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ScriptOhio
Everybody is somebody else's weirdo.
DEPTH CHART PROJECTION: A POST-NFL DRAFT DEPARTURE LOOK AT OHIO STATE'S 2017 LINEUP
As has already been stated previously and will many more times before the NFL Draft, Ohio State is set to have more players turn pro early than any other program in college football. That is the case for the second straight season.
Six players from Urban Meyer's 2016 team — Malik Hooker, Gareon Conley, Marshon Lattimore, Raekwon McMillan, Curtis Samuel and Noah Brown left eligibility on the table and declared for the draft before Monday's deadline. Combined with the nine guys that left early after the 2015 season and it is clear Ohio State is exporting talent to the next level at an alarming rate.
There is more attrition to the roster too in the form of graduation and transfers. Reserve offensive linemen Evan Lisle and Kyle Trout both moved on and Torrance Gibson is hoping for a fresh start at Cincinnati under new head coach Luke Fickell. Ohio State endured staff attrition too, with Ed Warinner heading to Minnesota and Tim Beck to Texas. Ryan Day is the new quarterbacks coach while Kevin Wilson is in place as Meyer's offensive coordinator and tight ends coach.
Some key pieces to the Ohio State operation elected to stay in school as well from the last time we took a stab at projecting the depth chart. Defensive end Tyquan Lewis is back, as is quarterback J.T. Barrett, tight end Marcus Baugh and left tackle Jamarco Jones.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...aft-departure-look-at-ohio-states-2017-lineup
As has already been stated previously and will many more times before the NFL Draft, Ohio State is set to have more players turn pro early than any other program in college football. That is the case for the second straight season.
Six players from Urban Meyer's 2016 team — Malik Hooker, Gareon Conley, Marshon Lattimore, Raekwon McMillan, Curtis Samuel and Noah Brown left eligibility on the table and declared for the draft before Monday's deadline. Combined with the nine guys that left early after the 2015 season and it is clear Ohio State is exporting talent to the next level at an alarming rate.
There is more attrition to the roster too in the form of graduation and transfers. Reserve offensive linemen Evan Lisle and Kyle Trout both moved on and Torrance Gibson is hoping for a fresh start at Cincinnati under new head coach Luke Fickell. Ohio State endured staff attrition too, with Ed Warinner heading to Minnesota and Tim Beck to Texas. Ryan Day is the new quarterbacks coach while Kevin Wilson is in place as Meyer's offensive coordinator and tight ends coach.
Some key pieces to the Ohio State operation elected to stay in school as well from the last time we took a stab at projecting the depth chart. Defensive end Tyquan Lewis is back, as is quarterback J.T. Barrett, tight end Marcus Baugh and left tackle Jamarco Jones.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...aft-departure-look-at-ohio-states-2017-lineup
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Anyone can start a player thread. The usual "requirement" is that there is valid interest by either or both the player and Ohio State. So fire away if you'd like...
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6'6" 205. That's a big WR!!
Jump balls are near automatic and his film looks pretty good. He's not the fastest guy in the world but a 5'9" corner will have fits with this kid. I hope he comes in and wows the coaches. More power to him
Jump balls are near automatic and his film looks pretty good. He's not the fastest guy in the world but a 5'9" corner will have fits with this kid. I hope he comes in and wows the coaches. More power to him
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OregonBuckeye
Semper Fi Buckeyes
Even if he never plays a snap, he should boost the quality of the scout team and give the DB's a unique match-up
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ScriptOhio
Everybody is somebody else's weirdo.
OHIO STATE LEADERS STRESSING ACCOUNTABILITY, ATTENTION TO DETAIL AS TEAM NAVIGATES WINTER WORKOUTS
If you follow the Ohio State football program on any form of social media, you already know of the credo for the offseason that followed the first shutout of Urban Meyer's coaching career.
We've already told you about the "One Strong" mentality strength sensei Mickey Marotti plans to instill in each player during winter workouts. Before the ship can get righted on the field, guys must buy in off of it and push themselves to the limit.
“Our motto is ‘One Strong’ making sure everybody has personal accountability,” senior center and captain Billy Price said on Sunday. The mantra is echoed across the program's Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat accounts.
Price is in line to be one of 13 seniors on Ohio State's roster in 2017, more than double the total from last season. He plans to move to from right guard to center in place of the departed Pat Elflein and is one of three returning captains still on the roster. The others are quarterback J.T. Barrett and defensive end Tyquan Lewis.
Like Price, Barrett and Lewis will figure largely into Meyer's plan to avoid a disastrous finish to the upcoming season like what happened in Arizona on New Year's Eve. Eventual national champion Clemson drilled the Buckeyes 31-0 in the Fiesta Bowl as part of the College Football Playoff.
“I think the role between Tyquan, J.T. and myself is really kind of established. Attention to detail,” Price said. “Really own that leadership and be the older guy in the room.”
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...n-to-detail-as-team-navigates-winter-workouts
If you follow the Ohio State football program on any form of social media, you already know of the credo for the offseason that followed the first shutout of Urban Meyer's coaching career.
We've already told you about the "One Strong" mentality strength sensei Mickey Marotti plans to instill in each player during winter workouts. Before the ship can get righted on the field, guys must buy in off of it and push themselves to the limit.
“Our motto is ‘One Strong’ making sure everybody has personal accountability,” senior center and captain Billy Price said on Sunday. The mantra is echoed across the program's Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat accounts.
Price is in line to be one of 13 seniors on Ohio State's roster in 2017, more than double the total from last season. He plans to move to from right guard to center in place of the departed Pat Elflein and is one of three returning captains still on the roster. The others are quarterback J.T. Barrett and defensive end Tyquan Lewis.
Like Price, Barrett and Lewis will figure largely into Meyer's plan to avoid a disastrous finish to the upcoming season like what happened in Arizona on New Year's Eve. Eventual national champion Clemson drilled the Buckeyes 31-0 in the Fiesta Bowl as part of the College Football Playoff.
“I think the role between Tyquan, J.T. and myself is really kind of established. Attention to detail,” Price said. “Really own that leadership and be the older guy in the room.”
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...n-to-detail-as-team-navigates-winter-workouts
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ScriptOhio
Everybody is somebody else's weirdo.
OHIO STATE'S 2017 OUTFIT IS SET TO BE DRIVEN BY MORE FIFTH-YEAR SENIORS THAN NORMAL IN URBAN MEYER ERA
Chew on this for a moment: Ohio State could have eight starters this fall who are redshirt seniors on scholarship. That many players — that many contributors — in that specific demographic are relatively rare during the Urban Meyer era in Columbus.
The eight members of the 2013 recruiting class expected to return to school for a fifth season to lead the Buckeyes in their pursuit of a Big Ten and national championship:
Barrett, Baugh, Hill, Lewis, Price and Worley started all 13 games last season. The chances for that to happen again this fall are extremely high, barring an unforeseen injury. Sprinkle would have probably done the same had he stayed healthy, though he will have his hands full to take the starting job back from Dre'Mont Jones. However, Larry Johnson loves to rotate a bevy of performers on his defensive line, something Sprinkle assuredly will be a part of this fall.
Clark only managed six catches for 47 yards in 2016 but played in all 13 games. He has one year of eligibility remaining, the lone scholarship senior wide receiver on the roster.
The high number of fifth-year seniors on scholarship in line to be integral parts to what Ohio State does in 2017 is the same number of the last two years combined, provided you do not count wide receiver Corey Smith twice. Smith returned for a fifth season two years ago, then was awarded a medical redshirt and played this past season after he broke his leg against Indiana on Oct. 3, 2015.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...h-year-seniors-than-normal-in-urban-meyer-era
Chew on this for a moment: Ohio State could have eight starters this fall who are redshirt seniors on scholarship. That many players — that many contributors — in that specific demographic are relatively rare during the Urban Meyer era in Columbus.
The eight members of the 2013 recruiting class expected to return to school for a fifth season to lead the Buckeyes in their pursuit of a Big Ten and national championship:
- QUARTERBACK J.T. BARRETT
- WIDE RECEIVER JAMES CLARK
- TIGHT END MARCUS BAUGH
- CENTER BILLY PRICE
- DEFENSIVE END TYQUAN LEWIS
- DEFENSIVE TACKLE TRACY SPRINKLE
- DEFENSIVE TACKLE MIKE HILL
- LINEBACKER CHRIS WORLEY
Barrett, Baugh, Hill, Lewis, Price and Worley started all 13 games last season. The chances for that to happen again this fall are extremely high, barring an unforeseen injury. Sprinkle would have probably done the same had he stayed healthy, though he will have his hands full to take the starting job back from Dre'Mont Jones. However, Larry Johnson loves to rotate a bevy of performers on his defensive line, something Sprinkle assuredly will be a part of this fall.
Clark only managed six catches for 47 yards in 2016 but played in all 13 games. He has one year of eligibility remaining, the lone scholarship senior wide receiver on the roster.
The high number of fifth-year seniors on scholarship in line to be integral parts to what Ohio State does in 2017 is the same number of the last two years combined, provided you do not count wide receiver Corey Smith twice. Smith returned for a fifth season two years ago, then was awarded a medical redshirt and played this past season after he broke his leg against Indiana on Oct. 3, 2015.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...h-year-seniors-than-normal-in-urban-meyer-era
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ScriptOhio
Everybody is somebody else's weirdo.
FIVE NOT-SO-OBVIOUS PLAYERS THAT MUST STEP UP FOR OHIO STATE TO REACH ITS POTENTIAL IN 2017
When a team faces roster attrition whether it be due to early NFL Draft entrants, graduation or something else entirely, the attention usually shifts to the players directly listed next on the depth chart. This is not a story about them.
Yes, Ohio State lost 75 percent of its secondary to the NFL after an 11-2 season. It also lost the best center in the country, Pat Elflein, as his eligibility expired. Those are some of the obvious holes the Buckeyes must fill either on the recruiting trail or with guys already in the program. Fifth-year senior Billy Price plans to do what Elflein did a year ago and move from guard to center. Ohio State is set to sign six defensive backs in its 2017 class — four are already enrolled.
This post is to give a brief rundown of five players that are set to return to Urban Meyer's program for 2017 that must take steps forward in an effort to provide needed depth at areas the Buckeyes need more from. Like any elite football team, Ohio State needs multiple capable guys to perform at a high level in the event injuries happen or the expected starters are not up to standard. That is something that specifically hurt the Buckeyes on the offensive line in their 31-0 loss to Clemson in the Fiesta Bowl.
Let's get to it.
BRANDEN BOWEN — REDSHIRT SOPHOMORE OFFENSIVE LINEMAN
What the Buckeyes did with Bowen toward the end of the regular season last year was rare. They used him as a third tight end because Meyer said nagging injuries to Marcus Baugh and A.J. Alexander forced their hand. But Bowen also "earned a little time" according to his head coach.
He needs to do more of that this spring. There is only one open spot on the offensive line available as we get closer to spring drills, at least in terms of returning starters. Could Bowen beat someone out for a job? Absolutely, though Jamarco Jones and Billy Price have their spots on lock. Michael Jordan should too but you never know.
That brings us to Isaiah Prince at right tackle. His issues were well documented last season but he did show improvement after a month of bowl practice. Malcolm Pridgeon is healthy and will compete for time up front. Bowen will too. So will Prince. Greg Studrawa will have his hands full deciding which five are the best five come opening night Aug. 31 at Indiana. But that group must improve overall and have better depth if Ohio State wants to do anything big next season. Bowen needs to be a part of that.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...for-ohio-state-to-reach-its-potential-in-2017
When a team faces roster attrition whether it be due to early NFL Draft entrants, graduation or something else entirely, the attention usually shifts to the players directly listed next on the depth chart. This is not a story about them.
Yes, Ohio State lost 75 percent of its secondary to the NFL after an 11-2 season. It also lost the best center in the country, Pat Elflein, as his eligibility expired. Those are some of the obvious holes the Buckeyes must fill either on the recruiting trail or with guys already in the program. Fifth-year senior Billy Price plans to do what Elflein did a year ago and move from guard to center. Ohio State is set to sign six defensive backs in its 2017 class — four are already enrolled.
This post is to give a brief rundown of five players that are set to return to Urban Meyer's program for 2017 that must take steps forward in an effort to provide needed depth at areas the Buckeyes need more from. Like any elite football team, Ohio State needs multiple capable guys to perform at a high level in the event injuries happen or the expected starters are not up to standard. That is something that specifically hurt the Buckeyes on the offensive line in their 31-0 loss to Clemson in the Fiesta Bowl.
Let's get to it.
BRANDEN BOWEN — REDSHIRT SOPHOMORE OFFENSIVE LINEMAN
What the Buckeyes did with Bowen toward the end of the regular season last year was rare. They used him as a third tight end because Meyer said nagging injuries to Marcus Baugh and A.J. Alexander forced their hand. But Bowen also "earned a little time" according to his head coach.
He needs to do more of that this spring. There is only one open spot on the offensive line available as we get closer to spring drills, at least in terms of returning starters. Could Bowen beat someone out for a job? Absolutely, though Jamarco Jones and Billy Price have their spots on lock. Michael Jordan should too but you never know.
That brings us to Isaiah Prince at right tackle. His issues were well documented last season but he did show improvement after a month of bowl practice. Malcolm Pridgeon is healthy and will compete for time up front. Bowen will too. So will Prince. Greg Studrawa will have his hands full deciding which five are the best five come opening night Aug. 31 at Indiana. But that group must improve overall and have better depth if Ohio State wants to do anything big next season. Bowen needs to be a part of that.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...for-ohio-state-to-reach-its-potential-in-2017
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ScriptOhio
Everybody is somebody else's weirdo.
SPRING PREVIEW: J.T. BARRETT STARTS AT QUARTERBACK, BUT JOE BURROW, DWAYNE HASKINS AND TATE MARTELL BATTLE TO BACK HIM UP
When J.T. Barrett ended speculation that he wouldn't play football anywhere else other than Ohio State next season, the conversation about the program's quarterback position immediately switched to the second and third spots on the depth chart.
For the most part.
Barrett had a down season in the eyes of some fans, struggling with accuracy and creating explosive plays through the air. Yet he still managed to win a share of the Silver Football as Big Ten Most Valuable Player with Penn State's Saquon Barkley and also received the conference's Griese-Brees Quarterback of the Year award. A lack of a deep threat not named Curtis Samuel and struggles in front of him on the offensive line did not help things as the Buckeyes tried to establish a downfield passing game. Those shortcomings all violently came to a head in the team's 31-0 loss to eventual national champion Clemson in the Fiesta Bowl as part of the College Football Playoff.
That aside, Barrett will start at quarterback for Ohio State in 2017 barring injury. A fifth-year senior in line to become a three-time captain, that is all but set in stone in the eyes of Urban Meyer and new quarterbacks coach Ryan Day.
Barrett's return means another year of waiting to be a starter for Joe Burrow and Dwyane Haskins. True freshman Tate Martell enrolled at Ohio State in January, a four-star recruit from Las Vegas and the National High School Gatorade Offensive Player of the Year.
With spring practice set to open two weeks from Tuesday, we kick off our preview series with a breakdown of we can expect from each quarterback.
J.T. BARRETT, REDSHIRT SENIOR
To put it simply, Barrett needs to become more comfortable with his game. In all facets.
Indecisions and questionable playcalling by Ed Warinner, Tim Beck and Meyer the last two seasons led to a regression from Barrett throwing wise. With new offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson running the show, Barrett must team up with Day to formulate a plan for success this fall. Ohio State hasn't been to the Big Ten Championship Game since 2014 and with Meyer in Columbus the expectation will always be to earn a trip to Indianapolis before making the College Football Playoff.
In order to do that, he needs his quarterback to play at an extremely high level. Barrett didn't have an awful season (33 total touchdowns) but was nowhere near the production he experienced in 2014 under then-coordinator Tom Herman. Wilson must utilize the quarterback's strengths and most importantly Barrett needs more help than he got last season in the passing game.
During spring practice, Day must correct what at times last season became shoddy footwork from Barrett. Establishing a better rapport with the wide receivers still in the program and working on timing is also essential for the Texan. Barrett will always be a strong leader. Taking steps forward throwing the ball with whatever tweaks to the offense Wilson enacts are high on the to-do list in March and April.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...wayne-haskins-and-tate-martell-battle-to-back
When J.T. Barrett ended speculation that he wouldn't play football anywhere else other than Ohio State next season, the conversation about the program's quarterback position immediately switched to the second and third spots on the depth chart.
For the most part.
Barrett had a down season in the eyes of some fans, struggling with accuracy and creating explosive plays through the air. Yet he still managed to win a share of the Silver Football as Big Ten Most Valuable Player with Penn State's Saquon Barkley and also received the conference's Griese-Brees Quarterback of the Year award. A lack of a deep threat not named Curtis Samuel and struggles in front of him on the offensive line did not help things as the Buckeyes tried to establish a downfield passing game. Those shortcomings all violently came to a head in the team's 31-0 loss to eventual national champion Clemson in the Fiesta Bowl as part of the College Football Playoff.
That aside, Barrett will start at quarterback for Ohio State in 2017 barring injury. A fifth-year senior in line to become a three-time captain, that is all but set in stone in the eyes of Urban Meyer and new quarterbacks coach Ryan Day.
Barrett's return means another year of waiting to be a starter for Joe Burrow and Dwyane Haskins. True freshman Tate Martell enrolled at Ohio State in January, a four-star recruit from Las Vegas and the National High School Gatorade Offensive Player of the Year.
With spring practice set to open two weeks from Tuesday, we kick off our preview series with a breakdown of we can expect from each quarterback.
J.T. BARRETT, REDSHIRT SENIOR
To put it simply, Barrett needs to become more comfortable with his game. In all facets.
Indecisions and questionable playcalling by Ed Warinner, Tim Beck and Meyer the last two seasons led to a regression from Barrett throwing wise. With new offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson running the show, Barrett must team up with Day to formulate a plan for success this fall. Ohio State hasn't been to the Big Ten Championship Game since 2014 and with Meyer in Columbus the expectation will always be to earn a trip to Indianapolis before making the College Football Playoff.
In order to do that, he needs his quarterback to play at an extremely high level. Barrett didn't have an awful season (33 total touchdowns) but was nowhere near the production he experienced in 2014 under then-coordinator Tom Herman. Wilson must utilize the quarterback's strengths and most importantly Barrett needs more help than he got last season in the passing game.
During spring practice, Day must correct what at times last season became shoddy footwork from Barrett. Establishing a better rapport with the wide receivers still in the program and working on timing is also essential for the Texan. Barrett will always be a strong leader. Taking steps forward throwing the ball with whatever tweaks to the offense Wilson enacts are high on the to-do list in March and April.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...wayne-haskins-and-tate-martell-battle-to-back
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ScriptOhio
Everybody is somebody else's weirdo.
Ohio State 2017 Spring Positional Preview: Quarterbacks
Is J.T. Barrett head and shoulders above everyone else in the QB room?
Ohio State will enter spring camp with four scholarship quarterbacks, each of whom was highly recruited and well thought of. New Buckeye quarterbacks coach Ryan Day will be tasked with getting more out of this group than his predecessor did, especially as it concerns the starting quarterback. This spring continues the process of that goal.
The Players
16 J.T. Barrett (6-2 222) Redshirt senior
30 career starts...6,381 career passing yards...69 touchdown passes, 21 interceptions...2,465 yards rushing...31 touchdowns...Two-time All-B1G...Silver Football Award winner 2017...
10 Joe Burrow (6-3 218) Redshirt sophomore
Played in five games last season as a redshirt freshman...Completed 22-of-28 passes for 226 yards with two touchdowns...rushed for 58 yards and a touchdown...
7 Dwayne Haskins (6-3 220) Redshirt freshman
Redshirted in 2016...
Tate Martell (5-10 205) Freshman
Enrolled this past winter and will participate in spring football...
The Depth Chart
16 J.T. Barrett
10 Joe Burrow OR
7 Dwayne Haskins
NA Tate Martell
The Storyline
Quarterbacks coach Ryan Day has come to Columbus to save the Ohio State quarterback position for all mankind. With temperatures raging, Day has been thrust into a position of utmost importance. He must gather his quarterback forces in full and right their wrongs. Can he fix the problems before it is too late? Is veteran quarterback J.T. Barrett the answer, or has he lost his way? After a fast start to his career, Barrett hasn't been the same since an injury against the Evil Empire. Can he be the same player he once was, or will he be struck down by one of his former pupils? Meanwhile, the galactic fan base isn't even sure Barrett deserves one more shot to lead the Alliance. Barrett and Day must band together to prove the doubters wrong and save Ohio State football before it is too late.
Three Questions
1. Can Ryan Day make J.T. Barrett great again?
2. Can Joe Burrow hold off Dwayne Haskins?
3. Just how good are Burrow and Haskins?
Best Case Scenario
You know how when you take your car into the shop and say, "It's been making this noise and I'm not sure what is is..." and so they drive the car a bit and come back and say, "Yeah, it was just the valve fluctuator, it's a seven-dollar fix..." and then they go ahead and fix it and get you out of there in under an hour? That would be the best-case scenario for Ryan Day and J.T. Barrett.
Entire article: http://theozone.net/Ohio-State/Foot...e-2017-Spring-Positional-Preview-Quarterbacks
Is J.T. Barrett head and shoulders above everyone else in the QB room?
Ohio State will enter spring camp with four scholarship quarterbacks, each of whom was highly recruited and well thought of. New Buckeye quarterbacks coach Ryan Day will be tasked with getting more out of this group than his predecessor did, especially as it concerns the starting quarterback. This spring continues the process of that goal.
The Players
16 J.T. Barrett (6-2 222) Redshirt senior
30 career starts...6,381 career passing yards...69 touchdown passes, 21 interceptions...2,465 yards rushing...31 touchdowns...Two-time All-B1G...Silver Football Award winner 2017...
10 Joe Burrow (6-3 218) Redshirt sophomore
Played in five games last season as a redshirt freshman...Completed 22-of-28 passes for 226 yards with two touchdowns...rushed for 58 yards and a touchdown...
7 Dwayne Haskins (6-3 220) Redshirt freshman
Redshirted in 2016...
Tate Martell (5-10 205) Freshman
Enrolled this past winter and will participate in spring football...
The Depth Chart
16 J.T. Barrett
10 Joe Burrow OR
7 Dwayne Haskins
NA Tate Martell
The Storyline
Quarterbacks coach Ryan Day has come to Columbus to save the Ohio State quarterback position for all mankind. With temperatures raging, Day has been thrust into a position of utmost importance. He must gather his quarterback forces in full and right their wrongs. Can he fix the problems before it is too late? Is veteran quarterback J.T. Barrett the answer, or has he lost his way? After a fast start to his career, Barrett hasn't been the same since an injury against the Evil Empire. Can he be the same player he once was, or will he be struck down by one of his former pupils? Meanwhile, the galactic fan base isn't even sure Barrett deserves one more shot to lead the Alliance. Barrett and Day must band together to prove the doubters wrong and save Ohio State football before it is too late.
Three Questions
1. Can Ryan Day make J.T. Barrett great again?
2. Can Joe Burrow hold off Dwayne Haskins?
3. Just how good are Burrow and Haskins?
Best Case Scenario
You know how when you take your car into the shop and say, "It's been making this noise and I'm not sure what is is..." and so they drive the car a bit and come back and say, "Yeah, it was just the valve fluctuator, it's a seven-dollar fix..." and then they go ahead and fix it and get you out of there in under an hour? That would be the best-case scenario for Ryan Day and J.T. Barrett.
Entire article: http://theozone.net/Ohio-State/Foot...e-2017-Spring-Positional-Preview-Quarterbacks
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ScriptOhio
Everybody is somebody else's weirdo.
SPRING PREVIEW: CRUCIAL SPRING ON TAP FOR MIKE WEBER, DEMARIO MCCALL AND OHIO STATE RUNNING BACKS
When a program welcomes back its starter at running back it should feel pretty secure about the immediate future of the position. Ohio State enjoys that luxury this spring — but must also deal with a significant and explosive piece that is no longer around.
In 2016, Mike Weber became just the third freshman in Ohio State history to eclipse the 1,000-yard mark. He did that in just 11 games and ended his first season as a starter with 1,096 yards. The two other players to push their rushing totals into four digits as freshmen were Robert Smith in 1990 and Maurice Clarett in 2002.
Last season was Weber's second on campus after he redshirted in 2015 following a knee injury in fall camp. The presence of Ezekiel Elliott meant the now Dallas Cowboy received essentially all the snaps at running back.
Weber only managed to reach pay dirt nine times last fall, however, the same number of rushing touchdowns for quarterback J.T. Barrett and just one more than do-everything H-back Curtis Samuel.
How the Buckeyes go about filling the massive void left behind by Samuel's decision to turn pro is an immense storyline that we will hash out at a later date. The Brooklyn native's explosiveness and versatility made him arguably the most crucial player in the offense a season ago. That also included the running game.
Samuel ran for 771 yards on just 97 carries — a 7.9 yards per carry average. His athleticism and speed demanded touches, taking some away from Weber on the ground. It is that part of the offense that we break down today in our spring preview.
Let's break down the players back in the fold at running back in what is a crucial spring for Tony Alford's group.
MIKE WEBER, REDSHIRT SOPHOMORE
As stated above, Weber rushed for more than 1,000 yards in 2016. His efforts led the Big Ten to name him its Freshman of the Year and USA Today to dub him a Freshman All-American. And yet, Weber's touches in the offense slowly whittled away late in the season. A fumble and drop in the Fiesta Bowl didn't help things but Weber only carried it 16 times in Ohio State's final two games. He ran for 50 yards in those contests.
“I don’t know what’s causing it,” Weber said after the 31-0 loss to Clemson. “I actually thought I was doing pretty good throughout the season getting yards but I’m not the coach here. It’s not up to me.”
Urban Meyer blew up his play calling structure after that debacle, hiring Kevin Wilson and Ryan Day in place of Ed Warinner and Tim Beck. Whether or not that means more carries for Weber remains to be seen but it is no secret the Buckeyes went away from their tailback on multiple occasions in 2016. Getting Samuel his touches and trying to use the advantage of having a good running quarterback in J.T. Barrett are two reasons why.
Fair or not, Weber will always be compared to Elliott because he is the guy that came after the man that led the NFL in rushing this season. But with Samuel gone and the Ohio State offense desperately needing playmakers, Weber must be the steady hand next to Barrett in the backfield.
He needs to protect the ball better. He needs to pass block better. He needs to work on ripping off longer runs when he makes it to the second level of defenses — thus, turn an 8-yard gain into a 40-yard gain. That is what made Elliott so valuable.
It is a tough ask for anyone. But that is the standard for running backs at Ohio State.
“I feel like I need to prepare myself and hopefully take over the load next year. Hope to put the team on my back because I wasn’t that this year,” Weber said after the Fiesta Bowl. “I was more of a, when coach called my number, just try and make a play. I want to be a guy that’s getting 25, 30 carries a game, putting the team on his back. I’m going to work real hard to get there.”
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...e-weber-demario-mccall-and-ohio-state-running
When a program welcomes back its starter at running back it should feel pretty secure about the immediate future of the position. Ohio State enjoys that luxury this spring — but must also deal with a significant and explosive piece that is no longer around.
In 2016, Mike Weber became just the third freshman in Ohio State history to eclipse the 1,000-yard mark. He did that in just 11 games and ended his first season as a starter with 1,096 yards. The two other players to push their rushing totals into four digits as freshmen were Robert Smith in 1990 and Maurice Clarett in 2002.
Last season was Weber's second on campus after he redshirted in 2015 following a knee injury in fall camp. The presence of Ezekiel Elliott meant the now Dallas Cowboy received essentially all the snaps at running back.
Weber only managed to reach pay dirt nine times last fall, however, the same number of rushing touchdowns for quarterback J.T. Barrett and just one more than do-everything H-back Curtis Samuel.
How the Buckeyes go about filling the massive void left behind by Samuel's decision to turn pro is an immense storyline that we will hash out at a later date. The Brooklyn native's explosiveness and versatility made him arguably the most crucial player in the offense a season ago. That also included the running game.
Samuel ran for 771 yards on just 97 carries — a 7.9 yards per carry average. His athleticism and speed demanded touches, taking some away from Weber on the ground. It is that part of the offense that we break down today in our spring preview.
Let's break down the players back in the fold at running back in what is a crucial spring for Tony Alford's group.
MIKE WEBER, REDSHIRT SOPHOMORE
As stated above, Weber rushed for more than 1,000 yards in 2016. His efforts led the Big Ten to name him its Freshman of the Year and USA Today to dub him a Freshman All-American. And yet, Weber's touches in the offense slowly whittled away late in the season. A fumble and drop in the Fiesta Bowl didn't help things but Weber only carried it 16 times in Ohio State's final two games. He ran for 50 yards in those contests.
“I don’t know what’s causing it,” Weber said after the 31-0 loss to Clemson. “I actually thought I was doing pretty good throughout the season getting yards but I’m not the coach here. It’s not up to me.”
Urban Meyer blew up his play calling structure after that debacle, hiring Kevin Wilson and Ryan Day in place of Ed Warinner and Tim Beck. Whether or not that means more carries for Weber remains to be seen but it is no secret the Buckeyes went away from their tailback on multiple occasions in 2016. Getting Samuel his touches and trying to use the advantage of having a good running quarterback in J.T. Barrett are two reasons why.
Fair or not, Weber will always be compared to Elliott because he is the guy that came after the man that led the NFL in rushing this season. But with Samuel gone and the Ohio State offense desperately needing playmakers, Weber must be the steady hand next to Barrett in the backfield.
He needs to protect the ball better. He needs to pass block better. He needs to work on ripping off longer runs when he makes it to the second level of defenses — thus, turn an 8-yard gain into a 40-yard gain. That is what made Elliott so valuable.
It is a tough ask for anyone. But that is the standard for running backs at Ohio State.
“I feel like I need to prepare myself and hopefully take over the load next year. Hope to put the team on my back because I wasn’t that this year,” Weber said after the Fiesta Bowl. “I was more of a, when coach called my number, just try and make a play. I want to be a guy that’s getting 25, 30 carries a game, putting the team on his back. I’m going to work real hard to get there.”
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...e-weber-demario-mccall-and-ohio-state-running
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ScriptOhio
Everybody is somebody else's weirdo.
Ohio State 2017 Spring Positional Preview: Running Backs
The Buckeyes return one of the top starters in the Big Ten in Mike Weber
He was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Year last season, and found a place on the Second-Team All-B1G unit. Now he returns with a job in hand, experience under his belt, and pressure on his shoulders.
Fortunately, he'll have a little more help this year than he did last year, though he's the kind of guy who would rather do everything on his own. While nearly everybody behind Weber is unproven, there is little question about the talent waiting to take flight. Even though much of the spring is about the passing game, there will still be plenty of room for the running backs to grow.
The Players
25 Mike Weber (5-10 212) Redshirt sophomore
Started 11 of 13 games for OSU last season...led Buckeyes with 1,096 yards rushing...averaged 6.0 yards per carry...scored 9 touchdowns...had four 100-yard rushing games...
30 Demario McCall (5-9 182) Sophomore
Played in six games last season...rushed for 270 yards on 49 carries (5.5 avg)...caught four passes for 84 yards...scored four touchdowns total...will he even be at running back in the spring, or will he be with the H-backs?...
26 Antonio Williams (5-11 210) Sophomore
Played in one game...rushed for 28 yards on six carries...may be eligible for a redshirt for last season...
NA J.K. Dobbins (5-10 208) Freshman
Enrolled this past winter and will participate in spring football...
The Depth Chart
25 Mike Weber
30 Demario McCall OR
26 Antonio Williams OR
NA J.K. Dobbins
The Storyline
In a world where legacy is larger than life, can returning starter Mike Weber add to that legacy, or will the youthful usurpers Antonio Williams, J.K. Dobbins, and Demario McCall carry his opportunities away? This was not a position of overwhelming production last season, but it should be this season with an improved passing game, making life for the ball carriers easier. Or at least that's the plan.
Three Questions
1. Is Mike Weber ready to make the jump from 1,000-yard rusher to dominant tailback?
2. Where will Demario McCall line up in the spring?
3. Can Antonio Williams hold off J.K. Dobbins?
Best Case Scenario
Mike Weber shows that he is now an elite back and won't need too many reps this spring, which leaves room for Antonio Williams and J.K. Dobbins, and possibly Demario McCall, to show what they can do. Everyone will push everyone else, making the group as a whole better than they were when the spring began.
Worst Case Scenario
Mike Weber needs to become more of a home run hitter, and if that doesn't happen, the running game will struggle. So a worst-case scenario would be a lack of big plays in scrimmages this spring, as well as a lack of readiness from the players behind him. In other words, nobody pushing anybody, which will leave improvements difficult to find.
One Good Spring Prediction
Demario McCall moves to H-back and Antonio Williams and J.K. Dobbins prove more than capable as Mike Weber's backup.
One Bad Prediction
Demario McCall stays at tailback and J.K. Dobbins becomes the first freshman running back to be immediately moved to H-back.
Entire article: http://theozone.net/Ohio-State/Foot...-2017-Spring-Positional-Preview-Running-Backs
The Buckeyes return one of the top starters in the Big Ten in Mike Weber
He was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Year last season, and found a place on the Second-Team All-B1G unit. Now he returns with a job in hand, experience under his belt, and pressure on his shoulders.
Fortunately, he'll have a little more help this year than he did last year, though he's the kind of guy who would rather do everything on his own. While nearly everybody behind Weber is unproven, there is little question about the talent waiting to take flight. Even though much of the spring is about the passing game, there will still be plenty of room for the running backs to grow.
The Players
25 Mike Weber (5-10 212) Redshirt sophomore
Started 11 of 13 games for OSU last season...led Buckeyes with 1,096 yards rushing...averaged 6.0 yards per carry...scored 9 touchdowns...had four 100-yard rushing games...
30 Demario McCall (5-9 182) Sophomore
Played in six games last season...rushed for 270 yards on 49 carries (5.5 avg)...caught four passes for 84 yards...scored four touchdowns total...will he even be at running back in the spring, or will he be with the H-backs?...
26 Antonio Williams (5-11 210) Sophomore
Played in one game...rushed for 28 yards on six carries...may be eligible for a redshirt for last season...
NA J.K. Dobbins (5-10 208) Freshman
Enrolled this past winter and will participate in spring football...
The Depth Chart
25 Mike Weber
30 Demario McCall OR
26 Antonio Williams OR
NA J.K. Dobbins
The Storyline
In a world where legacy is larger than life, can returning starter Mike Weber add to that legacy, or will the youthful usurpers Antonio Williams, J.K. Dobbins, and Demario McCall carry his opportunities away? This was not a position of overwhelming production last season, but it should be this season with an improved passing game, making life for the ball carriers easier. Or at least that's the plan.
Three Questions
1. Is Mike Weber ready to make the jump from 1,000-yard rusher to dominant tailback?
2. Where will Demario McCall line up in the spring?
3. Can Antonio Williams hold off J.K. Dobbins?
Best Case Scenario
Mike Weber shows that he is now an elite back and won't need too many reps this spring, which leaves room for Antonio Williams and J.K. Dobbins, and possibly Demario McCall, to show what they can do. Everyone will push everyone else, making the group as a whole better than they were when the spring began.
Worst Case Scenario
Mike Weber needs to become more of a home run hitter, and if that doesn't happen, the running game will struggle. So a worst-case scenario would be a lack of big plays in scrimmages this spring, as well as a lack of readiness from the players behind him. In other words, nobody pushing anybody, which will leave improvements difficult to find.
One Good Spring Prediction
Demario McCall moves to H-back and Antonio Williams and J.K. Dobbins prove more than capable as Mike Weber's backup.
One Bad Prediction
Demario McCall stays at tailback and J.K. Dobbins becomes the first freshman running back to be immediately moved to H-back.
Entire article: http://theozone.net/Ohio-State/Foot...-2017-Spring-Positional-Preview-Running-Backs
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