2009 Navy Midshipmen Game Preview
written by: BB73, Buckeyeskickbuttocks, Bucklion, Bucky Katt, DaddyBigBucks, JCOSU86, and jwinslow
Preface
Welcome to another season of college football! The long off-season is finally over, and the Buckeyes are ready to open up against the United States Naval Academy. This will be the first visit from a military academy since 1931, when Navy made their only previous appearance in Columbus. The Buckeyes have yet to play Army, and tOSU's only game against Air Force was in the 1990 Liberty Bowl.
Including games against military units during wartime, tOSU is 7-3 against military teams since 1900, and 5-1 in Columbus.
Home games against military opponents since 1900 (NR=not ranked at the time)
1917 - NR tOSU 28, NR Camp Sherman (Chillicothe) 0 (No polls existed)
1931 - NR tOSU 20, NR Navy 0 (No polls existed)
1942 - #3 tOSU 41, NR Iowa Pre-Flight 12 (Buckeyes finished the year AP #1)
1942 - #13 tOSU 59, NR Fort Knox 0 (tOSU ranking of #13 from end of '41)
1943 - #1* tOSU 13, NR Iowa Pre-Flight 28 (Pre-Flight finished the year AP #2)
1944 - #4 tOSU 26, #6 Great Lakes Naval 6 (Buckeyes finished the year AP #2, Great Lakes Naval Training Station was coached by Paul Brown in '44-'45)
* - In 1943, no poll had been taken before the teams played, so tOSU was #1 based solely on the final poll of 1942.
Road/Neutral games against military opponents since 1900
1930 - NR tOSU 27, NR Navy 0, (in Baltimore)
1943 - #18 tOSU 6, #12 Great Lakes Naval 13 (Great Lakes, near Chicago, finished as AP #6)
1981 - #15 tOSU 31, NR Navy 28, (Liberty Bowl in Memphis)
1990 - #24 tOSU 11, NR Air Force 23 (Liberty Bowl in Memphis)
This will be the first regular season game against a military opponent since World War II. Regarding future dates with the academies, tOSU is scheduled to visit Navy on August 30, 2014. A potential series with Army was discussed recently but wasn't finalized.
Let's look at how tOSU has performed in opening games:
All-time record in season openers: 103-13-4 (102-8-4 since 1895)
All-time record in home openers: 106-9-4 (104-6-4 since 1895)
Note: the reason there is 1 less game in the home opener totals is because during the inaugural season of 1889/90, the Buckeyes' season was just 1 road game that was played in May, 1890.
Ohio State enters the 2009 season with an all-time record of 808-306-53 in 118 seasons of competition. That includes a Big Ten record of 448-164-24 since joining the conference in 1913, resulting in a league-best winning percentage of .7264 (to TSUN's .7249). The Ohio Stadium mark is 385-106-20 since it opened in 1922, and there have been 48 straight crowds of at least 100,000 in the 'Shoe.
Ohio State, outright Big Ten Champions in 2006 and 2007, has won 46 of 47 non-conference games in the 'Shoe since 1991. This year's team will attempt to become the third Big Ten team to ever claim a fifth straight conference crown (tOSU from '72-'77, TSUN from '88-'92).
The Buckeyes own the record for most appearances in the preseason Associated Press poll (56 of 60 total), and start off at #6 this year. How have the Buckeyes performed in seasons which they started the season ranked somewhere between #5 and #9 in the AP poll? The results are somewhat varied, but have yet to include an AP National Championship year (all of which came in years when tOSU started outside the AP top 10):
Year Pre-Rank Final Rank
1953 - 7........NR of 20
1956 - 5........15
1959 - 7........NR of 20
1964 - 5........9
1977 - 5........11
1983 - 9........9
1984 - 7........13
1985 - 8........14
1986 - 9........7
1996 - 9........2
1997 - 9........12
2004 - 9........20
2005 - 6........4
2009 - 6........??
Turning our attention to the opponent, let's look at how Navy has performed in opening games. Since 2002, when Paul Johnson arrived, they are 6-1 in their first game of the season, and 5-2 in their first road game of the year.
All-time against teams currently in the Big Ten, Navy is 26-40-3, including 17-18-2 against Penn State. Their all-time record is 633-516-57.
Their proud history includes wins in the Sugar and Cotton Bowls, and a tie with Washington in the 1924 Rose Bowl. They have a current streak of 6 straight bowl appearances.
Their most famous player is Roger Staubach, a Cincinnati native and the 1963 Heisman Trophy winner as a junior, who led that team to a #2 ranking (their highest-ever). His team claimed a victory over Notre Dame, which was the last one until Navy famously ended a 43-game losing streak to the Irish in 2007. After Staubach served the military for a few years, including a tour in Viet Nam, he won a pair of Super Bowls with the Dallas Cowboys. He is a member of the NFL and College Football Halls of Fame, and was the MVP of Super Bowl VI.
Navy's other Heisman Trophy winner was Paul Bellino (the 'Pocket Battleship') in 1960. Midshipmen have won the Maxwell Award as tne National Player of the Year on four occasions: in addition to Bellino and Staubach in their Heisman years, Ronald Beagle in '54 and Robert Reifsnyder in '57 claimed the award. Those four Maxwell Awards ties Navy with Ohio State for third most in college football.
The #2 ranking in 1963 was the most recent of 7 top-5 poll finishes for the Midshipmen. Their 2004 squad finished 10-2 (their first 10-win campaign since 1905) and were ranked #24.
Navy's winningest head coach is George Welsh, who from '74-'81 compiled a 55-46-1 mark before leaving for Virginia. Paul Johnson led an impressive turnaround for the program: after a 2-10 record in his inital year of 2002, the team has won at least 8 games in every year since. Last season marked the debut of Ken Niumatalolo, who went 8-5 in his first full season after taking over for Johnson, who is now at Georgia Tech.
There are some coaches whose careers spanned both tOSU and Navy. During 1987-89, the team was coached by Elliot Uzelac, who went 8-25. Uzelac was a tOSU assistant coach in 1991, when Robert Smith sat out that season over a squabble involving football vs academics.
Uzelac was succeeded at Navy by George Chaump, who went 14-41 from 1990-95. Long before that, Chaump was Rex Kern's (and Woody's) QB coach on the 1968 National Championship squad. He remained an assistant through the end of the Woody era at tOSU.
There is an excellent section on Navy traditions within the Additional Information portion of this preview. However, any football discussion of Navy is incomplete without a mention of the Army-Navy game, one of the great rivalries in college football. Navy has won 7 straight to assume a 53-49-7 edge in the series, and has won 6 consecutive Commander-In-Chief Trophies, given to the academy with the best record among the games between Army, Navy and the Air Force.
The military academies have a great rivalry on the field, but there are times when they have a true appreciation for each other. I'm currently reading Omar Bradley's autobiography - he was the general commanding the US First Army on D-Day - in the book he mentions the first report he received back from the Army troops storming Omaha Beach: "Thank God for the U.S. Navy!"
The day of this game has been designated Military Appreciation Day by tOSU's Athletic Department. BuckeyePlanet echoes the comments of Jim Tressel, who said "We would hope we would treat every opponent with great respect, but I think it's even raised a notch when you're talking about people running out on the field who are pledged to defend you." And we believe that the Navy's team entrance into the 'Shoe should be met with all fans cheering them, as suggested in this video:
Date and Time Including games against military units during wartime, tOSU is 7-3 against military teams since 1900, and 5-1 in Columbus.
Home games against military opponents since 1900 (NR=not ranked at the time)
1917 - NR tOSU 28, NR Camp Sherman (Chillicothe) 0 (No polls existed)
1931 - NR tOSU 20, NR Navy 0 (No polls existed)
1942 - #3 tOSU 41, NR Iowa Pre-Flight 12 (Buckeyes finished the year AP #1)
1942 - #13 tOSU 59, NR Fort Knox 0 (tOSU ranking of #13 from end of '41)
1943 - #1* tOSU 13, NR Iowa Pre-Flight 28 (Pre-Flight finished the year AP #2)
1944 - #4 tOSU 26, #6 Great Lakes Naval 6 (Buckeyes finished the year AP #2, Great Lakes Naval Training Station was coached by Paul Brown in '44-'45)
* - In 1943, no poll had been taken before the teams played, so tOSU was #1 based solely on the final poll of 1942.
Road/Neutral games against military opponents since 1900
1930 - NR tOSU 27, NR Navy 0, (in Baltimore)
1943 - #18 tOSU 6, #12 Great Lakes Naval 13 (Great Lakes, near Chicago, finished as AP #6)
1981 - #15 tOSU 31, NR Navy 28, (Liberty Bowl in Memphis)
1990 - #24 tOSU 11, NR Air Force 23 (Liberty Bowl in Memphis)
This will be the first regular season game against a military opponent since World War II. Regarding future dates with the academies, tOSU is scheduled to visit Navy on August 30, 2014. A potential series with Army was discussed recently but wasn't finalized.
Let's look at how tOSU has performed in opening games:
All-time record in season openers: 103-13-4 (102-8-4 since 1895)
All-time record in home openers: 106-9-4 (104-6-4 since 1895)
Note: the reason there is 1 less game in the home opener totals is because during the inaugural season of 1889/90, the Buckeyes' season was just 1 road game that was played in May, 1890.
Ohio State enters the 2009 season with an all-time record of 808-306-53 in 118 seasons of competition. That includes a Big Ten record of 448-164-24 since joining the conference in 1913, resulting in a league-best winning percentage of .7264 (to TSUN's .7249). The Ohio Stadium mark is 385-106-20 since it opened in 1922, and there have been 48 straight crowds of at least 100,000 in the 'Shoe.
Ohio State, outright Big Ten Champions in 2006 and 2007, has won 46 of 47 non-conference games in the 'Shoe since 1991. This year's team will attempt to become the third Big Ten team to ever claim a fifth straight conference crown (tOSU from '72-'77, TSUN from '88-'92).
The Buckeyes own the record for most appearances in the preseason Associated Press poll (56 of 60 total), and start off at #6 this year. How have the Buckeyes performed in seasons which they started the season ranked somewhere between #5 and #9 in the AP poll? The results are somewhat varied, but have yet to include an AP National Championship year (all of which came in years when tOSU started outside the AP top 10):
Year Pre-Rank Final Rank
1953 - 7........NR of 20
1956 - 5........15
1959 - 7........NR of 20
1964 - 5........9
1977 - 5........11
1983 - 9........9
1984 - 7........13
1985 - 8........14
1986 - 9........7
1996 - 9........2
1997 - 9........12
2004 - 9........20
2005 - 6........4
2009 - 6........??
Turning our attention to the opponent, let's look at how Navy has performed in opening games. Since 2002, when Paul Johnson arrived, they are 6-1 in their first game of the season, and 5-2 in their first road game of the year.
All-time against teams currently in the Big Ten, Navy is 26-40-3, including 17-18-2 against Penn State. Their all-time record is 633-516-57.
Their proud history includes wins in the Sugar and Cotton Bowls, and a tie with Washington in the 1924 Rose Bowl. They have a current streak of 6 straight bowl appearances.
Their most famous player is Roger Staubach, a Cincinnati native and the 1963 Heisman Trophy winner as a junior, who led that team to a #2 ranking (their highest-ever). His team claimed a victory over Notre Dame, which was the last one until Navy famously ended a 43-game losing streak to the Irish in 2007. After Staubach served the military for a few years, including a tour in Viet Nam, he won a pair of Super Bowls with the Dallas Cowboys. He is a member of the NFL and College Football Halls of Fame, and was the MVP of Super Bowl VI.
Navy's other Heisman Trophy winner was Paul Bellino (the 'Pocket Battleship') in 1960. Midshipmen have won the Maxwell Award as tne National Player of the Year on four occasions: in addition to Bellino and Staubach in their Heisman years, Ronald Beagle in '54 and Robert Reifsnyder in '57 claimed the award. Those four Maxwell Awards ties Navy with Ohio State for third most in college football.
The #2 ranking in 1963 was the most recent of 7 top-5 poll finishes for the Midshipmen. Their 2004 squad finished 10-2 (their first 10-win campaign since 1905) and were ranked #24.
Navy's winningest head coach is George Welsh, who from '74-'81 compiled a 55-46-1 mark before leaving for Virginia. Paul Johnson led an impressive turnaround for the program: after a 2-10 record in his inital year of 2002, the team has won at least 8 games in every year since. Last season marked the debut of Ken Niumatalolo, who went 8-5 in his first full season after taking over for Johnson, who is now at Georgia Tech.
There are some coaches whose careers spanned both tOSU and Navy. During 1987-89, the team was coached by Elliot Uzelac, who went 8-25. Uzelac was a tOSU assistant coach in 1991, when Robert Smith sat out that season over a squabble involving football vs academics.
Uzelac was succeeded at Navy by George Chaump, who went 14-41 from 1990-95. Long before that, Chaump was Rex Kern's (and Woody's) QB coach on the 1968 National Championship squad. He remained an assistant through the end of the Woody era at tOSU.
There is an excellent section on Navy traditions within the Additional Information portion of this preview. However, any football discussion of Navy is incomplete without a mention of the Army-Navy game, one of the great rivalries in college football. Navy has won 7 straight to assume a 53-49-7 edge in the series, and has won 6 consecutive Commander-In-Chief Trophies, given to the academy with the best record among the games between Army, Navy and the Air Force.
The military academies have a great rivalry on the field, but there are times when they have a true appreciation for each other. I'm currently reading Omar Bradley's autobiography - he was the general commanding the US First Army on D-Day - in the book he mentions the first report he received back from the Army troops storming Omaha Beach: "Thank God for the U.S. Navy!"
The day of this game has been designated Military Appreciation Day by tOSU's Athletic Department. BuckeyePlanet echoes the comments of Jim Tressel, who said "We would hope we would treat every opponent with great respect, but I think it's even raised a notch when you're talking about people running out on the field who are pledged to defend you." And we believe that the Navy's team entrance into the 'Shoe should be met with all fans cheering them, as suggested in this video:
[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3Z52GKONPc"]YouTube - Ohio State's Take the Field Tribute for...[/ame]
Date: Saturday, September 5th, 2009
Time: 12:00 PM 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
Time: 12:00 PM 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: First game of the 2009 season, Alumni Band game
There will be a flyover of four FA/1
Hornets above Ohio Stadium approximately 20 minutes before kickoff.
During a halftime performance of Quad Script Ohio, John Glenn (and Annie, his wife for more than 66 years) will dot the 'i' on the western side of the field. One of the 7 original Mercury astronauts, Glenn was the first American to orbit the Earth in 1962, and he served Ohio over 24 years as a U.S. Senator. It is fitting that this occur for this game, since Glenn served as a U.S. Navy aviation cadet in 1942 (he became a Marine Corps pilot with a transfer the following year).
Also at halftime, former Buckeye All-American linebacker and NFL All-Pro Chris Spielman will be recognized for the recent announcement of his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame. Spielman, Ohio State's all-time leader in solo tackles, was an All-American for the Buckeyes in 1986 and '87. He will become the 28th Buckeye inducted into the HOF in July 2010.
Broadcast Information:
There will be a flyover of four FA/1
Hornets above Ohio Stadium approximately 20 minutes before kickoff.During a halftime performance of Quad Script Ohio, John Glenn (and Annie, his wife for more than 66 years) will dot the 'i' on the western side of the field. One of the 7 original Mercury astronauts, Glenn was the first American to orbit the Earth in 1962, and he served Ohio over 24 years as a U.S. Senator. It is fitting that this occur for this game, since Glenn served as a U.S. Navy aviation cadet in 1942 (he became a Marine Corps pilot with a transfer the following year).
Also at halftime, former Buckeye All-American linebacker and NFL All-Pro Chris Spielman will be recognized for the recent announcement of his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame. Spielman, Ohio State's all-time leader in solo tackles, was an All-American for the Buckeyes in 1986 and '87. He will become the 28th Buckeye inducted into the HOF in July 2010.
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: ESPN: Dave Pasch (Play-by-play), Chris Spielman and Bob Griese (Analysis)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
2009 Navy Midshipmen Offensive Preview Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
Returning starters: 4
The Buckeyes have the distinct honor of welcoming the Midshipmen into Ohio Stadium for their 2009 opener. In Navy they get a quality opponent who played in a bowl game last season and has led the nation in rushing for each of the past 4 seasons. They also get a healthy dose of assignment football as they have to defend the vaunted modified triple option scheme that Navy runs. Discipline will be especially a key this week if the Buckeyes want their superior talent to be able to shine through, because Navy will most likely play a quality football game. Coach Ken Niumatalolo and offensive coordinator Ivin Jasper will need to replace a myriad of important players from last season's productive team, however, including their QB, best WR, top 2 rushers and 2 starters on the line in the interior. Much like the Buckeyes, the Midshipmen are an offense in transition, personnel-wise, at least for the first part of 2009.
In 2008 the Academy once again used their modified triple option to bulldoze their way to leading the nation in rushing, churning out 292.4 yards per game. Not surprisingly, they were 119/120 in Division I-A in passing, gaining 843 yards total through the air (64.8 yards per contest). Only fellow Academy Army ranked lower. Their total offensive output of 353.3 yards per game ranked 66th nationally, not surprising for a one-dimensional offense that relies heavily on the ground attack. Do not be fooled though, as the Midshipmen ranked a very respectable 48th in points per game with 27.2. Navy did not rank very high in total first downs made (224, T79th nationally), but they did convert a very impressive 44.7% of their 3rd downs, good for 15th nationally, and converted over half their 4th downs while going for it 23 times. All in all, they have a good system, good fundamentals, and strong discipline, so they are, not surprisingly, successful at what they do.
Quarterbacks
QB #4 Ricky Dobbs (6-1, 198, JR, Douglas County HS, Douglasville, GA)
Dobbs was one of three QBs to see time last season, and he finished 2008 3rd on the team in rushing with 498 yards and tied for the team lead with 8 rushing TDs. He also had the highest completion % and highest passer rating on the team, though the leading QB only attempted 35 throws and Dobbs only threw 16 passes himself. He played in 7 games total, with significant playing time in 4. He saw brief action last season in the opener against Towson, gaining 56 yards on 5 carries. He the reappeared briefly in the first October game against Air Force and made a brief but impactful appearance the following week against Pitt, scoring a TD and completing his only pass for 39 yards. He entered the game against SMU in the 2nd quarter the following week and absolutely obliterated the Mustangs, torching them for 224 yards and 4 TDs on 42 carries. He then had a big game against Temple, scoring a rushing TD and completing 5 of 6 for 87 yards and a score in an OT victory. He then had a subpar statistical performance in a loss to Notre Dame, gaining only 27 yards on 13 carries, though he engineered a near incredible comeback that fell just short. He bounced back the following week against Northern Illinois, gaining 124 yards and scoring a TD and completing his only throw for 32 yards as the starter. He did not play against Army and was used sparingly in the bowl loss to Wake Forest. Thus he brings some valuable experience and quality running ability to the position. He showed last year that he could take over a game (SMU) or distribute effectively as the game situations dictated. As a drawback, he had a bit of a tough time against the best team he played against (Notre Dame), but that was a learning experience for him and he bounced back well the following week, showing good resiliency.
Backing up Dobbs is sophomore Mike Stukel (#17), who is also a reserve at the SB role. He has no game experience, so the Midshipmen will need Dobbs to stay healthy. Senior Greg Zingler (#14), who carried the ball one time last season, rounds out the chart.
QB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Navy versus Ohio State QBs
Dobbs (2008): 9/16 (56.3%), 212 yards, 1 TDs, 1 INT 175.7 rating; 106/498, 8 TDs
Pryor (2008): 100/165 (60.6%), 1311 yards, 12 TDs, 4 INTs, 146.5 rating; 139/631, 6 TDs
The obvious advantage goes to Pryor, whose talent has Big Ten Player of the Year potential. He is a playmaker in the Vince Young mold that the Buckeyes hope will develop that special knack for making the impact play at key times that Young had, which he flashed at times last season. Dobbs could be a very good point man for the Navy system, and his role will obviously be different that Pryor's. The Buckeye defense represents a significant competition upgrade for Dobbs, so he will get a good read of where he stands after the first game.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
SB #28 Marcus Curry (5-11, 200, SO, Hebron HS, Carrollton, TX)
SB #33 Bobby Doyle (5-11, 204, SR, Chardon HS, Chardon, OH)
FB #39 Alexander Teich (6-0, 212, SO, Caney Creek HS, Conroe, TX)
Navy has to replace leading rusher Shun White, who gained 1092 yards and scored 8 TDs last season, while averaging a rather ridiculous 8.3 yards per carry. The cupboard, of course, is not bare. Among the returning players, Ohio native Doyle leads with 169 yards and a TD a year ago while playing sparingly but consistently (9 appearances). He has earned 2 letters and knows the system well. Curry is a bigger back in the Navy system, but is also one of the team's fastest players and will probably factor into the return game as well this season. He played in 7 games last season, but did not carry the football. Among the rest of the available players, senior Cory Finnerty (#23) has some game experience, having carried the ball for 71 yards a year ago. Freshmen Gee Gee Greene (#21) and Bo Snelson (#41) and sophomore Aaron Santiago (#26) round out the chart, but don't offer much game experience and are raw talents.
Replacing fullback Eric Kettani (982 yards, 4 TDs) will be just as challenging for the Midshipmen. The role goes to sophomore Teich, who gained 24 yards a season ago. He has reasonable size and has bulked up a bit since the spring, and offers a quicker and faster option than previous players at the position. Junior Vince Murray (#47) is the backup.
RB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Navy versus Ohio State RBs
Doyle: 16/168 yards, 1 TD, 10.6 YPC; 2 rec/54 yards, 1 TD, 27.0 YPR
Curry: 0/0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPC; 0 rec/0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
Finnerty: 8/71 yards, 1 TD, 8.9 YPC; 4 rec/37 yards, 0 TDs, 9.3 YPR
Herron: 89/439 yards, 6 TDs, 4.9 YPC; 6 rec/29 yards, 0 TDs, 4.8 YPR
Saine: 26/65 yards, 1 TD, 2.5 YPC; 3 rec/37 yards, 0 TDs, 12.3 YPR
Williams: 2/11 yards, 0 TDs, 5.5 YPC; 0 rec/0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
Both teams have quite a bit of production to replace. Herron is the most established player of the lot, and his production should be very big for the Buckeyes this season. Doyle and Finnerty offer some experience and Curry looks to be a good back of the future, but it will take them a while to master game situations and they have a big test with the Silver Bullets right out of the gate. Saine offers the Buckeyes a nice 2nd option as well, though he needs to step up his production in 2009. Give the edge to the Buckeyes in talent and experience.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
WR #84 Greg Jones (5-10, 182, JR, Ronald Reagan HS, San Antonio, TX)
WR #80 Mike Schupp (5-10, 176, JR, Cathedral Prep, Erie, PA)
Though the production of the wideouts at Navy won't make anyone forget Michael Crabtree's numbers, they still make some big plays, and the Academy also loses their biggest weapon at this position. Replacing Tyree Barnes (20 catches, 400 yards, 2 TDs) will fall to Jones and Schupp. If one wants to play receiver at Navy, one needs to be a good blocker, and Schupp in particular fits this bill well. He also played in all 13 games last season and made one catch, so he has plenty of game experience to draw on. Jones is also a good blocker and will likely split some time with fellow junior Mario Washington (#85), who isn't quite as good of a blocker but did play in all 13 games and caught 3 passes last season. He is the team's best pass catching threat, so expect both Jones and Washington to see plenty of action all season. A pair of sophomores, Gary Myers (#83) and Doug Furman (#82) and freshman Jonathan Gazaille (#89) round out the chart, and may or may not see significant time.
WR Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Navy versus Ohio State WRs
Jones: 0 catches, 0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
Schupp: 1 catch, 14 yards, 0 TDs, 14.0 YPR
Washington: 3 catches, 56 yards, 0 TDs, 18.7 YPR
Sanzenbacher: 21 catches, 272 yards, 1 TD, 13.0 YPR
Posey: 11 catches, 117 yards, 1 TD, 10.6 YPR
Small: 18 catches, 149 yards, 0 TDs, 8.3 YPR
The Academy uses their receivers as blockers first and pass catchers second, and they lost their best player, who accounted for over half their total yards. The Buckeyes likewise lost a pair of NFL draft picks and are replenishing at the position. The Buckeyes have more depth, more talent, and expect more of their receivers, however, so the edge is relatively straightforward.
Edge: Ohio State
Tight Ends
TE None
The Academy lists no player on their roster at the TE position, and their offense is not designed to incorporate a traditional TE.
TE Rating: N/A
Head-to-Head: Navy versus Ohio State TEs
N/A: 0 catches, 0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
Ballard: 5 catches, 73 yards, 0 TDs, 14.6 YPR
Ballard has plenty of experience for the Buckeyes and will be a valuable contributor.
Edge: N/A
Offensive Line
LT #61 Jeff Battipaglia (6-4, 256, JR, St. Joseph's HS, Newton, PA)
LG #79 Osei Asante (6-1, 265, SR, Cypress Ridge HS, Houston, TX)
C #66 Curtis Bass (6-1, 265, SR, Pearland HS, Pearland, TX)
RG #53 Andy Lark (6-0, 267, SR, Pearland HS, Chulota, FL)
RT #70 Matt Molloy (6-3, 260, JR, Stephan Decatur HS, Berlin, MD)
This line is not as big as Buckeye fans are used to seeing in the Big Ten, but of course toughness and discipline are in bountiful supply at Navy, and the smaller, quicker linemen are useful for the Academy's option attack. There is quite a bit of experience on this line, which can only help the Midshipmen, who set their crosshairs on leading the nation in rushing for the 5th straight season. Navy is particularly strong in the interior. LG Asante is a veteran leader and team captain who can play guard and center, but whose size and lateral movement make him especially advantageous at a guard spot. On the other side, RG Lark has dropped 20 pounds in the offseason to improve his agility, and it has paid off in a starting role on opening day. Originally a defensive player, he moved to the offensive line last year, seeing action in 12 games, and has progressed very well. In the middle, C Bass is one of the more experienced players on the squad, having seen action in 8 games in 2007 and having started all 13 games last season at RG. He provides plenty of leverage in the interior, and is one of the strongest players on the team. LT Battipaglia is small for a tackle but possesses excellent footwork and has plenty of experience, having started all 13 games last season. Likewise RT Molloy has starting experience (6 games last year) and is more of a quintessential lineman. He has slimmed down 20 pounds this season, enabling him to block upfield more effectively. All in all, this is a tough and durable group with plenty of experience and the potential to get better as they gel as a unit. Coaches are especially high on the tackles, and the interior spots are manned by veteran players who know the blocking scheme very well.
The Midshipmen also have some capable backups, led by Mentor, OH native and sophomore Brady DeMell (#75), who moved from guard to center in the spring and should see substantial playing time this season at one or both positions. He is the team's biggest lineman (286) and could develop into a good starting player. John Dowd (#68) backs up the right tackle spot, while senior Austin Milke (#60) is the backup at the left spot. The guard backups are listed as Lark and Bass.
OL Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Navy versus Ohio State OL
It is always difficult to grade and compare triple option linemen, because their size and goals are usually quite different than almost all other lines. These linemen are smaller, more agile, and are expected to block upfield consistently, whereas they do little pass blocking and are not nearly as physical as some other lines Ohio State will see. They are, however, smart, savvy, tough, disciplined, and they know their assignments very well. Option football is assignment football, and the linemen need to know exactly where they are in the scheme for the running game to work, since the threat of the passing game is very small. Judging by the Naval Academy leading the nation in rushing for 4 consecutive seasons, it appears the system works very well. The Academy has some holes to fill, and it might take a few games for the line to completely gel, but it will happen in all probability, and it should be another successful campaign in Annapolis. As for the Buckeyes, they have some questions to answer of their own after being criticized the past few seasons, particularly at the important left tackle spot, but the addition of Boren and a year of extra experience for some other players like Brewster have considerably raised expectations in Columbus. It's hard to go against a team that runs their system so well, although the Buckeyes have more talent than Navy. Of course, that has never stopped the Academy from showing people up before. With so many question marks, it is awfully close to call, but give the Buckeyes a slight edge based on talent.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Offensive Analysis
The Academy deserves a significant salute for being able to lead the nation in rushing for 4 straight years. It is an amazing testament to how good the system is, how good the coaching is, and how much the players buy into the system. However, any offense that loses their top 2 QBs, their top 2 running backs, their top WR, and 2 starters on the line is bound to experience a drop-off. The cupboard is definitely not empty, as players like Dobbs, Doyle, Teich and Curry could develop into potent weapons. Dobbs is one of the better passing QBs Navy has had recently, so he needs to take advantage of that and get the most out of Washington and the receiving corps. The line should be reasonably good, and the running attack will still cause some headaches. But it is hard to see the Academy being as potent on offense as they were last season, at least in the first half of 2009. However, given time, the toughness and discipline of the Midshipmen should shine through and the Academy should have another productive season.
Overall Offensive Rating: C
2009 Navy Midshipmen Defensive Preview In 2008 the Academy once again used their modified triple option to bulldoze their way to leading the nation in rushing, churning out 292.4 yards per game. Not surprisingly, they were 119/120 in Division I-A in passing, gaining 843 yards total through the air (64.8 yards per contest). Only fellow Academy Army ranked lower. Their total offensive output of 353.3 yards per game ranked 66th nationally, not surprising for a one-dimensional offense that relies heavily on the ground attack. Do not be fooled though, as the Midshipmen ranked a very respectable 48th in points per game with 27.2. Navy did not rank very high in total first downs made (224, T79th nationally), but they did convert a very impressive 44.7% of their 3rd downs, good for 15th nationally, and converted over half their 4th downs while going for it 23 times. All in all, they have a good system, good fundamentals, and strong discipline, so they are, not surprisingly, successful at what they do.
Quarterbacks
QB #4 Ricky Dobbs (6-1, 198, JR, Douglas County HS, Douglasville, GA)
Dobbs was one of three QBs to see time last season, and he finished 2008 3rd on the team in rushing with 498 yards and tied for the team lead with 8 rushing TDs. He also had the highest completion % and highest passer rating on the team, though the leading QB only attempted 35 throws and Dobbs only threw 16 passes himself. He played in 7 games total, with significant playing time in 4. He saw brief action last season in the opener against Towson, gaining 56 yards on 5 carries. He the reappeared briefly in the first October game against Air Force and made a brief but impactful appearance the following week against Pitt, scoring a TD and completing his only pass for 39 yards. He entered the game against SMU in the 2nd quarter the following week and absolutely obliterated the Mustangs, torching them for 224 yards and 4 TDs on 42 carries. He then had a big game against Temple, scoring a rushing TD and completing 5 of 6 for 87 yards and a score in an OT victory. He then had a subpar statistical performance in a loss to Notre Dame, gaining only 27 yards on 13 carries, though he engineered a near incredible comeback that fell just short. He bounced back the following week against Northern Illinois, gaining 124 yards and scoring a TD and completing his only throw for 32 yards as the starter. He did not play against Army and was used sparingly in the bowl loss to Wake Forest. Thus he brings some valuable experience and quality running ability to the position. He showed last year that he could take over a game (SMU) or distribute effectively as the game situations dictated. As a drawback, he had a bit of a tough time against the best team he played against (Notre Dame), but that was a learning experience for him and he bounced back well the following week, showing good resiliency.
Backing up Dobbs is sophomore Mike Stukel (#17), who is also a reserve at the SB role. He has no game experience, so the Midshipmen will need Dobbs to stay healthy. Senior Greg Zingler (#14), who carried the ball one time last season, rounds out the chart.
QB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Navy versus Ohio State QBs
Dobbs (2008): 9/16 (56.3%), 212 yards, 1 TDs, 1 INT 175.7 rating; 106/498, 8 TDs
Pryor (2008): 100/165 (60.6%), 1311 yards, 12 TDs, 4 INTs, 146.5 rating; 139/631, 6 TDs
The obvious advantage goes to Pryor, whose talent has Big Ten Player of the Year potential. He is a playmaker in the Vince Young mold that the Buckeyes hope will develop that special knack for making the impact play at key times that Young had, which he flashed at times last season. Dobbs could be a very good point man for the Navy system, and his role will obviously be different that Pryor's. The Buckeye defense represents a significant competition upgrade for Dobbs, so he will get a good read of where he stands after the first game.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
SB #28 Marcus Curry (5-11, 200, SO, Hebron HS, Carrollton, TX)
SB #33 Bobby Doyle (5-11, 204, SR, Chardon HS, Chardon, OH)
FB #39 Alexander Teich (6-0, 212, SO, Caney Creek HS, Conroe, TX)
Navy has to replace leading rusher Shun White, who gained 1092 yards and scored 8 TDs last season, while averaging a rather ridiculous 8.3 yards per carry. The cupboard, of course, is not bare. Among the returning players, Ohio native Doyle leads with 169 yards and a TD a year ago while playing sparingly but consistently (9 appearances). He has earned 2 letters and knows the system well. Curry is a bigger back in the Navy system, but is also one of the team's fastest players and will probably factor into the return game as well this season. He played in 7 games last season, but did not carry the football. Among the rest of the available players, senior Cory Finnerty (#23) has some game experience, having carried the ball for 71 yards a year ago. Freshmen Gee Gee Greene (#21) and Bo Snelson (#41) and sophomore Aaron Santiago (#26) round out the chart, but don't offer much game experience and are raw talents.
Replacing fullback Eric Kettani (982 yards, 4 TDs) will be just as challenging for the Midshipmen. The role goes to sophomore Teich, who gained 24 yards a season ago. He has reasonable size and has bulked up a bit since the spring, and offers a quicker and faster option than previous players at the position. Junior Vince Murray (#47) is the backup.
RB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Navy versus Ohio State RBs
Doyle: 16/168 yards, 1 TD, 10.6 YPC; 2 rec/54 yards, 1 TD, 27.0 YPR
Curry: 0/0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPC; 0 rec/0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
Finnerty: 8/71 yards, 1 TD, 8.9 YPC; 4 rec/37 yards, 0 TDs, 9.3 YPR
Herron: 89/439 yards, 6 TDs, 4.9 YPC; 6 rec/29 yards, 0 TDs, 4.8 YPR
Saine: 26/65 yards, 1 TD, 2.5 YPC; 3 rec/37 yards, 0 TDs, 12.3 YPR
Williams: 2/11 yards, 0 TDs, 5.5 YPC; 0 rec/0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
Both teams have quite a bit of production to replace. Herron is the most established player of the lot, and his production should be very big for the Buckeyes this season. Doyle and Finnerty offer some experience and Curry looks to be a good back of the future, but it will take them a while to master game situations and they have a big test with the Silver Bullets right out of the gate. Saine offers the Buckeyes a nice 2nd option as well, though he needs to step up his production in 2009. Give the edge to the Buckeyes in talent and experience.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
WR #84 Greg Jones (5-10, 182, JR, Ronald Reagan HS, San Antonio, TX)
WR #80 Mike Schupp (5-10, 176, JR, Cathedral Prep, Erie, PA)
Though the production of the wideouts at Navy won't make anyone forget Michael Crabtree's numbers, they still make some big plays, and the Academy also loses their biggest weapon at this position. Replacing Tyree Barnes (20 catches, 400 yards, 2 TDs) will fall to Jones and Schupp. If one wants to play receiver at Navy, one needs to be a good blocker, and Schupp in particular fits this bill well. He also played in all 13 games last season and made one catch, so he has plenty of game experience to draw on. Jones is also a good blocker and will likely split some time with fellow junior Mario Washington (#85), who isn't quite as good of a blocker but did play in all 13 games and caught 3 passes last season. He is the team's best pass catching threat, so expect both Jones and Washington to see plenty of action all season. A pair of sophomores, Gary Myers (#83) and Doug Furman (#82) and freshman Jonathan Gazaille (#89) round out the chart, and may or may not see significant time.
WR Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Navy versus Ohio State WRs
Jones: 0 catches, 0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
Schupp: 1 catch, 14 yards, 0 TDs, 14.0 YPR
Washington: 3 catches, 56 yards, 0 TDs, 18.7 YPR
Sanzenbacher: 21 catches, 272 yards, 1 TD, 13.0 YPR
Posey: 11 catches, 117 yards, 1 TD, 10.6 YPR
Small: 18 catches, 149 yards, 0 TDs, 8.3 YPR
The Academy uses their receivers as blockers first and pass catchers second, and they lost their best player, who accounted for over half their total yards. The Buckeyes likewise lost a pair of NFL draft picks and are replenishing at the position. The Buckeyes have more depth, more talent, and expect more of their receivers, however, so the edge is relatively straightforward.
Edge: Ohio State
Tight Ends
TE None
The Academy lists no player on their roster at the TE position, and their offense is not designed to incorporate a traditional TE.
TE Rating: N/A
Head-to-Head: Navy versus Ohio State TEs
N/A: 0 catches, 0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
Ballard: 5 catches, 73 yards, 0 TDs, 14.6 YPR
Ballard has plenty of experience for the Buckeyes and will be a valuable contributor.
Edge: N/A
Offensive Line
LT #61 Jeff Battipaglia (6-4, 256, JR, St. Joseph's HS, Newton, PA)
LG #79 Osei Asante (6-1, 265, SR, Cypress Ridge HS, Houston, TX)
C #66 Curtis Bass (6-1, 265, SR, Pearland HS, Pearland, TX)
RG #53 Andy Lark (6-0, 267, SR, Pearland HS, Chulota, FL)
RT #70 Matt Molloy (6-3, 260, JR, Stephan Decatur HS, Berlin, MD)
This line is not as big as Buckeye fans are used to seeing in the Big Ten, but of course toughness and discipline are in bountiful supply at Navy, and the smaller, quicker linemen are useful for the Academy's option attack. There is quite a bit of experience on this line, which can only help the Midshipmen, who set their crosshairs on leading the nation in rushing for the 5th straight season. Navy is particularly strong in the interior. LG Asante is a veteran leader and team captain who can play guard and center, but whose size and lateral movement make him especially advantageous at a guard spot. On the other side, RG Lark has dropped 20 pounds in the offseason to improve his agility, and it has paid off in a starting role on opening day. Originally a defensive player, he moved to the offensive line last year, seeing action in 12 games, and has progressed very well. In the middle, C Bass is one of the more experienced players on the squad, having seen action in 8 games in 2007 and having started all 13 games last season at RG. He provides plenty of leverage in the interior, and is one of the strongest players on the team. LT Battipaglia is small for a tackle but possesses excellent footwork and has plenty of experience, having started all 13 games last season. Likewise RT Molloy has starting experience (6 games last year) and is more of a quintessential lineman. He has slimmed down 20 pounds this season, enabling him to block upfield more effectively. All in all, this is a tough and durable group with plenty of experience and the potential to get better as they gel as a unit. Coaches are especially high on the tackles, and the interior spots are manned by veteran players who know the blocking scheme very well.
The Midshipmen also have some capable backups, led by Mentor, OH native and sophomore Brady DeMell (#75), who moved from guard to center in the spring and should see substantial playing time this season at one or both positions. He is the team's biggest lineman (286) and could develop into a good starting player. John Dowd (#68) backs up the right tackle spot, while senior Austin Milke (#60) is the backup at the left spot. The guard backups are listed as Lark and Bass.
OL Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Navy versus Ohio State OL
It is always difficult to grade and compare triple option linemen, because their size and goals are usually quite different than almost all other lines. These linemen are smaller, more agile, and are expected to block upfield consistently, whereas they do little pass blocking and are not nearly as physical as some other lines Ohio State will see. They are, however, smart, savvy, tough, disciplined, and they know their assignments very well. Option football is assignment football, and the linemen need to know exactly where they are in the scheme for the running game to work, since the threat of the passing game is very small. Judging by the Naval Academy leading the nation in rushing for 4 consecutive seasons, it appears the system works very well. The Academy has some holes to fill, and it might take a few games for the line to completely gel, but it will happen in all probability, and it should be another successful campaign in Annapolis. As for the Buckeyes, they have some questions to answer of their own after being criticized the past few seasons, particularly at the important left tackle spot, but the addition of Boren and a year of extra experience for some other players like Brewster have considerably raised expectations in Columbus. It's hard to go against a team that runs their system so well, although the Buckeyes have more talent than Navy. Of course, that has never stopped the Academy from showing people up before. With so many question marks, it is awfully close to call, but give the Buckeyes a slight edge based on talent.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Offensive Analysis
The Academy deserves a significant salute for being able to lead the nation in rushing for 4 straight years. It is an amazing testament to how good the system is, how good the coaching is, and how much the players buy into the system. However, any offense that loses their top 2 QBs, their top 2 running backs, their top WR, and 2 starters on the line is bound to experience a drop-off. The cupboard is definitely not empty, as players like Dobbs, Doyle, Teich and Curry could develop into potent weapons. Dobbs is one of the better passing QBs Navy has had recently, so he needs to take advantage of that and get the most out of Washington and the receiving corps. The line should be reasonably good, and the running attack will still cause some headaches. But it is hard to see the Academy being as potent on offense as they were last season, at least in the first half of 2009. However, given time, the toughness and discipline of the Midshipmen should shine through and the Academy should have another productive season.
Overall Offensive Rating: C
Returning Starters: 7
Defensive Coordinator Buddy Green begins his 8th season as Navy's Defensive Coordinator. The 2008 Frank Broyles Award nominee (Top Assistant Coach in the Nation) is also responsible for coaching the secondary. A graduate of N.C. State (1976), Green was a two-sport athlete playing both football, where he was a member of Lou Holtz's 1972 Peach Bowl team, and baseball where he helped win 2 ACC Championships. He began his coaching career in 1979 as a Graduate Assistant at his alma mater, helping N.C. State win the ACC Championship that season. In 1980, Green coached at LSU, before taking an opportunity to become the Defensive Coordinator/secondary Coach at Southern University in 1981. He next took the head job at a North Carolina High School before returning to the college ranks as VMI's secondary coach in 1983. Letting no grass grow beneath his feet, Green moved on to Auburn helping lead the Tigers to the 1985 Cotton Bowl. In 1986, the nomadic coach finally settled spending 8 years as the NC State Wolfpack's secondary coach, while also rising to the Coordinator level for the last four years there (1990-93). In 1994, Green took the head job at Tennessee-Chattanooga, coaching for six seasons while also serving as the Director of Athletics for two years. While at Tennessee-Chattanooga, he coached a young wide out by the name of Terrell Owens. Returning to NC State in 2000, Green took over a dreadful defense, turning it in to one of the nation's finer units by the time he left for Navy in 2002.
In 2008, Navy's defense was over two touchdowns per game better than the 2007 squad which defeated Notre Dame for the first time since 1963, but still yielded 22 points per contest. Relatively strong against the run, Navy yielded 134.8 yards a game, but did also allow 19 rushing touchdowns. Against the pass, Navy afforded opponents 211.8 per game, while picking off 16 passes and allowing 17 touchdowns. Overall, the defense gave the opposition 346.7 per game total offense and a 47% conversion rate on third down.
The good news is that Navy returns a talented and experienced front seven, with some saying this could be the best defense Navy has seen in a very long time. The bad news is, Navy recently dismissed it's top defensive player in NG Nate Frazier. The unit was hoping to be able to create a more consistent pass rush in 2009, but will now be harder pressed to obtain that objective. Nonetheless, Navy should be solid at both LB and at the safety positions, while trying to become more reliable on the corners.
Defensive Line
LE #63 Jabaree Tuani (6-1, 265 SO)
NG #93 Chase Burge (6-4, 270 JR)
RE #59 Matt Nechak ( 6-4, 252 SR)
The loss of Frazier is a serious blow to the Midshipmen D-Line as he represented the line's most consistent force to both plug running lanes and have a presence in opposing backfields. As it is, Chase Burge will likely get the first look at filling the position, though it is also possible the job will go to #69 Jordan Stephens, a 6-4, 256 pound Senior. Burge is more of a "pure" Nose Guard, but has only made one tackle thus far while playing behind the departed Frazier. Stephens is very strong and has shown flashes of being a run stuffer and is able to play inside and out. Still, the Senior recorded only 3 tackles in 2008 with half a sack. Tuani, on the other hand, leads returning linemen with 42 tackes and 9 TFLs, with a sack and a half after becoming the starter 4 games in to the 08 season. Tuani was recruited by several BCS schools before choosing the Naval Academy and is the line's speediest option. Nechak, however, is now the line's most likely candidate to get to the QB - having recorded a team leading 4 sacks last season. A converted LB, Nechak holds his own against bigger O-Linemen despite a size disadvantage.
Reserves Ends, #78 Michael Walsh Sr. 6-2, 251, #48 Cameron Marshall Sr. 6-6, 233, #90 Billy Yarborough Jr. 6-5, 240. #97 Kyle Bookhout Sr. 6-2, 240 and Guard #95 Shane Bothel Jr. 6-3, 252 provide depth. Walsh - a former starter - leads the reserves with 8 tackles and 2 TFLs in 2008 despite missing all but 4 games with a toe injury, while Bookhout recorded 6 tackles with 1.5 TFLs in 2008.
DL Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Navy versus OSU DL
Let's face it, when it comes to the "measurables" Ohio State's line is far and away bigger, stronger and faster than Navy's. That said, there is no question that the Navy line will play with passion and heart and despite it's lack of size will force Ohio State to earn its yardage. While Navy doesn't have a Cam Heyward or Thad Gibson, they are as deep as they've been in a while, even with the loss of Frazier. It is unlikely that this depth will be enough to stop Ohio State for 60 minutes, but throughout the course of the remaining season, the line should be just fine for Navy. While Ohio State will have to establish it has the the ability to get to opposing QBs consistently, Navy has even bigger problems corralling quarterbacks. Now they'll be asked to put a net around Terrelle Pryor and that is too tall an order for this line. As detailed below, the secondary will need all the help it can get from the line, but the mobile Pryor is likely to exploit the time he can create to throw and there isn't a whole lot Navy can do about it.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
OLB #44 Clint Sovie (5-11, 200, SR)
ILB #51 Ross Pospisil ( 6-0, 227 SR)
ILB #50 Tony Haberer (6-1 ,217 SR)
WLB #49 Craig Schaefer ( 6-2, 220 SR)
Senior laden, experienced, and as deep as it's been in years, if not ever, the Navy LBs are solid tacklers, even if undersized. Pospsisil is the team's top returning tackler with 106, 3 for loss with 2 picks in 2008. The 2-year starter is always around the football and can deliver a big hit or two while remaining fundamentally sound in doing so. Sovie is built more like a Safety, but provides a speedy option to get in to the backfield on blitzes. He missed all of 2007 with injury, but returned in 2008 to record 60 tackles with 4 for loss and a 42 yard fumble recovery. Haberer had 41 tackles, with a sack in 2008 while starting 5 games. A nice presence alongside Pospisil, Haber may be the strongest of the group but Navy would like to see more consistent production. Schaefer will be the new starter in the group, though it's possible Sovie or #34 Ram Vela, a 5-9, 193 Sr begin the game on the outside instead of Schaefer. In any case, Schaefer did start two games in 2007, making only 17 stops. A special teamer and limited use reserve during his early career, Schaefer has had a strong off season and hopes to live up to the potential he's been showing in practice once the games begin. Vela, on the other hand, could see the first action. The undersized senior made 33 stops last year with 3 sacks while starting most Navy games at OLB. You might remember Vela as the guy who made the flying-leap sack on Notre Dame's Evan Sharpley when Charlie Weis opted to go for it on 4th down rather than attempt a 41 yard field goal, sending the 28 to 28 game into OT - which Navy eventually won.
The reserve LBs include: #29 Aaron McCauley So. 5-10, 194, #42 Mason Graham So. 6-0, 207, #54 Tyler Simmons Jr. 6-3, 228, #25 Max Blue So. 6-0, 207, #57 Caleb King So. 6-0, 223, and #58 Trey Grissom Jr. 6-3, 225. Despite plenty of bodies, there is a pretty big drop off behind Vela or Schaefer depending on who starts. Simmons leads the way, but only had 10 tackles in 2008, while McCauley had 7, and Grissom just 2. You might be saying to yourself, "What about Caleb King? I know I've heard that name before?" And you have. But that Caleb King is a sophomore running back at Georgia. This one did not see any action on the field in 2008, though that may change in 2009.
LB Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Navy versus OSU LBs
Gone are James Laurinaitis and Marcus Freeman and this fact, along with Navy's senior laden LB corps might tend to tip the scale Navy's way when comparing the two units. But, that simply is not the case. Ohio State has been pulling in top rated talent at LB and these young men now get their opportunity to show what they can do after having sat behind the firmly entrenched Seniors from 2008. Ross Homan, Austin Spitler, Brian Rolle, Etienne Sabino, Dorian Bell or any other LB you can name would not only start, but anchor Navy's LB corps had any of them opted to go to Navy. That's not a jab at Navy's unit so much as it is a recognition of vastly different levels of talent to consider. Navy's LBs are probably the strongest unit in the Navy Defense and they will be up to the task over the course of the bulk of Navy's schedule. They are, as one should expect from a service academy, a disciplined and technically sound group. They are not, however, on Ohio State's level talent wise. Likewise, while Navy has decent depth at the position, and even though it's true that Ohio State's depth is not very experienced there is no doubt Ohio State enjoys the edge here.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #15 Kevin Edwards (6-2, 180 JR)
FS #7 Emmett Merchant (5-9, 186 JR)
ROV#8 Wyatt Middleton (6-2, 208 JR)
LCB #1 Blake Carter (5-11, 187 SR)
The strength of the Navy secondary comes in the middle with Merchant and Middleton. Middleton is the leading returning tackler of the secondary with 80 stops last season, to go along with one INT, a fumble recovery and 3 forced fumbles. Last season, Middleton was the starting Rover, but is expected to move to Free Safety this season. Merchant had decided to leave the team for personal reasons, but has since returned for his junior season after having had a successful sophomore campaign where he recorded 41 tackles to go along with 2 picks and a sack. He has good quickness and is a reliable tackler. Navy loses it's leading INT man with the departure of Rashawn King, who is being replaced by Blake Carter as the Midshipmen's top cover corner. The senior saw action in all 13 games (starting 3) in 2008, recording 16 tackles and a pick while also blocking a kick. He'll be expected to be more productive in 2009 and it is hoped he can produce numbers like his sophomore season where he recorded 71 stops. Meanwhile, Edwards takes over the right side which had been where King lined up. Edwards, one of the fastest players on Navy's squad, has potential but only played 6 games on special teams in 2008 after suffering an ankle injury. He will need to prove himself early if Navy's secondary is to have the kind of success they hope for.
Corners; #22 John Angelo Jr. 5-9 ,174, #6 Caleb Lucas Fr. 6-0, 190, #18 David Wright So. 6-2, 188, and #36 DeVon Richardson Fr. 6-0, 205, and safeties; #3 Jesse Iwuji Sr. 6-1, 182, #10 Jarred Shannon So. 6-0, 208, #11 Kwesi Mitchell So. 5-10, 189, #5 Brian Blick So. 5-10, 185 and #19 TraVes Bush Fr. 5-10, 185 provide depth in the secondary. Among all the players listed here, only Angelo made a tackle in 2008, leading the reserves with 1. Needless to say, behind the starting four, Navy is quite green and could suffer mightily if one of the starters has to sit for extended periods of time. Mitchell has sprinter's speed and should eventually factor in to more and more of the game plan, but is unproven. Likewise, Wright has the potential to develop in to a viable option at corner, but will probably see more action in the return game this year.
DB Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Navy versus OSU DBs
Once again, there is little comparison between Ohio State and Navy in this unit analysis. As the numbers attest, yardage wise Navy wasn't dreadful against the pass in 2008, but hidden is their 103th rated Passing Efficiency Defense as teams took advantage of the "keep it in front of you" philosophy. Ohio State fans are familiar with how frustrating such a philosophy can be at times, but that said the Buckeyes have also enjoyed much better efficiency and sports a much more talented stable of DBs. While the Buckeyes lose Malcolm Jenkins, their top cover corner, there is little question that any of Ohio State's prospective replacements would be a starter in the Navy secondary. Navy returns good game experience in the middle of the secondary, as does Ohio State with Coleman and Russell (and Hines). Without help from the D-Line, however, putting pressure on QBs opposing wideouts should find plenty of room to work, especially on short to intermediate routes. The Buckeyes may have some growing pains on the corner opposite Chekwa, but it is unlikely that the run-heavy Midshipmen will put this relative weakness to the test. There is little depth to speak of for Navy while Ohio State has talent to spare roaming the sidelines.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
Navy's defense will be fine over the course of the season, though losing its most talented play, Frazier, is a heavy blow. That notwithstanding, their returning players might possess the most talent the Academy has had on the defensive side of the ball in decades. The linebacking unit should prove to be the strength of the Navy defense, and it may be called upon heavily to help provide a consistent pass rush which has been Navy's biggest weakness historically. Navy is typically undersized but enjoys a "high energy" mind-set and a strong discipline to their respective responsibilities. They don't have the horses to run with Ohio State for 60 minutes, but it should not come as a surprise to see them playing in a bowl game once again in 2009.
Overall Defensive Rating: C
2009 Navy Midshipmen Special Teams Preview In 2008, Navy's defense was over two touchdowns per game better than the 2007 squad which defeated Notre Dame for the first time since 1963, but still yielded 22 points per contest. Relatively strong against the run, Navy yielded 134.8 yards a game, but did also allow 19 rushing touchdowns. Against the pass, Navy afforded opponents 211.8 per game, while picking off 16 passes and allowing 17 touchdowns. Overall, the defense gave the opposition 346.7 per game total offense and a 47% conversion rate on third down.
The good news is that Navy returns a talented and experienced front seven, with some saying this could be the best defense Navy has seen in a very long time. The bad news is, Navy recently dismissed it's top defensive player in NG Nate Frazier. The unit was hoping to be able to create a more consistent pass rush in 2009, but will now be harder pressed to obtain that objective. Nonetheless, Navy should be solid at both LB and at the safety positions, while trying to become more reliable on the corners.
Defensive Line
LE #63 Jabaree Tuani (6-1, 265 SO)
NG #93 Chase Burge (6-4, 270 JR)
RE #59 Matt Nechak ( 6-4, 252 SR)
The loss of Frazier is a serious blow to the Midshipmen D-Line as he represented the line's most consistent force to both plug running lanes and have a presence in opposing backfields. As it is, Chase Burge will likely get the first look at filling the position, though it is also possible the job will go to #69 Jordan Stephens, a 6-4, 256 pound Senior. Burge is more of a "pure" Nose Guard, but has only made one tackle thus far while playing behind the departed Frazier. Stephens is very strong and has shown flashes of being a run stuffer and is able to play inside and out. Still, the Senior recorded only 3 tackles in 2008 with half a sack. Tuani, on the other hand, leads returning linemen with 42 tackes and 9 TFLs, with a sack and a half after becoming the starter 4 games in to the 08 season. Tuani was recruited by several BCS schools before choosing the Naval Academy and is the line's speediest option. Nechak, however, is now the line's most likely candidate to get to the QB - having recorded a team leading 4 sacks last season. A converted LB, Nechak holds his own against bigger O-Linemen despite a size disadvantage.
Reserves Ends, #78 Michael Walsh Sr. 6-2, 251, #48 Cameron Marshall Sr. 6-6, 233, #90 Billy Yarborough Jr. 6-5, 240. #97 Kyle Bookhout Sr. 6-2, 240 and Guard #95 Shane Bothel Jr. 6-3, 252 provide depth. Walsh - a former starter - leads the reserves with 8 tackles and 2 TFLs in 2008 despite missing all but 4 games with a toe injury, while Bookhout recorded 6 tackles with 1.5 TFLs in 2008.
DL Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Navy versus OSU DL
Let's face it, when it comes to the "measurables" Ohio State's line is far and away bigger, stronger and faster than Navy's. That said, there is no question that the Navy line will play with passion and heart and despite it's lack of size will force Ohio State to earn its yardage. While Navy doesn't have a Cam Heyward or Thad Gibson, they are as deep as they've been in a while, even with the loss of Frazier. It is unlikely that this depth will be enough to stop Ohio State for 60 minutes, but throughout the course of the remaining season, the line should be just fine for Navy. While Ohio State will have to establish it has the the ability to get to opposing QBs consistently, Navy has even bigger problems corralling quarterbacks. Now they'll be asked to put a net around Terrelle Pryor and that is too tall an order for this line. As detailed below, the secondary will need all the help it can get from the line, but the mobile Pryor is likely to exploit the time he can create to throw and there isn't a whole lot Navy can do about it.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
OLB #44 Clint Sovie (5-11, 200, SR)
ILB #51 Ross Pospisil ( 6-0, 227 SR)
ILB #50 Tony Haberer (6-1 ,217 SR)
WLB #49 Craig Schaefer ( 6-2, 220 SR)
Senior laden, experienced, and as deep as it's been in years, if not ever, the Navy LBs are solid tacklers, even if undersized. Pospsisil is the team's top returning tackler with 106, 3 for loss with 2 picks in 2008. The 2-year starter is always around the football and can deliver a big hit or two while remaining fundamentally sound in doing so. Sovie is built more like a Safety, but provides a speedy option to get in to the backfield on blitzes. He missed all of 2007 with injury, but returned in 2008 to record 60 tackles with 4 for loss and a 42 yard fumble recovery. Haberer had 41 tackles, with a sack in 2008 while starting 5 games. A nice presence alongside Pospisil, Haber may be the strongest of the group but Navy would like to see more consistent production. Schaefer will be the new starter in the group, though it's possible Sovie or #34 Ram Vela, a 5-9, 193 Sr begin the game on the outside instead of Schaefer. In any case, Schaefer did start two games in 2007, making only 17 stops. A special teamer and limited use reserve during his early career, Schaefer has had a strong off season and hopes to live up to the potential he's been showing in practice once the games begin. Vela, on the other hand, could see the first action. The undersized senior made 33 stops last year with 3 sacks while starting most Navy games at OLB. You might remember Vela as the guy who made the flying-leap sack on Notre Dame's Evan Sharpley when Charlie Weis opted to go for it on 4th down rather than attempt a 41 yard field goal, sending the 28 to 28 game into OT - which Navy eventually won.
The reserve LBs include: #29 Aaron McCauley So. 5-10, 194, #42 Mason Graham So. 6-0, 207, #54 Tyler Simmons Jr. 6-3, 228, #25 Max Blue So. 6-0, 207, #57 Caleb King So. 6-0, 223, and #58 Trey Grissom Jr. 6-3, 225. Despite plenty of bodies, there is a pretty big drop off behind Vela or Schaefer depending on who starts. Simmons leads the way, but only had 10 tackles in 2008, while McCauley had 7, and Grissom just 2. You might be saying to yourself, "What about Caleb King? I know I've heard that name before?" And you have. But that Caleb King is a sophomore running back at Georgia. This one did not see any action on the field in 2008, though that may change in 2009.
LB Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Navy versus OSU LBs
Gone are James Laurinaitis and Marcus Freeman and this fact, along with Navy's senior laden LB corps might tend to tip the scale Navy's way when comparing the two units. But, that simply is not the case. Ohio State has been pulling in top rated talent at LB and these young men now get their opportunity to show what they can do after having sat behind the firmly entrenched Seniors from 2008. Ross Homan, Austin Spitler, Brian Rolle, Etienne Sabino, Dorian Bell or any other LB you can name would not only start, but anchor Navy's LB corps had any of them opted to go to Navy. That's not a jab at Navy's unit so much as it is a recognition of vastly different levels of talent to consider. Navy's LBs are probably the strongest unit in the Navy Defense and they will be up to the task over the course of the bulk of Navy's schedule. They are, as one should expect from a service academy, a disciplined and technically sound group. They are not, however, on Ohio State's level talent wise. Likewise, while Navy has decent depth at the position, and even though it's true that Ohio State's depth is not very experienced there is no doubt Ohio State enjoys the edge here.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #15 Kevin Edwards (6-2, 180 JR)
FS #7 Emmett Merchant (5-9, 186 JR)
ROV#8 Wyatt Middleton (6-2, 208 JR)
LCB #1 Blake Carter (5-11, 187 SR)
The strength of the Navy secondary comes in the middle with Merchant and Middleton. Middleton is the leading returning tackler of the secondary with 80 stops last season, to go along with one INT, a fumble recovery and 3 forced fumbles. Last season, Middleton was the starting Rover, but is expected to move to Free Safety this season. Merchant had decided to leave the team for personal reasons, but has since returned for his junior season after having had a successful sophomore campaign where he recorded 41 tackles to go along with 2 picks and a sack. He has good quickness and is a reliable tackler. Navy loses it's leading INT man with the departure of Rashawn King, who is being replaced by Blake Carter as the Midshipmen's top cover corner. The senior saw action in all 13 games (starting 3) in 2008, recording 16 tackles and a pick while also blocking a kick. He'll be expected to be more productive in 2009 and it is hoped he can produce numbers like his sophomore season where he recorded 71 stops. Meanwhile, Edwards takes over the right side which had been where King lined up. Edwards, one of the fastest players on Navy's squad, has potential but only played 6 games on special teams in 2008 after suffering an ankle injury. He will need to prove himself early if Navy's secondary is to have the kind of success they hope for.
Corners; #22 John Angelo Jr. 5-9 ,174, #6 Caleb Lucas Fr. 6-0, 190, #18 David Wright So. 6-2, 188, and #36 DeVon Richardson Fr. 6-0, 205, and safeties; #3 Jesse Iwuji Sr. 6-1, 182, #10 Jarred Shannon So. 6-0, 208, #11 Kwesi Mitchell So. 5-10, 189, #5 Brian Blick So. 5-10, 185 and #19 TraVes Bush Fr. 5-10, 185 provide depth in the secondary. Among all the players listed here, only Angelo made a tackle in 2008, leading the reserves with 1. Needless to say, behind the starting four, Navy is quite green and could suffer mightily if one of the starters has to sit for extended periods of time. Mitchell has sprinter's speed and should eventually factor in to more and more of the game plan, but is unproven. Likewise, Wright has the potential to develop in to a viable option at corner, but will probably see more action in the return game this year.
DB Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Navy versus OSU DBs
Once again, there is little comparison between Ohio State and Navy in this unit analysis. As the numbers attest, yardage wise Navy wasn't dreadful against the pass in 2008, but hidden is their 103th rated Passing Efficiency Defense as teams took advantage of the "keep it in front of you" philosophy. Ohio State fans are familiar with how frustrating such a philosophy can be at times, but that said the Buckeyes have also enjoyed much better efficiency and sports a much more talented stable of DBs. While the Buckeyes lose Malcolm Jenkins, their top cover corner, there is little question that any of Ohio State's prospective replacements would be a starter in the Navy secondary. Navy returns good game experience in the middle of the secondary, as does Ohio State with Coleman and Russell (and Hines). Without help from the D-Line, however, putting pressure on QBs opposing wideouts should find plenty of room to work, especially on short to intermediate routes. The Buckeyes may have some growing pains on the corner opposite Chekwa, but it is unlikely that the run-heavy Midshipmen will put this relative weakness to the test. There is little depth to speak of for Navy while Ohio State has talent to spare roaming the sidelines.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
Navy's defense will be fine over the course of the season, though losing its most talented play, Frazier, is a heavy blow. That notwithstanding, their returning players might possess the most talent the Academy has had on the defensive side of the ball in decades. The linebacking unit should prove to be the strength of the Navy defense, and it may be called upon heavily to help provide a consistent pass rush which has been Navy's biggest weakness historically. Navy is typically undersized but enjoys a "high energy" mind-set and a strong discipline to their respective responsibilities. They don't have the horses to run with Ohio State for 60 minutes, but it should not come as a surprise to see them playing in a bowl game once again in 2009.
Overall Defensive Rating: C
Returning Starters: 2
The United States Naval Academy brings a very young group of Special Teamers into Ohio Stadium in the home opener for both clubs. The Midshipmen have 1 Senior, 6 Juniors, 7 Sophomores and 1 Freshmen in their 2 deep. Last year's kicker (Matt Harmon) as well as their top kickoff returner (Greg Jones) graduated. But many of this year's Midshipmen special teamers saw action last year.
Special Teams
Place Kicker:
#45 Jon Teague (6-3, 198, So., Fred T. Foard HS,Hickory, NC)
#16 Joe Buckley (5-9, 176, Jr., Malvern Prep HS, Downingtown, PA)
Punter:
#35 Kyle Delahooke (6-1, 207, So., Maranantha HS, Pasadena, CA)
#88 John Charles White (6-2, 196, Jr., St. Piux X HS, Atlanta, GA)
Long Snapper:
#96 Brian Ackerman (5-11, 188, So., Clearwater Central Catholic HS, Oldsmar, FL)
#92 Thanassi Varvoutis (6-0, 215, Jr., Pasadena HS, Houston, TX)
Holder:
#33 Bobby Doyle (5-11, 204, Jr., Chardon HS, Chardon, OH)
#2 Kriss Proctor (6-1, 190, So., Big Bear HS, Big Bear City, CA)
Punt Returns:
#85 Mario Washington (6-0, 193, Jr., Crest HS, Boiling Springs, NC)
#22 John Angelo (5-9, 174, Jr., Santa Margarita HS, Newport Beach, CA)
#83 Gary Myers (6-1, 194, So., William H. Taft HS, San Antonio, TX)
Kickoff Returns:
#17 Mike Stukel (5-11, 195, So., Bishop Kenny HS, Fleming Island, FL)
#23 Cory Finnerty (5-10, 185, Sr., St. Bonaventure HS, Ventura, CA)
#83 Gary Myers (6-1, 194, So., William H. Taft HS, San Antonio, TX)
#25 Gee Gee Greene (5-8, 180, Fr., Columbia, SC)
Statistically speaking, the Naval Academy did not enjoy a stellar season on Special Teams in 2008. In the punt team, they were 70th in the Nation with only a 34.4 yd/gm average. By contrast, the Buckeyes were 9th in the Nation with a 37.98 yd/gm average. The Mids' were equally dismal in kickoff returns ranking 107th in the Nation (19.24 yds/return) offensively and 78th (21.88 yds/return) defensively. They fared somewhat better in the punt return game ranking 37th (10.5 yds/return, 2 TDs) offensively and 38th (7.0 yds/return) defensively. The starters on the return teams are young but experienced having played a lot last year. Navy hopes to improve their stats this year. They must win or at least tie the Buckeyes in the area of Special Teams (as well as get their running game going) if they are to have a chance. If the Buckeyes get a lead and are able to win the battle of field position, it will be a LONG afternoon for the Midshipmen.
ST Rating: D based on last year's statistics
Head-to-Head: Kickoff returns Stukel/Finnerty/Myers vs Ohio State Kickoff Defense
It's hard to gauge what you have from last year's stats and spring practice, but all signs point to a clear Ohio State advantage here. Navy was among the worst kickoff return teams in the country last year (#107th Nationally)and Ohio State (#4 Nationally) was among the best defending kickoff return teams.
Edge: Ohio State
Head-to-Head: Punt returns Washington/Angelo/Myers vs Ohio State Punt Defense
Again, not much data to go on, but the Buckeyes seem to have a clear advantage here as well. Ohio State's punt return team allowed only 4.13 yds/return last year (#5 Nationally) and the Midshipmen only averaged 10.5 per return
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Special Teams Analysis
Even though it is difficult at best and impossible at worst to evaluate Special Teams before the first game is played, it is safe to assume that Ohio State will have a decided advantage. Barring a tremendous improvement by the Navy kickoff and punt return defenses, the Buckeyes should win the all-important battle of field position.
Overall Special Teams Rating: D
2009 Ohio State Buckeyes Special Teams
Returning Starters: 8
The Buckeye special teams enjoyed great success in 2008 save for one glaring exception. They were 9th in the nation in net punting (37.98 yds/punt), 12th in punt returns (13 yds/return), 5th in punt return defense (4.13 yds/return) and 4th in kickoff return defense (17.5 yds/return). Their one weakness that plagued them all year was kickoff returns where they ranked a abysmal 108th (19.18 yds/return), ironically right behind the Navy, their first opponent. Coach Tressel puts great emphasis on Special Teams, so we can look for improvement in that area.
Special Teams
Place Kicker
#20 Aaron Pettrey (6-2, 199, Sr., Raceland-Worthington HS, Raceland, KY)
#12 Devin Barclay (5-11, 195, Jr., McDonough HS, Annapolis, MD)
Punter
#48 Jon Thoma (6-2, 201, Sr., St. Thomas Aquinas HS, Alliance, OH)
#17 Ben Buchanan (6-0, 200, Fr., Central HS, Westerville, OH)
Long Snapper
#96 Jake McQuaide (6-2, 219, Jr., Elder HS, Cincinnati, OH)
#53 Patrick Howe (6-2, 204, Jr., St. Xavier HS, Cincinnati, OH)
Holder
#48 Jon Thoma (6-2, 201, Sr., St. Thomas Aquinas HS, Alliance, OH)
#12 Dane Sanzenbacher (5-11, 175, Jr., Central Catholic HS, Toldeo, OH)
Punt Returner
#82 Ray Small (5-11, 180, Sr., Glenville HS, Cleveland, OH)
#8 DeVier Posey (6-3, 205, So., LaSalle HS, Cincinnati, OH)
Kick Returner
#3 Brandon Saine (6-1, 217, Jr., Piqua HS, Piqua OH)
#1 Dan Herron (5-10, 193, So., Warren HS, Warren, OH)
#7 Lamaar Thomas (5-11, 186, So., Friendly HS, Ft. Washington, MD)
ST Rating: A for all except Kickoff returns, F for kickoff returns (all based on last year's statistics)
Head-to-Head: Kickoff returns Saine/Herron/Thomas vs Navy Kickoff Defense
Again, it's hard to gauge what you have from last year's stats and spring practice, but this matchup pits the movable object against the resistible force. Both units ranked among the worst statistically in the NCAA last year. It's also the only area that Navy is superior, thought not by much.
Edge: Navy, barely
Head-to-Head: Punt returns Small/Posey vs Navy Punt Defense
This may be where Ohio State uses their athletic superiority. Both Small and Posey return from spectacular years in 2009. If Navy can't get first downs and gain the edge in field position that way, it will be difficult to do it in the punt game.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Special Teams Analysis
The Buckeyes return more starters and enjoyed more success statistically than Navy in 2008. To be honest, it would be a surprise if the game came down to special teams play, but if it does, Ohio State appears (on paper at least) to have the distinct advantage.
Overall Special Teams Rating: A
Predictions Special Teams
Place Kicker:
#45 Jon Teague (6-3, 198, So., Fred T. Foard HS,Hickory, NC)
#16 Joe Buckley (5-9, 176, Jr., Malvern Prep HS, Downingtown, PA)
Punter:
#35 Kyle Delahooke (6-1, 207, So., Maranantha HS, Pasadena, CA)
#88 John Charles White (6-2, 196, Jr., St. Piux X HS, Atlanta, GA)
Long Snapper:
#96 Brian Ackerman (5-11, 188, So., Clearwater Central Catholic HS, Oldsmar, FL)
#92 Thanassi Varvoutis (6-0, 215, Jr., Pasadena HS, Houston, TX)
Holder:
#33 Bobby Doyle (5-11, 204, Jr., Chardon HS, Chardon, OH)
#2 Kriss Proctor (6-1, 190, So., Big Bear HS, Big Bear City, CA)
Punt Returns:
#85 Mario Washington (6-0, 193, Jr., Crest HS, Boiling Springs, NC)
#22 John Angelo (5-9, 174, Jr., Santa Margarita HS, Newport Beach, CA)
#83 Gary Myers (6-1, 194, So., William H. Taft HS, San Antonio, TX)
Kickoff Returns:
#17 Mike Stukel (5-11, 195, So., Bishop Kenny HS, Fleming Island, FL)
#23 Cory Finnerty (5-10, 185, Sr., St. Bonaventure HS, Ventura, CA)
#83 Gary Myers (6-1, 194, So., William H. Taft HS, San Antonio, TX)
#25 Gee Gee Greene (5-8, 180, Fr., Columbia, SC)
Statistically speaking, the Naval Academy did not enjoy a stellar season on Special Teams in 2008. In the punt team, they were 70th in the Nation with only a 34.4 yd/gm average. By contrast, the Buckeyes were 9th in the Nation with a 37.98 yd/gm average. The Mids' were equally dismal in kickoff returns ranking 107th in the Nation (19.24 yds/return) offensively and 78th (21.88 yds/return) defensively. They fared somewhat better in the punt return game ranking 37th (10.5 yds/return, 2 TDs) offensively and 38th (7.0 yds/return) defensively. The starters on the return teams are young but experienced having played a lot last year. Navy hopes to improve their stats this year. They must win or at least tie the Buckeyes in the area of Special Teams (as well as get their running game going) if they are to have a chance. If the Buckeyes get a lead and are able to win the battle of field position, it will be a LONG afternoon for the Midshipmen.
ST Rating: D based on last year's statistics
Head-to-Head: Kickoff returns Stukel/Finnerty/Myers vs Ohio State Kickoff Defense
It's hard to gauge what you have from last year's stats and spring practice, but all signs point to a clear Ohio State advantage here. Navy was among the worst kickoff return teams in the country last year (#107th Nationally)and Ohio State (#4 Nationally) was among the best defending kickoff return teams.
Edge: Ohio State
Head-to-Head: Punt returns Washington/Angelo/Myers vs Ohio State Punt Defense
Again, not much data to go on, but the Buckeyes seem to have a clear advantage here as well. Ohio State's punt return team allowed only 4.13 yds/return last year (#5 Nationally) and the Midshipmen only averaged 10.5 per return
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Special Teams Analysis
Even though it is difficult at best and impossible at worst to evaluate Special Teams before the first game is played, it is safe to assume that Ohio State will have a decided advantage. Barring a tremendous improvement by the Navy kickoff and punt return defenses, the Buckeyes should win the all-important battle of field position.
Overall Special Teams Rating: D
2009 Ohio State Buckeyes Special Teams
Returning Starters: 8
The Buckeye special teams enjoyed great success in 2008 save for one glaring exception. They were 9th in the nation in net punting (37.98 yds/punt), 12th in punt returns (13 yds/return), 5th in punt return defense (4.13 yds/return) and 4th in kickoff return defense (17.5 yds/return). Their one weakness that plagued them all year was kickoff returns where they ranked a abysmal 108th (19.18 yds/return), ironically right behind the Navy, their first opponent. Coach Tressel puts great emphasis on Special Teams, so we can look for improvement in that area.
Special Teams
Place Kicker
#20 Aaron Pettrey (6-2, 199, Sr., Raceland-Worthington HS, Raceland, KY)
#12 Devin Barclay (5-11, 195, Jr., McDonough HS, Annapolis, MD)
Punter
#48 Jon Thoma (6-2, 201, Sr., St. Thomas Aquinas HS, Alliance, OH)
#17 Ben Buchanan (6-0, 200, Fr., Central HS, Westerville, OH)
Long Snapper
#96 Jake McQuaide (6-2, 219, Jr., Elder HS, Cincinnati, OH)
#53 Patrick Howe (6-2, 204, Jr., St. Xavier HS, Cincinnati, OH)
Holder
#48 Jon Thoma (6-2, 201, Sr., St. Thomas Aquinas HS, Alliance, OH)
#12 Dane Sanzenbacher (5-11, 175, Jr., Central Catholic HS, Toldeo, OH)
Punt Returner
#82 Ray Small (5-11, 180, Sr., Glenville HS, Cleveland, OH)
#8 DeVier Posey (6-3, 205, So., LaSalle HS, Cincinnati, OH)
Kick Returner
#3 Brandon Saine (6-1, 217, Jr., Piqua HS, Piqua OH)
#1 Dan Herron (5-10, 193, So., Warren HS, Warren, OH)
#7 Lamaar Thomas (5-11, 186, So., Friendly HS, Ft. Washington, MD)
ST Rating: A for all except Kickoff returns, F for kickoff returns (all based on last year's statistics)
Head-to-Head: Kickoff returns Saine/Herron/Thomas vs Navy Kickoff Defense
Again, it's hard to gauge what you have from last year's stats and spring practice, but this matchup pits the movable object against the resistible force. Both units ranked among the worst statistically in the NCAA last year. It's also the only area that Navy is superior, thought not by much.
Edge: Navy, barely
Head-to-Head: Punt returns Small/Posey vs Navy Punt Defense
This may be where Ohio State uses their athletic superiority. Both Small and Posey return from spectacular years in 2009. If Navy can't get first downs and gain the edge in field position that way, it will be difficult to do it in the punt game.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Special Teams Analysis
The Buckeyes return more starters and enjoyed more success statistically than Navy in 2008. To be honest, it would be a surprise if the game came down to special teams play, but if it does, Ohio State appears (on paper at least) to have the distinct advantage.
Overall Special Teams Rating: A
BB73's prediction: 30-13, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 38-10, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 31-13, Ohio State
Bucky Katt's prediction: 34-10 Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 34-13, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 35-14, Ohio State
JCOSU86's prediction: 38-21, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 38-10, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 31-13, Ohio State
Bucky Katt's prediction: 34-10 Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 34-13, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 35-14, Ohio State
JCOSU86's prediction: 38-21, Ohio State
Low score wins the year long battle of prediction supremacy! (Difference of actual scores versus predicted scores. 10 point penalty for picking the losing team.)
Congrats to last year's winner: jwinslow
Previous Game's Results (Texas 24 - tOSU 21)
(231) jwinslow's prediction: 31-28, Ohio State (24+ 207 last week = 231)
(238) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 30-23, Texas (8 + 230 last week = 238)
(242) Bucklion's prediction: 31-17, Texas (11 + 231 last week = 242)
(258) JCOSU86's prediction: 27-20, Ohio State (20 + 238 last week = 258)
(293) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 2-1, Ohio State (52 + 241 last week = 293)
(269) BB73's prediction: 31-20, Texas (8 + 261 last week = 269)
(313) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: xx-xx, Ohio State (52 + 261 last week = 313)
(322) BuckeyeRyn's prediction: xx-xx, Ohio State (52 + 270 last week = 322)
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed.
Congrats to last year's winner: jwinslow
Previous Game's Results (Texas 24 - tOSU 21)
(231) jwinslow's prediction: 31-28, Ohio State (24+ 207 last week = 231)
(238) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 30-23, Texas (8 + 230 last week = 238)
(242) Bucklion's prediction: 31-17, Texas (11 + 231 last week = 242)
(258) JCOSU86's prediction: 27-20, Ohio State (20 + 238 last week = 258)
(293) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 2-1, Ohio State (52 + 241 last week = 293)
(269) BB73's prediction: 31-20, Texas (8 + 261 last week = 269)
(313) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: xx-xx, Ohio State (52 + 261 last week = 313)
(322) BuckeyeRyn's prediction: xx-xx, Ohio State (52 + 270 last week = 322)
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed.
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