[Dryden]

Kiper:

http://insider.espn.go.com/ncf/insid...mel&id=2669141

Ohio State-Michigan lived up to the hype, as did many of the marquee players on both teams. Most notable was the performance of Buckeyes quarterback Troy Smith, who continues to be at his best in the biggest games.

Smith's numbers are off the charts in his last two games against Michigan, the Fiesta Bowl against Notre Dame, and at Texas in September. In those four games combined, Smith has completed 69.7 percent of his passes for 1,227 yards, nine touchdowns and one interception. On Saturday, I thought Smith's biggest drive was immediately after Michigan took a 7-0 lead. He kept plays alive with his feet and completed nine of 11 passes to six different receivers to tie the score at 7-7.

Going forward as it pertains to next April's NFL draft, Smith's height could become a question as to whether he goes in the first or second round. He has not officially been measured by the NFL -- that will happen at the NFL combine or during an all-star game if he plays in one. Listed at 6-foot-1, is Smith more in the mold of Drew Brees or Shaun King? (Both were second-round picks and are about the same height as Smith.) Right now, I would project Smith to go between the 25th and 45th pick.

Three of Smith's nine completions on the opening drive went to senior wide receiver Roy Hall, including a 1-yard TD pass. Hall has been playing in the shadows of Ted Ginn Jr. and Anthony Gonzalez at Ohio State, but his size (6-2?, 238) could make him a late-round prospect if he runs well in pre-draft workouts.

On defense for the Buckeyes, I was impressed with defensive end Vernon Gholston (four tackles), who showed good pass-rushing moves and closing speed. He even gave Michigan offensive tackle Jake Long trouble at times.