3yardsandacloud
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2006 Texas Longhorns Game Preview
written by: BB73, BuckeyeRyn, Buckeyeskickbuttocks, Bucklion, daddyphatsacs, Deety, EngineerHorn, FKAGobucks877, jwinslow, LordJeffBuck, osugrad21, OSUsushichic, PrincessPeach, and 3yardsandacloud
written by: BB73, BuckeyeRyn, Buckeyeskickbuttocks, Bucklion, daddyphatsacs, Deety, EngineerHorn, FKAGobucks877, jwinslow, LordJeffBuck, osugrad21, OSUsushichic, PrincessPeach, and 3yardsandacloud
It's finally game week for this much anticipated rematch. For those of you wondering why it's so difficult (and expensive) to acquire tickets for this contest, consider these facts:
Jan. 04, 2006 — No. 2 Texas 41, No. 1 USC 38 (Rose Bowl)
Jan. 03, 2003 — No. 2 Ohio St. 31, No. 1 Miami 24, 2OT (Fiesta Bowl)
Dec. 06, 1969 — No. 1 Texas 15, No. 2 Arkansas 14 (shortly after tOSU lost the #1 ranking in the 24-12 game in Bo's first year in Ann Arbor)
Jan. 01, 1969 — No. 1 Ohio State 27, No. 2 USC 16 (Rose Bowl vs. the O.J. Simpson team)
Jan. 01, 1964 — No. 1 Texas 28, No. 2 Navy 6 (Cotton Bowl vs. the Roger Staubach team)
Oct. 12, 1963 — No. 2 Texas 28, No. 1 Oklahoma 7 (the year of their first widely recognized national championship)
Texas fans may also recall an epic 15-15 tie with Oklahoma in 1984, but Texas was #1 and Oklahoma was #3 in the AP when they met.
Last year Mack Brown removed some rather large primates from his back. He had lost 8 straight games against top-10 opponents prior to last season, but Texas defeated #4 tOSU, #10 Texas Tech, and #1 USC. The Longhorns also broke a streak of 5 straight losses in the Red River Shootout, defeating an Oklahoma team that was unranked at the time. Their 21 consecutive wins are the most in the nation, and is their second-best streak ever, trailing only the 30 straight wins under Darrell Royal from 1968 through 1970.
Texas's all-time record at home: 470-110-13 (.820)
At DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium (since 1924): 321-88-10 (.778)
Against top-10 opponents in the AP poll, Ohio State teams coached by Jim Tressel are 6-2. The victories include the 3 Fiesta Bowls and 3 home wins: the 2002 Washington State game (25-7), the 2003 Iowa contest (19-10), and the 37-21 triumph over Michigan. The losses are the 2003 trip to Ann Arbor and the battle against the Longhorns last year.
And while we can't say for certain how much tickets will cost outside the gates of DKR on Saturday evening, 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, once again, thanks to the athletic departments at both of these universities for scheduling this classic confrontation.
Date and Time- This is the first time that Ohio State has played in a regular season game between the AP poll #1 and the AP poll #2.
- There has not been an AP #1 vs. AP #2 regular season football game since 1996 (Florida-Florida State, just before the bowl game rematch)
- This is the first time that a #1 football team has visited Austin since 1950. In that game, #7 Texas defeated top-ranked SMU 23-20, limiting Kyle Rote to minus 3 yards on 7 carries.
- There have only been 36 football games between AP #1 and AP #2 since the poll started in 1936.
- Combined, Texas and Ohio State are 6-0 in football games between AP #1 and AP #2
Jan. 04, 2006 — No. 2 Texas 41, No. 1 USC 38 (Rose Bowl)
Jan. 03, 2003 — No. 2 Ohio St. 31, No. 1 Miami 24, 2OT (Fiesta Bowl)
Dec. 06, 1969 — No. 1 Texas 15, No. 2 Arkansas 14 (shortly after tOSU lost the #1 ranking in the 24-12 game in Bo's first year in Ann Arbor)
Jan. 01, 1969 — No. 1 Ohio State 27, No. 2 USC 16 (Rose Bowl vs. the O.J. Simpson team)
Jan. 01, 1964 — No. 1 Texas 28, No. 2 Navy 6 (Cotton Bowl vs. the Roger Staubach team)
Oct. 12, 1963 — No. 2 Texas 28, No. 1 Oklahoma 7 (the year of their first widely recognized national championship)
Texas fans may also recall an epic 15-15 tie with Oklahoma in 1984, but Texas was #1 and Oklahoma was #3 in the AP when they met.
Last year Mack Brown removed some rather large primates from his back. He had lost 8 straight games against top-10 opponents prior to last season, but Texas defeated #4 tOSU, #10 Texas Tech, and #1 USC. The Longhorns also broke a streak of 5 straight losses in the Red River Shootout, defeating an Oklahoma team that was unranked at the time. Their 21 consecutive wins are the most in the nation, and is their second-best streak ever, trailing only the 30 straight wins under Darrell Royal from 1968 through 1970.
Texas's all-time record at home: 470-110-13 (.820)
At DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium (since 1924): 321-88-10 (.778)
Against top-10 opponents in the AP poll, Ohio State teams coached by Jim Tressel are 6-2. The victories include the 3 Fiesta Bowls and 3 home wins: the 2002 Washington State game (25-7), the 2003 Iowa contest (19-10), and the 37-21 triumph over Michigan. The losses are the 2003 trip to Ann Arbor and the battle against the Longhorns last year.
And while we can't say for certain how much tickets will cost outside the gates of DKR on Saturday evening, 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, once again, thanks to the athletic departments at both of these universities for scheduling this classic confrontation.
Date: Saturday, September 9th, 2006
Time: 8:00 EDT Kick-off
Location: Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium (Austin, TX)
Constructed: 1924 (Renovated in 1999)
Seating Capacity: 80,082
Playing Surface: TifSport Certified Bermudagrass (Joe Jamail Field)
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: ABC: Brent Musburger (Play-by-play), Bob Davie and Kirk Herbstreit (Analysis), and Lisa Salters (Sideline)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Jim Karsatos (Sideline)
2006 Texas Longhorns Offensive Preview
Returning starters: 7
After giving up a ton of yards to one player in Garrett Wolfe, but keeping a lid on the Husky scoring, the Buckeye defense now faces a stern test on the road at defending national champion Texas. Gone from a year ago is all-everything QB Vince Young, the difference-maker from a year ago who led the final and fatal drive in Columbus and then took over the National Championship game, willing the Horns to a victory over a media-described “invincible” USC team. Staying for 2006, however, is virtually everyone else, including most of Young’s weapons at the skill positions from a year ago, and the outstanding veteran offensive line, considered by many to be the best in the country.
The Horns came out of the gate in a hurry, piling up yards and points on the over-matched Mean Green from Denton. This opening contest has the Horns sitting 3rd in scoring offense (56 pts) and 32nd in total offense, rolling up 410 total yards, including 212 rushing. The new starting QB looked sharp and versatile, and the other skilled weapons look as good as or better than a year ago. The Horns host the Buckeyes loaded and ready to go ... it will be a difficult task for the defense to successfully control this offense.
Quarterbacks
QB #12 Colt McCoy (6-3, 195, FR, Jim Ned HS, Tuscola, TX)
Coach Mack Brown had the unenviable task of replacing the heart and soul of his team this season with a freshman. McCoy won the battle for the job over fellow freshman Jevan Snead, and in his first game, McCoy did not disappoint. He was sharp passing the ball, completing 12/19 (63.2%) for a respectable 178 yards and a very impressive 3 TDs with no INTs. He also carried the ball for 38 yards and a TD, including a 27-yarder, and he avoided being sacked a single time. He did not show a lot of the jitters or sloppy ball handling that one might expect from a freshman making his first start. Clearly he won’t be quite the versatile threat that Vince Young was, but what becomes obvious after seeing just a few plays is that they don’t have to transform this offense with him in there…he can do many of the same types of things Young could, and with time and experience, he should be an excellent QB. As it is, he played very well in game one, albeit against an overmatched opponent…what he does against a big-time opponent like Buckeyes…time will tell.
The backup is the freshman Snead (#7) who got some limited playing time at the end of game one. He went 3 for 7 for 20 yards and a pick, and carried it 3 times for 11 yards. He also could be a good QB, and it is difficult to judge him based on this very limited opportunity, but it seems as if he isn’t quite to the level that McCoy has reached to this point.
Senior Matthew McCoy rounds out the depth chart.
QB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Texas vs Ohio State
McCoy (P/R): 12/19 (63.2%), 178 yards, 3 TDs, 0 INTs, 194.0 rating; 4/38, 1 TD.
Smith (P/R): 18/25 (72.0%), 297 yards, 3 TDs, 0 INTs, 211.4 rating; 1/-1, 0 TDs.
McCoy is about the same size as last week’s opponent Horvath, but he moves around much better and can be much more dangerous with his feet. He also made better decisions last week, albeit against much lesser competition, but there is something to be said for a freshman QB who comes out of the gate taking care of the football. On the other side, it’s somewhat déjà vu, as Ohio State is the higher ranked team on the road with the versatile Heisman candidate at QB this year. Smith was exceptionally sharp passing the ball, connecting with a variety of targets, but particularly with explosive WR Ted Ginn Jr., whom he hit with 2 TD passes. He didn’t run the ball much in the first game, but with the way the offense was clicking, he didn’t have to. He is still very dangerous with his feet, but he has become an excellent passer as well, as indicated by his gaudy efficiency number from a year ago. Look for McCoy to acquit himself well, but Smith has experience with success in big games, and is the more polished player at this point. Both teams appear to have a drop-off below the starters, so the edge here goes to the Buckeyes.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
RB #22 Selvin Young (6-0, 210, SR, Jersey Village HS, Houston, TX)
RB #25 Jamaal Charles (6-1, 190, SO, Memorial HS, Port Arthur, TX)
FB #3 Chris Ogbonnaya (6-1, 215, SO, Strake Jesuit HS, Houston, TX)
The loss of Ramonce Taylor appeared to be a blow to the Texas offense, but it doesn’t appear they will miss a beat without him. Back is Young, a senior with plenty of experience who has battled injuries throughout his career. He is explosive when healthy, and carried it 12 times for 44 yards and a score in week 1, and also chipped in 3 catches for 26 yards and a TD. His impressive cuts to deke a LB out of his equipment and score at the end of the first half demonstrated both his ability, which is high, and also the health of his legs, which appears to be good. Young also brings leadership and experience, both of which will help out his young QB.
The quick emergence of Charles last year is an underrated factor in helping the Horns to their title, and his role will be very big this year as well. He was second on the team to Vince Young a year ago in rushing with 878 yards and 11 TDs, and he led the Longhorns in week 1, racking up 77 yards on 14 carries and scoring a TD. Charles is also a decent receiver out of the backfield (14 catches a year ago) so he could factor into the passing game as well.
Also available is Henry Melton (#37), a punishing bruiser (6-3, 270, SO) who carried for 432 yards and 10 TDs last year. He carried 5 times for 17 yards and a score against the Mean Green, and is a huge (both literally and figuratively) threat around the goal line.
Antwaun Hobbs (#28) also saw action in week 1, after carrying the ball 9 times a year ago. Ogbonnaya will see time at FB and also sees some limited time in the backfield at TB on occasion.
RB Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Texas vs Ohio State
Young: 12/44 yards, 1 TD, 3.7 YPC; 3 rec/26 yards, 1 TD, 8.7 YPR
Charles: 14/77 yards, 1 TD, 5.5 YPC; 0 rec
Melton: 5/17 yards, 1 TD, 3.4 YPC; 0 rec
Pittman: 19/111 yards, 1 TD, 5.8 YPC; 1 rec/0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
C Wells: 10/50, 1 TD, 5.0 YPC; 0 rec
M Wells: 5/15 yards, 0 TDs, 3.0 YPC; 1 rec, 30 yards, 0 TDs, 30.0 YPR
This is another one of those “water cooler conversation” points of contention. Both groups of backs are very deep and have an incredible amount of talent. Each corps has a nice mix of youth and experience, size and speed, and differing running styles such that defensive coordinators will have their hands more than full against both. Any of these backs is capable of having a big day, and it is rare to find 2 teams who are 3-deep at the position with this much talent. There is no discernable way to differentiate these crews based on a single game, so the answer to this question will come in the game itself. For now, suffice it to say that both groups can hold their own, and there’s about 115 other DI-A coaches who would love to get either.
Edge: Even
Wide Receivers
WR #4 Limas Sweed (6-5, 215, JR, Brenham HS, Washington, TX)
WR #5 Billy Pittman (6-0, 195, JR, Yoe HS, Cameron, TX)
WR #6 Quan Cosby (5-11, 200, SO, Mart HS, Mart, TX)
Sweed is the best of this group, and is a nightmare to cover given his combination of size and speed. He made several big plays in last year’s game, including the fatal TD catch that sealed it for the Horns. He caught 5 passes for 111 yards and 2 TDs in week 1, including a 60-yarder early. Sweed causes all kinds of matchup problems, and expect the Buckeyes to have their hands full with him all day.
Underrated 2nd-team All Big-12 receiver Billy Pittman led the team in receiving in 2005 with 34 catches for 750 yards and 5 TDs. He’s a bit smaller than Sweed, but runs good routes and can get open against quality secondaries. He bit the Buckeyes for 130 yards on 5 catches and a TD a year ago, and expect the defensive coaches top give him a lot of attention this week in the film room. He’ll have to play well again this week for the Horn passing game to excel.
Cosby had plenty of experience last year, finishing 4th on the team in receiving yards, and caught 2 passes for 20 yards in the opener. The former baseball player is a good athlete with good speed and can be a good weapon in the slot. He mostly enters the game when the Horns run 3 receiver sets.
At the backup positions, Nate Jones (#9) is a quality player who offers some experience. He caught 2 balls in the first game. Jordan Shipley (#8) figures to be the other significant backup, though he hasn't yet been able to translate his high school success (all-time leading receiver in Texas) into collegiate stardom. Myron Hardy (#23) also caught 2 passes in the first game as well.
WR Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Texas vs Ohio State
Sweed: 5 catches, 111 yards, 2 TDs, 22.2 YPR
Pittman: No stats in 2006
Cosby: 2 catches, 20 yards, 0 TDs, 10.0 YPR
Ginn Jr.: 4 catches, 123 yards, 2 TDs, 30.8 YPR
Gonzalez: 4 catches, 53 yards, 1 TD, 13.3 YPR
Robiskie: 3 catches, 32 yards, 0 TDs, 10.7 YPR
Again, based on one game with lesser competition, it’s hard to know how to read this one. Ginn is clearly the most explosive speed-wise, and he can break any pass for a huge gain. He’s also got great chemistry with his QB and former HS teammate right now, and is clicking on all cylinders after breaking out in last year’s Fiesta Bowl. Gonzalez also proved to be formidable last week. Sweed’s size will cause all kinds of problems, and Pittman is a solid receiver who had success against the Buckeyes last year. The 3rd receiver spot is a bit of an unknown for both teams in terms of how productive those players can be, and the backups for both teams got some early action and appear perfectly capable of contributing. One’s heart (and Ginn’s speed) might suggest the Buckeyes should have an advantage here, but truthfully these units are both good and capable of inflicting significant damage on the opposition. Like the RB situation, the play during the game will really answer this question, because both groups are going to need to make some tough catches if their teams are going to win.
Edge: Even
Tight Ends
TE #87 Neale Tweedie (6-5, 267, SR, Allen HS, Lucas, TX)
Gone is David Thomas, one of the best TEs in the country last year and one of the best at Texas in recent memory. Replacing him is former defensive end Tweedie, a bruiser and a punishing blocker who caught 2 passes last year. He won’t be the dynamic threat in the passing game that Thomas was, but he’s more than capable in the blocking department, and can be an occasional safety valve for the QB and could be dangerous in the red zone with his size.
Youngsters Jermichael Finley (#16) and Peter Ullman (#86) are the backups. Finley is a bit undersized for a TE (220) but could be dangerous downfield in time, and Ullman caught a TD pass last year and is a capable blocker.
TE Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Texas vs Ohio State
Tweedie: No stats in 2006
Nicol: 2 rec, 14 yards, 0 TDs, 7.0 YPR
Not a lot to go on here, neither side will probably use their TE significantly (at least downfield) in the passing game Saturday. Tweedie is a senior with experience and is a punishing blocker, while Nicol is younger and adjusting to being the starter. Given the extra size and the importance in the running game, the slight edge here goes to Tweedie and the Horns, though the difference really isn’t sizable.
Edge: Texas
Offensive Line
LT #79 Tony Hills (6-6, 295, JR, Alief Elsik HS, Houston, TX)
LG #64 Kasey Studdard (6-3, 295, SR, Highlands Ranch HS, Lone Tree, CO)
C #62 Lyle Sendlein (6-5, 305, SR, Chaparral HS, Scottsdale, AZ)
RG #55 Cedric Dockery (6-4, 325, SO, Centennial HS, Garland, TX)
RT #63 Justin Blalock (6-4, 330, SR, East HS, Plano, TX)
This line is outstanding, plain and simple. Many believe that Blalock is the best lineman in the country, and would have been a top 15 pick had he left early for the draft. Instead, he is back, and anchors a line that is talented and athletic, as well as being large and mean. Dockery is a monster at RG, and together with Blalock opens big holes for the running game on the right side. The left side of the line is more agile, with the good-sized but athletic Hills at LT and the experienced Studdard manning the LG position. Sendlein is also a bulldozer up the middle, and as a 5th year player he provides a wealth of leadership and experience.
Expect freshman Adam Ulatoski (#74) to see some time at the tackle spots, and Dallas Griffin (#71) and Chris Hall (#67) could also see time on the interior.
OL Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Texas vs Ohio State
This is another fun one to watch, and will determine which offense functions best. The Buckeyes also have a wealth of quality veteran players up front, athletic and big with a nasty streak. Both lines protected their QBs well in the first game, and opened holes for the ground game all day against overmatched competition. The Texas line will be tested this week, because the Buckeyes were able to pressure Young a lot last year. Similarly the Buckeye line will have to play well to keep the ground game going and give Ginn time to get open. Hard to find a whole lot wrong with either of these 2 lines, but the Longhorns have the best player and a wealth of experience, and get the slight edge here.
Edge: Texas
Overall Offensive Analysis
This is going to be one interesting game, and could be the game of the year in college football for the second year in a row. For Texas, the key will be to keep pressure off their young QB, giving him time to throw to his capable receivers, and especially to establish the ground game early with Young and Charles. The Buckeyes will need to slow down the running game early and disrupt the young QB’s timing on his throws. It will be interesting to see how the QB holds up under the big-game pressure, and whether the other skill players that Texas has can deliver the goods when it counts like they did last year (especially Sweed). As with most games, turnovers could be the key. If the Buckeyes can’t force any turnovers or get any sacks, it could be a long day in Austin.
Overall Offensive Rating: A-
After giving up a ton of yards to one player in Garrett Wolfe, but keeping a lid on the Husky scoring, the Buckeye defense now faces a stern test on the road at defending national champion Texas. Gone from a year ago is all-everything QB Vince Young, the difference-maker from a year ago who led the final and fatal drive in Columbus and then took over the National Championship game, willing the Horns to a victory over a media-described “invincible” USC team. Staying for 2006, however, is virtually everyone else, including most of Young’s weapons at the skill positions from a year ago, and the outstanding veteran offensive line, considered by many to be the best in the country.
The Horns came out of the gate in a hurry, piling up yards and points on the over-matched Mean Green from Denton. This opening contest has the Horns sitting 3rd in scoring offense (56 pts) and 32nd in total offense, rolling up 410 total yards, including 212 rushing. The new starting QB looked sharp and versatile, and the other skilled weapons look as good as or better than a year ago. The Horns host the Buckeyes loaded and ready to go ... it will be a difficult task for the defense to successfully control this offense.
Quarterbacks
QB #12 Colt McCoy (6-3, 195, FR, Jim Ned HS, Tuscola, TX)
Coach Mack Brown had the unenviable task of replacing the heart and soul of his team this season with a freshman. McCoy won the battle for the job over fellow freshman Jevan Snead, and in his first game, McCoy did not disappoint. He was sharp passing the ball, completing 12/19 (63.2%) for a respectable 178 yards and a very impressive 3 TDs with no INTs. He also carried the ball for 38 yards and a TD, including a 27-yarder, and he avoided being sacked a single time. He did not show a lot of the jitters or sloppy ball handling that one might expect from a freshman making his first start. Clearly he won’t be quite the versatile threat that Vince Young was, but what becomes obvious after seeing just a few plays is that they don’t have to transform this offense with him in there…he can do many of the same types of things Young could, and with time and experience, he should be an excellent QB. As it is, he played very well in game one, albeit against an overmatched opponent…what he does against a big-time opponent like Buckeyes…time will tell.
The backup is the freshman Snead (#7) who got some limited playing time at the end of game one. He went 3 for 7 for 20 yards and a pick, and carried it 3 times for 11 yards. He also could be a good QB, and it is difficult to judge him based on this very limited opportunity, but it seems as if he isn’t quite to the level that McCoy has reached to this point.
Senior Matthew McCoy rounds out the depth chart.
QB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Texas vs Ohio State
McCoy (P/R): 12/19 (63.2%), 178 yards, 3 TDs, 0 INTs, 194.0 rating; 4/38, 1 TD.
Smith (P/R): 18/25 (72.0%), 297 yards, 3 TDs, 0 INTs, 211.4 rating; 1/-1, 0 TDs.
McCoy is about the same size as last week’s opponent Horvath, but he moves around much better and can be much more dangerous with his feet. He also made better decisions last week, albeit against much lesser competition, but there is something to be said for a freshman QB who comes out of the gate taking care of the football. On the other side, it’s somewhat déjà vu, as Ohio State is the higher ranked team on the road with the versatile Heisman candidate at QB this year. Smith was exceptionally sharp passing the ball, connecting with a variety of targets, but particularly with explosive WR Ted Ginn Jr., whom he hit with 2 TD passes. He didn’t run the ball much in the first game, but with the way the offense was clicking, he didn’t have to. He is still very dangerous with his feet, but he has become an excellent passer as well, as indicated by his gaudy efficiency number from a year ago. Look for McCoy to acquit himself well, but Smith has experience with success in big games, and is the more polished player at this point. Both teams appear to have a drop-off below the starters, so the edge here goes to the Buckeyes.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
RB #22 Selvin Young (6-0, 210, SR, Jersey Village HS, Houston, TX)
RB #25 Jamaal Charles (6-1, 190, SO, Memorial HS, Port Arthur, TX)
FB #3 Chris Ogbonnaya (6-1, 215, SO, Strake Jesuit HS, Houston, TX)
The loss of Ramonce Taylor appeared to be a blow to the Texas offense, but it doesn’t appear they will miss a beat without him. Back is Young, a senior with plenty of experience who has battled injuries throughout his career. He is explosive when healthy, and carried it 12 times for 44 yards and a score in week 1, and also chipped in 3 catches for 26 yards and a TD. His impressive cuts to deke a LB out of his equipment and score at the end of the first half demonstrated both his ability, which is high, and also the health of his legs, which appears to be good. Young also brings leadership and experience, both of which will help out his young QB.
The quick emergence of Charles last year is an underrated factor in helping the Horns to their title, and his role will be very big this year as well. He was second on the team to Vince Young a year ago in rushing with 878 yards and 11 TDs, and he led the Longhorns in week 1, racking up 77 yards on 14 carries and scoring a TD. Charles is also a decent receiver out of the backfield (14 catches a year ago) so he could factor into the passing game as well.
Also available is Henry Melton (#37), a punishing bruiser (6-3, 270, SO) who carried for 432 yards and 10 TDs last year. He carried 5 times for 17 yards and a score against the Mean Green, and is a huge (both literally and figuratively) threat around the goal line.
Antwaun Hobbs (#28) also saw action in week 1, after carrying the ball 9 times a year ago. Ogbonnaya will see time at FB and also sees some limited time in the backfield at TB on occasion.
RB Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Texas vs Ohio State
Young: 12/44 yards, 1 TD, 3.7 YPC; 3 rec/26 yards, 1 TD, 8.7 YPR
Charles: 14/77 yards, 1 TD, 5.5 YPC; 0 rec
Melton: 5/17 yards, 1 TD, 3.4 YPC; 0 rec
Pittman: 19/111 yards, 1 TD, 5.8 YPC; 1 rec/0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
C Wells: 10/50, 1 TD, 5.0 YPC; 0 rec
M Wells: 5/15 yards, 0 TDs, 3.0 YPC; 1 rec, 30 yards, 0 TDs, 30.0 YPR
This is another one of those “water cooler conversation” points of contention. Both groups of backs are very deep and have an incredible amount of talent. Each corps has a nice mix of youth and experience, size and speed, and differing running styles such that defensive coordinators will have their hands more than full against both. Any of these backs is capable of having a big day, and it is rare to find 2 teams who are 3-deep at the position with this much talent. There is no discernable way to differentiate these crews based on a single game, so the answer to this question will come in the game itself. For now, suffice it to say that both groups can hold their own, and there’s about 115 other DI-A coaches who would love to get either.
Edge: Even
Wide Receivers
WR #4 Limas Sweed (6-5, 215, JR, Brenham HS, Washington, TX)
WR #5 Billy Pittman (6-0, 195, JR, Yoe HS, Cameron, TX)
WR #6 Quan Cosby (5-11, 200, SO, Mart HS, Mart, TX)
Sweed is the best of this group, and is a nightmare to cover given his combination of size and speed. He made several big plays in last year’s game, including the fatal TD catch that sealed it for the Horns. He caught 5 passes for 111 yards and 2 TDs in week 1, including a 60-yarder early. Sweed causes all kinds of matchup problems, and expect the Buckeyes to have their hands full with him all day.
Underrated 2nd-team All Big-12 receiver Billy Pittman led the team in receiving in 2005 with 34 catches for 750 yards and 5 TDs. He’s a bit smaller than Sweed, but runs good routes and can get open against quality secondaries. He bit the Buckeyes for 130 yards on 5 catches and a TD a year ago, and expect the defensive coaches top give him a lot of attention this week in the film room. He’ll have to play well again this week for the Horn passing game to excel.
Cosby had plenty of experience last year, finishing 4th on the team in receiving yards, and caught 2 passes for 20 yards in the opener. The former baseball player is a good athlete with good speed and can be a good weapon in the slot. He mostly enters the game when the Horns run 3 receiver sets.
At the backup positions, Nate Jones (#9) is a quality player who offers some experience. He caught 2 balls in the first game. Jordan Shipley (#8) figures to be the other significant backup, though he hasn't yet been able to translate his high school success (all-time leading receiver in Texas) into collegiate stardom. Myron Hardy (#23) also caught 2 passes in the first game as well.
WR Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Texas vs Ohio State
Sweed: 5 catches, 111 yards, 2 TDs, 22.2 YPR
Pittman: No stats in 2006
Cosby: 2 catches, 20 yards, 0 TDs, 10.0 YPR
Ginn Jr.: 4 catches, 123 yards, 2 TDs, 30.8 YPR
Gonzalez: 4 catches, 53 yards, 1 TD, 13.3 YPR
Robiskie: 3 catches, 32 yards, 0 TDs, 10.7 YPR
Again, based on one game with lesser competition, it’s hard to know how to read this one. Ginn is clearly the most explosive speed-wise, and he can break any pass for a huge gain. He’s also got great chemistry with his QB and former HS teammate right now, and is clicking on all cylinders after breaking out in last year’s Fiesta Bowl. Gonzalez also proved to be formidable last week. Sweed’s size will cause all kinds of problems, and Pittman is a solid receiver who had success against the Buckeyes last year. The 3rd receiver spot is a bit of an unknown for both teams in terms of how productive those players can be, and the backups for both teams got some early action and appear perfectly capable of contributing. One’s heart (and Ginn’s speed) might suggest the Buckeyes should have an advantage here, but truthfully these units are both good and capable of inflicting significant damage on the opposition. Like the RB situation, the play during the game will really answer this question, because both groups are going to need to make some tough catches if their teams are going to win.
Edge: Even
Tight Ends
TE #87 Neale Tweedie (6-5, 267, SR, Allen HS, Lucas, TX)
Gone is David Thomas, one of the best TEs in the country last year and one of the best at Texas in recent memory. Replacing him is former defensive end Tweedie, a bruiser and a punishing blocker who caught 2 passes last year. He won’t be the dynamic threat in the passing game that Thomas was, but he’s more than capable in the blocking department, and can be an occasional safety valve for the QB and could be dangerous in the red zone with his size.
Youngsters Jermichael Finley (#16) and Peter Ullman (#86) are the backups. Finley is a bit undersized for a TE (220) but could be dangerous downfield in time, and Ullman caught a TD pass last year and is a capable blocker.
TE Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Texas vs Ohio State
Tweedie: No stats in 2006
Nicol: 2 rec, 14 yards, 0 TDs, 7.0 YPR
Not a lot to go on here, neither side will probably use their TE significantly (at least downfield) in the passing game Saturday. Tweedie is a senior with experience and is a punishing blocker, while Nicol is younger and adjusting to being the starter. Given the extra size and the importance in the running game, the slight edge here goes to Tweedie and the Horns, though the difference really isn’t sizable.
Edge: Texas
Offensive Line
LT #79 Tony Hills (6-6, 295, JR, Alief Elsik HS, Houston, TX)
LG #64 Kasey Studdard (6-3, 295, SR, Highlands Ranch HS, Lone Tree, CO)
C #62 Lyle Sendlein (6-5, 305, SR, Chaparral HS, Scottsdale, AZ)
RG #55 Cedric Dockery (6-4, 325, SO, Centennial HS, Garland, TX)
RT #63 Justin Blalock (6-4, 330, SR, East HS, Plano, TX)
This line is outstanding, plain and simple. Many believe that Blalock is the best lineman in the country, and would have been a top 15 pick had he left early for the draft. Instead, he is back, and anchors a line that is talented and athletic, as well as being large and mean. Dockery is a monster at RG, and together with Blalock opens big holes for the running game on the right side. The left side of the line is more agile, with the good-sized but athletic Hills at LT and the experienced Studdard manning the LG position. Sendlein is also a bulldozer up the middle, and as a 5th year player he provides a wealth of leadership and experience.
Expect freshman Adam Ulatoski (#74) to see some time at the tackle spots, and Dallas Griffin (#71) and Chris Hall (#67) could also see time on the interior.
OL Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Texas vs Ohio State
This is another fun one to watch, and will determine which offense functions best. The Buckeyes also have a wealth of quality veteran players up front, athletic and big with a nasty streak. Both lines protected their QBs well in the first game, and opened holes for the ground game all day against overmatched competition. The Texas line will be tested this week, because the Buckeyes were able to pressure Young a lot last year. Similarly the Buckeye line will have to play well to keep the ground game going and give Ginn time to get open. Hard to find a whole lot wrong with either of these 2 lines, but the Longhorns have the best player and a wealth of experience, and get the slight edge here.
Edge: Texas
Overall Offensive Analysis
This is going to be one interesting game, and could be the game of the year in college football for the second year in a row. For Texas, the key will be to keep pressure off their young QB, giving him time to throw to his capable receivers, and especially to establish the ground game early with Young and Charles. The Buckeyes will need to slow down the running game early and disrupt the young QB’s timing on his throws. It will be interesting to see how the QB holds up under the big-game pressure, and whether the other skill players that Texas has can deliver the goods when it counts like they did last year (especially Sweed). As with most games, turnovers could be the key. If the Buckeyes can’t force any turnovers or get any sacks, it could be a long day in Austin.
Overall Offensive Rating: A-
2006 Texas Longhorns Defensive Preview
Returning Starters: 7
Yes fans, the time has finally come for the long awaited rematch from last years classic. Revenge will be on the mind for the Buckeyes this week as they travel to the unfriendly confines of Austin, TX looking for a piece of revenge from a loss that has stung all the way into the beginning of this season. Last season’s battle catapulted Texas towards a run to the national championship. Time will tell, but this one has all the ingredients to have that same effect on the national title picture. The stats below are where Texas finished defensively last season from a national standpoint.
Points per contest in: 16.4 points per game (8th Nationally)
Total yards surrendered: 302.9 yards per contest (10th Nationally)
Total Passing yards surrendered: 172 yards per game (8th Nationally)
Total Rushing yards surrendered: 130.9 yards per game (33rd Nationally)
Defensive Line
DE: #80 Tim Crowder (6-4 270 SR.)
DT: #96 Derek Lokey (6-2 275 JR.)
DT: #97 Frank Okam (6-5 315 JR.)
DE: #39 Brian Robison (6-3 275 SR.)
Texas will be led up front by senior All American candidate Tim Crowder. Crowder, who was an All-Big 12 pick by the coaches a year ago, will be making his 35th career start this week. Crowder had 50 tackles, including 9 for a loss, and 3 sacks in 2005. The most eye-popping stat of all was his 20 QB pressures from a year ago. He is a physically gifted player, who has great quickness to compliment his size. Ohio State will have their hands full with him this week. The other end spot will be manned by senior Brian Robison. Robison was an honorable mention All-Big 12 pick a year ago. He amassed 58 tackles, and led the team in tackles for loss (15), and sacks (7) in 2005. Robison is another experienced player (28 career starts), who possesses enormous athletic ability along this Texas defensive front 4. He has a 40 inch vertical leap, which he has used to block a record tying 6 career kicks. He’ll be a handful on Saturday night.
Leading the way on the interior for the Horns will be junior Frank Okam. Okam was 2nd team All-Big 12 performer in 2005. He had 48 tackles, including 5 tackles for a loss, and a sack last season. In addition, he was credited with 11 QB hurries. He’s got excellent size (315 LBS), experience (15 career starts), and fantastic quickness for someone his size. The other tackle spot will be manned by junior Derek Lokey. Lokey had a total of 17 tackles, including 2 for a loss, and a sack in 2005. Lokey has been a key reserve over the past few seasons for the Horns. He’s about 40 pounds lighter than Okam, so look for Ohio State to try to wear him down on the inside.
Overall Defensive Line Analysis:
All and all this is a very good unit once again this season, but I wouldn’t say they are as good as last year’s unit. The loss of Rodrique Wright will hurt them a bit, especially against inside runs. Lokey has performed admirably as a backup over the past couple of seasons, but when you substitute him for Wright, you lose a lot of girth on the inside. The Horns have a pair of fantastic ends, both of whom have the ability to disrupt the complexion of this contest. Look for Ohio State to neutralize their aggressiveness by a healthy dose of shotgun option plays. They say that football is won and lost in the trenches, and that will definitely be the case this week. If Ohio State can contain this very athletic Texas bunch, then Smith will have a huge day. If not, Smith will really be tested in a very hostile environment, which seems to be a showcase that he enjoys. My consensus is that he’ll enjoy it a hell of a lot more if he has time to make solid decisions.
DL Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Texas vs Ohio State
If I were basing this only on the defensive ends, I have to give the Horns the nod. Crowder and Robison are two of the better ends in the country this year. Plus, they have a lot of experience (63 career starts), which is something the Buckeyes do not have. The Buckeyes, however, have the better tackles. Pitcock and Patterson are potentially the best tackle tandem in college football this season. Texas has a great one in Okam, but Lokey is a bit of a drop-off in talent. So, in looking at the units as a whole, call this one a push. These are two of the best defensive lines in the country, and should both be very visible as this game unfolds.
Edge: Push
Linebackers
OLB: #40 Robert Killebrew (6-2 230 JR.)
MLB: #44 Rashad Bobino (5-11 230 SO.)
OLB: #4 Drew Kelson (6-2 215 JR.)
Or
OLB: #38 Roddrick Muckelroy (6-2 230 RS-FR.)
Texas will be led at linebacker by junior Robert Killebrew. Killebrew was an honorable mention All-Big 12 performer in 2005. He ended up with 67 tackles, including 10 for loss, and 4 sacks. He also recovered 2 fumbles and blocked 3 kicks a year ago. Killebrew is the key to the Horns linebacker unit; he has good range and isn’t afraid to hit someone. Texas will call upon Rashad Bobino to hold down the fort at the middle backer position. Bobino had 53 tackles, including 7 for a loss, along with 2 sacks. Bobino is a bit of a Sam Mills throwback linebacker, at least in stature, and isn’t afraid to stick his nose in there against the run. The final outside spot is a bit of a mystery with Drew Kelson nursing an ankle injury. Kelson is most famous for the heartbreaking strip of Justin Zwick last year, which sealed the deal for the Horns. Kelson tallied up 36 tackles, including 2 for a loss, and a sack in 2005. If Kelson isn’t able to go, look for redshirt freshman Roddrick Muckelroy to fill get another start this week. In week one against North Texas, Muckelroy had 3 tackles (including 1.5 for a loss). Muckelroy is a fantastic athlete, and has excellent speed. The Texas coaches are expecting big things out of him in the years to come.
Overall LB Analysis:
This Texas unit heads into week 2 looking to get back to the level they were a year ago. The loss of All-American Aaron Harris hurts this squad considerably, but it won’t make or break this unit as a whole. Killebrew is a very good player, and will end up on some postseason All-Big 12 lists. Outside of him, there are some question marks surrounding this unit. Muckelroy filled in admirably last week against North Texas, but you have to wonder if his inexperience will be exposed if Kelson’s ankle prevents him from playing this week. Top backup Sergio Kindle (6-4 225 Fr.) has also been fighting an ankle injury, which caused him to miss the opener against North Texas. So, depth could also become a factor for the Horns as this one progresses. Ohio State should be able to run the ball against this linebacker unit this week. Also look for the Buckeyes to get the ball out into the flats in an attempt to get a young player like Muckelroy to over-pursue. This unit is very solid, but they are not one that will make the opposition alter their game plan.
LB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Texas vs Ohio State
If Nelson’s health situation wasn’t uncertain, I’d probably lean this into Texas’ column, as uncertainty surrounds both of these units. Texas has injury concerns with one of its top backups. The potential of both of these units cannot be questioned, as each has the ability to be one of the better LB units in the country by mid-season. Ohio State has the bigger task of replacing their studs from a year ago, but they also have some people who have seen key playing time (Kerr, Laurinaitis) in key situations. I’ll call this one a push for now, because I just don’t know what unit will show up for either of these teams.
Edge: Push
Secondary
CB: #5 Tarell Brown (6-0 200 SR.)
SS: #27 Michael Griffin (6-0 205 SR.)
FS: #26 Marcus Griffin (6-0 195 JR.)
CB: #31 Aaron Ross (6-0 192 SR.)
Leading the way for the Longhorns in the secondary will be senior All-Big 12 performer Michael Griffin. Griffin has been put on the watch list for the Thorpe award, which goes to the nation’s best defensive back. Griffin is coming off a monster 2005 season which saw him tally up 124 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 8 pass break-ups. In addition, he also had 5 QB hurries, 3 fumble recoveries, and an amazing 4 blocked kicks. Needless to say, this guy is a flat out gamer...and he’ll have his nose in on about every play this week. If Griffin has a quiet game from his strong safety position, it could be a sign of very good things for the Buckeye offense. The other safety for the Longhorns will be Michael’s twin brother, Marcus. On a quick side note here, what are the odds of the Buckeyes facing a secondary in consecutive weeks which has featured a set of twin brothers? First the Hansboro brothers for Northern Illinois, and now the Griffin brothers for Texas. I wonder if it’s ever been done? Ok, now back to your regularly scheduled programming...
Marcus is faced with the daunting task of replacing 2005 Thorpe winner Michael Huff. Marcus is a former walk-on, and was awarded a scholarship by Texas prior to the 2005 season. He tallied 32 tackles, serving mainly as a backup to his brother at free safety. You can bet your bottom dollar that Ohio State is going to test him deep early on in this ballgame.
Getting the start for the Longhorns at one of the corner spots will be senior Tarrell Brown. Brown had 70 tackles, including 2 for a loss, last season. He also picked off a pass, and broke up 8 others. In my opinion Brown is the key to this Texas secondary. He has started 25 career games, and isn’t afraid to stick his nose in there and really lay the wood on an opposing tailback. He’s doesn’t receive the most accolades, but he’s a very consistent performer. Texas will need a very solid performance out of him this week. The other corner spot for the Horns will occupied by senior Aaron Ross. Ross had 62 tackles, including 2 for a loss in 2005. In addition, he also picked off 3 passes, and broke up 9 others. Ross has a lot less experience at corner than his counterpart Brown; in fact, this will be only his 4th career start. Look for the Buckeyes to send the ball to his side of the field quite a bit this week.
Overall Secondary Analysis:
Well, as I finished up this preview I learned of CB Tarrell Brown's arrest on marijuana and weapons charges. If Brown is out of this contest, it will hurt the Longhorns quite a bit. Brown has more experience than any other cornerback (by a landslide), and his loss will be monumental for the Horns. This could open the door for a monster performance by Ted Ginn. Look for speedy junior Brandon Foster (5-9 180) to fill in as Brown is suspended for this contest.
The one quality that this Texas secondary has is its ability to play a very physical style of football. They also have quite a bit of speed as a whole. The X factor among this unit will be how well Marcus Griffin performs as a starter against one of (if not the most) talented offenses in the country. Michael Griffin is a sure first day NFL draft pick next spring. I’m still not 100% sold on Texas’ corner tandem. They can hit like a ton of bricks, but they also surrendered 365 yards passing against USC last year, and also 369 yards to Texas Tech. The Tech game was probably due to it being a blowout, but USC was the real deal. It seemed like the Trojans moved the ball down the field with ease against this defensive unit. If Ohio State was smart, they would be studying tape of the Trojan’s offense in the title game. Regardless, this secondary vs. the Ohio State wide receivers will be a crucial matchup on Saturday night. These guys are good, but I honestly think the Buckeyes can put up big yards on them through the air.
DB Rating: A- (B/ B+ without Tarrell Brown)
Head-to-Head: Texas vs Ohio State
Michael Griffin is the biggest star of both of these secondary units. I think that Malcom Jenkins is probably the most talented player out of the set of cornerbacks, but Texas has the experience factor in their favor. Also, keep in mind that most of this secondary played a major role in their National Championship last season, and you cannot put a price on that. Texas gets the nod here, as they are just a much more experienced, better tackling unit.
Edge: Texas
Overall Defensive Analysis
Texas is faced with the daunting task of replacing an All-American caliber player on the line (Wright), at the linebacker position (Harris), and in the secondary (Huff). Whether or not this will be a factor this week remains to be seen. One thing is certain: on paper, Texas is one of the few teams in the country that can match OSU, top to bottom, from a talent standpoint. In fact, they are actually a better unit (as a whole) than the Buckeyes at this point in the season, if only because of their experience. The one question mark that surrounds this unit is the health of their linebackers. They have 2 guys in their two-deep rotation that could be out or limited in action this week. Factor in the conditioning that they have missed, in what will likely be a very warm and humid evening, and you can see a potential problem brewing for the Longhorn defense. Of course, they will be able to get plenty of disruption from their ends, but they are not going to be the force that they were from their tackle positions last season. Their secondary is very talented, but I think that the Buckeyes are going to be able to move the ball against them. This is especially true with the cloud of uncertainty hanging over the Horns with the recent arrest of Tarrell Brown. If he’s out, their secondary suddenly becomes much more vulnerable. Look for Marcus Griffin to be tested on some long balls this week. Also look for the Buckeyes to try to lure a very aggressive Michael Griffin up close to the line with the run, and try to beat him over the middle with play-action passes. Roy Hall may play a very big role in this game over the middle. The passes over the middle were there last season for the Bucks, and they will be there again this season, especially if they can wear down a thin Texas linebacker unit. Keep in mind, Ohio State’s offense is leaps-and-bounds better than they were going into this game last season. Defensively, Texas is not as good as they were a year ago. Troy Smith seems to thrive under the pressure of big game situations, and has shown Vince Young-like abilities to take the team on his shoulders and win these types of contests. Look for a monster game out of Smith this week (250+ passing, 90+ yards running), and for him to eventually lead the Buckeyes to a huge victory over the Horns this weekend in Austin. Big games come and go, and players pass through the system every handful of years. The true legends of college football are created on their ability to step up when the whole nation is watching. When this game is over and another legendary tale in the chapters of the college football history books has passed, who is going to be the one that we all remember? That is why they play the game, and that what makes college football the greatest sport in all the land.
Overall Defensive Rating: A- (B+ without Tarrell Brown)
Yes fans, the time has finally come for the long awaited rematch from last years classic. Revenge will be on the mind for the Buckeyes this week as they travel to the unfriendly confines of Austin, TX looking for a piece of revenge from a loss that has stung all the way into the beginning of this season. Last season’s battle catapulted Texas towards a run to the national championship. Time will tell, but this one has all the ingredients to have that same effect on the national title picture. The stats below are where Texas finished defensively last season from a national standpoint.
Points per contest in: 16.4 points per game (8th Nationally)
Total yards surrendered: 302.9 yards per contest (10th Nationally)
Total Passing yards surrendered: 172 yards per game (8th Nationally)
Total Rushing yards surrendered: 130.9 yards per game (33rd Nationally)
Defensive Line
DE: #80 Tim Crowder (6-4 270 SR.)
DT: #96 Derek Lokey (6-2 275 JR.)
DT: #97 Frank Okam (6-5 315 JR.)
DE: #39 Brian Robison (6-3 275 SR.)
Texas will be led up front by senior All American candidate Tim Crowder. Crowder, who was an All-Big 12 pick by the coaches a year ago, will be making his 35th career start this week. Crowder had 50 tackles, including 9 for a loss, and 3 sacks in 2005. The most eye-popping stat of all was his 20 QB pressures from a year ago. He is a physically gifted player, who has great quickness to compliment his size. Ohio State will have their hands full with him this week. The other end spot will be manned by senior Brian Robison. Robison was an honorable mention All-Big 12 pick a year ago. He amassed 58 tackles, and led the team in tackles for loss (15), and sacks (7) in 2005. Robison is another experienced player (28 career starts), who possesses enormous athletic ability along this Texas defensive front 4. He has a 40 inch vertical leap, which he has used to block a record tying 6 career kicks. He’ll be a handful on Saturday night.
Leading the way on the interior for the Horns will be junior Frank Okam. Okam was 2nd team All-Big 12 performer in 2005. He had 48 tackles, including 5 tackles for a loss, and a sack last season. In addition, he was credited with 11 QB hurries. He’s got excellent size (315 LBS), experience (15 career starts), and fantastic quickness for someone his size. The other tackle spot will be manned by junior Derek Lokey. Lokey had a total of 17 tackles, including 2 for a loss, and a sack in 2005. Lokey has been a key reserve over the past few seasons for the Horns. He’s about 40 pounds lighter than Okam, so look for Ohio State to try to wear him down on the inside.
Overall Defensive Line Analysis:
All and all this is a very good unit once again this season, but I wouldn’t say they are as good as last year’s unit. The loss of Rodrique Wright will hurt them a bit, especially against inside runs. Lokey has performed admirably as a backup over the past couple of seasons, but when you substitute him for Wright, you lose a lot of girth on the inside. The Horns have a pair of fantastic ends, both of whom have the ability to disrupt the complexion of this contest. Look for Ohio State to neutralize their aggressiveness by a healthy dose of shotgun option plays. They say that football is won and lost in the trenches, and that will definitely be the case this week. If Ohio State can contain this very athletic Texas bunch, then Smith will have a huge day. If not, Smith will really be tested in a very hostile environment, which seems to be a showcase that he enjoys. My consensus is that he’ll enjoy it a hell of a lot more if he has time to make solid decisions.
DL Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Texas vs Ohio State
If I were basing this only on the defensive ends, I have to give the Horns the nod. Crowder and Robison are two of the better ends in the country this year. Plus, they have a lot of experience (63 career starts), which is something the Buckeyes do not have. The Buckeyes, however, have the better tackles. Pitcock and Patterson are potentially the best tackle tandem in college football this season. Texas has a great one in Okam, but Lokey is a bit of a drop-off in talent. So, in looking at the units as a whole, call this one a push. These are two of the best defensive lines in the country, and should both be very visible as this game unfolds.
Edge: Push
Linebackers
OLB: #40 Robert Killebrew (6-2 230 JR.)
MLB: #44 Rashad Bobino (5-11 230 SO.)
OLB: #4 Drew Kelson (6-2 215 JR.)
Or
OLB: #38 Roddrick Muckelroy (6-2 230 RS-FR.)
Texas will be led at linebacker by junior Robert Killebrew. Killebrew was an honorable mention All-Big 12 performer in 2005. He ended up with 67 tackles, including 10 for loss, and 4 sacks. He also recovered 2 fumbles and blocked 3 kicks a year ago. Killebrew is the key to the Horns linebacker unit; he has good range and isn’t afraid to hit someone. Texas will call upon Rashad Bobino to hold down the fort at the middle backer position. Bobino had 53 tackles, including 7 for a loss, along with 2 sacks. Bobino is a bit of a Sam Mills throwback linebacker, at least in stature, and isn’t afraid to stick his nose in there against the run. The final outside spot is a bit of a mystery with Drew Kelson nursing an ankle injury. Kelson is most famous for the heartbreaking strip of Justin Zwick last year, which sealed the deal for the Horns. Kelson tallied up 36 tackles, including 2 for a loss, and a sack in 2005. If Kelson isn’t able to go, look for redshirt freshman Roddrick Muckelroy to fill get another start this week. In week one against North Texas, Muckelroy had 3 tackles (including 1.5 for a loss). Muckelroy is a fantastic athlete, and has excellent speed. The Texas coaches are expecting big things out of him in the years to come.
Overall LB Analysis:
This Texas unit heads into week 2 looking to get back to the level they were a year ago. The loss of All-American Aaron Harris hurts this squad considerably, but it won’t make or break this unit as a whole. Killebrew is a very good player, and will end up on some postseason All-Big 12 lists. Outside of him, there are some question marks surrounding this unit. Muckelroy filled in admirably last week against North Texas, but you have to wonder if his inexperience will be exposed if Kelson’s ankle prevents him from playing this week. Top backup Sergio Kindle (6-4 225 Fr.) has also been fighting an ankle injury, which caused him to miss the opener against North Texas. So, depth could also become a factor for the Horns as this one progresses. Ohio State should be able to run the ball against this linebacker unit this week. Also look for the Buckeyes to get the ball out into the flats in an attempt to get a young player like Muckelroy to over-pursue. This unit is very solid, but they are not one that will make the opposition alter their game plan.
LB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Texas vs Ohio State
If Nelson’s health situation wasn’t uncertain, I’d probably lean this into Texas’ column, as uncertainty surrounds both of these units. Texas has injury concerns with one of its top backups. The potential of both of these units cannot be questioned, as each has the ability to be one of the better LB units in the country by mid-season. Ohio State has the bigger task of replacing their studs from a year ago, but they also have some people who have seen key playing time (Kerr, Laurinaitis) in key situations. I’ll call this one a push for now, because I just don’t know what unit will show up for either of these teams.
Edge: Push
Secondary
CB: #5 Tarell Brown (6-0 200 SR.)
SS: #27 Michael Griffin (6-0 205 SR.)
FS: #26 Marcus Griffin (6-0 195 JR.)
CB: #31 Aaron Ross (6-0 192 SR.)
Leading the way for the Longhorns in the secondary will be senior All-Big 12 performer Michael Griffin. Griffin has been put on the watch list for the Thorpe award, which goes to the nation’s best defensive back. Griffin is coming off a monster 2005 season which saw him tally up 124 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 8 pass break-ups. In addition, he also had 5 QB hurries, 3 fumble recoveries, and an amazing 4 blocked kicks. Needless to say, this guy is a flat out gamer...and he’ll have his nose in on about every play this week. If Griffin has a quiet game from his strong safety position, it could be a sign of very good things for the Buckeye offense. The other safety for the Longhorns will be Michael’s twin brother, Marcus. On a quick side note here, what are the odds of the Buckeyes facing a secondary in consecutive weeks which has featured a set of twin brothers? First the Hansboro brothers for Northern Illinois, and now the Griffin brothers for Texas. I wonder if it’s ever been done? Ok, now back to your regularly scheduled programming...
Marcus is faced with the daunting task of replacing 2005 Thorpe winner Michael Huff. Marcus is a former walk-on, and was awarded a scholarship by Texas prior to the 2005 season. He tallied 32 tackles, serving mainly as a backup to his brother at free safety. You can bet your bottom dollar that Ohio State is going to test him deep early on in this ballgame.
Getting the start for the Longhorns at one of the corner spots will be senior Tarrell Brown. Brown had 70 tackles, including 2 for a loss, last season. He also picked off a pass, and broke up 8 others. In my opinion Brown is the key to this Texas secondary. He has started 25 career games, and isn’t afraid to stick his nose in there and really lay the wood on an opposing tailback. He’s doesn’t receive the most accolades, but he’s a very consistent performer. Texas will need a very solid performance out of him this week. The other corner spot for the Horns will occupied by senior Aaron Ross. Ross had 62 tackles, including 2 for a loss in 2005. In addition, he also picked off 3 passes, and broke up 9 others. Ross has a lot less experience at corner than his counterpart Brown; in fact, this will be only his 4th career start. Look for the Buckeyes to send the ball to his side of the field quite a bit this week.
Overall Secondary Analysis:
Well, as I finished up this preview I learned of CB Tarrell Brown's arrest on marijuana and weapons charges. If Brown is out of this contest, it will hurt the Longhorns quite a bit. Brown has more experience than any other cornerback (by a landslide), and his loss will be monumental for the Horns. This could open the door for a monster performance by Ted Ginn. Look for speedy junior Brandon Foster (5-9 180) to fill in as Brown is suspended for this contest.
The one quality that this Texas secondary has is its ability to play a very physical style of football. They also have quite a bit of speed as a whole. The X factor among this unit will be how well Marcus Griffin performs as a starter against one of (if not the most) talented offenses in the country. Michael Griffin is a sure first day NFL draft pick next spring. I’m still not 100% sold on Texas’ corner tandem. They can hit like a ton of bricks, but they also surrendered 365 yards passing against USC last year, and also 369 yards to Texas Tech. The Tech game was probably due to it being a blowout, but USC was the real deal. It seemed like the Trojans moved the ball down the field with ease against this defensive unit. If Ohio State was smart, they would be studying tape of the Trojan’s offense in the title game. Regardless, this secondary vs. the Ohio State wide receivers will be a crucial matchup on Saturday night. These guys are good, but I honestly think the Buckeyes can put up big yards on them through the air.
DB Rating: A- (B/ B+ without Tarrell Brown)
Head-to-Head: Texas vs Ohio State
Michael Griffin is the biggest star of both of these secondary units. I think that Malcom Jenkins is probably the most talented player out of the set of cornerbacks, but Texas has the experience factor in their favor. Also, keep in mind that most of this secondary played a major role in their National Championship last season, and you cannot put a price on that. Texas gets the nod here, as they are just a much more experienced, better tackling unit.
Edge: Texas
Overall Defensive Analysis
Texas is faced with the daunting task of replacing an All-American caliber player on the line (Wright), at the linebacker position (Harris), and in the secondary (Huff). Whether or not this will be a factor this week remains to be seen. One thing is certain: on paper, Texas is one of the few teams in the country that can match OSU, top to bottom, from a talent standpoint. In fact, they are actually a better unit (as a whole) than the Buckeyes at this point in the season, if only because of their experience. The one question mark that surrounds this unit is the health of their linebackers. They have 2 guys in their two-deep rotation that could be out or limited in action this week. Factor in the conditioning that they have missed, in what will likely be a very warm and humid evening, and you can see a potential problem brewing for the Longhorn defense. Of course, they will be able to get plenty of disruption from their ends, but they are not going to be the force that they were from their tackle positions last season. Their secondary is very talented, but I think that the Buckeyes are going to be able to move the ball against them. This is especially true with the cloud of uncertainty hanging over the Horns with the recent arrest of Tarrell Brown. If he’s out, their secondary suddenly becomes much more vulnerable. Look for Marcus Griffin to be tested on some long balls this week. Also look for the Buckeyes to try to lure a very aggressive Michael Griffin up close to the line with the run, and try to beat him over the middle with play-action passes. Roy Hall may play a very big role in this game over the middle. The passes over the middle were there last season for the Bucks, and they will be there again this season, especially if they can wear down a thin Texas linebacker unit. Keep in mind, Ohio State’s offense is leaps-and-bounds better than they were going into this game last season. Defensively, Texas is not as good as they were a year ago. Troy Smith seems to thrive under the pressure of big game situations, and has shown Vince Young-like abilities to take the team on his shoulders and win these types of contests. Look for a monster game out of Smith this week (250+ passing, 90+ yards running), and for him to eventually lead the Buckeyes to a huge victory over the Horns this weekend in Austin. Big games come and go, and players pass through the system every handful of years. The true legends of college football are created on their ability to step up when the whole nation is watching. When this game is over and another legendary tale in the chapters of the college football history books has passed, who is going to be the one that we all remember? That is why they play the game, and that what makes college football the greatest sport in all the land.
Overall Defensive Rating: A- (B+ without Tarrell Brown)
2006 Texas Longhorns Special Teams Preview
Returning Starters: 3
Like Jim Tressel, Texas Coach Mack Brown places a lot of emphasis on Special Teams play. Statistics bear this out...if you look at the 2005 campaign, Texas ranked third nationally in kick return average (27 yards per kick return), and their punt returner (Ross) has been ranked by the Sporting News as the fifth best in his position country-wide. All of the kicking duties fall to Greg Johnson, who thrives on both punting and kicking. He has a decent leg, but has not seen much action outside of kickoff duty for the past three years.
Special Teams
P, PK #97 Greg Johnson (6-1 195 SR)
PR #31 Aaron Ross (6-1 196 SR)
KR #6 Quan Cosby (5-11 200 SO)
KR #5 Tarell Brown (6-0, 200 SR) - suspended
LS #91 Tully Janszen (6-3, 280 SR)
Greg Johnson will be the focus of Texas' special teams, as the versatile senior will handle kickoffs, punts, field goals, and PAT's. Johnson transferred to Texas from Vanderbilt after the 2002 season (saying at the time that Vanderbilt did not offer the academic program he wished to pursue). At Vanderbilt, Johnson averaged 43.8 yards per punt, which was enough to rank him as the fifth best punter in the nation. Even better, his net average of 38.8 yards per punt boosted him up to the fourth best nationally. He did all this as a true freshman, and earned a Freshman All-American award in doing so. On top of punting, Johnson connected on 8 of his 13 FG attempts, and hit all 27 of his PAT's.
At Texas, Johnson has only attempted two FG's, but has made them both. He handled kickoff duties for the majority of the 2005 season (all but the first three games), averaging 60.8 ypk, with 25 touchbacks out of 95 kickoffs. He has a decent leg, but it is not exceptionally strong - at least when he is attempting to score points. His punting, however, is a different story. As a true freshman, Johnson had at least one 50+ yard punt in 11 of 12 games.
In analyzing the Texas return game, CB Aaron Ross is the headliner. He ranked third all-time at Texas last year by accumulating 500 yards in returning punts. He had six different returns of 25 or more yards, two of them for TD's, and has been recognized by at least one national publication (Sporting News ranked him the fifth best PR in the nation). Ross has decent size and speed, and is experienced, as are the kick returners. Both Cosby and Brown had return duty last year, as well, and while not stellar, both do a solid job. Brown did not have any returns in the opener against North Texas, and Cosby had only one (19 yards). Of course, North Texas did not have much opportunity to kick-off, as they were held to only one score, so that game is not a good point of reference. Additionally, Brown has been suspended for this game, and his replacement will obviously not be as talented. The Longhorns achieved their lofty national ranking with outstanding team speed and excellent blocking, however, so don't look for much of a drop-off. In Brown's absence, it is likely that Henry Melton (#37 6-3, 270 SO) may see some action returning kicks. Melton is a very big, strong runner, and is tough to bring down.
The other position of note, long-snapper, is the other new starter. The long-snapper from 2005, Nick Schroeder, was a fifth-year senior, and has graduated. His replacement (Janszen) obviously has only one game of experience. While it is possible that his lack of experience could come into play, the excellent coaching of Texas makes that highly doubtful.
ST Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Texas vs Ohio State
Experience and kicking favor Tejas in this matchup. While the Buckeyes have the nation's best returner in Ginn, they also have question marks at kicker (two missed FG's last week) and a punter who has so far been average at best. Texas boasts an All-American punter who has not missed a FG this year, along with a very dangerous PR in Ross. Because of Ginn's presence, it is conceivable that these two units are pretty equal...but FG kicking is going to be a huge factor in this game, as is field position. Texas clearly has more experience in the kicking game, and the talent of Johnson is enough to give them the edge.
Edge: Texas
Overall Special Teams Analysis
There does not appear to be a weakness in the Texas Special Teams Unit. The only starter they do not return is Johnson, but considering he was a Freshman All-American at Vanderbilt, he can't be considered a liability. Their kick returners ranked third in the country last year, and their punt returner is experienced and dangerous. This is probably the most experienced and talented a special teams unit that our Buckeyes will face this year. The good news is that Texas' coverage has been slightly suspect, at times. Johnson twice made TD-saving tackles on Reggie Bush last year in the National Championship game (kick-offs), and Texas ranks near the bottom of the Big XII in return yards allowed. It is likely the Longhorns will not give Ginn a chance to return any punts, but kickoffs could be a different story.
Overall Special Teams Rating: A
PredictionsLike Jim Tressel, Texas Coach Mack Brown places a lot of emphasis on Special Teams play. Statistics bear this out...if you look at the 2005 campaign, Texas ranked third nationally in kick return average (27 yards per kick return), and their punt returner (Ross) has been ranked by the Sporting News as the fifth best in his position country-wide. All of the kicking duties fall to Greg Johnson, who thrives on both punting and kicking. He has a decent leg, but has not seen much action outside of kickoff duty for the past three years.
Special Teams
P, PK #97 Greg Johnson (6-1 195 SR)
PR #31 Aaron Ross (6-1 196 SR)
KR #6 Quan Cosby (5-11 200 SO)
KR #5 Tarell Brown (6-0, 200 SR) - suspended
LS #91 Tully Janszen (6-3, 280 SR)
Greg Johnson will be the focus of Texas' special teams, as the versatile senior will handle kickoffs, punts, field goals, and PAT's. Johnson transferred to Texas from Vanderbilt after the 2002 season (saying at the time that Vanderbilt did not offer the academic program he wished to pursue). At Vanderbilt, Johnson averaged 43.8 yards per punt, which was enough to rank him as the fifth best punter in the nation. Even better, his net average of 38.8 yards per punt boosted him up to the fourth best nationally. He did all this as a true freshman, and earned a Freshman All-American award in doing so. On top of punting, Johnson connected on 8 of his 13 FG attempts, and hit all 27 of his PAT's.
At Texas, Johnson has only attempted two FG's, but has made them both. He handled kickoff duties for the majority of the 2005 season (all but the first three games), averaging 60.8 ypk, with 25 touchbacks out of 95 kickoffs. He has a decent leg, but it is not exceptionally strong - at least when he is attempting to score points. His punting, however, is a different story. As a true freshman, Johnson had at least one 50+ yard punt in 11 of 12 games.
In analyzing the Texas return game, CB Aaron Ross is the headliner. He ranked third all-time at Texas last year by accumulating 500 yards in returning punts. He had six different returns of 25 or more yards, two of them for TD's, and has been recognized by at least one national publication (Sporting News ranked him the fifth best PR in the nation). Ross has decent size and speed, and is experienced, as are the kick returners. Both Cosby and Brown had return duty last year, as well, and while not stellar, both do a solid job. Brown did not have any returns in the opener against North Texas, and Cosby had only one (19 yards). Of course, North Texas did not have much opportunity to kick-off, as they were held to only one score, so that game is not a good point of reference. Additionally, Brown has been suspended for this game, and his replacement will obviously not be as talented. The Longhorns achieved their lofty national ranking with outstanding team speed and excellent blocking, however, so don't look for much of a drop-off. In Brown's absence, it is likely that Henry Melton (#37 6-3, 270 SO) may see some action returning kicks. Melton is a very big, strong runner, and is tough to bring down.
The other position of note, long-snapper, is the other new starter. The long-snapper from 2005, Nick Schroeder, was a fifth-year senior, and has graduated. His replacement (Janszen) obviously has only one game of experience. While it is possible that his lack of experience could come into play, the excellent coaching of Texas makes that highly doubtful.
ST Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Texas vs Ohio State
Experience and kicking favor Tejas in this matchup. While the Buckeyes have the nation's best returner in Ginn, they also have question marks at kicker (two missed FG's last week) and a punter who has so far been average at best. Texas boasts an All-American punter who has not missed a FG this year, along with a very dangerous PR in Ross. Because of Ginn's presence, it is conceivable that these two units are pretty equal...but FG kicking is going to be a huge factor in this game, as is field position. Texas clearly has more experience in the kicking game, and the talent of Johnson is enough to give them the edge.
Edge: Texas
Overall Special Teams Analysis
There does not appear to be a weakness in the Texas Special Teams Unit. The only starter they do not return is Johnson, but considering he was a Freshman All-American at Vanderbilt, he can't be considered a liability. Their kick returners ranked third in the country last year, and their punt returner is experienced and dangerous. This is probably the most experienced and talented a special teams unit that our Buckeyes will face this year. The good news is that Texas' coverage has been slightly suspect, at times. Johnson twice made TD-saving tackles on Reggie Bush last year in the National Championship game (kick-offs), and Texas ranks near the bottom of the Big XII in return yards allowed. It is likely the Longhorns will not give Ginn a chance to return any punts, but kickoffs could be a different story.
Overall Special Teams Rating: A
BB73's prediction: 27-20, Ohio State
BuckeyeRyn's prediction: 24-21, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks’ prediction: 31-24, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 24-22, Ohio State
daddyphatsac's prediction: 34-31, Ohio State
Deety's prediction: 31-24, Ohio State
FKAGobucks877's prediction: 34-24, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 34-27, Ohio State
LordJeffBuck's prediction: 38-37, Texas
osugrad21's prediction: 31-28, Ohio State
OSUsushichic's prediction: 27-24, Ohio State
PrincessPeach's prediction: 31-27, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 33-27, Ohio State
Last Week's Results (OSU 35 - Northern Illinois 12)
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.)
(5) Buckeyeskickbuttocks’ prediction: 38-10, Ohio State (3 + 2 = 5)
(5) Deety's prediction: 31-13, Ohio State (4 +1 = 5)
(5) osugrad21's prediction: 34-16, Ohio State (1 + 4 = 5)
(7) BB73's prediction: 37-17, Ohio State (2 + 5 = 7)
(7) OSUsushichic's prediction: 37-17, Ohio State (2 + 5 = 7)
(8) Bucklion's prediction: 31-16, Ohio State (4 + 4 = 8)
(9) BuckeyeRyn's prediction: 27-10, Ohio State (7 + 2 = 9)
(11) daddyphatsac's prediction: 41-17, Ohio State (6 + 5 = 11)
(11) PrincessPeach's prediction: 37-21, Ohio State (2 + 9 = 11)
(11) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 38-20, Ohio State (3 + 8 = 11)
(11) FKAGobucks877's prediction: 45-13, Ohio State (10 + 1 = 11)
(21) LordJeffBuck's prediction: 44-24, Ohio State (9 + 12 = 21)
BuckeyeRyn's prediction: 24-21, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks’ prediction: 31-24, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 24-22, Ohio State
daddyphatsac's prediction: 34-31, Ohio State
Deety's prediction: 31-24, Ohio State
FKAGobucks877's prediction: 34-24, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 34-27, Ohio State
LordJeffBuck's prediction: 38-37, Texas
osugrad21's prediction: 31-28, Ohio State
OSUsushichic's prediction: 27-24, Ohio State
PrincessPeach's prediction: 31-27, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 33-27, Ohio State
Last Week's Results (OSU 35 - Northern Illinois 12)
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.)
(5) Buckeyeskickbuttocks’ prediction: 38-10, Ohio State (3 + 2 = 5)
(5) Deety's prediction: 31-13, Ohio State (4 +1 = 5)
(5) osugrad21's prediction: 34-16, Ohio State (1 + 4 = 5)
(7) BB73's prediction: 37-17, Ohio State (2 + 5 = 7)
(7) OSUsushichic's prediction: 37-17, Ohio State (2 + 5 = 7)
(8) Bucklion's prediction: 31-16, Ohio State (4 + 4 = 8)
(9) BuckeyeRyn's prediction: 27-10, Ohio State (7 + 2 = 9)
(11) daddyphatsac's prediction: 41-17, Ohio State (6 + 5 = 11)
(11) PrincessPeach's prediction: 37-21, Ohio State (2 + 9 = 11)
(11) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 38-20, Ohio State (3 + 8 = 11)
(11) FKAGobucks877's prediction: 45-13, Ohio State (10 + 1 = 11)
(21) LordJeffBuck's prediction: 44-24, Ohio State (9 + 12 = 21)
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