[sandgk]

Originally Posted by LordJeffBuck

Obviously, over the past few days, many posters have expressed opinions about what is "wrong" with the 2005 Buckeyes, but very few have had any constructive solutions on how to "fix" the problem(s). Well, here's your chance. I've come up with several areas which might be sources of concern:

1. Coaching

a. Instruction (technique, for example)
b. Game planning & schemes
c. Adjustments during the game
d. Overall philosophy

2. Talent

a. Physical ability
b. Execution
c. Chemistry
d. Intangibles (mental toughness, for example)

If you propose a solution, then please be specific. If you think that the Bucks need an offensive coordinator, then who's the guy to hire. If the schemes are not working to your satisfaction, then what would you do instead. If the Bucks don't have enough talent, then how can the staff recruit better, or be better teachers of their current players. This is not another thread to whine about a tough loss, but a chance for you to express some well-reasoned opinions about a team which is struggling a bit right now.

Well I am somewhat surprised no-one has piped up with constructive suggestions. I'll give you my two cents worth - which opinion is likely properly valued

1. Coaching

a. Instruction (technique, for example)
On instruction one area I believe can be improved is to bring in a high quality running back coach to replace Dick Tressel. However, my reasoning for this is not just because of a desire to see a state-of-the-art running attack, it is to eliminate having a family member be part of the Head Coaches staff. Suggestions - bring in a RB coach of the level of Eddie Gran (presently RB coach Auburn). Next on the list might be an ex-Buckeye who knows the ins and outs of how to play RB, Byars or Eddie George either would be good additions.
b. Game planning & schemes
OK - I guess this is the area in which everyone's favorite fix (a new OC) might go.
This one area for improvement in which I am heavily conflicted. More so because we know from all the JT has said in the past that the real reins of power would still be in his hands - thus which incoming OC would willingly put their career in idle mode while essentially playing the role of OC? In addition, you have the issue of timing of such a hire. A fix this big will not happen until the bowl games are done. That said I propose 2 candidates. First on my list would be Gregg Brandon of Bowling Green - want more wide open offense, he can scheme it for you. Second on my list would be an out-of-the-box pick, Mike Locksley, presently with Illinois. He would bring an added benefit of strong recruiting connections in the South (particularly Florida) and East Coast states. Locksley could be considered a safe pick for RB coach, though he might look at that as downgrade in position title, versus an upgrade in program and overall national standing.
c. Adjustments during the game
The ability to adjust I believe is fine on the Defensive side of the ball - it is on the Offensive side that we need extra work. Bring in one or more of the OC or RB candidates above and I think Offensive adjustments improve.
d. Overall philosophy
We must recognize that JT's current philosophy is safety first, scores and glitz second. Even if a new OC comes in I don't see that changing anytime soon in a big way. However, JT might find a way to loosen the reins and get more out of this offense. In big bowl games he has done just that. He could help our cause by letting the Offense live more up to its potential.

2. Talent

a. Physical ability
We have plenty of talent, with great physical ability. I think we should be forward looking here and address the issue of "those that got away." I.e., recruiting. Our recruiting is much better than adequate, though it gives the appearance of being too selective on an academic basis. Still that is something up with which we shall have to learn to put. Ohio State is not going to risk returning itself to the days of 0.00 GPA's for its football players (Germany anyone?). APR demands careful attention to a player's academic prospects. This year and next it will seem that Ohio State is putting up too much of a barrier to entry. Look back in say 5 years and I think we will all be very glad that the coaching staff and internal academic screening insists on recruiting good scholar athletes. Why, because it will preserve future scholarships - AND smart players are exactly what you want. That is it is not just about pure physical ability - of which, to re-state, we have an abundance.
I might also mention again that a Locksley hire as OC would give us an improved in-road to the Southern States -- and its abundance of prep talent.
b. Execution
Execution is something that can always be improved or honed.
c. Chemistry
I think the team chemistry is fine with Smith as signal caller. For the future Boeckmann seems to work very well with the O when given reps.
d. Intangibles (mental toughness, for example)
The only intangible about mental toughness with a single player that comes to my mind is whether Ginn is presently fully into the games. His apparent desertion of a North-South running style, turn on the jets and juke the safeties at speed, is perplexing.
A team mental toughness issue could be argued to exist for
Night games, on the road, after a Bye week.. Does it help that Tressel explicitly comes out and say that he really does not like night games at all?