Urban Meyer Provides Updates on the Depth Chart
After a week of two-a-days, Urban Meyer spoke to the media on Saturday and updated the position battles for the Scarlet and Gray.
To the surprise of no one, “quarterback’s not set” Meyer said.
J.T. Barrett and Cardale Jones continue the battle for the starting spot in what might be the most talked about quarterback competition in college football history.
The players around the quarterback, the running back and the offensive line, are also set. Ezekiel Elliott, who rushed for 1,878 yards and 18 touchdowns a year ago, is the starting running back. Along the offensive line are returners Taylor Decker at left tackle, Billy Price at left guard, Jacoby Boren at center, Pat Elflein at right guard, and newcomer Chase Farris at right tackle.
“Receiver is going to be a group of five guys probably,” Meyer said.
Despite having to replace starters Devin Smith and Evan Spencer, the Buckeyes are talented and deep at wide receiver. Michael Thomas, who started a year ago, will be the go-to player in the passing game, but others must establish themselves.
Senior Corey Smith, who is suspended for the opener, is expected to lineup opposite Thomas. Redshirt freshman Johnnie Dixon and sophomore Noah Brown have also impressed in camp and will be involved in the passing game.
At H-back, Jalin Marshall and Dontre Wilson were expected to be the top playmakers but Braxton Miller’s position switch, and Marshall and Wilson’s suspension for the first game, will change things.
After four years, 52 receptions, 792 yards, and seven touchdowns, OSU will need to replace tight end Jeff Heuerman. Redshirt senior Nick Vannett is the next man up and is ready to go according to Meyer.
“Tight end’s set,” Meyer said. “Nick Vannett also goes in the most improved category. He’s had a great camp.”
Behind Vannett is redshirt sophomore Marcus Baugh, a four-star prospect out of California. The Buckeyes are expecting Baugh to help out in multiple tight end formations.
After winning the national title a year ago, Ohio State is the favorite to win again. A major factor in that is the number of returning starters and the talent that replaces those that left.
Because of this, Meyer is confident in the team he’s built.
“We’re ready to rock and roll.”
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