3yardsandacloud
Administrator Emeritus
2005 Texas Longhorns Game Preview
written by
BB73, Bucklion, daddyphatsacs, Hubbard,
Jaxbuck, LordJeffBuck, and 3yardsandacloud
written by
BB73, Bucklion, daddyphatsacs, Hubbard,
Jaxbuck, LordJeffBuck, and 3yardsandacloud
Well, there's a little scuffle coming up in the 'Shoe on Sept. 10th that seems to have drawn some attention from football fans across the country. This is only natural, since both teams are ranked in the top 10 and considered to be national title contenders. But there's another aspect to this game that makes it truly special.
To understand why, let's take a look at the list of the all-time top-10 programs, based on winning percentage, in major college history. Here are the teams:
Michigan, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, Alabama, tOSU, Texas, Nebraska, Tennessee, USC, and Penn St.
What's interesting is that every team on that list has played every other team on that list, with one exception. Ohio State and Texas will be meeting for the first time on Saturday, and history will be made. This game will mark the last time that two of the top-10 teams of all time will have their initial meeting on the gridiron.
So if you needed another reason to be fired up for this football game, there you have it.
Speaking of football history, did you know that the coaching lineage of Texas's greatest coach, Darrell Royal, came from roots in the Big 10? Darrell Royal was an All-American quarterback and defensive back at Oklahoma in the late 1940's, and still holds the Sooners' career interceptions record with 17. From 1947 through 1949 his head coach at Oklahoma was the legendary Bud Wilkinson, so Royal learned a lot about football and coaching from Wilkinson.
And where did Bud Wilkinson learn about football? He has been quoted as saying that he learned "99 percent of my football from [Minnesota coach Bernie] Bierman. Not only from the morale standpoint but technically." Wilkinson played many positions for Bierman when Minnesota won national championships from 1934 to 1936. (Nobody's won 3 straight NC's, you say? Those Gophers don't get mentioned because the AP poll started in 1936).
So Bernie Bierman, who won 5 NC's at Minnesota, taught Bud Wilkinson, who won 3 NC's at Oklahoma (and had the record 47-game win streak). And Wilkinson coached Darrell Royal, who grew up in Oklahoma but went on to win 3 NC's for the Longhorns.
Note to Mack Brown. Bud Wilkinson won 3 NC's at OKlahoma, but after he went 6 straight years without a win in the Red River Shootout ('58-'63), he was no longer the coach at Oklahoma. And Darrell Royal won 3 NC's at Texas, but when he went 6 straight years without a win on the Texas State Fairgrounds ('71-'76), he was no longer the coach at Texas. As most folks know, Mack has lost to Oklahoma the last 5 years.
And speaking of National Championships, we all know that the winner of this game will be in a good position to make a run toward the BCS Championship game in the Rose Bowl this year.
And while we can't say for certain which quarterback will take the most snaps in the game Saturday, our writers have packed quite a bit of information into this preview. We hope that it will make you anticipate this epic battle even more, but at the very least give you something worthwhile to read until it's finally time for this eagerly awaited kickoff.
Finally, thanks to the athletic departments at both of these universities for scheduling this classic confrontation.
Date and Time
Game time: Saturday, September 10th, 2005
8:08 PM EDT Kick-off at Ohio Stadium (Columbus, OH)
ABC will televise the game nationally. ESPN's GameDay will be in Columbus, so will the ABC studio crew and ESPN Radio's version of GameDay.
8:08 PM EDT Kick-off at Ohio Stadium (Columbus, OH)
ABC will televise the game nationally. ESPN's GameDay will be in Columbus, so will the ABC studio crew and ESPN Radio's version of GameDay.
Texas Longhorns Offensive Preview
Returning starters: 7
The Texas Longhorns come into The Shoe brimming with confidence after an outstanding 2004 offensively and an impressive debut in 2005. Texas was particularly deadly on the ground in 2004, ranking 2nd in the nation racking up 302.4 yards per game. The aerial attack was more moderate, averaging just 163.9 yards per contest. Overall, their 466.3 yards/game was good for 8th nationally. They also piled up 35 points/game, good for 14th in the nation. This season, the Longhorns will look to continue their success on the ground and open up the passing game more, making QB Vince Young all the more dangerous. In week 1, they predictably annihilated an overmatched Louisiana-Lafayette squad, racking up 418 rushing yards and 591 total yards, scoring 60 points. They key for opposing defenses may be to stop Vince Young at all costs, but there are plenty of capable playmakers at his disposal.
Quarterbacks
QB #10 Vince Young (6-5, 233, JR)
Vince Young, plainly put, became a terror to defend by the end of the 2004 season, culminating with his performance in the Rose Bowl, where he ran for 192 yards and scored 4 TDs, and threw for 180 yards and another score. Overall, he was a versatile player, as he rushed for 887 yards and scored 10 regular season TDs, while averaging over 6 yards/carry. He also complimented his rushing nicely by throwing for 1669 yards and 11 TDs and completing 59.5% of his throws, but he did throw 10 interceptions. He had games where he was exceptional running the ball (158 yards and 4 TDs against Texas Tech, over 100 yards versus Oklahoma State and Kansas) and games where he was exceptional throwing the ball (289 against Kansas, 278 against Oklahoma State, 3TD passes against Rice) so defensive schemes cannot exclusively key on one or the other. It will be difficult for opponents to stop the Texas offense if he is completing passes, and he is more than capable of doing so. In week 1, he dominated, tossing for 173 yards and 3 TDs, while completing 13 of 17. He also rushed for 49 yards and another TD. He will come into the game with a lot of confidence, not only because of his running ability, but also because his 13 completions went to 7 different players.
Backup duties go to Matt Nordgren, a senior with good size (6-5, 235) and a good arm.
QB Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Vince Young versus “whoever lines up under center”
Vince Young versus Troy Smith would be a battle for the ages, but after a great performance by Justin Zwick in the opener, it is unclear at press time who will see the field, and for how long. If the Young/Smith matchup happens, we’ll get a good look at who is better, considering the similar styles and the huge games both had against the Wolverines to end 2004. The passing game will be more effective for the Buckeyes, given the potent weapons at receiver, whereas Young will probably have the more explosive running attack and attack the Buckeyes with his versatility. It’s tempting to call this one even, but given that Smith will be unable to play week one, the edge goes to Young, who is coming off a monster bowl game and a huge week 1.
Edge: Young
Running Backs
RB #22 Selvin Young (6-0, 215, JR)
FB #46 Ahmard Hall (5-11, 235, SR)
Gone is Cedric Benson, who rushed for over 1800 yards and scored 19 times on the ground. In his place is the explosive Selvin Young, the only player in Texas history to return a kick and punt for TDs in the same game. Young rushed for 102 yards and scored 2 TDs against North Texas before suffering a season-ending injury against Arkansas in week 2 of 2004. He also caught 3 passes, previewing what should be a great deal of versatility. Benson only caught 22 balls in 2004, so it will be interesting to see if Young is further incorporated into the passing game. Young is not the proven commodity that Benson was, but make no mistake about it: he is fast, versatile, and dangerous, and he will be a key part of the Longhorn attack. In limited action in week 1, he racked up 67 yards on 8 carries and scored a TD. It comes as no surprise that Texas has another potentially explosive halfback lined up in Austin this season. Hall takes over at fullback, and is more like a guard in the backfield: he carried the ball once for a TD in 2004, and did not carry it in the opener. His blocking will be key to the rushing attack.
The backup duties are in capable hands, with Ramonce Taylor (5 carries, 65 yards, TD) and Henry Melton (6 carries, 65 yards, 2 TDs) demonstrating their abilities in week 1. Jaamal Charles also appears to be an active part of the mix.
RB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Young/Hall versus Pittman/Schnittker
Edge: Again, this is an intriguing matchup. Young has little game experience recently, but will probably be a central focus of the offense, and has demonstrated his explosiveness on special teams. Texas is also very deep. Pittman has more game experience, but needs to step up, and he did so in week 1 against the RedHawks. Schnittker appears to be more of a hybrid, still a capable blocker, but seeing some carries at tailback too. A lot here is potential and gameplan, so there doesn’t seem to be a clear advantage, though the bigger numbers will probably go to the Longhorns, and based on their depth and focus, they get the edge.
Edge: Young/Hall
Wide Receivers
WR #2 Brian Carter (5-11, 190, SR)
WR #4 Limas Sweed (6-5, 219, SO)
The receiving corps was limited in their opportunities in 2004. Sweed is the leading returning receiver, having caught 23 passes for 263 yards. Carter caught 1 pass for 16 yards. The passing game is a necessary and important compliment to the rushing attack, and this group will need to step up to replace the departed Tony Jeffery and Bo Sciafe. In week 1, Carter caught 3 passes for 65 yards, while Sweed caught 1 for 10.
Also in the mix are Nate Jones and Quan Crosby.
WR Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Carter/Sweed/N Jones versus Holmes/Ginn/Gonzalez
This isn’t even a contest. The receiving corps for the Buckeyes is one of the nation’s finest, and should be much more of a central focus of the offense than the Longhorns. Ginn may be Ohio State’s answer to Vince Young.
Edge: Holmes/Ginn/Gonzalez
Tight Ends
TE #16 David Thomas (6-3, 245, SR)
Thomas a 3rd year starter, is a warrior at the TE spot, and is one of the nation’s biggest weapons at the position. Last year, he caught 21 passes for 376 yards, and scored a team-high 4 TDs. His best game was against Rice, where caught 4 passes for 90 yards and scored twice. He also scored a TD in the Rose Bowl. Thomas also has good size, and is a good blocker, allowing the Longhorns to run wild over significant stretches last year. He will be a key in the passing game for Young, as well as a blocker to spring either Young out of the backfield. He caught 2 TD passes in the opener.
The backup TE is Neal Tweedie, a monstrous blocker at the position (6-5, 267).
TE Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Thomas versus Hamby
Thomas is a stud at TE. Hamby can be effective at blocking, and an go downfield and catch a pass for you once in a while, but Thomas gets the edge with his high quality play and his focus in the offensive scheme.
Edge: Thomas
Offensive Line
LT #73 Jonathan Scott (6-7, 315, SR)
LG #64 Kasey Studdard (6-3, 305, JR)/Mike Garcia (6-3, 315, SR)
C #62 Lyle Sendlein (6-5, 305, JR)
RG #72 Will Allen (6-6, 315, SR)
RT #63 Justin Blalock (6-4, 329, JR)
Scott, a four year starter, is a certified monster, was consensus first team All-Big XII in 2004, and is one of the nation’s best tackles. He was an AP second team All American in 2004. He allowed only one sack last year, and uses his 82 inch wingspan to terrorize opposing linemen. He’s also equally adept at run blocking, and is almost guaranteed to be a high pick in next year’s NFL draft. On the other side, Blalock begins his third year of starting, and was named first (coaches) or second (AP) team All-Big XII last year. He, like Scott, is also on the Lombardi watch list. Up the middle, Sendlein is a first year starter, but has plenty of game experience. Studdard started every game at guard last season, and will battle the veteran Garcia for the left guard spot. On the other side, Allen will be starting for the third year and is on most preseason All-Big XII lists. As a group, this unit is gargantuan, but still has the quickness and agility to be excellent pass blockers. The fact that both Benson and Young racked up so many yards is a testament to the quality of the group … they should be as good or better this year.
OL Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Texas versus Ohio State
For the second week in a row, Ohio State opposes an offensive line with a wealth of starting experience and a collection of outstanding athletes. The lines are very similar in terms of size and agility, but the Texas line has arguably the best group of tackles in the nation, and their offense absolutely punished most opponents last season, so the edge goes to the Longhorns.
Edge: Texas
Overall Analysis
This offense is somewhat one-dimensional, but V. Young is good enough to burn a team with his arm to spring him out of the backfield, making it terribly difficult to defend him. Still, the only certain commodity in the passing game is Thomas the TE, so look for opposing defenses to stack the box and make V. Young burn them with his arm, a la what they try and do with Michael Vick in the NFL. The tailback position doesn't appear to have a significant drop-off, and they are deep enough that no one will need to get overworked. The line is tremendous, so the playmaking downfield in the passing game is the only question mark.
Overall Offensive Rating: A-
The Texas Longhorns come into The Shoe brimming with confidence after an outstanding 2004 offensively and an impressive debut in 2005. Texas was particularly deadly on the ground in 2004, ranking 2nd in the nation racking up 302.4 yards per game. The aerial attack was more moderate, averaging just 163.9 yards per contest. Overall, their 466.3 yards/game was good for 8th nationally. They also piled up 35 points/game, good for 14th in the nation. This season, the Longhorns will look to continue their success on the ground and open up the passing game more, making QB Vince Young all the more dangerous. In week 1, they predictably annihilated an overmatched Louisiana-Lafayette squad, racking up 418 rushing yards and 591 total yards, scoring 60 points. They key for opposing defenses may be to stop Vince Young at all costs, but there are plenty of capable playmakers at his disposal.
Quarterbacks
QB #10 Vince Young (6-5, 233, JR)
Vince Young, plainly put, became a terror to defend by the end of the 2004 season, culminating with his performance in the Rose Bowl, where he ran for 192 yards and scored 4 TDs, and threw for 180 yards and another score. Overall, he was a versatile player, as he rushed for 887 yards and scored 10 regular season TDs, while averaging over 6 yards/carry. He also complimented his rushing nicely by throwing for 1669 yards and 11 TDs and completing 59.5% of his throws, but he did throw 10 interceptions. He had games where he was exceptional running the ball (158 yards and 4 TDs against Texas Tech, over 100 yards versus Oklahoma State and Kansas) and games where he was exceptional throwing the ball (289 against Kansas, 278 against Oklahoma State, 3TD passes against Rice) so defensive schemes cannot exclusively key on one or the other. It will be difficult for opponents to stop the Texas offense if he is completing passes, and he is more than capable of doing so. In week 1, he dominated, tossing for 173 yards and 3 TDs, while completing 13 of 17. He also rushed for 49 yards and another TD. He will come into the game with a lot of confidence, not only because of his running ability, but also because his 13 completions went to 7 different players.
Backup duties go to Matt Nordgren, a senior with good size (6-5, 235) and a good arm.
QB Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Vince Young versus “whoever lines up under center”
Vince Young versus Troy Smith would be a battle for the ages, but after a great performance by Justin Zwick in the opener, it is unclear at press time who will see the field, and for how long. If the Young/Smith matchup happens, we’ll get a good look at who is better, considering the similar styles and the huge games both had against the Wolverines to end 2004. The passing game will be more effective for the Buckeyes, given the potent weapons at receiver, whereas Young will probably have the more explosive running attack and attack the Buckeyes with his versatility. It’s tempting to call this one even, but given that Smith will be unable to play week one, the edge goes to Young, who is coming off a monster bowl game and a huge week 1.
Edge: Young
Running Backs
RB #22 Selvin Young (6-0, 215, JR)
FB #46 Ahmard Hall (5-11, 235, SR)
Gone is Cedric Benson, who rushed for over 1800 yards and scored 19 times on the ground. In his place is the explosive Selvin Young, the only player in Texas history to return a kick and punt for TDs in the same game. Young rushed for 102 yards and scored 2 TDs against North Texas before suffering a season-ending injury against Arkansas in week 2 of 2004. He also caught 3 passes, previewing what should be a great deal of versatility. Benson only caught 22 balls in 2004, so it will be interesting to see if Young is further incorporated into the passing game. Young is not the proven commodity that Benson was, but make no mistake about it: he is fast, versatile, and dangerous, and he will be a key part of the Longhorn attack. In limited action in week 1, he racked up 67 yards on 8 carries and scored a TD. It comes as no surprise that Texas has another potentially explosive halfback lined up in Austin this season. Hall takes over at fullback, and is more like a guard in the backfield: he carried the ball once for a TD in 2004, and did not carry it in the opener. His blocking will be key to the rushing attack.
The backup duties are in capable hands, with Ramonce Taylor (5 carries, 65 yards, TD) and Henry Melton (6 carries, 65 yards, 2 TDs) demonstrating their abilities in week 1. Jaamal Charles also appears to be an active part of the mix.
RB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Young/Hall versus Pittman/Schnittker
Edge: Again, this is an intriguing matchup. Young has little game experience recently, but will probably be a central focus of the offense, and has demonstrated his explosiveness on special teams. Texas is also very deep. Pittman has more game experience, but needs to step up, and he did so in week 1 against the RedHawks. Schnittker appears to be more of a hybrid, still a capable blocker, but seeing some carries at tailback too. A lot here is potential and gameplan, so there doesn’t seem to be a clear advantage, though the bigger numbers will probably go to the Longhorns, and based on their depth and focus, they get the edge.
Edge: Young/Hall
Wide Receivers
WR #2 Brian Carter (5-11, 190, SR)
WR #4 Limas Sweed (6-5, 219, SO)
The receiving corps was limited in their opportunities in 2004. Sweed is the leading returning receiver, having caught 23 passes for 263 yards. Carter caught 1 pass for 16 yards. The passing game is a necessary and important compliment to the rushing attack, and this group will need to step up to replace the departed Tony Jeffery and Bo Sciafe. In week 1, Carter caught 3 passes for 65 yards, while Sweed caught 1 for 10.
Also in the mix are Nate Jones and Quan Crosby.
WR Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Carter/Sweed/N Jones versus Holmes/Ginn/Gonzalez
This isn’t even a contest. The receiving corps for the Buckeyes is one of the nation’s finest, and should be much more of a central focus of the offense than the Longhorns. Ginn may be Ohio State’s answer to Vince Young.
Edge: Holmes/Ginn/Gonzalez
Tight Ends
TE #16 David Thomas (6-3, 245, SR)
Thomas a 3rd year starter, is a warrior at the TE spot, and is one of the nation’s biggest weapons at the position. Last year, he caught 21 passes for 376 yards, and scored a team-high 4 TDs. His best game was against Rice, where caught 4 passes for 90 yards and scored twice. He also scored a TD in the Rose Bowl. Thomas also has good size, and is a good blocker, allowing the Longhorns to run wild over significant stretches last year. He will be a key in the passing game for Young, as well as a blocker to spring either Young out of the backfield. He caught 2 TD passes in the opener.
The backup TE is Neal Tweedie, a monstrous blocker at the position (6-5, 267).
TE Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Thomas versus Hamby
Thomas is a stud at TE. Hamby can be effective at blocking, and an go downfield and catch a pass for you once in a while, but Thomas gets the edge with his high quality play and his focus in the offensive scheme.
Edge: Thomas
Offensive Line
LT #73 Jonathan Scott (6-7, 315, SR)
LG #64 Kasey Studdard (6-3, 305, JR)/Mike Garcia (6-3, 315, SR)
C #62 Lyle Sendlein (6-5, 305, JR)
RG #72 Will Allen (6-6, 315, SR)
RT #63 Justin Blalock (6-4, 329, JR)
Scott, a four year starter, is a certified monster, was consensus first team All-Big XII in 2004, and is one of the nation’s best tackles. He was an AP second team All American in 2004. He allowed only one sack last year, and uses his 82 inch wingspan to terrorize opposing linemen. He’s also equally adept at run blocking, and is almost guaranteed to be a high pick in next year’s NFL draft. On the other side, Blalock begins his third year of starting, and was named first (coaches) or second (AP) team All-Big XII last year. He, like Scott, is also on the Lombardi watch list. Up the middle, Sendlein is a first year starter, but has plenty of game experience. Studdard started every game at guard last season, and will battle the veteran Garcia for the left guard spot. On the other side, Allen will be starting for the third year and is on most preseason All-Big XII lists. As a group, this unit is gargantuan, but still has the quickness and agility to be excellent pass blockers. The fact that both Benson and Young racked up so many yards is a testament to the quality of the group … they should be as good or better this year.
OL Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Texas versus Ohio State
For the second week in a row, Ohio State opposes an offensive line with a wealth of starting experience and a collection of outstanding athletes. The lines are very similar in terms of size and agility, but the Texas line has arguably the best group of tackles in the nation, and their offense absolutely punished most opponents last season, so the edge goes to the Longhorns.
Edge: Texas
Overall Analysis
This offense is somewhat one-dimensional, but V. Young is good enough to burn a team with his arm to spring him out of the backfield, making it terribly difficult to defend him. Still, the only certain commodity in the passing game is Thomas the TE, so look for opposing defenses to stack the box and make V. Young burn them with his arm, a la what they try and do with Michael Vick in the NFL. The tailback position doesn't appear to have a significant drop-off, and they are deep enough that no one will need to get overworked. The line is tremendous, so the playmaking downfield in the passing game is the only question mark.
Overall Offensive Rating: A-
Texas Longhorns Defensive Preview
Returning Starters: 9
Texas brings to Columbus a defense that lost a few key pieces of the puzzle that led them to a very strong showing in 2004. Gone is Derrick Johnson, one of the best LB’s to ever play at Texas. Gone is defensive coordinator Greg Robinson. Texas finished up the 2004 season allowing 320 yards (23rd Nationally), and 18 points per contest (18th Nationally). Gene Chizik came over from Auburn in the off season, and is now ready to run the show for the Horns defensively. He will inherit a very strong defensive line, and solid secondary. The one area that he will need to work on is the linebackers, who will look to replace their biggest playmaker. He is a very good coach, but does he have the firepower to piece together a championship caliber defense? Time will tell …
Defensive Line
DE # 39 Brian Robison (6-3 267 Jr.)
DT # 90 Rodrique Wright (6-5 315 Sr.)
DT # 92 Larry Dibbles (6-2 285 Sr.)
DE # 80 Tim Crowder (6-4 270 Jr.)
Texas comes into Columbus featuring one of the best defensive lines in the country. They are led by a pair of All American candidates at tackle. 4 year starter Rodrique Wright will get the nod at one of the tackle spots. Wright, who fought an ankle injury throughout the 2004 season, comes into Columbus healthy and ready to go. As a junior Wright amassed 36 tackles, including 3 tackles for a loss, 7 QB pressues, and a sack. His name has popped up on the Lombardi Award, Bednarik Award, and Nagurski Trophy watch lists. He was also tabbed preseason 1st team All American by Playboy and Street and Smith’s. Wright, a surefire top 20 pick in next year’s NFL draft, has an amazing blend of size, speed, explosion, and athleticism. He is an absolute beast in the trenches, and someone who the Buckeyes must contain if they want to have any success moving the ball. It will be very interesting to see how OSU plays Wright. He has the ability to change a game plan if he gets a lot of pressure early on.
The other tackle spot will be handled by senior Larry Dibbles. When teamed with Wright, they form arguably the most effective due of tackles in the whole country. Dibbles, a second team all Big 12 performer in 2004, is primed to put up some gaudy numbers in his senior campaign. As a junior he tallied up 49 tackles, including 1.5 sacks, 9 QB pressures, and 6 broken up passes. Dibbles, who has excellent quickness on the inside, will look to take advantage of this against the Buckeyes. As the game unfolds, it will be very interesting to see the key match-up of Dibbles (who also shifts into a nose tackle spot) and OSU center Nick Mangold. This will be one of the key match ups of the game.
Texas will feature a pair of juniors at the defensive end position. One spot will be held down by Brian Robison. Robison, a former linebacker, has really established himself as a mainstay in the opposition’s backfield. He’s coming off a honorable mention All Big 12 season, where he tallied up 48 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 14 tackles for a loss, and 18 quarterback pressures. In addition, he has also blocked 4 kicks in his career. Robison is a fantastic multi-multisport athlete (also is a member of track team), and has the uncanny ability to find his way into the opposition’s backfield. He has the capability to have a very big game if he can put it all together, OSU has to be very wary of Mr. Robison.
The other end spot will be occupied by Tim Crowder. Crowder looks to build upon his sophomore campaign where he was also tabbed honorable mention All Big 12. Crowder registered 47 tackles, including 10 for a loss. He led the Longhorns with 4.5 sacks and 22 quarterback hurries respectively. Crowder is a rising star in the Texas defensive lineup, and has seen his name pop up on a few pre-season all American lists. He has a bundle of talent, and the ability to grow into a future first round NFL draft pick.
Impact Backups
DT # 97 Frank Okam (6-5 315 So.) Registered 22 tackles, 2 sacks, and 9 quarterback pressures in 2004. Excellent movement for his large frame, and will be a valuable backup along the interior trenches.
DT # 96 Derek Lokey (6-2 275 So.) Appeared in 11 games as a true freshman. Lokey was credited with 10 tackles, including 3 for a loss, and a half sack. Has great explosion for his size.
DE # 99 Kaelen Jakes (6-3 270 Sr.) Veteran, who has appeared in 19 games during his career. Recorded 3 tackles, and recovered a fumble in 2004.
Analysis
You are not going to find a whole lot of units in the country that are as good as this Texas bunch. They have excellent size, athletism, and quickness. Wright and Dibbles are an unbelievable tandem, and will really be tough for the OSU lineman to handle. When you add Crowder and Robison into the mix you have the makings of a highly lethal attack on defense. This is the biggest focal point, and will be the key to this ballgame. Ohio State has shown constant improvement along the offensive line dating back to late last season, and could possibly have one of the best units in the Big Ten by seasons end. They will be severely tested this week against this Texas line, which features All Big 12 caliber players in every position. If the Buckeyes control the line of scrimmage, Texas is in for a long night, if not … I hope the Columbus area emergency rooms are on standby … because it will be a nail biter to say the least.
DL Rating: A
Head to Head: Texas versus Ohio State
Texas (Robison, Wright, Dibbles, Crowder) vs Ohio State (Richardson, Green, Pitcock, Kudla)
Edge: Texas
Linebackers
OLB # 21 Eric Foreman (6-4 230 So.)
MLB # 2 Aaron Harris (6-0 230 Sr.)
OLB # 40 Robert Killebrew (6-2 230 So.)
Texas will feature a group of linebackers who will try to find a new leader after the departure of All American Derrick Johnson. Senior middle backer Aaron Harris seems to be the most likely candidate for this task. Harris is coming off a very good junior campaign, and is a preseason All Big 12 candidate. In 2004 Harris tallied up 118 tackles, including 10 for a loss, 2 sacks. In addition he also broke up 9 passes. Harris has always been a bit underrated, and in the shadows of Johnson. He has a great all around skills, and shows up to play in big games (18 tackles vs. Oklahoma in 2004), which shows a lot about his character. Now is his time to shine, and he will not find a bigger spotlight than Columbus this weekend.
After Harris there is a pretty decent drop off of experience, and possibly talent. Sophomore Robert Killebrew has the daunting task of filling the weak side spot that was held down by Johnson last season. Killebrew had 15 tackles in 2004, along with 2 QB pressures.
The final outside linebacker spot will be held down by Eric Foreman (No……not the one from the 70’s show). Foreman, a former quarterback … yes a QB … is coming off a 18 tackle season last year. Foreman is very athletic, and has fantastic speed.
Impact Backups
OLB # 49 Eric Hall (6-2 245 Sr.) Had 41 tackles, including 1 sack in 2004. He was also credited with 4 QB hurries. Has a lot of experience (played in 37 games in his career), and will fight with Foreman for playing time.
MLB # 44 Rashad Bobino (5-11 230 Fr-RS.) Hard hitting player, with the versatility to play either MLB or OLB. Look for Bobino to really emerge on the scene as the season progresses.
Analysis
As a unit this crew is not nearly as scary as the defensive line. Harris can certainly strap on the helmet and play some major ball from his MLB spot. After him, I just do not see anyone that really scares me a whole lot. There is no questioning the talent level, but they leave a lot to be desired from an experience standpoint. I would not be making an exaggerated statement to call them the weak spot on the Longhorn defense. Look for Ohio State to really try to mix them up with screens, and quick hitters over the middle. Look for Foreman and Killebrew to have a hard time adjusting to the big game environment. This unit certainly could be exposed by the Buckeyes.
LB Rating: B-
Head to Head: Texas versus Ohio State
Texas (Foreman, Harris, Killebrew) vs Ohio St (Hawk, Carpenter, Schlegel)
Edge: Ohio St.
Secondary
CB # 8 Cedric Griffin (6-2 205 Sr.)
FS # 27 Michael Griffin (6-0 205 Jr.)
SS # 7 Michael Huff (6-1 205 Sr.)
CB # 31 Aaron Ross (6-1 192 Jr.)
Texas will be led in the secondary by senior strong safety Michael Huff. Huff, a Thorpe award candidate and 2nd team all Big 12 pick a year ago, looks to anchor a solid Texas secondary. In 2004 Huff had a total of 74 tackles, 14 pass breakups, and 2 interceptions. Huff has 6 career interceptions, he has returned 4 of them for touchdowns. He only needs one more to tie an NCAA record for most in a career, which is a remarkable feat and truly demonstrates his athletism. Huff is also a track standout, and posted a blazing 10.59 in the 100 M dash last season for the Longhorn track team. As you can see he is certainly a fantastic athlete with excellent size and range. Ohio State will have to keep an eye on Huff at all times in this contest, he has serious big play capability.
The Michael Griffin will get the nod at free safety for the Longhorns. Griffin posted 48 tackles, including 2 tackles for a loss, 1 sack, and 2 QB pressures. He also broke up 3 passes, blocked 2 kicks, and picked off a pass, serving mainly as a backup for the Horns in 2004. Griffin has an excellent blend of speed, athletisim and is certainly not afraid to come up and stick someone.
Cedric Griffin will get the start at one of the corner spots, which will without a doubt be tested by an excellent bunch of OSU WR’s. Griffin, a two year starter at CB, looks to have a big senior season. He was tabbed preseason 1st team All Big 12, and is rated in the top 15 of all CB’s in the land. In 2004 he registered 68 tackles, including 3 for a loss, 2 interceptions, and 6 pass breakups. He is longtime regular, who certainly knows what he is doing back in the Longhorn secondary. His 6-2 frame gives him an edge over a lot receivers, and he has solid cover skills. He will be thoroughly tested this week, and will be called upon to be on either Holmes or Ginn for most of the contest … which is no easy task.
Aaron Ross will get the nod at the other corner spot for the Horns. Ross will look to take over the CB spot in his junior campaign after being hobbled by a hamstring injury most of last season. He finished the season with 36 tackles, 3 pass breakups, and 1 interception. Ross will probably split a lot of time with Tarrell Brown, as he did last season.
Impact Backups
CB # 5 Tarell Brown (6-0 200 Jr.) Speedy junior who has played in 25 games in his career, including 12 starts. Had 42 tackles, including 5 for a loss and a sack in 2004. He also picked off 2 passes during the 2004 campaign. May split time at corner with Ross.
SS # 4 Drew Kelson (6-2 215 So.) Versatile, hard hitting sophomore played some RB, safety, and special teams in 2004. Packed full of potential, look for him to find his way on to the field, especially if Huff plays some CB.
Analysis
Texas certainly does not lack athletic talent in their secondary. Huff is being talked about as a potential All-American, and Griffin is not too far behind. Every starter in this backfield has excellent speed, and size, which will make for some interesting match-ups against the speedy OSU receiving corps. Look for OSU to attack Ross early on, and see if they can rattle him. The Buckeyes will need to keep their eyes of Huff, he is capable of really shifting the momentum of a game with one play. Texas is very solid in the secondary as a whole, and does not have many cracks, if any I’d probably have to say Ross is the weakest link. If Texas can get solid play out of their secondary, they will be very tough to move the ball against.
Head to Head: Texas versus Ohio State
Texas (Griffin, Griffin, Huff, Ross) vs Ohio St. (Youboty, Everett, Salley, Whitner)
Edge: Ohio St.
DB Rating: B+
Overall Analysis
Oh, boy what can you say about this game? Hell, I’m getting goose bumps just typing this preview. This one has been on the minds of the whole nation as the season has approached. Many Buckeye and Horns fans’ have had this one circled for years. Both sides’ fans have boasted why they are the better team, analysts have spoken why one team will beat the other. What does this all mean? Not a damn thing. The time has come for Ohio State and Texas to either put up or shut up, the hype is over. Both teams have aspirations to make an appearance at the Rose Bowl this holiday season, this is THE GAME that will make or break the season of both teams in my opinion. Texas has a very solid defense, but OSU has faced much stronger. Execution is the key this week for the Buckeyes. The return of Troy Smith will be a very large shot in the arm for the Bucks. Not only does Troy bring back his talent, but he also brings that uncoachable moxie that seems to propel this Buckeye squad. This one has all the billings to be a barn burner, and if Texas can get solid play from their defensive line, and a little extra from their LB’s and secondary … they could walk out of Columbus with the win. I just don’t see it happening though, not with Jim Tressel, not with a stadium full of 105,000 rabid fans … just waiting to burst. A big game from Ginn or Smith or Holmes against this defense, in front of a national audience could propel one to the front of the Heisman race … Now all that the have to do is play the game, I’ve been waiting a long time to say that …
Overall Defensive Rating: B+
Texas brings to Columbus a defense that lost a few key pieces of the puzzle that led them to a very strong showing in 2004. Gone is Derrick Johnson, one of the best LB’s to ever play at Texas. Gone is defensive coordinator Greg Robinson. Texas finished up the 2004 season allowing 320 yards (23rd Nationally), and 18 points per contest (18th Nationally). Gene Chizik came over from Auburn in the off season, and is now ready to run the show for the Horns defensively. He will inherit a very strong defensive line, and solid secondary. The one area that he will need to work on is the linebackers, who will look to replace their biggest playmaker. He is a very good coach, but does he have the firepower to piece together a championship caliber defense? Time will tell …
Defensive Line
DE # 39 Brian Robison (6-3 267 Jr.)
DT # 90 Rodrique Wright (6-5 315 Sr.)
DT # 92 Larry Dibbles (6-2 285 Sr.)
DE # 80 Tim Crowder (6-4 270 Jr.)
Texas comes into Columbus featuring one of the best defensive lines in the country. They are led by a pair of All American candidates at tackle. 4 year starter Rodrique Wright will get the nod at one of the tackle spots. Wright, who fought an ankle injury throughout the 2004 season, comes into Columbus healthy and ready to go. As a junior Wright amassed 36 tackles, including 3 tackles for a loss, 7 QB pressues, and a sack. His name has popped up on the Lombardi Award, Bednarik Award, and Nagurski Trophy watch lists. He was also tabbed preseason 1st team All American by Playboy and Street and Smith’s. Wright, a surefire top 20 pick in next year’s NFL draft, has an amazing blend of size, speed, explosion, and athleticism. He is an absolute beast in the trenches, and someone who the Buckeyes must contain if they want to have any success moving the ball. It will be very interesting to see how OSU plays Wright. He has the ability to change a game plan if he gets a lot of pressure early on.
The other tackle spot will be handled by senior Larry Dibbles. When teamed with Wright, they form arguably the most effective due of tackles in the whole country. Dibbles, a second team all Big 12 performer in 2004, is primed to put up some gaudy numbers in his senior campaign. As a junior he tallied up 49 tackles, including 1.5 sacks, 9 QB pressures, and 6 broken up passes. Dibbles, who has excellent quickness on the inside, will look to take advantage of this against the Buckeyes. As the game unfolds, it will be very interesting to see the key match-up of Dibbles (who also shifts into a nose tackle spot) and OSU center Nick Mangold. This will be one of the key match ups of the game.
Texas will feature a pair of juniors at the defensive end position. One spot will be held down by Brian Robison. Robison, a former linebacker, has really established himself as a mainstay in the opposition’s backfield. He’s coming off a honorable mention All Big 12 season, where he tallied up 48 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 14 tackles for a loss, and 18 quarterback pressures. In addition, he has also blocked 4 kicks in his career. Robison is a fantastic multi-multisport athlete (also is a member of track team), and has the uncanny ability to find his way into the opposition’s backfield. He has the capability to have a very big game if he can put it all together, OSU has to be very wary of Mr. Robison.
The other end spot will be occupied by Tim Crowder. Crowder looks to build upon his sophomore campaign where he was also tabbed honorable mention All Big 12. Crowder registered 47 tackles, including 10 for a loss. He led the Longhorns with 4.5 sacks and 22 quarterback hurries respectively. Crowder is a rising star in the Texas defensive lineup, and has seen his name pop up on a few pre-season all American lists. He has a bundle of talent, and the ability to grow into a future first round NFL draft pick.
Impact Backups
DT # 97 Frank Okam (6-5 315 So.) Registered 22 tackles, 2 sacks, and 9 quarterback pressures in 2004. Excellent movement for his large frame, and will be a valuable backup along the interior trenches.
DT # 96 Derek Lokey (6-2 275 So.) Appeared in 11 games as a true freshman. Lokey was credited with 10 tackles, including 3 for a loss, and a half sack. Has great explosion for his size.
DE # 99 Kaelen Jakes (6-3 270 Sr.) Veteran, who has appeared in 19 games during his career. Recorded 3 tackles, and recovered a fumble in 2004.
Analysis
You are not going to find a whole lot of units in the country that are as good as this Texas bunch. They have excellent size, athletism, and quickness. Wright and Dibbles are an unbelievable tandem, and will really be tough for the OSU lineman to handle. When you add Crowder and Robison into the mix you have the makings of a highly lethal attack on defense. This is the biggest focal point, and will be the key to this ballgame. Ohio State has shown constant improvement along the offensive line dating back to late last season, and could possibly have one of the best units in the Big Ten by seasons end. They will be severely tested this week against this Texas line, which features All Big 12 caliber players in every position. If the Buckeyes control the line of scrimmage, Texas is in for a long night, if not … I hope the Columbus area emergency rooms are on standby … because it will be a nail biter to say the least.
DL Rating: A
Head to Head: Texas versus Ohio State
Texas (Robison, Wright, Dibbles, Crowder) vs Ohio State (Richardson, Green, Pitcock, Kudla)
Edge: Texas
Linebackers
OLB # 21 Eric Foreman (6-4 230 So.)
MLB # 2 Aaron Harris (6-0 230 Sr.)
OLB # 40 Robert Killebrew (6-2 230 So.)
Texas will feature a group of linebackers who will try to find a new leader after the departure of All American Derrick Johnson. Senior middle backer Aaron Harris seems to be the most likely candidate for this task. Harris is coming off a very good junior campaign, and is a preseason All Big 12 candidate. In 2004 Harris tallied up 118 tackles, including 10 for a loss, 2 sacks. In addition he also broke up 9 passes. Harris has always been a bit underrated, and in the shadows of Johnson. He has a great all around skills, and shows up to play in big games (18 tackles vs. Oklahoma in 2004), which shows a lot about his character. Now is his time to shine, and he will not find a bigger spotlight than Columbus this weekend.
After Harris there is a pretty decent drop off of experience, and possibly talent. Sophomore Robert Killebrew has the daunting task of filling the weak side spot that was held down by Johnson last season. Killebrew had 15 tackles in 2004, along with 2 QB pressures.
The final outside linebacker spot will be held down by Eric Foreman (No……not the one from the 70’s show). Foreman, a former quarterback … yes a QB … is coming off a 18 tackle season last year. Foreman is very athletic, and has fantastic speed.
Impact Backups
OLB # 49 Eric Hall (6-2 245 Sr.) Had 41 tackles, including 1 sack in 2004. He was also credited with 4 QB hurries. Has a lot of experience (played in 37 games in his career), and will fight with Foreman for playing time.
MLB # 44 Rashad Bobino (5-11 230 Fr-RS.) Hard hitting player, with the versatility to play either MLB or OLB. Look for Bobino to really emerge on the scene as the season progresses.
Analysis
As a unit this crew is not nearly as scary as the defensive line. Harris can certainly strap on the helmet and play some major ball from his MLB spot. After him, I just do not see anyone that really scares me a whole lot. There is no questioning the talent level, but they leave a lot to be desired from an experience standpoint. I would not be making an exaggerated statement to call them the weak spot on the Longhorn defense. Look for Ohio State to really try to mix them up with screens, and quick hitters over the middle. Look for Foreman and Killebrew to have a hard time adjusting to the big game environment. This unit certainly could be exposed by the Buckeyes.
LB Rating: B-
Head to Head: Texas versus Ohio State
Texas (Foreman, Harris, Killebrew) vs Ohio St (Hawk, Carpenter, Schlegel)
Edge: Ohio St.
Secondary
CB # 8 Cedric Griffin (6-2 205 Sr.)
FS # 27 Michael Griffin (6-0 205 Jr.)
SS # 7 Michael Huff (6-1 205 Sr.)
CB # 31 Aaron Ross (6-1 192 Jr.)
Texas will be led in the secondary by senior strong safety Michael Huff. Huff, a Thorpe award candidate and 2nd team all Big 12 pick a year ago, looks to anchor a solid Texas secondary. In 2004 Huff had a total of 74 tackles, 14 pass breakups, and 2 interceptions. Huff has 6 career interceptions, he has returned 4 of them for touchdowns. He only needs one more to tie an NCAA record for most in a career, which is a remarkable feat and truly demonstrates his athletism. Huff is also a track standout, and posted a blazing 10.59 in the 100 M dash last season for the Longhorn track team. As you can see he is certainly a fantastic athlete with excellent size and range. Ohio State will have to keep an eye on Huff at all times in this contest, he has serious big play capability.
The Michael Griffin will get the nod at free safety for the Longhorns. Griffin posted 48 tackles, including 2 tackles for a loss, 1 sack, and 2 QB pressures. He also broke up 3 passes, blocked 2 kicks, and picked off a pass, serving mainly as a backup for the Horns in 2004. Griffin has an excellent blend of speed, athletisim and is certainly not afraid to come up and stick someone.
Cedric Griffin will get the start at one of the corner spots, which will without a doubt be tested by an excellent bunch of OSU WR’s. Griffin, a two year starter at CB, looks to have a big senior season. He was tabbed preseason 1st team All Big 12, and is rated in the top 15 of all CB’s in the land. In 2004 he registered 68 tackles, including 3 for a loss, 2 interceptions, and 6 pass breakups. He is longtime regular, who certainly knows what he is doing back in the Longhorn secondary. His 6-2 frame gives him an edge over a lot receivers, and he has solid cover skills. He will be thoroughly tested this week, and will be called upon to be on either Holmes or Ginn for most of the contest … which is no easy task.
Aaron Ross will get the nod at the other corner spot for the Horns. Ross will look to take over the CB spot in his junior campaign after being hobbled by a hamstring injury most of last season. He finished the season with 36 tackles, 3 pass breakups, and 1 interception. Ross will probably split a lot of time with Tarrell Brown, as he did last season.
Impact Backups
CB # 5 Tarell Brown (6-0 200 Jr.) Speedy junior who has played in 25 games in his career, including 12 starts. Had 42 tackles, including 5 for a loss and a sack in 2004. He also picked off 2 passes during the 2004 campaign. May split time at corner with Ross.
SS # 4 Drew Kelson (6-2 215 So.) Versatile, hard hitting sophomore played some RB, safety, and special teams in 2004. Packed full of potential, look for him to find his way on to the field, especially if Huff plays some CB.
Analysis
Texas certainly does not lack athletic talent in their secondary. Huff is being talked about as a potential All-American, and Griffin is not too far behind. Every starter in this backfield has excellent speed, and size, which will make for some interesting match-ups against the speedy OSU receiving corps. Look for OSU to attack Ross early on, and see if they can rattle him. The Buckeyes will need to keep their eyes of Huff, he is capable of really shifting the momentum of a game with one play. Texas is very solid in the secondary as a whole, and does not have many cracks, if any I’d probably have to say Ross is the weakest link. If Texas can get solid play out of their secondary, they will be very tough to move the ball against.
Head to Head: Texas versus Ohio State
Texas (Griffin, Griffin, Huff, Ross) vs Ohio St. (Youboty, Everett, Salley, Whitner)
Edge: Ohio St.
DB Rating: B+
Overall Analysis
Oh, boy what can you say about this game? Hell, I’m getting goose bumps just typing this preview. This one has been on the minds of the whole nation as the season has approached. Many Buckeye and Horns fans’ have had this one circled for years. Both sides’ fans have boasted why they are the better team, analysts have spoken why one team will beat the other. What does this all mean? Not a damn thing. The time has come for Ohio State and Texas to either put up or shut up, the hype is over. Both teams have aspirations to make an appearance at the Rose Bowl this holiday season, this is THE GAME that will make or break the season of both teams in my opinion. Texas has a very solid defense, but OSU has faced much stronger. Execution is the key this week for the Buckeyes. The return of Troy Smith will be a very large shot in the arm for the Bucks. Not only does Troy bring back his talent, but he also brings that uncoachable moxie that seems to propel this Buckeye squad. This one has all the billings to be a barn burner, and if Texas can get solid play from their defensive line, and a little extra from their LB’s and secondary … they could walk out of Columbus with the win. I just don’t see it happening though, not with Jim Tressel, not with a stadium full of 105,000 rabid fans … just waiting to burst. A big game from Ginn or Smith or Holmes against this defense, in front of a national audience could propel one to the front of the Heisman race … Now all that the have to do is play the game, I’ve been waiting a long time to say that …
Overall Defensive Rating: B+
Posts 2 & 3 of this thread contain reports on Special Teams, Recruiting Report,
Predictions, Behind the Numbers and Additional Information ... read on.
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