Small awakening
Speedy receiver-return man displayed his playmaking ability in lopsided victory
Tuesday, September 25, 2007 3:46 AM
By Tim May
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
NEAL C. LAURON | DISPATCH
Ray Small enjoyed a coming-out party for Ohio State with his 48-yard catch-and-run for a touchdown against Northwestern.
It might not have seemed like it, but that was a major Small feat the other day, Ray Small's catch-and-run for a 48-yard touchdown.
It was merely six more points in the third quarter of Ohio State's 58-7 drubbing of Northwestern. But Small made it look easy, snookering a defender with a light bob inside before breaking open down the left sideline to haul in the fourth TD pass of the day by quarterback Todd Boeckman.
In the on-again football life of the 5-foot-9, 185-pound Small, the play was huge in three ways:
It highlighted the Ted Ginn Jr.-like quickness and speed he had yet to flash in a college game.
It showed he could read the defense, meaning his development as a receiver is progressing.
It showed that Boeckman is looking for him.
And for good reason.
"He is a great player who brings another dimension to our offense," Boeckman said. "He's fast. He is coming along really well. Injuries set him back, but he's improving every week."