3yardsandacloud
Administrator Emeritus
2005 San Diego State Aztecs Game Preview
written by: BB73, Bucklion, daddyphatsacs, Hubbard,
Jaxbuck, LordJeffBuck, 3yardsandacloud
written by: BB73, Bucklion, daddyphatsacs, Hubbard,
Jaxbuck, LordJeffBuck, 3yardsandacloud
Well, now that the relatively minor contest with Texas is over, we can look forward to the biggest non-conference game that will be held in the Horseshoe the rest of this year.
The Aztecs are relieved that their team's nickname was exempt from the NCAA's recent declaration that teams with "offensive" Indian nicknames would be unable to have their mascots participate in NCAA tournaments. They were apparently excluded from this proclamation because the Aztecs never settled in territory that is currently within the United States.
Thus the spirit of the great Aztec leader (and school mascot) Montezuma will only be able to exact his well-known "revenge" on tourists that head south of the border; and BP'ers who failed to heed the warning labels on BB73's salsa at the BP tailgate last Saturday.
For those who are somewhat unfamiliar with non-BCS conference teams from the Far West, please realize that this is San Diego State, the team that battled tOSU in a 16-13 struggle in 2003 (the Will Allen 100-yard pick-6 game). This is NOT the San Jose St. team from the WAC that was the recipient of the largest margin of defeat (50-7) of any tOSU opponent under Jim Tressel. The San Diego St. Aztecs are from the Mountain West Conference, which includes Utah and TCU, who stunned Oklahoma in their opener.
San Diego State started playing football in 1921, and became a 'Major College' program in 1969, which was also the year of their only bowl win since playing with the big boys. The only year they ended a season ranked in the AP poll was a #16 position at the end of the 1977 campaign.
The Aztecs all-time record against Big 10 teams is 2-10, with home victories over Minnesota in 1993 and Wisconsin in 1979. They are 0-7 in games played in Big-10 stadiums, but that mark includes a 24-21 setback in Ann Arbor last year.
Since this contest falls between the huge matchup with Texas and the conference opener (and big revenge game) against Iowa; it has the makings of a classic 'trap' game, where a team overlooks the less threatening squad in between the marquee opponents. Hopefully a glance at the box score from the 2003 game in Columbus, where San Diego State had a 20-10 edge in first downs, and a 216 to 196 edge in total yards, will convince the Buckeyes to stay focused on the Aztecs this week.
Date and Time
Game time: Saturday, September 17th, 2005
3:30 PM EDT Kick-off at Ohio Stadium (Columbus, OH)
ABC will cover the game.
San Diego State Aztecs Offensive Preview
San Diego State Aztecs Defensive Preview
San Diego State Aztecs Special Teams Preview
Predictions
3:30 PM EDT Kick-off at Ohio Stadium (Columbus, OH)
ABC will cover the game.
San Diego State Aztecs Offensive Preview
Returning starters: 6
Time for the seemingly annual clash with the San Diego State Aztecs, and they bring an improved and fairly effective offense into Ohio Stadium. In 2004, the Aztecs ranked near the bottom of I-A in most major offensive categories. The Aztecs finished with only 130.2 yards rushing per game (80th overall), and scored a paltry 21.3 points/game (91st in the nation). Their one bright spot was their passing game out of their one-back alignment, where they averaged 244.6 yards a contest, good for 33rd in the nation. Still, the offense overall ranked only 56th, and Tom Craft, who remains his own offensive coordinator, was starting to feel the heat in Southern California. But that was last year. So far this season, Craft's offense has definitely not been the reason for their 0-2 start. The team is 6th in I-A at 422 yards/game in the early going, against some pretty decent competition (UCLA and Air Force). The running game has shown some improvement in the early going, getting 160 yards/contest, good for 50th overall, and the passing game has racked up 249.5 yards/game in the opening 2 games, which is right on par with last year's production. Taking advantage of the yards remains a concern, however, as the offense has only put 25 points per game up ... good for only 66th. Thus, don't be surprised to see the Aztecs gain some yards on Saturday, but don't be overly alarmed if trends continue, because the Buckeyes can look to stymie the offense in its own territory ... and force some turnovers. The Aztecs have a young offense ... so expect them to struggle some with a veteran Buckeye defense.
Quarterbacks
QB #7 Kevin O’Connell (6-6, 220, SO)
O'Connell started the final 5 games of 2004, and continues to be the starter this season. He put up some impressive numbers in leading the team to a 2-3 record over their final 5, including back-to-back wins to close a disappointing season. Through 2 games this season, he hasn't looked half bad. He has completed over 66% of his passes for 431 yards and 2 TDs. He has thrown 3 interceptions, something the Buckeyes will look to force from him this weekend. He is also the team's second leading rusher, having gained 102 yards on 26 carries and scoring once against Air Force. His production in both games was very consistent (about 200 yards passing and a TD in each game, 50 yards rushing) so he appears to be a versatile threat that can throw and also take advantage of some space when available. He'll need all of that to deal with a Buckeye LB corps that gave Vince Young all he wanted last week.
Backup Darren Mougey (6-5, 220, FR) has seen action in both games also. He threw a few (5 and 9 passes in the two games) and ran a few (3 each) so expect to see him get a series or 2 against the Buckeyes this weekend also.
Fans who saw the previous games will probably remember senior Matt Dlugolecki, who is finishing his career at San Diego State third on the depth chart. He has not played this season.
QB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Kevin O’Connell versus Troy Smith
It appears Smith will get the lion's share of the work, and Zwick may get a series or two, so in that sense the game plan for each seems to be comparable. Smith did little to remind people of last year's Michigan game Saturday, but given the weapons he has available and a full week of practice with the first team, the edge definitely goes to Smith, though O'Connell will probably have his moments.
Edge: Smith
Running Backs
RB #22 Lynell Hamilton (6-1, 220, SO)
Hamilton is the man in the ground game, and returns after a horrific injury kept him out last year. He was the 2003 MW freshman of the year, so he has plenty of ability at his disposal. He has gained 147 yards and scored 3 TDs in 2 games. His production seems consistent, at least across the 2 games this year: 15-20 carries, 60-80 yards, and a TD or 2. So, though he doesn't appear to be a guy that will put up huge numbers on you, the front seven certainly can't forget about him as footballs are flying around most of the game. He's also caught 7 balls for 54 yards, good for 3rd on the team, but a bit surprising in that he hasn't been involved more in the passing game. Look for him to be an outlet for the QB under pressure on Saturday.
The backup is Brandon Bornes (6-1, 215, SO). He's had 6 carries and 4 catches, totaling 40 yards in each category, so he will see the field some Saturday. Third on the depth chart is veteran Michael Franklin. He's carried twice and caught a pass, so he hasn't been a huge factor so far, though he gained 463 yards and scored twice last year, so he may see some action.
RB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Hamilton versus Pittman
Hamilton is a good back, and does what the Aztecs want him to do effectively, and has scored 3 times. Pittman got a load of work in the Texas game, and seemed to wear down a bit towards the end. Still, he's a solid back, and if someone else steps up to shoulder part of the load, he can be effective between the tackles. He also carried for 100 against Miami, so the potential for a breakthrough are there. For now, call it even.
Edge: Even
Wide Receivers
FL #1 Chazeray Schilens (6-4, 205, SO)
SL #80 Robert Ortiz (6-1, 195, SR)
SE #19 Jeff Webb (6-2, 205, SR)
This is one of the few veteran units the Aztecs have. Webb is leading returning receiver, having caught 71 balls for 863 yards and 6 TDs last season. This year, he also leads the team with 13 catches for 162 yards and a TD, and he is arguably the team's best playmaker. He caught 8 passes last week against Air Force. Ortiz is second on the squad, having caught 8 passes for 78 yards in 2 games and scoring last week. Schilens has caught 5 passes so far. In addition to these decent numbers, the Aztecs attack by shuttling a lot of people in and out of the game at the receiver spots. As such, backups DeMarco Sampson, Brett Swain, and Marcus Edwards have all caught at least 2 passes this season, and will more than likely be out there against the Buckeyes on Saturday.
WR Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Schilens/Ortiz/Webb versus Holmes/Ginn/Gonzalez
Again, the Aztecs have a solid unit with some experience and some playmaking ability, but the Buckeye unit is very deep and talented, and capable of playing significantly better than was demonstrated on Saturday. Given the speed and explosiveness edges that the Buckeyes have ad the depth of the unit, this one is easy to call. Look for a strong bounce-back from the group, but the Aztecs will play well.
Edge: Holmes/Ginn/Gonzalez
Tight Ends
TE #89 Lance Louis (6-3, 260, SO)
Louis is a young bulldozer that can help out blocking in the run and pass protection aspects of the offense. He has caught just 2 passes for 29 yards thus far, so don't expect him to have a huge impact on the yardage. Backup Eric Miclot is probably more of a receiver, and has also caught 2 passes, so he will probably get in there some too.
TE Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Louis versus Hamby
Suffice it to say Hamby didn't have his best game against Texas. Louis and Hamby will both handle their blocking assignments, and I have a sneaking suspicion that neither will be a focal point of the downfield passing attack this week.
Edge: Even
Offensive Line
LT #78 Chris Pino (6-5, 315, SR)
LG #63 Taylor Schmidt (6-4, 315, SR)
C #72 Jasper Harvey (6-3, 300, SR)
RG #62 Brandyn Dombrowski (6-5, 325, SO)
RT #71 Eric Rouser (6-8, 250, FR)
This is another unit where the Aztecs have a wealth of experience. The left side of this line is especially strong, with 2 veteran battering rams in Pino and Schmidt. Center Jasper Harvey returns after being suspended last year: he has 24 career starts under his belt. The right side of the line is more of a question mark. Both players are young, and Rouser is tall but very undersized for a I-A tackle. He is very raw, so it will be interesting to see how he is able to use his height and agility to block bigger defensive players.
This unit is very deep, with backups Will Robinson (LT/RT) and Patrick Justman (RG) having starting experience. Robert Nelson and Eder Arosemena could also see the field.
OL Rating: B
Head-to-Head: San Diego State versus Ohio State
The Aztecs are a pretty good crew overall. They are very effective pass blockers, and the running game is better than one might expect for this type of offense. The Aztecs have the size, particularly in the middle, to compete with the Buckeye line. The question will be how the line holds up against the Buckeye front seven, who combine bulk with surprising quickness from the linebackers.
Edge: Even
Overall Offensive Analysis
This is a decent offense across the board. There is nothing spectacular about the offense, but they have a lot of solid players who can get the job done with a solid game plan. It will be important for the Buckeyes not to overlook the running game, as the Aztecs can be effective opening up the run with the pass. They key to having any success will be the effectiveness of the receivers to run crisp routes, and the ability of the QB to hit them with a quick release, because he probably won’t have much time if the linebackers are in on him. The Aztecs should make a good showing Saturday, but there is nothing to strike fear into the hearts of opposing defensive coaches, so the key will be execution of the defensive game plan.
Overall Offensive Rating: B
Time for the seemingly annual clash with the San Diego State Aztecs, and they bring an improved and fairly effective offense into Ohio Stadium. In 2004, the Aztecs ranked near the bottom of I-A in most major offensive categories. The Aztecs finished with only 130.2 yards rushing per game (80th overall), and scored a paltry 21.3 points/game (91st in the nation). Their one bright spot was their passing game out of their one-back alignment, where they averaged 244.6 yards a contest, good for 33rd in the nation. Still, the offense overall ranked only 56th, and Tom Craft, who remains his own offensive coordinator, was starting to feel the heat in Southern California. But that was last year. So far this season, Craft's offense has definitely not been the reason for their 0-2 start. The team is 6th in I-A at 422 yards/game in the early going, against some pretty decent competition (UCLA and Air Force). The running game has shown some improvement in the early going, getting 160 yards/contest, good for 50th overall, and the passing game has racked up 249.5 yards/game in the opening 2 games, which is right on par with last year's production. Taking advantage of the yards remains a concern, however, as the offense has only put 25 points per game up ... good for only 66th. Thus, don't be surprised to see the Aztecs gain some yards on Saturday, but don't be overly alarmed if trends continue, because the Buckeyes can look to stymie the offense in its own territory ... and force some turnovers. The Aztecs have a young offense ... so expect them to struggle some with a veteran Buckeye defense.
Quarterbacks
QB #7 Kevin O’Connell (6-6, 220, SO)
O'Connell started the final 5 games of 2004, and continues to be the starter this season. He put up some impressive numbers in leading the team to a 2-3 record over their final 5, including back-to-back wins to close a disappointing season. Through 2 games this season, he hasn't looked half bad. He has completed over 66% of his passes for 431 yards and 2 TDs. He has thrown 3 interceptions, something the Buckeyes will look to force from him this weekend. He is also the team's second leading rusher, having gained 102 yards on 26 carries and scoring once against Air Force. His production in both games was very consistent (about 200 yards passing and a TD in each game, 50 yards rushing) so he appears to be a versatile threat that can throw and also take advantage of some space when available. He'll need all of that to deal with a Buckeye LB corps that gave Vince Young all he wanted last week.
Backup Darren Mougey (6-5, 220, FR) has seen action in both games also. He threw a few (5 and 9 passes in the two games) and ran a few (3 each) so expect to see him get a series or 2 against the Buckeyes this weekend also.
Fans who saw the previous games will probably remember senior Matt Dlugolecki, who is finishing his career at San Diego State third on the depth chart. He has not played this season.
QB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Kevin O’Connell versus Troy Smith
It appears Smith will get the lion's share of the work, and Zwick may get a series or two, so in that sense the game plan for each seems to be comparable. Smith did little to remind people of last year's Michigan game Saturday, but given the weapons he has available and a full week of practice with the first team, the edge definitely goes to Smith, though O'Connell will probably have his moments.
Edge: Smith
Running Backs
RB #22 Lynell Hamilton (6-1, 220, SO)
Hamilton is the man in the ground game, and returns after a horrific injury kept him out last year. He was the 2003 MW freshman of the year, so he has plenty of ability at his disposal. He has gained 147 yards and scored 3 TDs in 2 games. His production seems consistent, at least across the 2 games this year: 15-20 carries, 60-80 yards, and a TD or 2. So, though he doesn't appear to be a guy that will put up huge numbers on you, the front seven certainly can't forget about him as footballs are flying around most of the game. He's also caught 7 balls for 54 yards, good for 3rd on the team, but a bit surprising in that he hasn't been involved more in the passing game. Look for him to be an outlet for the QB under pressure on Saturday.
The backup is Brandon Bornes (6-1, 215, SO). He's had 6 carries and 4 catches, totaling 40 yards in each category, so he will see the field some Saturday. Third on the depth chart is veteran Michael Franklin. He's carried twice and caught a pass, so he hasn't been a huge factor so far, though he gained 463 yards and scored twice last year, so he may see some action.
RB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Hamilton versus Pittman
Hamilton is a good back, and does what the Aztecs want him to do effectively, and has scored 3 times. Pittman got a load of work in the Texas game, and seemed to wear down a bit towards the end. Still, he's a solid back, and if someone else steps up to shoulder part of the load, he can be effective between the tackles. He also carried for 100 against Miami, so the potential for a breakthrough are there. For now, call it even.
Edge: Even
Wide Receivers
FL #1 Chazeray Schilens (6-4, 205, SO)
SL #80 Robert Ortiz (6-1, 195, SR)
SE #19 Jeff Webb (6-2, 205, SR)
This is one of the few veteran units the Aztecs have. Webb is leading returning receiver, having caught 71 balls for 863 yards and 6 TDs last season. This year, he also leads the team with 13 catches for 162 yards and a TD, and he is arguably the team's best playmaker. He caught 8 passes last week against Air Force. Ortiz is second on the squad, having caught 8 passes for 78 yards in 2 games and scoring last week. Schilens has caught 5 passes so far. In addition to these decent numbers, the Aztecs attack by shuttling a lot of people in and out of the game at the receiver spots. As such, backups DeMarco Sampson, Brett Swain, and Marcus Edwards have all caught at least 2 passes this season, and will more than likely be out there against the Buckeyes on Saturday.
WR Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Schilens/Ortiz/Webb versus Holmes/Ginn/Gonzalez
Again, the Aztecs have a solid unit with some experience and some playmaking ability, but the Buckeye unit is very deep and talented, and capable of playing significantly better than was demonstrated on Saturday. Given the speed and explosiveness edges that the Buckeyes have ad the depth of the unit, this one is easy to call. Look for a strong bounce-back from the group, but the Aztecs will play well.
Edge: Holmes/Ginn/Gonzalez
Tight Ends
TE #89 Lance Louis (6-3, 260, SO)
Louis is a young bulldozer that can help out blocking in the run and pass protection aspects of the offense. He has caught just 2 passes for 29 yards thus far, so don't expect him to have a huge impact on the yardage. Backup Eric Miclot is probably more of a receiver, and has also caught 2 passes, so he will probably get in there some too.
TE Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Louis versus Hamby
Suffice it to say Hamby didn't have his best game against Texas. Louis and Hamby will both handle their blocking assignments, and I have a sneaking suspicion that neither will be a focal point of the downfield passing attack this week.
Edge: Even
Offensive Line
LT #78 Chris Pino (6-5, 315, SR)
LG #63 Taylor Schmidt (6-4, 315, SR)
C #72 Jasper Harvey (6-3, 300, SR)
RG #62 Brandyn Dombrowski (6-5, 325, SO)
RT #71 Eric Rouser (6-8, 250, FR)
This is another unit where the Aztecs have a wealth of experience. The left side of this line is especially strong, with 2 veteran battering rams in Pino and Schmidt. Center Jasper Harvey returns after being suspended last year: he has 24 career starts under his belt. The right side of the line is more of a question mark. Both players are young, and Rouser is tall but very undersized for a I-A tackle. He is very raw, so it will be interesting to see how he is able to use his height and agility to block bigger defensive players.
This unit is very deep, with backups Will Robinson (LT/RT) and Patrick Justman (RG) having starting experience. Robert Nelson and Eder Arosemena could also see the field.
OL Rating: B
Head-to-Head: San Diego State versus Ohio State
The Aztecs are a pretty good crew overall. They are very effective pass blockers, and the running game is better than one might expect for this type of offense. The Aztecs have the size, particularly in the middle, to compete with the Buckeye line. The question will be how the line holds up against the Buckeye front seven, who combine bulk with surprising quickness from the linebackers.
Edge: Even
Overall Offensive Analysis
This is a decent offense across the board. There is nothing spectacular about the offense, but they have a lot of solid players who can get the job done with a solid game plan. It will be important for the Buckeyes not to overlook the running game, as the Aztecs can be effective opening up the run with the pass. They key to having any success will be the effectiveness of the receivers to run crisp routes, and the ability of the QB to hit them with a quick release, because he probably won’t have much time if the linebackers are in on him. The Aztecs should make a good showing Saturday, but there is nothing to strike fear into the hearts of opposing defensive coaches, so the key will be execution of the defensive game plan.
Overall Offensive Rating: B
San Diego State Aztecs Defensive Preview
Returning Starters: 4
San Diego St. comes into Columbus with a defense that has had serious problems stopping anyone in their first two ballgames. In the opener, UCLA hung up 44 points on them. Things did not improve in week two, where they surrendered 41 points to Air Force. They are surrendering 426 yards per contest defensively, with 195 of them coming via the pass, and 231 on the ground. These stats certainly don't jump out at you, and it doesn't say much being the fact that they are near the bottom in a conference known for weak defense. If they don't improve this week, things could get very ugly for the Aztec unit, who will face an angry OSU offense.
Defensive Line
DE # 97 Kurt Kahui (6-1 250 SR)
DT # 94 Nick Osborn (6-4 255 SO)
NT # 99 Jonathan Bailes (6-1 310 JR)
DE # 93 Antwan Applewhite (6-3 235 SO)
San Diego St. brings a defensive line that is certainly going to be a breath of fresh air to the Buckeyes, especially when compared to last week's Texas unit. They are led along the line by sophomore Antwan Applewhite. On the season Applewhite has 16 tackles (3rd on team), including 2.5 for a loss (1st on team), and 2.5 sacks (1st on team). Applewhite has also forced a fumble, and recovered one as well. Applewhite has been considered by many to be a star in the making, and probably the best player on a weak defensive line for San Diego St. He has an excellent blend of size and speed, and has an excellent first step. He is not Javon Kearse, but certainly warrants attention.
The other end spot for the Aztecs will be manned by Kurt Kahui. Kahui has 9 tackles so far this season, along with 1 quarterback sack. So far he is having average success in his first year as a starter for SDSU, his last 3 years he mainly served as a backup. He has decent size, but lacks athletic ability, especially against a good Buckeye offensive line.
The middle of the line will be anchored by Jonathan Bailes. Bailes has 10 tackles on the young season, along with half a sack, and half of a tackle for loss. He has excellent size, and is very powerful. Bailes is regarded by some to have all league talent. He will be relied upon early and often to help plug up a line that has been eaten up by the opposition so far this season.
The last tackle spot will call upon Nick Osborn to hold down the fort. So far in the 2005 season, Osborn has amassed 10 tackles. Osborn is a bit of a tweener, and risks being pushed around by bigger lineman. Look for him to try to utilize his quickness against the Buckeyes.
Analysis
What can be said about a defensive line that has given up over 231 yards per contest on the ground? I guess you could say that this week they will try to stop the bleeding against a Buckeye team that will be very set on establishing the run this week. When you combine those two factors, it could lead to another ugly performance by this Aztec unit. They have two players who are fairly decent, and who will give a steady performance, with one being Applewhite and the other being Bailes. I just do not see any stars on this unit, something that is quite refreshing for the Buckeye O line, especially after last week.
DL Rating: D+
Head-to-Head: Ohio State (Richardson, Green, Pitcock, Kudla) vs SDSU (Kahui, Osborn, Bailes, Applewhite)
Not even a comparison on this end of things. OSU has a lot more size and depth up front. Applewhite could be compared to Richardson in some ways, but doesn't have the upside of Jay. The complete outcast of this bunch is Osborn, he doesn't compare in size to the OSU tackles, and has pretty much capped out from an impact standpoint. Sadly, he's the best candidate SDSU has at the other tackle spot, which does not say much for their depth.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
OLB # 45 Andrew Schantz (6-2 235 SO)
MLB # 33 Freddy Keiaho (6-0 230 SO)
OLB # 36 Brett Martin (6-0 215 SO)
Can you hear the faint cries of SOS? I think that if you listen close enough you can actually hear Tom Craft signaling distress signals after the first 2 performances from this linebacker crew. I guess it doesn't help considering the fact that they lost all 3 starters from a crew that was the best in the MWC last season. To add injury to insult, they lost their other top backup from this unit. When you add it all up, that is a total of 312 tackles from last seasons squad. What's that spell ... trouble. Can anyone see why this defense has been so bad up to this point this season?
Freddy Keiaho will try to fill the large shoes of Kirk Morrison in the middle, Morrison was regarded by some as one of the best MLB's to ever play in the MWC. So far Keiaho has a team high 21 tackles, with 2 of them being for a loss. Keiaho was a beast on special teams for the Aztecs last season, and is the best athlete in this LB bunch.
Brett Martin gets the start for the Aztecs on the outside. On the season Martin has 8 tackles, including 0.5 for a loss. Martin has also been credited with a forced fumble this season. Martin is another very green LB for this Aztec crew, and the fact that he only has 8 tackles does not say a whole lot. He has very good speed, but will struggle against the large OSU O-line.
Redshirt freshman Andrew Schantz will get the nod at the other outside linebacker spot for the Aztecs. Schantz has 8 tackles, including 0.5 for a loss. Like Martin, he has also forced a fumble on the season. Pretty much a carbon copy of what I said about Martin ... Green, fast, and having a rough time so far this season.
Analysis
I guess every team needs a bottom feeder unit, and this LB corps takes the cake. After reading the defensive line analysis one might ask, how can it get any worse than that? Sadly for San Diego St. it has, and it will be very tough this week for these guys. If OSU cannot run the ball down the throat of this unit, something is really wrong. I don't see it happening though, look for the running game to bounce back this week in a big way.
LB Rating: D-
Head-to-Head: Ohio State (Hawk, Carpenter, Schlegel) vs SDSU (Schantz, Keiaho, Martin)
Seriously? If you didn't notice, OSU has 2 future first round draft picks, and another that will go on the first day. SDSU's starting linebacker corp. wouldn't even back up OSU's backups. I don't mean that in a bad way, it's just the sad reality of it all.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
CB #3 Donny Baker (5-9 165 JR)
FS # 21 Marcus Demps (6-1 200 SO)
SS # 31 Reggie Grigsby (5-11 205 JR)
CB #9 Terrell Maze (5-11 170 JR)
San Diego State brings to Columbus a secondary that is 4th in the conference in passing defense, which isn't bad when compared to the rest of a very bad defense. One thing that they need to work on is their opponents' 73% completion percentage, and 13 yard average per catch.
Reggie Grigsby looks to lead the way for the Aztecs from his strong safety spot. On the season, Grigsby is second on the team with 18 tackles, with 1 being for a loss. Grigsby has also broken up a pass in his first two games. Grigsby has very good size, and is a skilled tackler, which is something that he has done plenty of on this young season.
The other safety spot will be manned down by Marcus Demps. On the season Demps has a total of 13 tackles, which is 4th on the team. Demps has also recorded a tackle for loss, and forced a fumble. Demps is regarded by Tom Craft to be one of the best athletes on this SDSU defense, his brother Will Demps plays for the Baltimore Ravens. He has started at both corner and safety in his career, and has perhaps the best playmaking ability in this secondary.
Terrell Maze will get the start at one of the cornerback spots for San Diego State this week. On the season Maze has a total of 8 tackles, he has also broken up a team high 3 passes. Maze has good ball skills, which is something that will be needed this week against a talented bunch of OSU receivers.
Donny Baker gets the nod at the other corner spot for the Aztecs. On the season he has 9 tackles.
Analysis
When one looks at this secondary and sees that they are in the top 4 in the MWC in passing defense, they may think that SDSU has a bright spot. When you also add in the fact that their safeties are among the team leaders in tackles, it makes you really start to feel this way. After some thought you start to dig, and realize that these tackles are mostly due to the poor play on the defensive line, and at the linebacker position. This unit has no interceptions on the season, and is prone to the big play. OSU can take their shots this week, if they are not too busy running the ball.
DB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Ohio State (Youboty, Everett, Salley, Whitner) vs SDSU (Baker, Demps, Grigsby, Maze)
Although it may not have shown last week, OSU has a very solid secondary. They walk circles around SDSU from a talent standpoint, and give up far less big plays from defensive standpoint. Another solid edge for the Buckeyes.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
What else can be said? The statistics certainly do not lie, and they do not hide the fact that SDSU is a bad defensive team. I try not to be too harsh, but it's hard to find bright spots when you are getting torn up by Air Force and UCLA. I scratch my head and search for a star on this unit, but am left scratching for a while. OSU has no reason not to have a totally dominant performance this week from an offensive standpoint. After the letdown last week, all eyes will be on Tressel and Bollman. Hopefully Troy Smith will take this team under his wings once again and bring them back to where they should be. Sometimes a weak defense like SDSU is just what the doctor ordered.
Overall Defensive Rating: D+
San Diego St. comes into Columbus with a defense that has had serious problems stopping anyone in their first two ballgames. In the opener, UCLA hung up 44 points on them. Things did not improve in week two, where they surrendered 41 points to Air Force. They are surrendering 426 yards per contest defensively, with 195 of them coming via the pass, and 231 on the ground. These stats certainly don't jump out at you, and it doesn't say much being the fact that they are near the bottom in a conference known for weak defense. If they don't improve this week, things could get very ugly for the Aztec unit, who will face an angry OSU offense.
Defensive Line
DE # 97 Kurt Kahui (6-1 250 SR)
DT # 94 Nick Osborn (6-4 255 SO)
NT # 99 Jonathan Bailes (6-1 310 JR)
DE # 93 Antwan Applewhite (6-3 235 SO)
San Diego St. brings a defensive line that is certainly going to be a breath of fresh air to the Buckeyes, especially when compared to last week's Texas unit. They are led along the line by sophomore Antwan Applewhite. On the season Applewhite has 16 tackles (3rd on team), including 2.5 for a loss (1st on team), and 2.5 sacks (1st on team). Applewhite has also forced a fumble, and recovered one as well. Applewhite has been considered by many to be a star in the making, and probably the best player on a weak defensive line for San Diego St. He has an excellent blend of size and speed, and has an excellent first step. He is not Javon Kearse, but certainly warrants attention.
The other end spot for the Aztecs will be manned by Kurt Kahui. Kahui has 9 tackles so far this season, along with 1 quarterback sack. So far he is having average success in his first year as a starter for SDSU, his last 3 years he mainly served as a backup. He has decent size, but lacks athletic ability, especially against a good Buckeye offensive line.
The middle of the line will be anchored by Jonathan Bailes. Bailes has 10 tackles on the young season, along with half a sack, and half of a tackle for loss. He has excellent size, and is very powerful. Bailes is regarded by some to have all league talent. He will be relied upon early and often to help plug up a line that has been eaten up by the opposition so far this season.
The last tackle spot will call upon Nick Osborn to hold down the fort. So far in the 2005 season, Osborn has amassed 10 tackles. Osborn is a bit of a tweener, and risks being pushed around by bigger lineman. Look for him to try to utilize his quickness against the Buckeyes.
Analysis
What can be said about a defensive line that has given up over 231 yards per contest on the ground? I guess you could say that this week they will try to stop the bleeding against a Buckeye team that will be very set on establishing the run this week. When you combine those two factors, it could lead to another ugly performance by this Aztec unit. They have two players who are fairly decent, and who will give a steady performance, with one being Applewhite and the other being Bailes. I just do not see any stars on this unit, something that is quite refreshing for the Buckeye O line, especially after last week.
DL Rating: D+
Head-to-Head: Ohio State (Richardson, Green, Pitcock, Kudla) vs SDSU (Kahui, Osborn, Bailes, Applewhite)
Not even a comparison on this end of things. OSU has a lot more size and depth up front. Applewhite could be compared to Richardson in some ways, but doesn't have the upside of Jay. The complete outcast of this bunch is Osborn, he doesn't compare in size to the OSU tackles, and has pretty much capped out from an impact standpoint. Sadly, he's the best candidate SDSU has at the other tackle spot, which does not say much for their depth.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
OLB # 45 Andrew Schantz (6-2 235 SO)
MLB # 33 Freddy Keiaho (6-0 230 SO)
OLB # 36 Brett Martin (6-0 215 SO)
Can you hear the faint cries of SOS? I think that if you listen close enough you can actually hear Tom Craft signaling distress signals after the first 2 performances from this linebacker crew. I guess it doesn't help considering the fact that they lost all 3 starters from a crew that was the best in the MWC last season. To add injury to insult, they lost their other top backup from this unit. When you add it all up, that is a total of 312 tackles from last seasons squad. What's that spell ... trouble. Can anyone see why this defense has been so bad up to this point this season?
Freddy Keiaho will try to fill the large shoes of Kirk Morrison in the middle, Morrison was regarded by some as one of the best MLB's to ever play in the MWC. So far Keiaho has a team high 21 tackles, with 2 of them being for a loss. Keiaho was a beast on special teams for the Aztecs last season, and is the best athlete in this LB bunch.
Brett Martin gets the start for the Aztecs on the outside. On the season Martin has 8 tackles, including 0.5 for a loss. Martin has also been credited with a forced fumble this season. Martin is another very green LB for this Aztec crew, and the fact that he only has 8 tackles does not say a whole lot. He has very good speed, but will struggle against the large OSU O-line.
Redshirt freshman Andrew Schantz will get the nod at the other outside linebacker spot for the Aztecs. Schantz has 8 tackles, including 0.5 for a loss. Like Martin, he has also forced a fumble on the season. Pretty much a carbon copy of what I said about Martin ... Green, fast, and having a rough time so far this season.
Analysis
I guess every team needs a bottom feeder unit, and this LB corps takes the cake. After reading the defensive line analysis one might ask, how can it get any worse than that? Sadly for San Diego St. it has, and it will be very tough this week for these guys. If OSU cannot run the ball down the throat of this unit, something is really wrong. I don't see it happening though, look for the running game to bounce back this week in a big way.
LB Rating: D-
Head-to-Head: Ohio State (Hawk, Carpenter, Schlegel) vs SDSU (Schantz, Keiaho, Martin)
Seriously? If you didn't notice, OSU has 2 future first round draft picks, and another that will go on the first day. SDSU's starting linebacker corp. wouldn't even back up OSU's backups. I don't mean that in a bad way, it's just the sad reality of it all.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
CB #3 Donny Baker (5-9 165 JR)
FS # 21 Marcus Demps (6-1 200 SO)
SS # 31 Reggie Grigsby (5-11 205 JR)
CB #9 Terrell Maze (5-11 170 JR)
San Diego State brings to Columbus a secondary that is 4th in the conference in passing defense, which isn't bad when compared to the rest of a very bad defense. One thing that they need to work on is their opponents' 73% completion percentage, and 13 yard average per catch.
Reggie Grigsby looks to lead the way for the Aztecs from his strong safety spot. On the season, Grigsby is second on the team with 18 tackles, with 1 being for a loss. Grigsby has also broken up a pass in his first two games. Grigsby has very good size, and is a skilled tackler, which is something that he has done plenty of on this young season.
The other safety spot will be manned down by Marcus Demps. On the season Demps has a total of 13 tackles, which is 4th on the team. Demps has also recorded a tackle for loss, and forced a fumble. Demps is regarded by Tom Craft to be one of the best athletes on this SDSU defense, his brother Will Demps plays for the Baltimore Ravens. He has started at both corner and safety in his career, and has perhaps the best playmaking ability in this secondary.
Terrell Maze will get the start at one of the cornerback spots for San Diego State this week. On the season Maze has a total of 8 tackles, he has also broken up a team high 3 passes. Maze has good ball skills, which is something that will be needed this week against a talented bunch of OSU receivers.
Donny Baker gets the nod at the other corner spot for the Aztecs. On the season he has 9 tackles.
Analysis
When one looks at this secondary and sees that they are in the top 4 in the MWC in passing defense, they may think that SDSU has a bright spot. When you also add in the fact that their safeties are among the team leaders in tackles, it makes you really start to feel this way. After some thought you start to dig, and realize that these tackles are mostly due to the poor play on the defensive line, and at the linebacker position. This unit has no interceptions on the season, and is prone to the big play. OSU can take their shots this week, if they are not too busy running the ball.
DB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Ohio State (Youboty, Everett, Salley, Whitner) vs SDSU (Baker, Demps, Grigsby, Maze)
Although it may not have shown last week, OSU has a very solid secondary. They walk circles around SDSU from a talent standpoint, and give up far less big plays from defensive standpoint. Another solid edge for the Buckeyes.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
What else can be said? The statistics certainly do not lie, and they do not hide the fact that SDSU is a bad defensive team. I try not to be too harsh, but it's hard to find bright spots when you are getting torn up by Air Force and UCLA. I scratch my head and search for a star on this unit, but am left scratching for a while. OSU has no reason not to have a totally dominant performance this week from an offensive standpoint. After the letdown last week, all eyes will be on Tressel and Bollman. Hopefully Troy Smith will take this team under his wings once again and bring them back to where they should be. Sometimes a weak defense like SDSU is just what the doctor ordered.
Overall Defensive Rating: D+
San Diego State Aztecs Special Teams Preview
Returning Starters: 3
Special Teams
PK #14 Garrett Palmer (6-2 180 So.)
Palmer enters his second year of kicking duties where he finished 26/27 with extra points and 12/21 on field goal attempts. He has a long of 50 yards and finished with an Aztec High of 62 points in 2004. This year he is 3/3 in his field goal attempts. So far this year he has seemed to improve his accuracy, but 3 attempts isn’t enough to put it totally behind him. He seemed to struggle his first year kicking, but as a freshman it’s tough.
PK Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Garrett Palmer vs. Josh Huston
Palmer has been solid this season so far, but with his history I wouldn’t count on him to win the game. I suppose the same could be said about Huston, with his only season kicking he did poorly, albeit 4 years ago. I think Huston is going to continue to have a great year.
Edge: Huston
P #17 Michael Hughes (5-10 185 So.)
Hughes also enters his second year of starting and in his first year he averaged 38 yards per punt, not great but he did have a long of 55 yards with 6 punts over 50 yards. He has the leg, he just needs to do it consistently, that is where most freshman struggle, the consistency and he seems to have turned it around. So far this year he has 8 punts for an average of 45.0 per. Hughes also handles the kickoff duties, so far this year he has 7 kicks with 3 touchbacks.
P Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Michael Hughes vs. A.J. Trapasso
Like I mentioned above he is having a much better year this year with 45.0 yards per punt. Trapasso is only averaging 39.8 yards per punt, but he has 4 of his 6 punts down within the 20-yard line. It’s pretty close in this race, but personally I would take Trapasso, especially with the OSU punt block crew coming at me.
Edge: Trapasso
PR #20 Michael Franklin (5-7 180 Sr.)
Franklin is a multi-threat athlete, he also the starting RB and Kick returner for the Aztecs. He is a bit undersized at 5-7, but is explosive. So far this year he only has one return in 2 games for 3 yards. Not starting the season out great. Last year he had 3 for 50 yards with an average of 16.7 yards with no TDs. I don’t see him doing much damage on OSU if they maintain proper lanes and tackle well.
PR Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Michael Franklin vs. Ted Ginn Jr.
Not much needs to be said here, except; Ginn has struggled this year so far (9.0 yards per return), but I would still take him any day over anyone in the country. Expect this theme continued for the remaining of our opponents.
Edge: Ginn
KR #20 Michael Franklin (5-7 180 Sr.) & #85 Justin Amaral (5-11 190 Jr.)
As mentioned previously Franklin has many duties, kick returner being one of them. Last year he had 7 returns for 74 yards with a 10.6 average and no TDs. So far this year he has 5 return for 77 yards with an average of 15.4 yards per and no TDs.
Amaral is a wide out JC transfer from Los Medanos Community College where he had 61 catches for 1,104 yards last season and 1,776 all purpose yards. So far this year he has 2 return for 17 yards for an 8.5 average.
Amaral isn’t a game breaker, but Franklin has some talent, but they aren’t on par with OSU’s specialists (but who can boast that?).
KR Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Michael Franklin/Justin Amaral vs. Ted Ginn Jr./Santonio Holmes
No contest.
Edge: Ginn/Holmes
Overall Special Teams Analysis
Their return men are experienced and pretty talented and the kickers have each had a year of experience (+2 games) so they have that going for them. They are spectacular in any particular area in the special teams, so while they have the experience the talent just isn’t there. Big advantage OSU here.
Overall Special Teams Rating: C+
Special Teams
PK #14 Garrett Palmer (6-2 180 So.)
Palmer enters his second year of kicking duties where he finished 26/27 with extra points and 12/21 on field goal attempts. He has a long of 50 yards and finished with an Aztec High of 62 points in 2004. This year he is 3/3 in his field goal attempts. So far this year he has seemed to improve his accuracy, but 3 attempts isn’t enough to put it totally behind him. He seemed to struggle his first year kicking, but as a freshman it’s tough.
PK Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Garrett Palmer vs. Josh Huston
Palmer has been solid this season so far, but with his history I wouldn’t count on him to win the game. I suppose the same could be said about Huston, with his only season kicking he did poorly, albeit 4 years ago. I think Huston is going to continue to have a great year.
Edge: Huston
P #17 Michael Hughes (5-10 185 So.)
Hughes also enters his second year of starting and in his first year he averaged 38 yards per punt, not great but he did have a long of 55 yards with 6 punts over 50 yards. He has the leg, he just needs to do it consistently, that is where most freshman struggle, the consistency and he seems to have turned it around. So far this year he has 8 punts for an average of 45.0 per. Hughes also handles the kickoff duties, so far this year he has 7 kicks with 3 touchbacks.
P Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Michael Hughes vs. A.J. Trapasso
Like I mentioned above he is having a much better year this year with 45.0 yards per punt. Trapasso is only averaging 39.8 yards per punt, but he has 4 of his 6 punts down within the 20-yard line. It’s pretty close in this race, but personally I would take Trapasso, especially with the OSU punt block crew coming at me.
Edge: Trapasso
PR #20 Michael Franklin (5-7 180 Sr.)
Franklin is a multi-threat athlete, he also the starting RB and Kick returner for the Aztecs. He is a bit undersized at 5-7, but is explosive. So far this year he only has one return in 2 games for 3 yards. Not starting the season out great. Last year he had 3 for 50 yards with an average of 16.7 yards with no TDs. I don’t see him doing much damage on OSU if they maintain proper lanes and tackle well.
PR Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Michael Franklin vs. Ted Ginn Jr.
Not much needs to be said here, except; Ginn has struggled this year so far (9.0 yards per return), but I would still take him any day over anyone in the country. Expect this theme continued for the remaining of our opponents.
Edge: Ginn
KR #20 Michael Franklin (5-7 180 Sr.) & #85 Justin Amaral (5-11 190 Jr.)
As mentioned previously Franklin has many duties, kick returner being one of them. Last year he had 7 returns for 74 yards with a 10.6 average and no TDs. So far this year he has 5 return for 77 yards with an average of 15.4 yards per and no TDs.
Amaral is a wide out JC transfer from Los Medanos Community College where he had 61 catches for 1,104 yards last season and 1,776 all purpose yards. So far this year he has 2 return for 17 yards for an 8.5 average.
Amaral isn’t a game breaker, but Franklin has some talent, but they aren’t on par with OSU’s specialists (but who can boast that?).
KR Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Michael Franklin/Justin Amaral vs. Ted Ginn Jr./Santonio Holmes
No contest.
Edge: Ginn/Holmes
Overall Special Teams Analysis
Their return men are experienced and pretty talented and the kickers have each had a year of experience (+2 games) so they have that going for them. They are spectacular in any particular area in the special teams, so while they have the experience the talent just isn’t there. Big advantage OSU here.
Overall Special Teams Rating: C+
Predictions
Bucklion's prediction: 45-13, Ohio State
BB73's prediction: 34-10 Ohio State
daddyphatsac's prediction: 42-7, Ohio State
Hubbard's prediction: 42-6, Ohio State
Jaxbuck's prediction: 31-10, Ohio State
LordJeffBuck's prediction: 26-17, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 35-12, Ohio State
Last Week's Results (OSU 22 - Texas 25)
Low score wins the year long battle of prediction supremacy! (Difference of actual score versus predicted score. 10 point penalty for picking the losing team.)
(21) Hubbard prediction: 20-17, Texas (5 + 5 = 10 + 11 last week)
(21) LordJeffBuck's prediction: 27-25, Texas (2 + 3 = 5 + 16 last week)
(23) BB73's prediction: 23-17, Ohio State (1 + 8 = 9 + 10 penalty = 19 + 4 last week)
(24) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 28-27, Ohio State (6 + 2 = 8 + 10 penalty = 18 + 6 last week)
(31) daddyphatsac's prediction: 24-13, Ohio State (2 + 12 = 14 + 10 penalty = 24 + 7 last week)
(31) Jaxbuck's prediction: 24-7, Ohio State (2 + 18 = 20 + 10 penalty = 30 + 1 last week)
(41) Bucklion's prediction: 28-27, Ohio State (11 + 11 = 22 + 10 penalty = 32 + 9 from last week)
BB73's prediction: 34-10 Ohio State
daddyphatsac's prediction: 42-7, Ohio State
Hubbard's prediction: 42-6, Ohio State
Jaxbuck's prediction: 31-10, Ohio State
LordJeffBuck's prediction: 26-17, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 35-12, Ohio State
Last Week's Results (OSU 22 - Texas 25)
Low score wins the year long battle of prediction supremacy! (Difference of actual score versus predicted score. 10 point penalty for picking the losing team.)
(21) Hubbard prediction: 20-17, Texas (5 + 5 = 10 + 11 last week)
(21) LordJeffBuck's prediction: 27-25, Texas (2 + 3 = 5 + 16 last week)
(23) BB73's prediction: 23-17, Ohio State (1 + 8 = 9 + 10 penalty = 19 + 4 last week)
(24) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 28-27, Ohio State (6 + 2 = 8 + 10 penalty = 18 + 6 last week)
(31) daddyphatsac's prediction: 24-13, Ohio State (2 + 12 = 14 + 10 penalty = 24 + 7 last week)
(31) Jaxbuck's prediction: 24-7, Ohio State (2 + 18 = 20 + 10 penalty = 30 + 1 last week)
(41) Bucklion's prediction: 28-27, Ohio State (11 + 11 = 22 + 10 penalty = 32 + 9 from last week)
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