks like a solid player who can do damage in this type of offense. Greer is also a great comeback story and it's impossible not to root for a kid like that. This team won't rack up a ton of carries at the tailback spot, but the ones they do get can be very effective, and the backs can catch the ball out of the backfield as well. Of course, all of Buckeyeland is also mulling the present and future of Chris Wells because of his health, but Dan Herron was busting his rear end all game against USC and obviously looks to be the future leader of the offense. He's a powerful runner who can significantly contribute to a game right now. Saine and Maurice Wells will probably also get some carries, though their utilization has been less consistent.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
WR #3 Jerrel Jernigan (5-9, 176, SO, Eufaula HS, Eufaula, AL)
WR #7 Cornelius Williams (6-0, 190, JR, Hoover HS, Hoover, AL)
WR #9 Kennard Burton (5-7, 170, SR, Pahokee HS, Pahokee, FL)
WR #81 Mykeal Terry (5-8, 175, SR, Fullerton HS, Fullerton, CA)
Given the early demolition of Alcorn State last week, the Trojans have spread the ball around often so far in 2008. What is clear however is that Jernigan and Burton are the premier receivers in this offense. In 2007, Jernigan was 3rd on the team with 30 catches for 337 yards and 3 TDs, while Burton chipped in 18 catches for 219 yards and 3 scores of his own. This year, Jernigan leads the team with 14 catches for 137 yards and a score. He caught 6 passes the first week and 8 last week, so it appears he will rack up a large number of catches week after week. Burton has 10 catches for 11 yards, and he has caught 5 passes each week, so again he will be a consistent contributor throughout the 2008 season. Both are burners with great speed and good hands, and are ideal for the spread offense.
After the top 2, the ball has been spread around quite a bit so far in 2008, with no one else having more than 4 catches. The veteran Terry has caught only 3 passes thus far, but he has really made them count, as 2 have gone for TDs, both last week. Williams, from Hoover High of ESPN TV fame, has just 2 catches thus far but will probably be more involved in the offense going forward.
As with any spread team, the Trojans can run a lot of players out there, and have done so in 2008 thus far. Justin Bray (#19) has 4 catches thus far, while Austin Silvoy (#21) has a TD catch. Patrick Cherry (#86), Andrew Davis (#4), Chip Reeves (#8), Fred Turner (#84), and Zack Marcum (#83) all have catches thus far, and could see their share of rotation time on the field Saturday as well. Davis has 5 career starts for the Trojans, while Marcum has 1 and Silvoy has 2, so the Trojans do have plenty of experience in their depth.
WR Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Troy versus Ohio State WRs
Hard to say any of these receivers are the type to strike fear into the heart of a defense on an individual basis, but as a group they are consistent at the top of the chart and can throw a million guys out there at any time who can catch a ball or two. Ohio State has 2 solid players at the top of the chart themselves, though they haven't looked as dominant or consistent as Buckeye fans had hoped thus far...Hartline in particular hasn't been able to get it going the past couple of contests like he did last season. Ray Small has to continue to develop and be a big part of the passing game, as he currently leads the team in receptions. Sanzenbacher is developing into a nice 4th option.
Edge: Ohio State
Tight Ends
TE #45 Travis Boyd (6-3, 237, JR, A.P. Brewer HS, Lacey's Spring, AL)
The TE is primarily a situational blocker in this offense, and Boyd is a returning player with some starting experience who does that job very well. He did catch 6 passes for 52 yards and a TD in 2007, so he could conceivably be a play-action threat in the red zone or catch a dump-off over the middle, but he will not be a primary focus of the passing game, and will probably not be on the field as often as Big Ten TEs often are.
TE Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Troy versus Ohio State TEs
This team won't use its TE much, though Boyd has some limited starting experience and is a capable blocker. Ballard and Nicol are solid blockers, but have combined for only 3 receptions thus far, which is a problem for the Buckeyes, especially since Ballard has shown he can be a tough matchup downfield.
Edge: Ohio State
Offensive Line
LT #65 Chris Jamison (6-2, 312, SR, Carver HS, Columbus, GA)
LG #58 Tyler Clark (6-2, 275, SO, Thompson HS, Alabaster, AL)
C #75 Danny Franks (6-3, 290, JR, Bartow HS, Bartow, FL)
RG #73 Steven Adams (6-3, 306, JR, Freeport HS, Bruce, FL)
RT #74 Dion Small (6-2, 310, SR, Americus HS, Americus, GA)
This is the Trojans' strength in 2008, both in terms of returning experience and depth. Jamison has been a stalwart on the left side, having started 35 straight games. He spent his first 2 seasons starting at left guard, before switching to left tackle last season, where he anchors the line again in 2008. On the interior, Clark is a great story, having walked on last season and earned his way into the starting lineup. He has now started 7 straight games and will man the left guard position. In the middle, Franks is a gifted player who has started 14 straight games (15 total) and is one of 44 players on the Remington Trophy watch list. Adams is another walk-on who has wrestled the starting right guard position away from a returning starter with his stellar play. He is a versatile lineman who has the ability to man all of the interior positions, and can slide over and play center if necessary. On the right side, Small is most certainly not small, in stature or ability, as he will be making his 15th straight start and is on the preseason Lombardi watch list. He was an All-Sun Belt pick last year, and he and Jamison offer the Trojans the idea situation...2 tackles with a wealth of ability and experience.
The Trojans are also quite deep in the line, with plenty of talent and experience on the interior. Wesley Potter (#67) started 11 games at right guard last year, and is in a sense a co-#1 at the position this year. He is also a versatile lineman with experience playing tackle in junior college. Will Chambliss (#68) started 8 games at left guard last season, and he, similar to Potter, can man either the guard or tackle positions, so he is incredibly valuable as a versatile backup on the left side. Also in the mix is junior Nic Riley (#66) at the right tackle spot.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Troy versus Ohio State OL
This team is ideally set up, in that there are stalwarts on the ends and in the middle and plenty of experience at the interior guard spots. Whoever doesn't start, there are 2 quality and versatile backups with starting experience and considerable skill, something not a lot of teams can say. The Buckeye offensive line hasn't looked good the past few games, not only from a yardage standpoint, but also in pass protection and discipline, picking up too many procedure penalties and holding calls. Hard to say that the Trojans match up athleticism wise with the Buckeyes, but based on depth and performance thus far in 2008, the Trojans are the call.
Edge: Troy
Overall Offensive Analysis
The Trojans got a nice win on the road in conference play and the demolished Alcorn State. Had they played the Tigers, we would have a much better sense of where they stand. As it is, this is the first big game of the season for them, and it will be interesting to see how they respond. Given their recent history of taking it to BCS schools, it is not likely they will be intimidated by the game or the environment. It will be up to the Buckeye defense to execute their gameplan to slow down this offense. It is doubtful they will be in the top 10 nationally in yards and points after Saturday, but it is likely they can have some level of success, based on their quality, depth, and supreme level of confidence generated from playing well in their first 2 games.
Overall Offensive Rating: B
2008 Troy Trojans Defensive PreviewQuarterbacks
QB #7 Jamie Hampton (6-2, 206, SO, Cedar Bluff HS, Cedar Bluff, AL)
After playing sparingly in 2007 (with one start at Georgia), Hampton won a tight 3-way battle for the starting QB job in camp, and has made the most of his opportunity. So far in Troy's 2 wins, he's completed 43 of his 65 throws (66%) for 459 yards, with 5 TDs and 3 INTs. He's been sacked twice in 2 games, but is 3rd on the team in rushing with 86 yards and 2 TDs, scoring once each game. In last week's decimation of Alcorn State, he threw for 323 yards and 4 TDs, running for a 5th, and he didn't even play anywhere close to the entire game. He's an obvious dual threat, carrying on a tradition at the position at Troy, and will be a focal point for the Buckeye defense Saturday. Though he seems to complete a high percentage of his throws, he has been, at least thus far, relatively turnover prone, which the Buckeyes will be attempting to exploit. He does, however, seem to have a firm grasp of the complex offense, and has performed well in leading his team to 2 victories.
The Trojans have 2 quality backups in Levi Brown (#12) and Tanner Jones (#11). Jones has more experience, having garnered limited playing time last season. Both saw plenty of action last week, with Brown completing 6 of 10 for 56 yards, and Jones completing 5 of 10 for 42 yards. Both also chipped in a few carries, so it is clear that running the football is something that the QB is still expected to do in this offense, regardless of who is under center.
QB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Troy versus Ohio State QBs
The Trojans have a seemingly solid QB who can run or throw, despite his relative lack of experience, and there are 2 quality players behind him. Many of the questions in Buckeyeland of course revolve around the present and near future of the QB position as it relates to the rest of this season. Boeckman has excelled in these types of games, so it wouldn't be phenomenally surprising to see him bounce back with a solid effort if he is in fact the starter. Whether that ultimately helps him or his team down the road is unclear. If Pryor gets the call, or gets the call quite a bit more, then expect some more passing plays especially to continue to diversify his attack. He played well in spots in the USC game and even Coach Carroll admitted they blew a couple of calls with him in the game, so clearly he adds a dimension unto himself that can be difficult for coordinators to know what to do with. Stay tuned.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
RB #32 DuJuan Harris (5-7, 190, SO, Brooksville Central HS, Brooksville, FL)
FB #30 Nate Nolin (6-0, 213, JR, Graceville HS, Graceville, FL)
Harris was 3rd on the team in rushing in 2007 with 372 yards, playing in all 12 games, so he has plenty of game experience coming in to this season. So far he's gained 187 yards and scored 3 TDs in 2008, averaging a gaudy 6.7 yards a carry. He gained 148 yards in week 1 against Middle Tennessee, collecting the team's offensive player of the week award, before playing sparingly last week as playing time was spread around. He's a quick, solid back who seems ready to take the reins and become the feature player at the position. He has also caught 3 passes so far this season, so he can be a threat out of the backfield on occasion.
Backing up Harris is Maurice Greer (#26). Greer is an absolutely awesome comeback story, overcoming cancer as a junior college freshman to recover and return to the playing field at an FBS school. He is a bigger back at 5-11, 224, and after getting only a yard on 2 carries in week 1, he exploded last week for 113 yards on only 9 carries, scoring a TD. Given the amount of passing Troy does out of the spread, it is unclear what opportunities he will have in more competitive ball games, but he clearly showed some flashes last week, and offers a good frame for short yardage carries. Junior Fernandus Edwards (#26) also made the most of playing time last week, gaining 79 yards on 12 carries and scoring a TD. It would be a surprise, however, if he sees the field much Saturday.
Nolin is a former walk-on linebacker who will come in for blocking purposes.
RB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Troy versus Ohio State RBs
Harris looks like a solid player who can do damage in this type of offense. Greer is also a great comeback story and it's impossible not to root for a kid like that. This team won't rack up a ton of carries at the tailback spot, but the ones they do get can be very effective, and the backs can catch the ball out of the backfield as well. Of course, all of Buckeyeland is also mulling the present and future of Chris Wells because of his health, but Dan Herron was busting his rear end all game against USC and obviously looks to be the future leader of the offense. He's a powerful runner who can significantly contribute to a game right now. Saine and Maurice Wells will probably also get some carries, though their utilization has been less consistent.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
WR #3 Jerrel Jernigan (5-9, 176, SO, Eufaula HS, Eufaula, AL)
WR #7 Cornelius Williams (6-0, 190, JR, Hoover HS, Hoover, AL)
WR #9 Kennard Burton (5-7, 170, SR, Pahokee HS, Pahokee, FL)
WR #81 Mykeal Terry (5-8, 175, SR, Fullerton HS, Fullerton, CA)
Given the early demolition of Alcorn State last week, the Trojans have spread the ball around often so far in 2008. What is clear however is that Jernigan and Burton are the premier receivers in this offense. In 2007, Jernigan was 3rd on the team with 30 catches for 337 yards and 3 TDs, while Burton chipped in 18 catches for 219 yards and 3 scores of his own. This year, Jernigan leads the team with 14 catches for 137 yards and a score. He caught 6 passes the first week and 8 last week, so it appears he will rack up a large number of catches week after week. Burton has 10 catches for 11 yards, and he has caught 5 passes each week, so again he will be a consistent contributor throughout the 2008 season. Both are burners with great speed and good hands, and are ideal for the spread offense.
After the top 2, the ball has been spread around quite a bit so far in 2008, with no one else having more than 4 catches. The veteran Terry has caught only 3 passes thus far, but he has really made them count, as 2 have gone for TDs, both last week. Williams, from Hoover High of ESPN TV fame, has just 2 catches thus far but will probably be more involved in the offense going forward.
As with any spread team, the Trojans can run a lot of players out there, and have done so in 2008 thus far. Justin Bray (#19) has 4 catches thus far, while Austin Silvoy (#21) has a TD catch. Patrick Cherry (#86), Andrew Davis (#4), Chip Reeves (#8), Fred Turner (#84), and Zack Marcum (#83) all have catches thus far, and could see their share of rotation time on the field Saturday as well. Davis has 5 career starts for the Trojans, while Marcum has 1 and Silvoy has 2, so the Trojans do have plenty of experience in their depth.
WR Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Troy versus Ohio State WRs
Hard to say any of these receivers are the type to strike fear into the heart of a defense on an individual basis, but as a group they are consistent at the top of the chart and can throw a million guys out there at any time who can catch a ball or two. Ohio State has 2 solid players at the top of the chart themselves, though they haven't looked as dominant or consistent as Buckeye fans had hoped thus far...Hartline in particular hasn't been able to get it going the past couple of contests like he did last season. Ray Small has to continue to develop and be a big part of the passing game, as he currently leads the team in receptions. Sanzenbacher is developing into a nice 4th option.
Edge: Ohio State
Tight Ends
TE #45 Travis Boyd (6-3, 237, JR, A.P. Brewer HS, Lacey's Spring, AL)
The TE is primarily a situational blocker in this offense, and Boyd is a returning player with some starting experience who does that job very well. He did catch 6 passes for 52 yards and a TD in 2007, so he could conceivably be a play-action threat in the red zone or catch a dump-off over the middle, but he will not be a primary focus of the passing game, and will probably not be on the field as often as Big Ten TEs often are.
TE Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Troy versus Ohio State TEs
This team won't use its TE much, though Boyd has some limited starting experience and is a capable blocker. Ballard and Nicol are solid blockers, but have combined for only 3 receptions thus far, which is a problem for the Buckeyes, especially since Ballard has shown he can be a tough matchup downfield.
Edge: Ohio State
Offensive Line
LT #65 Chris Jamison (6-2, 312, SR, Carver HS, Columbus, GA)
LG #58 Tyler Clark (6-2, 275, SO, Thompson HS, Alabaster, AL)
C #75 Danny Franks (6-3, 290, JR, Bartow HS, Bartow, FL)
RG #73 Steven Adams (6-3, 306, JR, Freeport HS, Bruce, FL)
RT #74 Dion Small (6-2, 310, SR, Americus HS, Americus, GA)
This is the Trojans' strength in 2008, both in terms of returning experience and depth. Jamison has been a stalwart on the left side, having started 35 straight games. He spent his first 2 seasons starting at left guard, before switching to left tackle last season, where he anchors the line again in 2008. On the interior, Clark is a great story, having walked on last season and earned his way into the starting lineup. He has now started 7 straight games and will man the left guard position. In the middle, Franks is a gifted player who has started 14 straight games (15 total) and is one of 44 players on the Remington Trophy watch list. Adams is another walk-on who has wrestled the starting right guard position away from a returning starter with his stellar play. He is a versatile lineman who has the ability to man all of the interior positions, and can slide over and play center if necessary. On the right side, Small is most certainly not small, in stature or ability, as he will be making his 15th straight start and is on the preseason Lombardi watch list. He was an All-Sun Belt pick last year, and he and Jamison offer the Trojans the idea situation...2 tackles with a wealth of ability and experience.
The Trojans are also quite deep in the line, with plenty of talent and experience on the interior. Wesley Potter (#67) started 11 games at right guard last year, and is in a sense a co-#1 at the position this year. He is also a versatile lineman with experience playing tackle in junior college. Will Chambliss (#68) started 8 games at left guard last season, and he, similar to Potter, can man either the guard or tackle positions, so he is incredibly valuable as a versatile backup on the left side. Also in the mix is junior Nic Riley (#66) at the right tackle spot.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Troy versus Ohio State OL
This team is ideally set up, in that there are stalwarts on the ends and in the middle and plenty of experience at the interior guard spots. Whoever doesn't start, there are 2 quality and versatile backups with starting experience and considerable skill, something not a lot of teams can say. The Buckeye offensive line hasn't looked good the past few games, not only from a yardage standpoint, but also in pass protection and discipline, picking up too many procedure penalties and holding calls. Hard to say that the Trojans match up athleticism wise with the Buckeyes, but based on depth and performance thus far in 2008, the Trojans are the call.
Edge: Troy
Overall Offensive Analysis
The Trojans got a nice win on the road in conference play and the demolished Alcorn State. Had they played the Tigers, we would have a much better sense of where they stand. As it is, this is the first big game of the season for them, and it will be interesting to see how they respond. Given their recent history of taking it to BCS schools, it is not likely they will be intimidated by the game or the environment. It will be up to the Buckeye defense to execute their gameplan to slow down this offense. It is doubtful they will be in the top 10 nationally in yards and points after Saturday, but it is likely they can have some level of success, based on their quality, depth, and supreme level of confidence generated from playing well in their first 2 games.
Overall Offensive Rating: B
Returning Starters: 8
Jeremy Rowell was promoted to Defensive Coordinator last spring after having already putting in 10 years on staff with the Troy Trojans. Moving over from coaching the wide receivers in 2001 to coach the secondary, he remains the secondary coach today. Under his instruction, the secondary flourished, being ranked as high as 6th in the nation in passing efficiency defense (2004) while gaining a reputation as a turnover creating unit. He now will try to employ his successful philosophy to the whole defense. They will play a base 4-3.
While the secondary has been solid over the years, Troy struggled in 2007 against the run. Giving up nearly 200 yards rushing per contest, (195.17 (95th nationally, 4th best in the Sunbelt Conference)), the Trojans also gave up 24.5 points per game. While last season's secondary was 10th best in the nation in total yards, 183 per game, they have to replace two very talented corners with both CB Elbert Mack and CB Leodis McKelvin departing. Thus far in 2008, Troy has worked its way to the top of the conference standings easily by averaging just 8.5 points against, 78 yards given up on the ground per game, and 124 through the air for a total of only 202 per game, while also acquiring 7 interceptions. These numbers are misleading, however, considering that Troy has thus far faced meager competition in Middle Tennessee State and Alcorn State, who they crushed 65-0 last week. Troy was scheduled to face LSU in week two, but the game was postponed due to an incoming hurricane. Had they played the Tigers, the defensive statistics would surely be different.
That said, the Troy Trojans are not strangers to competing against traditional powers. Over the years, Troy has played the likes of Georgia and LSU relatively close (losing 44-34 to UGA in 2007 and 24-20 to LSU in 2004) and won't be afraid to line up against the Buckeyes. That said, Troy has also been lit up by other quality teams like Darren McFadden's Arkansas (46-26 in 2007), Tim Tebow's Florida (59-31, 2007) and even 2006 relatively pedestrian Nebraska (56-0). Regardless, if Ohio State is having a let down from their crushing defeat at the hand of another team with the Trojan nickname, this group is talented enough to make the Buckeyes pay for sleeping on them.
Defensive Line
LE #91 Brandon Lang (6-4 249 JR)
or
LE #51 Kenny Minor (6-4 234 SR)
DT #92 Steve McLendon (6-3 290 SR)
NT #95 Maurice Coleman (6-0 294 SR)
RE #90 Cameron Sheffield (6-3 237 JR)
or
RE #51 Kenny Minor (6-4 234 SR)
Lang was expected to be a Georgia Bulldog but ended up at Troy after spending time in prep school. As a freshman he played well recording 26 tackles with 4.5 sacks. He began 2007 entrenched as a starter, but suffered a season ending knee injury in Troy's 3rd game of the year. Smallish at 249, he'll rely on his quickness off the edge. He has 3 tackles in 2008. McLendon is new to the starting role, but was a solid reserve in 2007. His strength is not getting pressure from his interior position, but he is athletic for his size. He has not yet recorded a tackle in 2008. While Coleman is listed as the starter at Troy's official site, there is little information on what Ohio State fans might expect from the 294 pound senior in 2008. He entered fall camp as the back up, but has apparently played well enough to warrant the starting slot. Because of his bulk, and because Troy has had problems against the run, he is probably the best choice for clogging up the middle He has two tackles this season. Sheffield replaced Lang in 2007 when the later suffered his injury and performed admirably with 27 tackles, 1.5 sacks and 3.5 tackles for loss. He does not excel at getting to the quarterback, but has shown ability and is active. He has 7 tackles in 2008, tying him for tops among linemen. Also possibly getting the starting nod at either end position is Minor. The undersized Senior is quick off the ball and finds his way in to the backfield often. He does have trouble closing the deal once there however, though he did have five sacks in 2007 in ten games. He is also tied for most stops among linemen and has 2.5 TFLs.
Depth will come from Ends; # 54 Jeremy Hawkins (6-3 230 JR), #99 Mario Addison (6-2 238 JR), #79 Tony Davis (6-2 250 FR), #31 John Mark Patrick (6-3 242 SO), and #46 Brandon Boudreaux (6-1 223 FR) and Tackles; #98 Dion Gales (6-5 259 SR), #96 James Searcy (6-3 260 FR), #94 Chigozie Nwankwo (6-2 257 FR), #97 Daniel Orr (6-1 266 FR), #77 Rashad Roussell (6-2 255 JR), and #93 Tim Lamb (5-11 338 FR). Roussell and Addison are both JUCO transfers, while human Bowling Ball (Note: some sites have him listed at 6-3), Tim Lamb comes to Troy after time at the Hargrave Military Academy, Lamb was sought after by the likes of Miami, Clemson, Alabama, Nebraska and Auburn (who he originally signed with) out of High School. Meanwhile, out of Spring ball it was Gales, also a JUCO, who was projected to get the start in the middle. Of the reserves, Gales leads the way with 4 Tackles, 2 for loss and a sack while Roussell has 3 tackles, one for loss, and Hawkins has 2 tackles. Rounding out the statistical contributors are Orr and Patrick who have 1 tackle for loss each.
DL Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Troy versus OSU DL
The Troy D-line is not going to make you forget the USC Trojans. Undersized, the Trojans have trouble against the run and while they can get in to the backfield, often have trouble closing the deal. There is some beef inside to go along with 'bigger school' talent, but the interior of the line has had problems providing any plugs up the middle. That said, this group will be just fine in league play and will certainly feed off any opportunity Ohio State might give them with lackadaisical effort. As one should expect in reading this write-up, the Buckeyes should be able to run against Troy if they play up to expectations. Troy will try to use its speed to put pressure on Todd Boeckman making him throw sooner than he'd like. Even if they do not make the tackle, the news is out that Todd can struggle when hurried. The Buckeyes D-line, even in the face of last week's difficulties getting to the QB and stuffing the run consistently, is better top to bottom on talent alone. But, if they simply rest on that talent rather than perform up to it, the units are surprisingly similar, though Ohio State's line bigger and tougher against the run even on its worst day.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
SLB #50 David McDowell (6-1 249 SR)
MLB #2 Boris Lee (6-0 231 JR)
WLB #48 Bear Woods (6-0 228 JR)
Middle Linebacker Boris Lee is the heart of this unit and stakes a claim on being the best defensive player regardless of position that the Sunbelt has to offer. Lee is one of those players who is always around the football and is equally solid against the run or the pass. The First Team All Sunbelt selection has kicked off 2008 well, recording 13 tackles, 2.5 for loss (half a sack), with a 18 yard INT. On the strong-side McDowell brings major league size along with good speed for it. A JUCO transfer expected to shine in 2008, McDowell does not appear in the cumulative defensive statistics thus far, but remains listed on the official site as the starter. There are no reports of his being injured or otherwise suspended. What is known is that when Troy goes Nickel, McDowell is usually the man replaced. Bear Woods replaces the outgoing Marcus Richardson on the weak side. Woods excels in pass coverage, but has struggled against the run. That said, he is presently Troy's top tackler with 14, 3 for loss with 2 sacks.
Depth is provided by; #43 Trinidy Thomas (6-0 207 SR), #53 Carvel Jones (5-1 220 JR), #49 Xavier Lamb (5-9 249 rFR), #56 Jacoby Thomas (6-0 238 FR), #33 Donnell Golden (6-0 223 FR), and #41 Rod Winston (6-3 220 FR). While Trinity Thomas and Carvel Jones are more experienced, the real depth comes from the Freshmen Lamb, Jacoby Thomas and Donnell Golden. While talented, Golden especially, it is not a strength to have such limited experience behind your starters. Golden was a record setting track star in Georgia High School, who also played mostly at Running back, while Lamb comes to school with the sort of body you like to see on a Linebacker. He could develop in to a big, big hitter. Thus far in 2008, the reserves are lead statistically by Lambs' six tackles, followed by Golden's 4 with 1 being for loss. Jones and Trinity Thomas have one tackle apiece.
LB Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Troy versus OSU LBs
The C- rating may be a bit harsh, especially when you consider that this group sports argueably the best player Sunbelt defenses has to offer. But, despite Lee's skill and ball hawking, the group has had a hard time providing consistent run support and depth is a serious issue with three freshman providing the bulk of it. As the season progresses, Troy's LB corps will learn and become better, but for the moment remains less disruptive than it needs to be. Contrasted with Ohio State, there is little comparison. Of the reasons why the Buckeyes lost to the USC Trojans, Linebacker play was not chief among them. While it wasn't their strongest showing, to be sure, there is no question that Ohio State's corps are still among the best in the nation. James Laurinaitis and Marcus Freeman alone provide two times more NFL caliber talent than Troy has on it's roster at this position.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #37 Chris Bowens (6-0 184 JR)
FS #6 Sherrod Martin (6-1 191 SR)
SS #15 Tavares Williams (6-0 201 SR)
LCB #12 Trevor Ford (6-0 193 SR)
Entering 2007, Bowens was thought to have the talent to become "the man" at corner, but instead saw very limited action behind first round NFL draft pick Leodis McKelvin. Bowens has good size at 6 feet and can keep up with most wide-outs. He has nine tackles thus far in 2008. On the other side will be Ford. A Florida State signee out of High School, Ford has walked on to the Trojan's squad joining several team-mates as a man who originally signed with a "bigger school." With legitimate speed, he stays with his man no matter the route. He has 3 tackles, one for loss, in 2008. The secondary is lead, however, by Sherrod Martin. Overshadowed by last year's talented corners, Martin has struggled with some health issues over the course of his career. When healthy, he provides good size and range, but can struggle when the ball is in the air. That said, he has had no struggles yet this year, leading the team with 3 picks, 1 break-up and 4 pass defenses to go along with his 10 tackles. Williams moves over to Strong Safety in 2008 where he is expected to provide run support as Troy tries to shore up that aspect of it's defense. With good good size, Williams can deliver a hit and also can get to the backfield. He has 4 tackles with one for loss in 2008.
Depth comes from Corners; #20 Terrence Moore (6-2 218 SR), #18 Courtland Fuller (5-11 197 JR), #34 Kejuan Phillips (5-10 180 FR), #25 Rod Foster (5-9 179 Sr), #14 Jorrick Calvin (5-10 181 JR), #26 Bryan Willis (6-0 180 FR), #11 Brandon Cody (5-8 165 FR), and Safeties; #29 Kedric Manning (5-10 186 JR), #36 Sam Sellers (5-9 180 SO), #23 Bryant McKissic (6-2 210 SO), and #39 Daniel Sheffield (6-4 210 SO). Moore is first off the bench and also represents Troy's solution in Nickel situations. Second on the team in tackles in 2007, Moore has the skill and experience to play a hybrid LB/DB role for Coach Rowell and is expected to log many minutes in 2008 as Troy lines up in Nickel with a fair degree of frequency. He has stepped up this season with 8 Tackles, half for loss to go along with his 2 INTs. Both Fuller and JUCO transfer Jorrick Calvin have seen action in 2008, recording 4 tackles, one for loss and 5 tackles 1 for loss respectively. McKissic has recorded 2 tackles and Sellers 3, with one coming behind the line of scrimmage. Phillips, meanwhile, has a tackles and the last of Troy's 7 picks this year.
DB Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Troy versus OSU DBs
Rowell has had some very talented players come through his defensive backfield, including Leodis McKelvin from last year's club. As the number of INTs in 2007 testify, the unit is capable of making the play to change the game with turnovesr. That said, Troy has not played the most accomplished of passing attacks this year in Middle Tennesse State and Alcorn State. Excellent for the Sunbelt, this group possesses legitimate DI-A talent. But, there is no Malcom Jenkins here, and owing to McKelvin and Mack's skill and durability in 07, the Corners are largely untested. They are strong over the middle, but with troubles in the run game, the safeties can get caught cheating run. Ohio State could exploit this by utilizing the TE up the middle on play action, but the question becomes, will they?
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
Troys' defense is among the strongest in the Sunbelt and has legitimate athletes to keep this one closer than Ohio State fans would like. If they are able to force Todd Boeckman in to hurried throws, the Trojans' ballhawking nature will result in INTs. Statistically, the Trojans look superior to the Buckeyes thus far in 2008, but a very weak schedule colors those numbers drastically. If the Buckeyes are sloppy, it could be another long week, but if they play up to their potential, there is no reason to think that Ohio State won't "normalize" Troy's 2008 numbers a little bit.
Overall Defensive Rating: C+
2008 Troy Trojans Special Teams PreviewWhile the secondary has been solid over the years, Troy struggled in 2007 against the run. Giving up nearly 200 yards rushing per contest, (195.17 (95th nationally, 4th best in the Sunbelt Conference)), the Trojans also gave up 24.5 points per game. While last season's secondary was 10th best in the nation in total yards, 183 per game, they have to replace two very talented corners with both CB Elbert Mack and CB Leodis McKelvin departing. Thus far in 2008, Troy has worked its way to the top of the conference standings easily by averaging just 8.5 points against, 78 yards given up on the ground per game, and 124 through the air for a total of only 202 per game, while also acquiring 7 interceptions. These numbers are misleading, however, considering that Troy has thus far faced meager competition in Middle Tennessee State and Alcorn State, who they crushed 65-0 last week. Troy was scheduled to face LSU in week two, but the game was postponed due to an incoming hurricane. Had they played the Tigers, the defensive statistics would surely be different.
That said, the Troy Trojans are not strangers to competing against traditional powers. Over the years, Troy has played the likes of Georgia and LSU relatively close (losing 44-34 to UGA in 2007 and 24-20 to LSU in 2004) and won't be afraid to line up against the Buckeyes. That said, Troy has also been lit up by other quality teams like Darren McFadden's Arkansas (46-26 in 2007), Tim Tebow's Florida (59-31, 2007) and even 2006 relatively pedestrian Nebraska (56-0). Regardless, if Ohio State is having a let down from their crushing defeat at the hand of another team with the Trojan nickname, this group is talented enough to make the Buckeyes pay for sleeping on them.
Defensive Line
LE #91 Brandon Lang (6-4 249 JR)
or
LE #51 Kenny Minor (6-4 234 SR)
DT #92 Steve McLendon (6-3 290 SR)
NT #95 Maurice Coleman (6-0 294 SR)
RE #90 Cameron Sheffield (6-3 237 JR)
or
RE #51 Kenny Minor (6-4 234 SR)
Lang was expected to be a Georgia Bulldog but ended up at Troy after spending time in prep school. As a freshman he played well recording 26 tackles with 4.5 sacks. He began 2007 entrenched as a starter, but suffered a season ending knee injury in Troy's 3rd game of the year. Smallish at 249, he'll rely on his quickness off the edge. He has 3 tackles in 2008. McLendon is new to the starting role, but was a solid reserve in 2007. His strength is not getting pressure from his interior position, but he is athletic for his size. He has not yet recorded a tackle in 2008. While Coleman is listed as the starter at Troy's official site, there is little information on what Ohio State fans might expect from the 294 pound senior in 2008. He entered fall camp as the back up, but has apparently played well enough to warrant the starting slot. Because of his bulk, and because Troy has had problems against the run, he is probably the best choice for clogging up the middle He has two tackles this season. Sheffield replaced Lang in 2007 when the later suffered his injury and performed admirably with 27 tackles, 1.5 sacks and 3.5 tackles for loss. He does not excel at getting to the quarterback, but has shown ability and is active. He has 7 tackles in 2008, tying him for tops among linemen. Also possibly getting the starting nod at either end position is Minor. The undersized Senior is quick off the ball and finds his way in to the backfield often. He does have trouble closing the deal once there however, though he did have five sacks in 2007 in ten games. He is also tied for most stops among linemen and has 2.5 TFLs.
Depth will come from Ends; # 54 Jeremy Hawkins (6-3 230 JR), #99 Mario Addison (6-2 238 JR), #79 Tony Davis (6-2 250 FR), #31 John Mark Patrick (6-3 242 SO), and #46 Brandon Boudreaux (6-1 223 FR) and Tackles; #98 Dion Gales (6-5 259 SR), #96 James Searcy (6-3 260 FR), #94 Chigozie Nwankwo (6-2 257 FR), #97 Daniel Orr (6-1 266 FR), #77 Rashad Roussell (6-2 255 JR), and #93 Tim Lamb (5-11 338 FR). Roussell and Addison are both JUCO transfers, while human Bowling Ball (Note: some sites have him listed at 6-3), Tim Lamb comes to Troy after time at the Hargrave Military Academy, Lamb was sought after by the likes of Miami, Clemson, Alabama, Nebraska and Auburn (who he originally signed with) out of High School. Meanwhile, out of Spring ball it was Gales, also a JUCO, who was projected to get the start in the middle. Of the reserves, Gales leads the way with 4 Tackles, 2 for loss and a sack while Roussell has 3 tackles, one for loss, and Hawkins has 2 tackles. Rounding out the statistical contributors are Orr and Patrick who have 1 tackle for loss each.
DL Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Troy versus OSU DL
The Troy D-line is not going to make you forget the USC Trojans. Undersized, the Trojans have trouble against the run and while they can get in to the backfield, often have trouble closing the deal. There is some beef inside to go along with 'bigger school' talent, but the interior of the line has had problems providing any plugs up the middle. That said, this group will be just fine in league play and will certainly feed off any opportunity Ohio State might give them with lackadaisical effort. As one should expect in reading this write-up, the Buckeyes should be able to run against Troy if they play up to expectations. Troy will try to use its speed to put pressure on Todd Boeckman making him throw sooner than he'd like. Even if they do not make the tackle, the news is out that Todd can struggle when hurried. The Buckeyes D-line, even in the face of last week's difficulties getting to the QB and stuffing the run consistently, is better top to bottom on talent alone. But, if they simply rest on that talent rather than perform up to it, the units are surprisingly similar, though Ohio State's line bigger and tougher against the run even on its worst day.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
SLB #50 David McDowell (6-1 249 SR)
MLB #2 Boris Lee (6-0 231 JR)
WLB #48 Bear Woods (6-0 228 JR)
Middle Linebacker Boris Lee is the heart of this unit and stakes a claim on being the best defensive player regardless of position that the Sunbelt has to offer. Lee is one of those players who is always around the football and is equally solid against the run or the pass. The First Team All Sunbelt selection has kicked off 2008 well, recording 13 tackles, 2.5 for loss (half a sack), with a 18 yard INT. On the strong-side McDowell brings major league size along with good speed for it. A JUCO transfer expected to shine in 2008, McDowell does not appear in the cumulative defensive statistics thus far, but remains listed on the official site as the starter. There are no reports of his being injured or otherwise suspended. What is known is that when Troy goes Nickel, McDowell is usually the man replaced. Bear Woods replaces the outgoing Marcus Richardson on the weak side. Woods excels in pass coverage, but has struggled against the run. That said, he is presently Troy's top tackler with 14, 3 for loss with 2 sacks.
Depth is provided by; #43 Trinidy Thomas (6-0 207 SR), #53 Carvel Jones (5-1 220 JR), #49 Xavier Lamb (5-9 249 rFR), #56 Jacoby Thomas (6-0 238 FR), #33 Donnell Golden (6-0 223 FR), and #41 Rod Winston (6-3 220 FR). While Trinity Thomas and Carvel Jones are more experienced, the real depth comes from the Freshmen Lamb, Jacoby Thomas and Donnell Golden. While talented, Golden especially, it is not a strength to have such limited experience behind your starters. Golden was a record setting track star in Georgia High School, who also played mostly at Running back, while Lamb comes to school with the sort of body you like to see on a Linebacker. He could develop in to a big, big hitter. Thus far in 2008, the reserves are lead statistically by Lambs' six tackles, followed by Golden's 4 with 1 being for loss. Jones and Trinity Thomas have one tackle apiece.
LB Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Troy versus OSU LBs
The C- rating may be a bit harsh, especially when you consider that this group sports argueably the best player Sunbelt defenses has to offer. But, despite Lee's skill and ball hawking, the group has had a hard time providing consistent run support and depth is a serious issue with three freshman providing the bulk of it. As the season progresses, Troy's LB corps will learn and become better, but for the moment remains less disruptive than it needs to be. Contrasted with Ohio State, there is little comparison. Of the reasons why the Buckeyes lost to the USC Trojans, Linebacker play was not chief among them. While it wasn't their strongest showing, to be sure, there is no question that Ohio State's corps are still among the best in the nation. James Laurinaitis and Marcus Freeman alone provide two times more NFL caliber talent than Troy has on it's roster at this position.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #37 Chris Bowens (6-0 184 JR)
FS #6 Sherrod Martin (6-1 191 SR)
SS #15 Tavares Williams (6-0 201 SR)
LCB #12 Trevor Ford (6-0 193 SR)
Entering 2007, Bowens was thought to have the talent to become "the man" at corner, but instead saw very limited action behind first round NFL draft pick Leodis McKelvin. Bowens has good size at 6 feet and can keep up with most wide-outs. He has nine tackles thus far in 2008. On the other side will be Ford. A Florida State signee out of High School, Ford has walked on to the Trojan's squad joining several team-mates as a man who originally signed with a "bigger school." With legitimate speed, he stays with his man no matter the route. He has 3 tackles, one for loss, in 2008. The secondary is lead, however, by Sherrod Martin. Overshadowed by last year's talented corners, Martin has struggled with some health issues over the course of his career. When healthy, he provides good size and range, but can struggle when the ball is in the air. That said, he has had no struggles yet this year, leading the team with 3 picks, 1 break-up and 4 pass defenses to go along with his 10 tackles. Williams moves over to Strong Safety in 2008 where he is expected to provide run support as Troy tries to shore up that aspect of it's defense. With good good size, Williams can deliver a hit and also can get to the backfield. He has 4 tackles with one for loss in 2008.
Depth comes from Corners; #20 Terrence Moore (6-2 218 SR), #18 Courtland Fuller (5-11 197 JR), #34 Kejuan Phillips (5-10 180 FR), #25 Rod Foster (5-9 179 Sr), #14 Jorrick Calvin (5-10 181 JR), #26 Bryan Willis (6-0 180 FR), #11 Brandon Cody (5-8 165 FR), and Safeties; #29 Kedric Manning (5-10 186 JR), #36 Sam Sellers (5-9 180 SO), #23 Bryant McKissic (6-2 210 SO), and #39 Daniel Sheffield (6-4 210 SO). Moore is first off the bench and also represents Troy's solution in Nickel situations. Second on the team in tackles in 2007, Moore has the skill and experience to play a hybrid LB/DB role for Coach Rowell and is expected to log many minutes in 2008 as Troy lines up in Nickel with a fair degree of frequency. He has stepped up this season with 8 Tackles, half for loss to go along with his 2 INTs. Both Fuller and JUCO transfer Jorrick Calvin have seen action in 2008, recording 4 tackles, one for loss and 5 tackles 1 for loss respectively. McKissic has recorded 2 tackles and Sellers 3, with one coming behind the line of scrimmage. Phillips, meanwhile, has a tackles and the last of Troy's 7 picks this year.
DB Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Troy versus OSU DBs
Rowell has had some very talented players come through his defensive backfield, including Leodis McKelvin from last year's club. As the number of INTs in 2007 testify, the unit is capable of making the play to change the game with turnovesr. That said, Troy has not played the most accomplished of passing attacks this year in Middle Tennesse State and Alcorn State. Excellent for the Sunbelt, this group possesses legitimate DI-A talent. But, there is no Malcom Jenkins here, and owing to McKelvin and Mack's skill and durability in 07, the Corners are largely untested. They are strong over the middle, but with troubles in the run game, the safeties can get caught cheating run. Ohio State could exploit this by utilizing the TE up the middle on play action, but the question becomes, will they?
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
Troys' defense is among the strongest in the Sunbelt and has legitimate athletes to keep this one closer than Ohio State fans would like. If they are able to force Todd Boeckman in to hurried throws, the Trojans' ballhawking nature will result in INTs. Statistically, the Trojans look superior to the Buckeyes thus far in 2008, but a very weak schedule colors those numbers drastically. If the Buckeyes are sloppy, it could be another long week, but if they play up to their potential, there is no reason to think that Ohio State won't "normalize" Troy's 2008 numbers a little bit.
Overall Defensive Rating: C+
Returning Starters: 1
The Troy Trojans are light on experience in the special teams. The starting punter is a Redshirt Freshman, the kicker and primary kickoff returner are in their first year, the primary punt returner had 2 returns for 23 yards last year and the holder returns from an injury-plagued freshman year. Only the long snapper is a returning starter.
Special Teams
PK #38 Sam Glusman (5-10, 170, Jr., Mobile, AL)
P #47 Will Goggans (6-0, 220, RFr., Douglas, GA)
PR #14 Jorrick Calvin (5-10, 181, Jr., Baton Rouge, LA)
KR/PR #3 Jerrel Jernigan (5-9, 176, So., Eufaula, AL)
KR #32 DuJuan Harris (5-7, 190, So., Brooksville, FL)
LS #42 Derrick Thomas (6-2, 243, Jr., Elba, AL)
Hldr #21 Austin Silvoy (6-2, 190, So., St. Augustine, FL)
Since all of the starters from last year's special teams have moved on, all we have is the first two weeks of the season to judge the Trojans' successes. So far, Goggans has averaged a respectable 39.4 yds per punt. Glusman is a perfect 12-12 in PATs and 4-4 in FGs. Jernigan has both the longest kickoff return (22 yds vs Middle Tennessee State) and the longest punt return (18 yds, also vs MTSU). As a team, the Trojans are allowing 15 yds per kickoff return and 8 yds per punt return, both very decent numbers.
Head-to-Head: Jernigan versus OSU STs
What Jernigan lacks in experience he makes up for in speed. The Ohio State teams are experienced and look to keep the sophomore bottled up. They have done a good job so far in not letting opposing special teams beat them.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Special Teams Analysis
The Troy Trojan Special Teams units are very young and inexperienced but have performed well so far this year. Kicker Glusman is perfect so far, but hasn't had to win a game, and the returners have given the Offense decent if not great field position. Given Ohio State's athleticism on Special Teams, I would have to give the edge to the Buckeyes.
Overall Special Teams Rating: C
Predictions Special Teams
PK #38 Sam Glusman (5-10, 170, Jr., Mobile, AL)
P #47 Will Goggans (6-0, 220, RFr., Douglas, GA)
PR #14 Jorrick Calvin (5-10, 181, Jr., Baton Rouge, LA)
KR/PR #3 Jerrel Jernigan (5-9, 176, So., Eufaula, AL)
KR #32 DuJuan Harris (5-7, 190, So., Brooksville, FL)
LS #42 Derrick Thomas (6-2, 243, Jr., Elba, AL)
Hldr #21 Austin Silvoy (6-2, 190, So., St. Augustine, FL)
Since all of the starters from last year's special teams have moved on, all we have is the first two weeks of the season to judge the Trojans' successes. So far, Goggans has averaged a respectable 39.4 yds per punt. Glusman is a perfect 12-12 in PATs and 4-4 in FGs. Jernigan has both the longest kickoff return (22 yds vs Middle Tennessee State) and the longest punt return (18 yds, also vs MTSU). As a team, the Trojans are allowing 15 yds per kickoff return and 8 yds per punt return, both very decent numbers.
Head-to-Head: Jernigan versus OSU STs
What Jernigan lacks in experience he makes up for in speed. The Ohio State teams are experienced and look to keep the sophomore bottled up. They have done a good job so far in not letting opposing special teams beat them.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Special Teams Analysis
The Troy Trojan Special Teams units are very young and inexperienced but have performed well so far this year. Kicker Glusman is perfect so far, but hasn't had to win a game, and the returners have given the Offense decent if not great field position. Given Ohio State's athleticism on Special Teams, I would have to give the edge to the Buckeyes.
Overall Special Teams Rating: C
BB73's prediction: 37-17, Ohio State
BuckeyeRyn's prediction: 24-13, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 38-10, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 31-16, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 31-13, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 35-13, Ohio State
JCOSU's Prediction: 31-3, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 38-10, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 31-16, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 31-13, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 35-13, Ohio State
JCOSU's Prediction: 31-3, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State
Previous Game's Results (OSU 3 - USC 35)
Low score wins the year long battle of prediction supremacy! (Difference of actual score versus predicted score. 10 point penalty for picking the losing team.)
Low score wins the year long battle of prediction supremacy! (Difference of actual score versus predicted score. 10 point penalty for picking the losing team.)
(42) Bucklion's prediction: 35-17, USC (14 + 28 last week = 42)
(63) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 27-13, USC (18 + 45 last week = 63)
(73) jwinslow's prediction: 21-20, Ohio State (41 + 32 last week = 73)
(75) BB73's prediction: 23-20, Ohio State (45 + 30 last week = 75)
(79) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 26-24, Ohio State (44 + 35 last week = 79)
(78) JCOSU86's prediction: 21-17, Ohio State (38 + 40 last week= 78)
(84) BuckeyeRyn's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State (49 + 35 last week = 84)
(86) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 24-17, Ohio State (43 + 43 last week = 86)
(63) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 27-13, USC (18 + 45 last week = 63)
(73) jwinslow's prediction: 21-20, Ohio State (41 + 32 last week = 73)
(75) BB73's prediction: 23-20, Ohio State (45 + 30 last week = 75)
(79) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 26-24, Ohio State (44 + 35 last week = 79)
(78) JCOSU86's prediction: 21-17, Ohio State (38 + 40 last week= 78)
(84) BuckeyeRyn's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State (49 + 35 last week = 84)
(86) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 24-17, Ohio State (43 + 43 last week = 86)
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed.
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