3yardsandacloud
Administrator Emeritus
2007 Michigan State Spartans Game Preview
written by: BB73, BuckeyeRyn, Buckeyeskickbuttocks, Bucklion, DaddyBigBucks, Hubbard, jwinslow, OSUBucks22, and 3yardsandacloud
Preface
The win over Kent State was the first game during which the Buckeyes scored a touchdown on offense, defense and special teams since the 1997 37-13 win at Michigan State. In that contest, cornerback Gary Berry scored on a 45-yard interception return and later on a 1-yard blocked punt return; the Ohio State offensive TDs were an 11-yard pass from Joe Germaine to David Boston and a 3-yard Pepe Pearson run. With the triumph over Kent State, Ohio State built upon its school record with a 25th consecutive regular-season triumph, the longest regular-season victory streak by a Big Ten team in more than a century. This week tOSU can also set a school record for consecutive conference wins.
Longest regular season winning streaks by Big Ten football teams:
28 games - 1950-53, Michigan State (joined conference in 1953)
28 games - 1901-03, Michigan
26 games - 1903-05, Michigan
25 games - 2005-07, Ohio State
Longest Big Ten winning streaks, conference games only:
19 games - 1990-92, Michigan
17 games - 2005-07, Ohio State
17 games - 1974-76, Ohio State
17 games - 1967-69, Ohio State
17 games - 1954-56, Ohio State
It's interesting to note that Michigan State has been voted #1 in the weekly AP football poll an impressive 29 times (only 10 teams have more), a figure rather close to the total of 34 times for TSUN (by comparison, tOSU is at 89 and counting). However, the Spartans have only produced two 10-win seasons in their history (1965 and 1999), while the Wolverines have had double-digit victory totals 24 times. Why the discrepancy between those figures? It's all related to timing; most teams started playing an 11-game regular season in the early 1970s, before then it took a nearly unblemished record to reach 10 wins.
The Spartans were an excellent team from the 1950s through 1966, winning two major poll National Championships, plus a piece of one in the 1966 season that ended in the 10-10 tie with Notre Dame in one of the 'Games of the Century'. But since then they are exactly a .500 team overall, and have only had 2 seasons where they finished in the top 10: 1987's 8th-ranked 9-2-1 squad and 1999's 7th-ranked 10-2 team, which are also the only two campaigns since 1966 where they had less than 3 losses. Their in-state neighbor, on the other hand, has been making regular bowl appearances since the Big Ten allowed teams to go somewhere besides the Rose Bowl in the mid-1970s.
There are some interesting historical facts regarding the Spartans. They actually had no football team in 1943 because of World War II; that's the only non-football season among current Big Ten members since 1907. The last time MSU had a perfect season was 1952, the year BEFORE they joined the Big-10 Conference. Their other recognized national championship was in 1965, the year before their famous 10-10 tie against Notre Dame, who finshed 1st to MSU's 2nd in both of 1966's final major polls. That team had the fine defense led by Bubba Smith and George Webster. For those that didn't know, Bubba Smith did play a little football before appearing in Police Academy movies and Lite beer commercials. But since 1966, the Spartans have only had 2 seasons where they finished in the top 10: 1987's 8th-ranked 9-2-1 squad and 1999's 7th-ranked 10-2 team.
When ranked #1 in the AP poll, tOSU has an all-time record of 63-9-1. (Note: this doesn't count the first two games of the 1943 season, when the final poll of 1942 had tOSU on top, the 1943 team was affected by military enrollment, and 2 games were played before a poll was taken: a loss to Iowa Pre-Flight and a win over Missouri). Of those nine losses, only UCLA (in L.A. in 1962 and the 1976 Rose Bowl) and Michigan State claim more than one. The others: at Wisconsin in 1942, at Illinois in 1950, at TSUN in 1969, USC in the 1980 Rose Bowl, and the loss to Florida last January.
OK, we might as well mention it. It's like the elephant in the room whenever Sparty comes to mind - 1998. Maybe in about 20 years most of us will no longer be ticked off by the result that day, but probably not. That game in itself is enough of a reason to want the Buckeyes to drill the Spartans every time we play them over the next couple of decades. The details don't need to be mentioned here, we still remember them clearly enough. But it's an interesting and irritating note that 1998 was the only one of Nick Saban's five MSU teams that didn't go to a bowl game. And of course MSU's defensive coordinator in 1998 was current head coach Mark Dantonio, who held the DC position at tOSU for 2002's national title team. Another coaching connection is MSU's special teams and linebackers coach, Mike Tressel, the son of Dick and nephew of JT, who was a graduate assistant at tOSU in 2002/03, and followed Dantonio to Cincinnati and MSU.
But there's also another game like 1998 for the longer-term fans - 1974. Woody took the boys up to East Lansing as a clear #1 in the polls, and finished the day with a 16-13 loss; after ending up in the end zone on the last play of the day (as well as the play before, according to Buckeye fans and the pictures in The Lantern that Monday). It took the referees and Big-10 commissioner Wayne Duke over 20 minutes to declare MSU the winner, since there was an offensive penalty on the last play.
History shows that tOSU responded well against the Spartans after that 1974 game. Eight straight wins, and 13 out of 15, until that game 9 years ago that also knocked us from the #1 ranking. Let's hope the team is stilll responding to 1998.
1974 and 1998. Two reasons to be wary of the Spartans whenever tOSU carries a #1 ranking into the game.
Longest regular season winning streaks by Big Ten football teams:
28 games - 1950-53, Michigan State (joined conference in 1953)
28 games - 1901-03, Michigan
26 games - 1903-05, Michigan
25 games - 2005-07, Ohio State
Longest Big Ten winning streaks, conference games only:
19 games - 1990-92, Michigan
17 games - 2005-07, Ohio State
17 games - 1974-76, Ohio State
17 games - 1967-69, Ohio State
17 games - 1954-56, Ohio State
It's interesting to note that Michigan State has been voted #1 in the weekly AP football poll an impressive 29 times (only 10 teams have more), a figure rather close to the total of 34 times for TSUN (by comparison, tOSU is at 89 and counting). However, the Spartans have only produced two 10-win seasons in their history (1965 and 1999), while the Wolverines have had double-digit victory totals 24 times. Why the discrepancy between those figures? It's all related to timing; most teams started playing an 11-game regular season in the early 1970s, before then it took a nearly unblemished record to reach 10 wins.
The Spartans were an excellent team from the 1950s through 1966, winning two major poll National Championships, plus a piece of one in the 1966 season that ended in the 10-10 tie with Notre Dame in one of the 'Games of the Century'. But since then they are exactly a .500 team overall, and have only had 2 seasons where they finished in the top 10: 1987's 8th-ranked 9-2-1 squad and 1999's 7th-ranked 10-2 team, which are also the only two campaigns since 1966 where they had less than 3 losses. Their in-state neighbor, on the other hand, has been making regular bowl appearances since the Big Ten allowed teams to go somewhere besides the Rose Bowl in the mid-1970s.
There are some interesting historical facts regarding the Spartans. They actually had no football team in 1943 because of World War II; that's the only non-football season among current Big Ten members since 1907. The last time MSU had a perfect season was 1952, the year BEFORE they joined the Big-10 Conference. Their other recognized national championship was in 1965, the year before their famous 10-10 tie against Notre Dame, who finshed 1st to MSU's 2nd in both of 1966's final major polls. That team had the fine defense led by Bubba Smith and George Webster. For those that didn't know, Bubba Smith did play a little football before appearing in Police Academy movies and Lite beer commercials. But since 1966, the Spartans have only had 2 seasons where they finished in the top 10: 1987's 8th-ranked 9-2-1 squad and 1999's 7th-ranked 10-2 team.
When ranked #1 in the AP poll, tOSU has an all-time record of 63-9-1. (Note: this doesn't count the first two games of the 1943 season, when the final poll of 1942 had tOSU on top, the 1943 team was affected by military enrollment, and 2 games were played before a poll was taken: a loss to Iowa Pre-Flight and a win over Missouri). Of those nine losses, only UCLA (in L.A. in 1962 and the 1976 Rose Bowl) and Michigan State claim more than one. The others: at Wisconsin in 1942, at Illinois in 1950, at TSUN in 1969, USC in the 1980 Rose Bowl, and the loss to Florida last January.
OK, we might as well mention it. It's like the elephant in the room whenever Sparty comes to mind - 1998. Maybe in about 20 years most of us will no longer be ticked off by the result that day, but probably not. That game in itself is enough of a reason to want the Buckeyes to drill the Spartans every time we play them over the next couple of decades. The details don't need to be mentioned here, we still remember them clearly enough. But it's an interesting and irritating note that 1998 was the only one of Nick Saban's five MSU teams that didn't go to a bowl game. And of course MSU's defensive coordinator in 1998 was current head coach Mark Dantonio, who held the DC position at tOSU for 2002's national title team. Another coaching connection is MSU's special teams and linebackers coach, Mike Tressel, the son of Dick and nephew of JT, who was a graduate assistant at tOSU in 2002/03, and followed Dantonio to Cincinnati and MSU.
But there's also another game like 1998 for the longer-term fans - 1974. Woody took the boys up to East Lansing as a clear #1 in the polls, and finished the day with a 16-13 loss; after ending up in the end zone on the last play of the day (as well as the play before, according to Buckeye fans and the pictures in The Lantern that Monday). It took the referees and Big-10 commissioner Wayne Duke over 20 minutes to declare MSU the winner, since there was an offensive penalty on the last play.
History shows that tOSU responded well against the Spartans after that 1974 game. Eight straight wins, and 13 out of 15, until that game 9 years ago that also knocked us from the #1 ranking. Let's hope the team is stilll responding to 1998.
1974 and 1998. Two reasons to be wary of the Spartans whenever tOSU carries a #1 ranking into the game.
Date and Time
Date: Saturday, October 20th, 2007
Time: 3:30 EDT Kick-off
Location: Ohio Stadium - "The Horseshoe" (Columbus, OH)
Constructed: 1922 (Renovated in 2001)
Seating Capacity: 101,568 (Originally 66,210)
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Events: Homecoming
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: ABC & ESPN2: Brad Nessler (Play-by-play), Bob Griese and Paul Maguire (Analysis), and Bonnie Bernstein (Sideline)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
Satelite Radio: Sirius 122
Time: 3:30 EDT Kick-off
Location: Ohio Stadium - "The Horseshoe" (Columbus, OH)
Constructed: 1922 (Renovated in 2001)
Seating Capacity: 101,568 (Originally 66,210)
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Events: Homecoming
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: ABC & ESPN2: Brad Nessler (Play-by-play), Bob Griese and Paul Maguire (Analysis), and Bonnie Bernstein (Sideline)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
Satelite Radio: Sirius 122
2007 Michigan State Spartans Offensive Preview
Returning starters: 6
After a week off from Big Ten play to trounce Kent State, the Buckeyes find themselves returning to conference action as the #1 team in the nation. This week?s game is quite a challenge, with a team led by one of Jim Tressel?s former assistants. Ordinarily by now in recent seasons under lesser coaches the Michigan State Spartans have folded like a card table from the Dollar Store, but after their beatdown of previously upstart Indiana last week to halt a 2 game skid, rest assured that the these Spartans aren?t from the John L. Smith days, and they will be plenty ready to play Saturday. They also boast one of the nation?s better and most balanced offenses.
Michigan State?s offense is again high octane this year, but what is impressive is their balance to this point in the season. Their total yardage per game ranks an impressive 15th nationally at 483.7 per contest. Within that, the Spartans are beating the tar out of their opponents on the ground, ranking in toe top 10 nationally with 242.7 yards a game (9th). Their passing game won?t make June Jones jealous, but their respectable 224.3 yards a game (63rd) for a team that focuses so much on rushing the football gives the Spartans a surprising and quality balance on offense. They have piled up 36.9 points a game, ranking 19th nationally, and have been impressive on the scoreboard, even in defeat. They also pile up over 22 downs a game (38th) and convert 44.7% of their 3rd downs (29th), so the offense is both capable of making the big play and also to sustain drives. It will be up to the Buckeyes to stay off the field early in the game with some stops in the first half, or they will risk being ground down by the punishing Spartan rushing attack in the 2nd half.
Quarterbacks
QB #7 Brian Hoyer (6-2, 212, JR, St. Ignatius HS, North Olmstead, OH)
This is the first season it has been Hoyer?s show after getting some significant game time last year due to injuries to Drew Stanton, including one start at the end of the season. Hoyer has been high quality, and has had a big part in allowing the running game to be as effective as it has by making the opposing defenses respect the passing game. He?s passed for at least 200 yards 3x, including throwing for 323 yards and 2 scores in the epic loss to Wisconsin. Another highlight was his 4 TD performance against Notre Dame, and he also completed an astounding 83% of his passes last weekend (20/23) in the beatdown of Indiana. His 3 picks for the season is a reasonably good number, but he has taken 17 sacks already, which can get his team in trouble, and he doesn?t seem to be particularly mobile in the pocket, even to create space to throw. Still, his efficiency, high completion percentage and low interception rate are all positives for a team that uses the passing game to spell its rushing attack. So in his first year Hoyer has performed reasonably well.
The backups are a pair of freshmen, Connor Dixon (#10) and Nick Foles (#17). They have attempted a total of 13 passes between them this season, so of something happens to Hoyer the Spartans are very short on experience.
QB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Michigan State versus Ohio State QBs
Hoyer (P/R): 115/188 (61.2%), 1476 yards, 11 TDs, 3 INTs, 143.2 rating; 26/-71, 0 TDs
Boeckman (P/R): 105/160 (65.6%), 1353 yards, 16 TDs, 6 INTs, 162.2 rating; 17/-11, 0 TDs
The numbers for these two trying to establish themselves in their first season as full-time starters are very similar between the two QBs. To say neither is a particular rushing threat would be an understatement, though both are decent athletes. In the pocket, both have avoided too many turnovers and distributed the ball well, particularly to their respective big-play wide receiver. Boeckman has taken only 6 sacks, which could be more a testament to the offensive line than the QB, but based on his ability to get rid of the ball and avoid a lot of negative yardage plays, Boeckman gets a very slight edge here.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
TB #23 Javon Ringer (5-9, 200, JR, Chaminade-Julienne HS, Dayton, OH)
TB #30 Jehuu Caulcrick (6-0, 255, SR, Clymer HS, Findley Lake, NY)
?It?s like Thunder?Lightning?the way they run it is frightening?? These are obviously not the actual lyrics to the famous song, but certainly appropriate for the 2007 Spartan running attack that the Buckeyes will try to stop?knock on wood. Ringer, from famed Dayton-Chaminade HS, is the leader of the offense after recovering from a knee injury that limited him to less than 500 yards last season. This year he has gaining almost 1000 yards already, with 6 scores. He?s picked up the pace as the season has gone on, topping 100 yards the past 4 games, including 144 at Notre Dame and 145 at Wisconsin. The past 2 weeks, he has had 2 incredible games, gaining 185 yards and scoring 3 TDs in only 12 carries against Northwestern, and then obliterating the Indiana defense for 203 yards and 2 TDs last week. He has not gained less than 80 yards in a game. Ringer is also a big threat out of the backfield, gaining 88 yards on passes against Wisconsin and 54 more against Northwestern. His yards per carry average is a ridiculous 7.1 over 7 games, so he is a threat to break a big one at any time, and because he has his partner in the backfield he stays fresh and deadly throughout the game.
Caulcrick is the thunder, a monster back who has already amassed 499 yards and scored 13 TDs. He?s a battering ram who won?t get the flashy yards per carry average, but on short yardage and especially inside the 5 yard line he is lethal. His size makes it very difficult to tackle him with one player, and yet he has enough speed that he can do some damage downfield between the tackles if he gets into the secondary. He is a perfect compliment for Ringer, and together they form arguably one of the nation?s best rushing tandems.
The backups are sophomore A. J. Jimmerson (#20) and freshman Andre Anderson (#28), but don?t expect to see them much. Jimmerson did have 2 carries last week.
The fullback tandem is a 3-headed monster of sophomore Andrew Hawken (#45), senior Devin Pritchett (#39), and junior Jeff McPherson (#35). All are about equal in size (roughly 6-1, 240 or so) and all are quite capable blockers. Hawken has caught 4 passes with a TD, so he can occasionally be a threat as an outlet out of the backfield.
RB Rating: A+
Head-to-Head: Michigan State versus Ohio State RBs
Ringer: 132/932 yards, 6 TDs, 7.1 YPC; 23 rec/216 yards, 0 TDs, 9.4 YPR
Caulcrick: 116/499 yards, 13 TDs, 4.3 YPC; 4 rec/30 yards, 0 TDs, 7.5 YPR
C Wells: 118/642 yards, 6 TDs, 5.4 YPC; 3 rec/13 yards, 0 TDs, 4.3 YPR
M Wells: 71/252 yards, 2 TDs, 3.5 YPC; 8 rec/51 yards, 1 TD, 6.4 YPR
It?s been a productive year for the Wells tandem at Ohio State, but the Spartan attack has been explosive, and Ringer in particular has been outstanding. It?s also hard to argue with a tandem that has produced 19 TDs in 7 games. Ohio State?s running game is good, but the Spartans, one of the nation?s best, gets the nod.
Edge: Michigan State
Wide Receivers
X #6 Mark Dell (6-2, 185, FR, Harrison HS, Farmington Hills, MI)
Z #5 Devin Thomas (6-2, 218, JR, Coffeyville CC, Ann Arbor, MI)
Devin Thomas is the playmaker here. After catching only 6 passes a year ago, he has exploded onto the scene, catching 30 for almost 700 yards and 5 TDs so far. He?s had 100 yards receiving 4 times thus far, including 111 with a score at Wisconsin and 148 on 13 catches last week against the Hoosiers. He?s clearly the best receiver on the team and one of the better ones in the Big Ten conference. Dell is a burner and was highly rated out of high school. He has been somewhat productive thus far, but sporadically, not catching more than 3 passes in a game yet en route to 13 total catches.
A pair of juniors, Deon Curry (#84) and Ryan Allison (#82), are the primary backups and Curry gets quite a bit of playing time, with 11 catches so far. Program veteran Terry Love (#18) still sees the field behind Thomas and has 5 catches thus far.
WR Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Michigan State versus Ohio State WRs
Dell: 13 catches, 125 yards, 2 TDs, 9.6 YPR
Thomas: 38 catches, 690 yards, 5 TDs, 18.2 YPR
Curry: 11 catches, 101 yards, 0 TDs, 9.2 YPR
Robiskie: 35 catches, 636 yards, 6 TDs, 18.2 YPR
Hartline: 26 catches, 319 yards, 4 TDs, 12.3 YPR
Small: 11 catches, 149 yards, 2 TDs, 13.5 YPR
Thomas and Robiskie have had similar breakout seasons, and have put up similar numbers. Hartline definitely has the edge in quality and experience over the 2nd position though, and Ray Small is emerging as a nice 3rd option for the Buckeyes. Neither team throws the ball all that much, comparatively speaking, and both have one big playmaker, but Hartline makes the difference in this unit.
Edge: Ohio State
Tight Ends
TE #80 Kellen Davis (6-6, 246, SR, Adrian HS, Adrian, MI)
Davis has good size, is a big target and is a big factor in the passing game, as he has caught at least 1 pass in every game. He is 2nd on the team with 13 catches for 213 yards and 3 TDs. He is also a capable blocker and assists in the power running game.
TE Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Michigan State versus Ohio State TEs
Davis: 13 catches, 213 yards, 3 TDs, 16.4 YPR
Nicol: 8 catches, 43 yards, 0 TDs, 5.4 YPR
Nicol does a solid job, but Davis is more of a focus of the offense and thus has increased production. Both are solid blockers.
Edge: Michigan State
Offensive Line
LT #75 Pete Clifford (6-7, 312, SR, Bridgton Academy, Salem, NH)
LG #66 Mike Gyetvai (6-7, 310, SR, Sandwich Secondary, Old Castle, Ontario)
C #54 John Masters (6-4, 288, SR, Carmel HS, Carmel, IN)
RG #73 Roland Martin (6-5, 328, JR, Harper HS, Chicago, IL)
RT #79 Jesse Miller (6-6, 312, JR, Somerville HS, Somerville, NJ)
This is a group of battering rams that excel at run blocking. Their biggest strength might be their versatility, with several players good enough to start at multiple positions, and with experience doing so. Clifford is a versatile lineman who made 7 starts on the left side last year (4 at tackle, 3 at guard), and has been an excellent stalwart on the left side this season. Gyetvai is also a versatile mauler-like lineman, and he had 17 starts coming into this season, 11 at right tackle and 6 at left tackle. He has good size for interior run blocking. Masters started 3 games at center last year and has blossomed in the role this season. He is a very intelligent player. The right side of the line is more settled and experienced at their positions. Martin was on a lot of preseason lists after making all12 starts at right guard last season?he?s a monster that provides excellent road-grating run blocking on the interior. Miller also started all 12 games at right tackle last year and continues to improve his production this season.
The top backup is senior veteran Kenny Shane (#71), another big man (6-5, 325) with starting experience at left guard. He is a versatile player who can man the interior slots without dropoff. Junior Mike Bacon (#60), and a trio of sophomores, Mike Schmedling (#76), Brendon Moss (#64), and Rocco Cironi (#57) might also see time.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Michigan State versus Ohio State OL
Both lines have big, physical players that like to run block and can still protect the blind side on pass plays. The Spartans excel at run blocking, and have a lot of versatile and experienced players who have demonstrated that effectiveness all season. The Buckeye line is also good at run blocking, and is probably slightly better at keeping their QB?s uniform clean. Both of these units have quality players and some depth, so call it even.
Edge: Even
Overall Offensive Analysis
This offense is a dangerous unit that can dominate a game if they can start fast, sustain drives, and pound the ball in the 2nd half. If their running attack can set up their passing game, Hoyer can be deadly going downfield to Thomas. If the running game struggles early and Hoyer is forced to throw more, the momentum and the entire complexity of the game could swing away from the Spartans. They rely on their running game to set up everything, which makes the play of the lines in this game exceptionally important. The Buckeyes have stepped up to every challenge so far, and this could be their most daunting test to date.
Overall Offensive Rating: A-
After a week off from Big Ten play to trounce Kent State, the Buckeyes find themselves returning to conference action as the #1 team in the nation. This week?s game is quite a challenge, with a team led by one of Jim Tressel?s former assistants. Ordinarily by now in recent seasons under lesser coaches the Michigan State Spartans have folded like a card table from the Dollar Store, but after their beatdown of previously upstart Indiana last week to halt a 2 game skid, rest assured that the these Spartans aren?t from the John L. Smith days, and they will be plenty ready to play Saturday. They also boast one of the nation?s better and most balanced offenses.
Michigan State?s offense is again high octane this year, but what is impressive is their balance to this point in the season. Their total yardage per game ranks an impressive 15th nationally at 483.7 per contest. Within that, the Spartans are beating the tar out of their opponents on the ground, ranking in toe top 10 nationally with 242.7 yards a game (9th). Their passing game won?t make June Jones jealous, but their respectable 224.3 yards a game (63rd) for a team that focuses so much on rushing the football gives the Spartans a surprising and quality balance on offense. They have piled up 36.9 points a game, ranking 19th nationally, and have been impressive on the scoreboard, even in defeat. They also pile up over 22 downs a game (38th) and convert 44.7% of their 3rd downs (29th), so the offense is both capable of making the big play and also to sustain drives. It will be up to the Buckeyes to stay off the field early in the game with some stops in the first half, or they will risk being ground down by the punishing Spartan rushing attack in the 2nd half.
Quarterbacks
QB #7 Brian Hoyer (6-2, 212, JR, St. Ignatius HS, North Olmstead, OH)
This is the first season it has been Hoyer?s show after getting some significant game time last year due to injuries to Drew Stanton, including one start at the end of the season. Hoyer has been high quality, and has had a big part in allowing the running game to be as effective as it has by making the opposing defenses respect the passing game. He?s passed for at least 200 yards 3x, including throwing for 323 yards and 2 scores in the epic loss to Wisconsin. Another highlight was his 4 TD performance against Notre Dame, and he also completed an astounding 83% of his passes last weekend (20/23) in the beatdown of Indiana. His 3 picks for the season is a reasonably good number, but he has taken 17 sacks already, which can get his team in trouble, and he doesn?t seem to be particularly mobile in the pocket, even to create space to throw. Still, his efficiency, high completion percentage and low interception rate are all positives for a team that uses the passing game to spell its rushing attack. So in his first year Hoyer has performed reasonably well.
The backups are a pair of freshmen, Connor Dixon (#10) and Nick Foles (#17). They have attempted a total of 13 passes between them this season, so of something happens to Hoyer the Spartans are very short on experience.
QB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Michigan State versus Ohio State QBs
Hoyer (P/R): 115/188 (61.2%), 1476 yards, 11 TDs, 3 INTs, 143.2 rating; 26/-71, 0 TDs
Boeckman (P/R): 105/160 (65.6%), 1353 yards, 16 TDs, 6 INTs, 162.2 rating; 17/-11, 0 TDs
The numbers for these two trying to establish themselves in their first season as full-time starters are very similar between the two QBs. To say neither is a particular rushing threat would be an understatement, though both are decent athletes. In the pocket, both have avoided too many turnovers and distributed the ball well, particularly to their respective big-play wide receiver. Boeckman has taken only 6 sacks, which could be more a testament to the offensive line than the QB, but based on his ability to get rid of the ball and avoid a lot of negative yardage plays, Boeckman gets a very slight edge here.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
TB #23 Javon Ringer (5-9, 200, JR, Chaminade-Julienne HS, Dayton, OH)
TB #30 Jehuu Caulcrick (6-0, 255, SR, Clymer HS, Findley Lake, NY)
?It?s like Thunder?Lightning?the way they run it is frightening?? These are obviously not the actual lyrics to the famous song, but certainly appropriate for the 2007 Spartan running attack that the Buckeyes will try to stop?knock on wood. Ringer, from famed Dayton-Chaminade HS, is the leader of the offense after recovering from a knee injury that limited him to less than 500 yards last season. This year he has gaining almost 1000 yards already, with 6 scores. He?s picked up the pace as the season has gone on, topping 100 yards the past 4 games, including 144 at Notre Dame and 145 at Wisconsin. The past 2 weeks, he has had 2 incredible games, gaining 185 yards and scoring 3 TDs in only 12 carries against Northwestern, and then obliterating the Indiana defense for 203 yards and 2 TDs last week. He has not gained less than 80 yards in a game. Ringer is also a big threat out of the backfield, gaining 88 yards on passes against Wisconsin and 54 more against Northwestern. His yards per carry average is a ridiculous 7.1 over 7 games, so he is a threat to break a big one at any time, and because he has his partner in the backfield he stays fresh and deadly throughout the game.
Caulcrick is the thunder, a monster back who has already amassed 499 yards and scored 13 TDs. He?s a battering ram who won?t get the flashy yards per carry average, but on short yardage and especially inside the 5 yard line he is lethal. His size makes it very difficult to tackle him with one player, and yet he has enough speed that he can do some damage downfield between the tackles if he gets into the secondary. He is a perfect compliment for Ringer, and together they form arguably one of the nation?s best rushing tandems.
The backups are sophomore A. J. Jimmerson (#20) and freshman Andre Anderson (#28), but don?t expect to see them much. Jimmerson did have 2 carries last week.
The fullback tandem is a 3-headed monster of sophomore Andrew Hawken (#45), senior Devin Pritchett (#39), and junior Jeff McPherson (#35). All are about equal in size (roughly 6-1, 240 or so) and all are quite capable blockers. Hawken has caught 4 passes with a TD, so he can occasionally be a threat as an outlet out of the backfield.
RB Rating: A+
Head-to-Head: Michigan State versus Ohio State RBs
Ringer: 132/932 yards, 6 TDs, 7.1 YPC; 23 rec/216 yards, 0 TDs, 9.4 YPR
Caulcrick: 116/499 yards, 13 TDs, 4.3 YPC; 4 rec/30 yards, 0 TDs, 7.5 YPR
C Wells: 118/642 yards, 6 TDs, 5.4 YPC; 3 rec/13 yards, 0 TDs, 4.3 YPR
M Wells: 71/252 yards, 2 TDs, 3.5 YPC; 8 rec/51 yards, 1 TD, 6.4 YPR
It?s been a productive year for the Wells tandem at Ohio State, but the Spartan attack has been explosive, and Ringer in particular has been outstanding. It?s also hard to argue with a tandem that has produced 19 TDs in 7 games. Ohio State?s running game is good, but the Spartans, one of the nation?s best, gets the nod.
Edge: Michigan State
Wide Receivers
X #6 Mark Dell (6-2, 185, FR, Harrison HS, Farmington Hills, MI)
Z #5 Devin Thomas (6-2, 218, JR, Coffeyville CC, Ann Arbor, MI)
Devin Thomas is the playmaker here. After catching only 6 passes a year ago, he has exploded onto the scene, catching 30 for almost 700 yards and 5 TDs so far. He?s had 100 yards receiving 4 times thus far, including 111 with a score at Wisconsin and 148 on 13 catches last week against the Hoosiers. He?s clearly the best receiver on the team and one of the better ones in the Big Ten conference. Dell is a burner and was highly rated out of high school. He has been somewhat productive thus far, but sporadically, not catching more than 3 passes in a game yet en route to 13 total catches.
A pair of juniors, Deon Curry (#84) and Ryan Allison (#82), are the primary backups and Curry gets quite a bit of playing time, with 11 catches so far. Program veteran Terry Love (#18) still sees the field behind Thomas and has 5 catches thus far.
WR Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Michigan State versus Ohio State WRs
Dell: 13 catches, 125 yards, 2 TDs, 9.6 YPR
Thomas: 38 catches, 690 yards, 5 TDs, 18.2 YPR
Curry: 11 catches, 101 yards, 0 TDs, 9.2 YPR
Robiskie: 35 catches, 636 yards, 6 TDs, 18.2 YPR
Hartline: 26 catches, 319 yards, 4 TDs, 12.3 YPR
Small: 11 catches, 149 yards, 2 TDs, 13.5 YPR
Thomas and Robiskie have had similar breakout seasons, and have put up similar numbers. Hartline definitely has the edge in quality and experience over the 2nd position though, and Ray Small is emerging as a nice 3rd option for the Buckeyes. Neither team throws the ball all that much, comparatively speaking, and both have one big playmaker, but Hartline makes the difference in this unit.
Edge: Ohio State
Tight Ends
TE #80 Kellen Davis (6-6, 246, SR, Adrian HS, Adrian, MI)
Davis has good size, is a big target and is a big factor in the passing game, as he has caught at least 1 pass in every game. He is 2nd on the team with 13 catches for 213 yards and 3 TDs. He is also a capable blocker and assists in the power running game.
TE Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Michigan State versus Ohio State TEs
Davis: 13 catches, 213 yards, 3 TDs, 16.4 YPR
Nicol: 8 catches, 43 yards, 0 TDs, 5.4 YPR
Nicol does a solid job, but Davis is more of a focus of the offense and thus has increased production. Both are solid blockers.
Edge: Michigan State
Offensive Line
LT #75 Pete Clifford (6-7, 312, SR, Bridgton Academy, Salem, NH)
LG #66 Mike Gyetvai (6-7, 310, SR, Sandwich Secondary, Old Castle, Ontario)
C #54 John Masters (6-4, 288, SR, Carmel HS, Carmel, IN)
RG #73 Roland Martin (6-5, 328, JR, Harper HS, Chicago, IL)
RT #79 Jesse Miller (6-6, 312, JR, Somerville HS, Somerville, NJ)
This is a group of battering rams that excel at run blocking. Their biggest strength might be their versatility, with several players good enough to start at multiple positions, and with experience doing so. Clifford is a versatile lineman who made 7 starts on the left side last year (4 at tackle, 3 at guard), and has been an excellent stalwart on the left side this season. Gyetvai is also a versatile mauler-like lineman, and he had 17 starts coming into this season, 11 at right tackle and 6 at left tackle. He has good size for interior run blocking. Masters started 3 games at center last year and has blossomed in the role this season. He is a very intelligent player. The right side of the line is more settled and experienced at their positions. Martin was on a lot of preseason lists after making all12 starts at right guard last season?he?s a monster that provides excellent road-grating run blocking on the interior. Miller also started all 12 games at right tackle last year and continues to improve his production this season.
The top backup is senior veteran Kenny Shane (#71), another big man (6-5, 325) with starting experience at left guard. He is a versatile player who can man the interior slots without dropoff. Junior Mike Bacon (#60), and a trio of sophomores, Mike Schmedling (#76), Brendon Moss (#64), and Rocco Cironi (#57) might also see time.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Michigan State versus Ohio State OL
Both lines have big, physical players that like to run block and can still protect the blind side on pass plays. The Spartans excel at run blocking, and have a lot of versatile and experienced players who have demonstrated that effectiveness all season. The Buckeye line is also good at run blocking, and is probably slightly better at keeping their QB?s uniform clean. Both of these units have quality players and some depth, so call it even.
Edge: Even
Overall Offensive Analysis
This offense is a dangerous unit that can dominate a game if they can start fast, sustain drives, and pound the ball in the 2nd half. If their running attack can set up their passing game, Hoyer can be deadly going downfield to Thomas. If the running game struggles early and Hoyer is forced to throw more, the momentum and the entire complexity of the game could swing away from the Spartans. They rely on their running game to set up everything, which makes the play of the lines in this game exceptionally important. The Buckeyes have stepped up to every challenge so far, and this could be their most daunting test to date.
Overall Offensive Rating: A-
2007 Michigan State Spartans Defensive Preview
Returning Starters: 6
Buckeye fans obviously remember what Mark Dantonio can do with athletes on the defensive side of the ball. As Defensive Coordinator of the Buckeyes, Dantonio put together an attacking group who would often make the opposition abandon their game plans in response to the pressure the defense created. While Dantonio is now the head man, we can expect that his style has not changed. In that respect, Youngstown native Pat Narduzzi begins his 4th year with Dantonio as his Defensive Coordinator. Obviously both men begin their first year with the Spartans in their current positions, the last three having been spent in Cincinnati. While with the Bearcats, Narduzzi's defenses were tough against the run, holding Ray Rice and the then No. 7 Rutgers Scarlet Knights to a season low 50 yards on the ground. Like his boss, Narduzzi will run an aggressive, attacking unit which seeks to take control of the game by force.
Through 7 games in 2007, the Spartans have already expressed an ability to limit opponents rushing attacks. They currently give up 3.0 yards per carry and 101.4 yards per game on the ground, third in the Big Ten and 24th in the nation. Not surprisingly, opponents have had more success moving the ball though the air, as the Spartans give up 231.1 which places them 69th in the nation and 7th in the Big Ten. Still, on the strength of the solid run defense, the total defense is 37th in the nation and 4th in the Big Ten affording opponents only 332.6 per contest. Michigan State has created some turnovers, having picked off 7 passes, and recovered 5 fumbles. The Spartans have the ability to get to the Quarterback, having recorded 29 sacks for a loss of 211 yards this year, good for second among Big Ten schools. While the numbers are pretty good overall, Michigan State has allowed more points than one would expect, giving up 24.9 per game (55th in the nation, 7th in the Big Ten.) 18 of 20 opponent red zone opportunities have resulted in points, 12 of which have been touchdowns and 6 FGs. Of the two stops, one was on downs and the other a missed kick.
Ohio State enters the 8th week of the season the number one defense in the nation against the score (6.6) and in total yards (211.9). Ohio State's Big Ten leading unit has afforded opponents a miserable 2.1 per carry and 62.9 yards per game on the ground, good for second in the nation. Also leading the Big Ten and second in the nation is Ohio State's pass defense, which affords only 149 per game, a ridiculous 4.3 per completion. The Buckeyes have 21 sacks for a loss of 151 yards. Opponents have made a league low 9 trips to the red zone, and have converted those in to points only 5 times (3 TDs, 2 FG) also tops in the league. Two drives ended in INTs, one on downs and one by way of a missed kick.
Defensive Line
LE #51 Ervin Baldwin (6-2 270 SR)
LT #Justin Kershaw (6-4 260 JR)
RT #99 Ogemdi Nwagbuo (6-4 290 SR)
RE #Jonal Saint-Dic (6-1 250 SR)
Pre-season projections for this line did not anticipate much improvement over last years group which had trouble getting to the quarterback and stuffing the better running games. However, thus far the line has shown much improvement in both areas. Baldwin has excellent speed for a man his size and has spent a good deal of time in opposing backfields, recording 10.5 TFLs and 4.5 sacks to go along with 2 hurries, a fumble recovery and 28 Tackles. Expected to be the pass rushing force going in to the year, he's actually been out done by Jonal Saint-Dic. Saint-Dic has been outstanding thus far, recording a team leading 11 TFLs, 8 Sacks, 4 Hurries, along with his 30 Tackles. More impressive is that Saint-Dic is averaging 1 forced fumble per contest. Nwagbuo is a good space eater on the interior. The former JUCO, Nwagbuo has 14 tackles, 3 for loss and 1 sack. Also in the middle is Kershaw and his 20 Tackles, 4.5 TFLs and 1.5 sacks.
Depth is provided by Ends; #80 Kellen Davis (6-6 254 SR), #58 Reggie Graham (6-4 223 SO), #87 Kevin Pickelman (6-3 250 FR), #47 Brandon Long (6-4 245 JR), and #89 Colin Neely (6-1 238 FR); and Tackles; #70 Oren Wilson (6-3 290 FR), #93 Antonio Jeremiah (6-5 322 FR), #61 Tramonte Pointer (5-10 197 SR), #98 Michael Jordan (6-5 295 SO), #88 John Stipek (6-5 276 SO), and #96 Patrick Rigan (6-5 244 FR). Long leads the reserves with 9 Tackles, 3 for loss and a sack, while Wilson has recorded 7 Tackles. Jeremiah, an enormous true Freshman, has only 4 Tackles, one of which was a sack. Davis also has only 4 Tackles, but two of them have been sacks, and another half tackle was for loss. Neely has 3 tackles, and half for loss, while Jordan and Stipek each has 2 Tackles and 0.5 TFLs. Reggie Graham has 1 Tackle in 2007.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Michigan State versus OSU DL
Vernon Gholston - 17 Tackles, 5.5 TFL, 5 Sacks, 1 Fumble Rec (TD)
Doug Worthington - 15 Tackles, 1 FF
Todd Denlinger - 15 Tackles, 1 TFL
Robert Rose - 4 Tackles, 1.5 TFL, 1 Sack
Ohio State's rotation also includes Dexter Larimore (8 Tackles, 2.0 TFL), Freshman Cam Heyward (10 Tackles, 4 TFL, Sack), Nadar Abdallah (7 Tackles, 0.5 TFL) and Alex Barrow (2 Tackles.) While Michigan State's individual numbers are better, especially when you consider Jonal Saint-Dic breakout season, the Spartans give up more yardage on the ground than do the Buckeyes and are easier to succeed against on the all important 3rd down. While better at getting to the Quarterback than the Buckeyes thus far, the Spartans may be playing a bit over their heads. Still, this unit is getting it done and is at least even with the Buckeye unit, if not slightly ahead.
Edge: Even
Linebackers
OLB #27 SirDarean Adams (6-0 230 SR)
MLB #41 Kaleb Thornjill (6-1 240 SR)
WLB #43 Eric Gordon (6-0 225 FR)
OR
WLB #53 Greg Jones (6-1 200 FR)
The Linebackers are lead by Kaleb Thornhill's 37 Tackles, 6.5 TFLs and 2 Sacks. Thornhill is not flashy, but is a steady if not injury prone Linebacker. Senior, SirDarean has played running back for the Spartans and was the "Bandit" in the former scheme under John L. Smith, along with also having played some corner. A solid pass defender, the Spartans hope to use his speed to get in to the backfield. He has 35 Tackles, and 3 TFLs. On the weak-side are two Freshman who each have started at one point or another this year. Gordon (who redshirted in 2006) has recorded 33 Tackles, 5.5 for loss and a sack, while Jones (a true Freshman) has 35 Tackles, 5.5 for loss and 2 sacks. Both will see action against the Buckeyes.
Depth is provided by SAMs; #36 John Misch (6-2 200 rFR) and #42 Rob Tabatchnick (5-11 211 SO); MIKEs; #55 Adam Decker (6-2 233 SO) and #44 Josh Rouse (6-3 230 SO); and WILL #22 Brandon Denson (5-11 211 SO). Of these, and not including whichever of Gordon or Jones begins the game on the sideline, three have recorded Tackles in 2007. Misch leads the way with 17, 0.5 for loss and 0.5 Sacks. Rouse has 7 Tackles, 1.5 for loss, and Denson 3 Tackles.
LB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Michigan State versus OSU LBs
James Laurinaitis - 52 Tackles, 4.5 TFLs, 3.0 Sacks, 2 INTs
Marcus Freeman - 41 Tackles, 6.0 TFLs, 1 Sack
Larry Grant - 23 Tackles, 7.5 TFLs, 1 INT
It will take a special group to be rated ahead of the Buckeyes, and the Spartans, while able, are not that group. Laurinaitis has done nothing but improve, and he's already the owner of post season hardware. Freeman appears to have had "the light go on" recently which is pretty scary, considering he was fantastic before. Over the last two games, it seems his name is being called every play. Grant has been quite sold, and can be relied upon to make the play. It's not clear how long the Buckeyes will be able to keep sensational Freshman Brian Rolle off the field, and back-ups Austin Spitler and Ross Homan would well start at most schools. Asked to do more than the Michigan State unit, the Buckeyes LBs are among the nations elite.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #38 Kendell Davis-Clark (5-11 199 JR)
FS # Travis Key (5-10 185 SR)
SS #3 Nehemiah Warrick (6-1 200 SR)
LCB #29 Chris Rucker (6-2 185 FR)
The Spartans have juggled lineups in the secondary this year, trying to find the right fit. Davis-Clark, however, has been a mainstay. He hits like a safety and grew in to the team's top cover corner during spring ball. He leads the Spartans with 46 Tackles, 3.5 for loss with 3 sacks. Key took over the FS position when Warrick was moved over to SS to make up for the decision to bench Otis Wiley after he got burned for two long touchdown against Northwestern. Key has a team second best 40 Tackles, and is tied for the team lead in INTs with 2 (Wiley). Warrick has 31 Tackles in 2007. A former JUCO, Warrick is decent against the run, but needs to improve against the pass. Rucker has 23 tackles and a pick thus far in his Freshman campaign.
Backing up the Corners are; #31 Ashton Henderson (5-11 183 SO), #28 Mike Bell (5-11 175 JR), #12 T.J. Williams (6-3 185 SO), and #37 Ross Weaver (6-1 202 SO). Safety depth is provided by Wiley, #21 (6-1 210 JR), #40 Roderick Jenrette (6-1 196 SO), and #11 Marcus Hyde (6-0 202 rFR). As mentioned above, Wiley began the year as a starter before being displaced by Key. He has 26 Tackles and a TFL to go along with his 2 picks. Henderson has 9 tackles, while Jenrette has 9 Tackles and a pick. Weaver has 7 Tackles, and 0.5 TFLs while Hyde and Williams each have 2 Tackles. Williams also has an INT and 0.5 TFL.
DB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Michigan State versus OSU DBs
Malcom Jenkins - 30 Tackles, 2 TFLs, 2 INTs, 3 BrUp
Kurt Coleman - 32 Tackles, 2.5 TFLs, 1 BrUp
Anderson Russell - 32 Tackles, 3.5 TFLs, 3 Sacks 4 BrUp
Donald Washington - 17 Tackles, 1 TFL, 1 Sack, 1 INT (TD)
While the Spartans have been playing around with various lineups, the Buckeyes have a seasoned and settled unit which is second in the nation against the pass. While Jenkins has the reputation as the guy you want to stay away from, teams are quickly learning that going at Donald Washington isn't a very good idea either. Coleman has been excellent in his first year as a starter, and Russell is nothing short of a stud. Russell suffered an ankle injury against Kent State, but published reports suggest he will be ready to go against Michigan State. Seeing him helped off the field unable to bear weight, this comes as a surprise. If Russell cannot go, Aaron Gant or Jamario O'Neal may get the bulk of the playing time. Ohio State also has outstanding and proven depth. Nickleback Chimdi Chekwa is quickly becoming a force and should continue on the tradition of great DBs for the Buckeyes.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
Dantonio, comes as no surprise to Buckeye fans, and Narduzzi seem to understand that a great defense starts up front. Coming in to the year, there was a great deal of work to be done along the line, particularly where it concerns getting pressure on the quarterback or getting in to the backfield at all. The front-men have responded and have been playing very well thus far. The Linebackers are a good, solid bunch. While not the flashiest group, they're not a liability either. The secondary seems to be the question mark, as the coaches continue to search for the best grouping. Still, even as that has gone on, the pass defense has been average giving up 231 yards. There is young talent learning the ropes, and this group will become a more formidable group in the coming years under the new coaching regime.
Last week, Ohio State faced what was then the best defense they had seen, at least on statistical terms. The Spartans are even better and as such the Buckeyes will need to bring their A game. It may be wise for the Buckeyes to loosen things up by going to Robo, Hartline, and Small early and often. Assuming the Buckeye O-Line, the best that the Spartans have faced, can give Boeckman time, there are yards to be gained against the secondary. Beanie Wells will have to work hard to get running room, especially early. As the game wears on, he may find the sledding easier. Ultimately, while the Spartans are heading in the right direction under Dantonio and Narduzzi, they're not a dominant group just yet. It may not be long, however.
Overall Defensive Rating: B
Buckeye fans obviously remember what Mark Dantonio can do with athletes on the defensive side of the ball. As Defensive Coordinator of the Buckeyes, Dantonio put together an attacking group who would often make the opposition abandon their game plans in response to the pressure the defense created. While Dantonio is now the head man, we can expect that his style has not changed. In that respect, Youngstown native Pat Narduzzi begins his 4th year with Dantonio as his Defensive Coordinator. Obviously both men begin their first year with the Spartans in their current positions, the last three having been spent in Cincinnati. While with the Bearcats, Narduzzi's defenses were tough against the run, holding Ray Rice and the then No. 7 Rutgers Scarlet Knights to a season low 50 yards on the ground. Like his boss, Narduzzi will run an aggressive, attacking unit which seeks to take control of the game by force.
Through 7 games in 2007, the Spartans have already expressed an ability to limit opponents rushing attacks. They currently give up 3.0 yards per carry and 101.4 yards per game on the ground, third in the Big Ten and 24th in the nation. Not surprisingly, opponents have had more success moving the ball though the air, as the Spartans give up 231.1 which places them 69th in the nation and 7th in the Big Ten. Still, on the strength of the solid run defense, the total defense is 37th in the nation and 4th in the Big Ten affording opponents only 332.6 per contest. Michigan State has created some turnovers, having picked off 7 passes, and recovered 5 fumbles. The Spartans have the ability to get to the Quarterback, having recorded 29 sacks for a loss of 211 yards this year, good for second among Big Ten schools. While the numbers are pretty good overall, Michigan State has allowed more points than one would expect, giving up 24.9 per game (55th in the nation, 7th in the Big Ten.) 18 of 20 opponent red zone opportunities have resulted in points, 12 of which have been touchdowns and 6 FGs. Of the two stops, one was on downs and the other a missed kick.
Ohio State enters the 8th week of the season the number one defense in the nation against the score (6.6) and in total yards (211.9). Ohio State's Big Ten leading unit has afforded opponents a miserable 2.1 per carry and 62.9 yards per game on the ground, good for second in the nation. Also leading the Big Ten and second in the nation is Ohio State's pass defense, which affords only 149 per game, a ridiculous 4.3 per completion. The Buckeyes have 21 sacks for a loss of 151 yards. Opponents have made a league low 9 trips to the red zone, and have converted those in to points only 5 times (3 TDs, 2 FG) also tops in the league. Two drives ended in INTs, one on downs and one by way of a missed kick.
Defensive Line
LE #51 Ervin Baldwin (6-2 270 SR)
LT #Justin Kershaw (6-4 260 JR)
RT #99 Ogemdi Nwagbuo (6-4 290 SR)
RE #Jonal Saint-Dic (6-1 250 SR)
Pre-season projections for this line did not anticipate much improvement over last years group which had trouble getting to the quarterback and stuffing the better running games. However, thus far the line has shown much improvement in both areas. Baldwin has excellent speed for a man his size and has spent a good deal of time in opposing backfields, recording 10.5 TFLs and 4.5 sacks to go along with 2 hurries, a fumble recovery and 28 Tackles. Expected to be the pass rushing force going in to the year, he's actually been out done by Jonal Saint-Dic. Saint-Dic has been outstanding thus far, recording a team leading 11 TFLs, 8 Sacks, 4 Hurries, along with his 30 Tackles. More impressive is that Saint-Dic is averaging 1 forced fumble per contest. Nwagbuo is a good space eater on the interior. The former JUCO, Nwagbuo has 14 tackles, 3 for loss and 1 sack. Also in the middle is Kershaw and his 20 Tackles, 4.5 TFLs and 1.5 sacks.
Depth is provided by Ends; #80 Kellen Davis (6-6 254 SR), #58 Reggie Graham (6-4 223 SO), #87 Kevin Pickelman (6-3 250 FR), #47 Brandon Long (6-4 245 JR), and #89 Colin Neely (6-1 238 FR); and Tackles; #70 Oren Wilson (6-3 290 FR), #93 Antonio Jeremiah (6-5 322 FR), #61 Tramonte Pointer (5-10 197 SR), #98 Michael Jordan (6-5 295 SO), #88 John Stipek (6-5 276 SO), and #96 Patrick Rigan (6-5 244 FR). Long leads the reserves with 9 Tackles, 3 for loss and a sack, while Wilson has recorded 7 Tackles. Jeremiah, an enormous true Freshman, has only 4 Tackles, one of which was a sack. Davis also has only 4 Tackles, but two of them have been sacks, and another half tackle was for loss. Neely has 3 tackles, and half for loss, while Jordan and Stipek each has 2 Tackles and 0.5 TFLs. Reggie Graham has 1 Tackle in 2007.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Michigan State versus OSU DL
Vernon Gholston - 17 Tackles, 5.5 TFL, 5 Sacks, 1 Fumble Rec (TD)
Doug Worthington - 15 Tackles, 1 FF
Todd Denlinger - 15 Tackles, 1 TFL
Robert Rose - 4 Tackles, 1.5 TFL, 1 Sack
Ohio State's rotation also includes Dexter Larimore (8 Tackles, 2.0 TFL), Freshman Cam Heyward (10 Tackles, 4 TFL, Sack), Nadar Abdallah (7 Tackles, 0.5 TFL) and Alex Barrow (2 Tackles.) While Michigan State's individual numbers are better, especially when you consider Jonal Saint-Dic breakout season, the Spartans give up more yardage on the ground than do the Buckeyes and are easier to succeed against on the all important 3rd down. While better at getting to the Quarterback than the Buckeyes thus far, the Spartans may be playing a bit over their heads. Still, this unit is getting it done and is at least even with the Buckeye unit, if not slightly ahead.
Edge: Even
Linebackers
OLB #27 SirDarean Adams (6-0 230 SR)
MLB #41 Kaleb Thornjill (6-1 240 SR)
WLB #43 Eric Gordon (6-0 225 FR)
OR
WLB #53 Greg Jones (6-1 200 FR)
The Linebackers are lead by Kaleb Thornhill's 37 Tackles, 6.5 TFLs and 2 Sacks. Thornhill is not flashy, but is a steady if not injury prone Linebacker. Senior, SirDarean has played running back for the Spartans and was the "Bandit" in the former scheme under John L. Smith, along with also having played some corner. A solid pass defender, the Spartans hope to use his speed to get in to the backfield. He has 35 Tackles, and 3 TFLs. On the weak-side are two Freshman who each have started at one point or another this year. Gordon (who redshirted in 2006) has recorded 33 Tackles, 5.5 for loss and a sack, while Jones (a true Freshman) has 35 Tackles, 5.5 for loss and 2 sacks. Both will see action against the Buckeyes.
Depth is provided by SAMs; #36 John Misch (6-2 200 rFR) and #42 Rob Tabatchnick (5-11 211 SO); MIKEs; #55 Adam Decker (6-2 233 SO) and #44 Josh Rouse (6-3 230 SO); and WILL #22 Brandon Denson (5-11 211 SO). Of these, and not including whichever of Gordon or Jones begins the game on the sideline, three have recorded Tackles in 2007. Misch leads the way with 17, 0.5 for loss and 0.5 Sacks. Rouse has 7 Tackles, 1.5 for loss, and Denson 3 Tackles.
LB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Michigan State versus OSU LBs
James Laurinaitis - 52 Tackles, 4.5 TFLs, 3.0 Sacks, 2 INTs
Marcus Freeman - 41 Tackles, 6.0 TFLs, 1 Sack
Larry Grant - 23 Tackles, 7.5 TFLs, 1 INT
It will take a special group to be rated ahead of the Buckeyes, and the Spartans, while able, are not that group. Laurinaitis has done nothing but improve, and he's already the owner of post season hardware. Freeman appears to have had "the light go on" recently which is pretty scary, considering he was fantastic before. Over the last two games, it seems his name is being called every play. Grant has been quite sold, and can be relied upon to make the play. It's not clear how long the Buckeyes will be able to keep sensational Freshman Brian Rolle off the field, and back-ups Austin Spitler and Ross Homan would well start at most schools. Asked to do more than the Michigan State unit, the Buckeyes LBs are among the nations elite.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #38 Kendell Davis-Clark (5-11 199 JR)
FS # Travis Key (5-10 185 SR)
SS #3 Nehemiah Warrick (6-1 200 SR)
LCB #29 Chris Rucker (6-2 185 FR)
The Spartans have juggled lineups in the secondary this year, trying to find the right fit. Davis-Clark, however, has been a mainstay. He hits like a safety and grew in to the team's top cover corner during spring ball. He leads the Spartans with 46 Tackles, 3.5 for loss with 3 sacks. Key took over the FS position when Warrick was moved over to SS to make up for the decision to bench Otis Wiley after he got burned for two long touchdown against Northwestern. Key has a team second best 40 Tackles, and is tied for the team lead in INTs with 2 (Wiley). Warrick has 31 Tackles in 2007. A former JUCO, Warrick is decent against the run, but needs to improve against the pass. Rucker has 23 tackles and a pick thus far in his Freshman campaign.
Backing up the Corners are; #31 Ashton Henderson (5-11 183 SO), #28 Mike Bell (5-11 175 JR), #12 T.J. Williams (6-3 185 SO), and #37 Ross Weaver (6-1 202 SO). Safety depth is provided by Wiley, #21 (6-1 210 JR), #40 Roderick Jenrette (6-1 196 SO), and #11 Marcus Hyde (6-0 202 rFR). As mentioned above, Wiley began the year as a starter before being displaced by Key. He has 26 Tackles and a TFL to go along with his 2 picks. Henderson has 9 tackles, while Jenrette has 9 Tackles and a pick. Weaver has 7 Tackles, and 0.5 TFLs while Hyde and Williams each have 2 Tackles. Williams also has an INT and 0.5 TFL.
DB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Michigan State versus OSU DBs
Malcom Jenkins - 30 Tackles, 2 TFLs, 2 INTs, 3 BrUp
Kurt Coleman - 32 Tackles, 2.5 TFLs, 1 BrUp
Anderson Russell - 32 Tackles, 3.5 TFLs, 3 Sacks 4 BrUp
Donald Washington - 17 Tackles, 1 TFL, 1 Sack, 1 INT (TD)
While the Spartans have been playing around with various lineups, the Buckeyes have a seasoned and settled unit which is second in the nation against the pass. While Jenkins has the reputation as the guy you want to stay away from, teams are quickly learning that going at Donald Washington isn't a very good idea either. Coleman has been excellent in his first year as a starter, and Russell is nothing short of a stud. Russell suffered an ankle injury against Kent State, but published reports suggest he will be ready to go against Michigan State. Seeing him helped off the field unable to bear weight, this comes as a surprise. If Russell cannot go, Aaron Gant or Jamario O'Neal may get the bulk of the playing time. Ohio State also has outstanding and proven depth. Nickleback Chimdi Chekwa is quickly becoming a force and should continue on the tradition of great DBs for the Buckeyes.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
Dantonio, comes as no surprise to Buckeye fans, and Narduzzi seem to understand that a great defense starts up front. Coming in to the year, there was a great deal of work to be done along the line, particularly where it concerns getting pressure on the quarterback or getting in to the backfield at all. The front-men have responded and have been playing very well thus far. The Linebackers are a good, solid bunch. While not the flashiest group, they're not a liability either. The secondary seems to be the question mark, as the coaches continue to search for the best grouping. Still, even as that has gone on, the pass defense has been average giving up 231 yards. There is young talent learning the ropes, and this group will become a more formidable group in the coming years under the new coaching regime.
Last week, Ohio State faced what was then the best defense they had seen, at least on statistical terms. The Spartans are even better and as such the Buckeyes will need to bring their A game. It may be wise for the Buckeyes to loosen things up by going to Robo, Hartline, and Small early and often. Assuming the Buckeye O-Line, the best that the Spartans have faced, can give Boeckman time, there are yards to be gained against the secondary. Beanie Wells will have to work hard to get running room, especially early. As the game wears on, he may find the sledding easier. Ultimately, while the Spartans are heading in the right direction under Dantonio and Narduzzi, they're not a dominant group just yet. It may not be long, however.
Overall Defensive Rating: B
2007 Michigan State Spartans Special Teams Preview
Returning Starters: 1
Special Teams
P #18 Aaron Bates (6-0 190 FR)
PK #14 Brett Swenson (5-8 160 SO)
PR #18 Terry Love (5-11 174 SR)
KR #5 Devin Thomas (6-2 218 JR)
KR #20 A.J. Jimmerson (5-10 202 SO)
LS #56 Alex Shackleton (6-2 250 rFR)
Kicking Game:
I think the highlight of the kicking game is the punter, Aaron Bates (from New Concord, Ohio) and he is only a true freshman. Unfortunately, he has had a lot of live practice to get that valuable experience. He has punted 30 times with an average of 38.9 yards per, long of 54 and 12 of them kicked inside the 20 which is a pretty amazing stat considering he's a true frosh. He did have one blocked, but Dantonio said it was a break down with the punt coverage team, although some growing pains are expected with the green talent. With all this praise I expect a shank somewhere on the afternoon since that seems to be the norm with the write up.
On the other side of the kicking game is Brett Swenson from Pompano Beach, Florida. He is the lone returning starter on the unit and was a first-team all freshman last year, honorable mention all Big Ten and converted 15 of 19 field goals which helped him lead the team in scoring with 78 points. So far this year he is experiencing that sophomore slump, making 7 of 12 field goals with a long of 45 and getting one blocked. I'm sure he will rebound, but let's hope it's not against us.
Kicking Game Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Trapasso and Pretorius vs. Bates and Swenson
This one breaks down pretty easy: Trapasso > Bates and Pretorius > Swenson. Although Bates impresses me and will be a future star, I like Trapasso more at this stage. He is just a stud even though he only did get 2 punts versus Kent State. Just don't give Thoma another shot. I am tired of losing that shut out late.
Edge: Ohio State
Return Game:
Devin Thomas is the stud of the whole return group, while he has no kickoffs returned for a TD, he is averaging 31.4 yards on 20 attempts with a long of 70 yards. OSU is still going for the kill shot on kick coverages which concerns me against MSU, they could make us pay if we don't wrap up. Jimmerson has only had 2 opportunities to return kicks, averaging 25 yards each attempt.
There's really nothing great about MSU's punt return team. Love is the leader with 12 attempts averaging 6.6 per with a long of 18. A couple of other have had attempts but there numbers are even less spectacular.
Return Game Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: The Brians, Wells and Small vs. Thomas, Jimmerson and Love
YAY! About-freaking-time. Brian Hartline taking that punt back made my heart sing. It was a thing of beauty, but alas, no it didn't make me forget about Ginn, I got to watch him this Sunday versus my Browns and he did what Teddy does, took a kickoff 90ish yards to the house, only to have it called back on a clip.
Thomas is a great returner himself averaging an amazing 31.4 per, not taking any all the way, but coming close to breaking one. They are much better than OSU in this category, but the Hartline return last week breaks the tie.
Edge: OSU (GO HARTLINE!)
Overall Special Teams Analysis
I really think Dantonio has learned a lot from Tressel and knows how important special teams can be. This is his first year coaching, but already he's found some great young talent that with a little coaching will turn out to be All Big Ten performers. They are well on their way this year, let's just hope the inexperience shows this Saturday afternoon.
Overall Special Teams Rating: B-
Special Teams
P #18 Aaron Bates (6-0 190 FR)
PK #14 Brett Swenson (5-8 160 SO)
PR #18 Terry Love (5-11 174 SR)
KR #5 Devin Thomas (6-2 218 JR)
KR #20 A.J. Jimmerson (5-10 202 SO)
LS #56 Alex Shackleton (6-2 250 rFR)
Kicking Game:
I think the highlight of the kicking game is the punter, Aaron Bates (from New Concord, Ohio) and he is only a true freshman. Unfortunately, he has had a lot of live practice to get that valuable experience. He has punted 30 times with an average of 38.9 yards per, long of 54 and 12 of them kicked inside the 20 which is a pretty amazing stat considering he's a true frosh. He did have one blocked, but Dantonio said it was a break down with the punt coverage team, although some growing pains are expected with the green talent. With all this praise I expect a shank somewhere on the afternoon since that seems to be the norm with the write up.
On the other side of the kicking game is Brett Swenson from Pompano Beach, Florida. He is the lone returning starter on the unit and was a first-team all freshman last year, honorable mention all Big Ten and converted 15 of 19 field goals which helped him lead the team in scoring with 78 points. So far this year he is experiencing that sophomore slump, making 7 of 12 field goals with a long of 45 and getting one blocked. I'm sure he will rebound, but let's hope it's not against us.
Kicking Game Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Trapasso and Pretorius vs. Bates and Swenson
This one breaks down pretty easy: Trapasso > Bates and Pretorius > Swenson. Although Bates impresses me and will be a future star, I like Trapasso more at this stage. He is just a stud even though he only did get 2 punts versus Kent State. Just don't give Thoma another shot. I am tired of losing that shut out late.
Edge: Ohio State
Return Game:
Devin Thomas is the stud of the whole return group, while he has no kickoffs returned for a TD, he is averaging 31.4 yards on 20 attempts with a long of 70 yards. OSU is still going for the kill shot on kick coverages which concerns me against MSU, they could make us pay if we don't wrap up. Jimmerson has only had 2 opportunities to return kicks, averaging 25 yards each attempt.
There's really nothing great about MSU's punt return team. Love is the leader with 12 attempts averaging 6.6 per with a long of 18. A couple of other have had attempts but there numbers are even less spectacular.
Return Game Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: The Brians, Wells and Small vs. Thomas, Jimmerson and Love
YAY! About-freaking-time. Brian Hartline taking that punt back made my heart sing. It was a thing of beauty, but alas, no it didn't make me forget about Ginn, I got to watch him this Sunday versus my Browns and he did what Teddy does, took a kickoff 90ish yards to the house, only to have it called back on a clip.
Thomas is a great returner himself averaging an amazing 31.4 per, not taking any all the way, but coming close to breaking one. They are much better than OSU in this category, but the Hartline return last week breaks the tie.
Edge: OSU (GO HARTLINE!)
Overall Special Teams Analysis
I really think Dantonio has learned a lot from Tressel and knows how important special teams can be. This is his first year coaching, but already he's found some great young talent that with a little coaching will turn out to be All Big Ten performers. They are well on their way this year, let's just hope the inexperience shows this Saturday afternoon.
Overall Special Teams Rating: B-
Predictions
BB73's prediction: 31-20, Ohio State
BuckeyeRyn's prediction: 34-17, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 41-13, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 28-24, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 31-16, Ohio State
daddyphatsac's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State
Hubbard's prediction: 35-13, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 34-20, Ohio State
OSUBucks22's prediction: 38-13, Ohio State
OSUsushichic's prediction: 35-14, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 35-14, Ohio State
Previous Game's Results (OSU 48 - Kent State 3)
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.)
(1, 19, 10, 18, 15, 18, 7 = 88) OSUBucks22's: 41-3, Ohio State (7 + 0 = 7 + 81 last week)
(11, 14, 10, 12, 21, 22, 9 = 99) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 42-6, Ohio State (6 + 3 = 9 + 90 last week)
(0, 29, 15, 22, 14, 18, 9 = 99) OSUSushichic's prediction: 42-6, Ohio State (6 + 3 = 9 + 90 last week)
(4, 29, 9, 23, 17, 27, 10 = 109) BB73's prediction: 38-3, Ohio State (10 + 0 = 10 + 99 last week)
(2, 22, 18, 28, 17, 23, 13 = 113) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 35-3, Ohio State (13 + 0 = 13 + 100 last week)
(0, 33, 17, 25, 14, 21, 21 = 121) Hubbard's prediction: 27-3, Ohio State (21 + 0 = 21 + 100 last week)
(7, 25, 14, 40, 11, 22, 17 = 136) Buckeyeryn's prediction: 38-10, Ohio State (10 + 7 = 17 + 119 last week)
(10, 30, 15, 25, DNP (28), 15 = 142) jwinslow's prediction: 37-7, Ohio State (11 + 4 = 15 + 127 last week)
(7, 22, 12, DNP (40), DNP (22), 28, 9 = 140) daddyphatsac's prediction: 42-6, Ohio State (6 + 3 = 9 + 131 last week)
(17, 22, 16, 27, 22, 28, 13 = 145) Bucklion's prediction: 45-13, Ohio State (3 + 10 = 13 + 132 last week)
(16, 33, 10, 28, 19, 25, 17 = 148) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 38-10, Ohio State (10 + 7 = 17 + 131 last week)
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed:
BuckeyeRyn's prediction: 34-17, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 41-13, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 28-24, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 31-16, Ohio State
daddyphatsac's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State
Hubbard's prediction: 35-13, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 34-20, Ohio State
OSUBucks22's prediction: 38-13, Ohio State
OSUsushichic's prediction: 35-14, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 35-14, Ohio State
Previous Game's Results (OSU 48 - Kent State 3)
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.)
(1, 19, 10, 18, 15, 18, 7 = 88) OSUBucks22's: 41-3, Ohio State (7 + 0 = 7 + 81 last week)
(11, 14, 10, 12, 21, 22, 9 = 99) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 42-6, Ohio State (6 + 3 = 9 + 90 last week)
(0, 29, 15, 22, 14, 18, 9 = 99) OSUSushichic's prediction: 42-6, Ohio State (6 + 3 = 9 + 90 last week)
(4, 29, 9, 23, 17, 27, 10 = 109) BB73's prediction: 38-3, Ohio State (10 + 0 = 10 + 99 last week)
(2, 22, 18, 28, 17, 23, 13 = 113) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 35-3, Ohio State (13 + 0 = 13 + 100 last week)
(0, 33, 17, 25, 14, 21, 21 = 121) Hubbard's prediction: 27-3, Ohio State (21 + 0 = 21 + 100 last week)
(7, 25, 14, 40, 11, 22, 17 = 136) Buckeyeryn's prediction: 38-10, Ohio State (10 + 7 = 17 + 119 last week)
(10, 30, 15, 25, DNP (28), 15 = 142) jwinslow's prediction: 37-7, Ohio State (11 + 4 = 15 + 127 last week)
(7, 22, 12, DNP (40), DNP (22), 28, 9 = 140) daddyphatsac's prediction: 42-6, Ohio State (6 + 3 = 9 + 131 last week)
(17, 22, 16, 27, 22, 28, 13 = 145) Bucklion's prediction: 45-13, Ohio State (3 + 10 = 13 + 132 last week)
(16, 33, 10, 28, 19, 25, 17 = 148) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 38-10, Ohio State (10 + 7 = 17 + 131 last week)
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed:
Last edited:
