3yardsandacloud
Administrator Emeritus
2007 Youngstown State Penguins Game Preview
written by: BB73, BuckeyeRyn, Buckeyeskickbuttocks, Bucklion, DaddyBigBucks, daddyphatsacs, Deety, Hubbard, jwinslow, OSUBucks22, OSUsushichic, and 3yardsandacloud
Preface
Welcome to another season of college football! The long off-season is finally over, and the Buckeyes are ready to open up against the Youngstown State Penguins. This will be the first time that Ohio State has faced a non-major college opponent since the NCAA began classification in 1937. Let's look at how tOSU has performed in opening games.
All-time record in season openers: 101-13-4 (100-8-4 since 1895)
All-time record in home openers: 104-9-4 (102-6-4 since 1895)
Note: the reason there is 1 less game in the home opener totals is because during the inaugural season of 1889, the Buckeyes' season was just 1 road game that was played in May, 1890.
Ohio State enters the 2006 season with an all-time record of 787-301-53 in 117 seasons of competition. That includes a Big Ten record of 440-164-24 since joining the conference in 1913, an Ohio Stadium slate of 366-104-20 since it opened in 1922, and a bowl mark of 18-20.
Ohio State, outright Big Ten Champions in 2006, has won 40 of its last 41 non-conference games in the 'Shoe since 1991.
The Buckeyes own the record for appearances in the first Associated Press poll of the year (54 of 58 total), and start off at #11 this year. How have the Buckeyes performed in seasons which they started the season ranked somewhere between #10 and #15 in the AP poll? The results are varied, but include the National Championship years of '68 and '02.
Year Pre-Rank Final Rank
1950 - 11........14
1963 - 10........NR of 10
1965 - 12........NR of 10
1968 - 11........1
1971 - 11........NR of 20
1981 - 11........15
1982 - 14........12
1995 - 12........6
2002 - 13........1
Turning our attention to the opponent, let's look at how Youngstown State has performed in opening games. Since 1990, they are 15-1-1 in their first game of the season, but just 8-9 in road openers.
Youngstown State won four 1-AA national championships during the decade of the 1990s, while coached by Jim Tressel. They have been a member of the Gateway Conference since 1997. Last year, they won own their conference, and won two playoff games before falling in the semifinals to eventual champion Appalachian State.
The Penguins have only played one Big Ten opponent, that being a 37-3 loss at Penn State last year.
Against 'BCS conference' teams all-time, YSU is 2-5, with only one of those games being played in Youngstown. Their all-time record against teams currently in the MAC is 50-49-5.
Current head coach Jon Heacock (brother of tOSU DC Jim) has an overall record of 43-27 in his 6 years at YSU.
All-time record in season openers: 101-13-4 (100-8-4 since 1895)
All-time record in home openers: 104-9-4 (102-6-4 since 1895)
Note: the reason there is 1 less game in the home opener totals is because during the inaugural season of 1889, the Buckeyes' season was just 1 road game that was played in May, 1890.
Ohio State enters the 2006 season with an all-time record of 787-301-53 in 117 seasons of competition. That includes a Big Ten record of 440-164-24 since joining the conference in 1913, an Ohio Stadium slate of 366-104-20 since it opened in 1922, and a bowl mark of 18-20.
Ohio State, outright Big Ten Champions in 2006, has won 40 of its last 41 non-conference games in the 'Shoe since 1991.
The Buckeyes own the record for appearances in the first Associated Press poll of the year (54 of 58 total), and start off at #11 this year. How have the Buckeyes performed in seasons which they started the season ranked somewhere between #10 and #15 in the AP poll? The results are varied, but include the National Championship years of '68 and '02.
Year Pre-Rank Final Rank
1950 - 11........14
1963 - 10........NR of 10
1965 - 12........NR of 10
1968 - 11........1
1971 - 11........NR of 20
1981 - 11........15
1982 - 14........12
1995 - 12........6
2002 - 13........1
Turning our attention to the opponent, let's look at how Youngstown State has performed in opening games. Since 1990, they are 15-1-1 in their first game of the season, but just 8-9 in road openers.
Youngstown State won four 1-AA national championships during the decade of the 1990s, while coached by Jim Tressel. They have been a member of the Gateway Conference since 1997. Last year, they won own their conference, and won two playoff games before falling in the semifinals to eventual champion Appalachian State.
The Penguins have only played one Big Ten opponent, that being a 37-3 loss at Penn State last year.
Against 'BCS conference' teams all-time, YSU is 2-5, with only one of those games being played in Youngstown. Their all-time record against teams currently in the MAC is 50-49-5.
Current head coach Jon Heacock (brother of tOSU DC Jim) has an overall record of 43-27 in his 6 years at YSU.
Date and Time
Date: Saturday, September 1st, 2007
Time: 12:00 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: Alumni Band Day
Honorary Captain: Greg Bellisari
Broadcast Information:
TV Broadcast: The Big Ten Network: Roger Twibell (Play-by-play) and Mike Tomczak (Analyst)
Local Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
Satellite Radio: Sirius Radio 126
Time: 12:00 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: Alumni Band Day
Honorary Captain: Greg Bellisari
Broadcast Information:
TV Broadcast: The Big Ten Network: Roger Twibell (Play-by-play) and Mike Tomczak (Analyst)
BigTen Broadcast Teams:
Team #1 Appalachian State at Michigan - Thom Brennaman (Play-by-play), Charles Davis (Analyst), Charissa Thompson
Team #2 Indiana State at Indiana - Wayne Larrivee (Play-by-play), Chris Martin (Analyst), Trenni Kusnierek
Team #3 Florida International at Penn State - Mark Neely (Play-by-play), Glen Mason (Analyst), Marshall Harris
Team #4 Youngstown State at Ohio State - Roger Twibell (Play-by-play), Mike Tomczak (Analyst)
Team #5 Bowling Green at Minnesota - Jim Kelly (Play-by-play), Richard Baldinger (Analyst), Dara McIntosh
Team #6 Northeastern at Northwestern - Scott Graham (Play-by-play), Derrick Walker (Analyst)
Team #7 (Idle) - Ron Thulin (Play-by-play), Butler By'not'e (Analyst)
Studio - Dave Revsine (Studio Host), Gerry DiNardo (Studio Analyst), Howard Griffith (Studio Analyst)
Team #1 Appalachian State at Michigan - Thom Brennaman (Play-by-play), Charles Davis (Analyst), Charissa Thompson
Team #2 Indiana State at Indiana - Wayne Larrivee (Play-by-play), Chris Martin (Analyst), Trenni Kusnierek
Team #3 Florida International at Penn State - Mark Neely (Play-by-play), Glen Mason (Analyst), Marshall Harris
Team #4 Youngstown State at Ohio State - Roger Twibell (Play-by-play), Mike Tomczak (Analyst)
Team #5 Bowling Green at Minnesota - Jim Kelly (Play-by-play), Richard Baldinger (Analyst), Dara McIntosh
Team #6 Northeastern at Northwestern - Scott Graham (Play-by-play), Derrick Walker (Analyst)
Team #7 (Idle) - Ron Thulin (Play-by-play), Butler By'not'e (Analyst)
Studio - Dave Revsine (Studio Host), Gerry DiNardo (Studio Analyst), Howard Griffith (Studio Analyst)
Local Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
Satellite Radio: Sirius Radio 126
2007 Youngstown State Penguins Offensive Preview
Returning starters: 5
Another season of Buckeye football starts with a contest against local Youngstown State from the Gateway conference in I-AA, which of course also happens to be coach Tressel's "old stomping ground". The Penguins had a stellar season offensively in 2006, ranking 3rd in school history with 5,442 total yards, 4th nationally in I-AA. Their rushing total per game (223.7 ypg) ranked 8th nationally, and their passing total (157.9 ypg) was 83rd. The Penguins also piled up the points, averaging 31.4 per contest, good for 10th nationally. Looking deeper, their successful 2006 can be traced to their 20 first downs per game, which was in the top 20, and their conversion rate on 3rd down, which was an impressive 46.9%, good for 11th. They also turned the ball over only 18 times, an amazing total for a full season. This team will be hard-pressed to repeat these numbers, particularly in the later categories, with so many newcomers to the starting lineup, but make no mistake about it, hopes are still very high in Youngstown for 2007.
Quarterbacks
QB #24 Tom Zetts (6-1, 210, SR, Boardman HS, Boardman, OH)
Zetts is ready to write the swan-song of a stellar career in Youngstown. He ranks in the school's top 5 all-time of almost every major statistical category, including completion % (1st), TD passes (2nd), attempts and completions (3rd), yards (4th), and efficiency (5th). With a young backfield behind him and a rather inexperienced receiver corps, he will probably have to carry even more of the leadership load himself this season.
Last season Zetts completed 56.8% of his passes for 2086 yards and 14 TDs to just 11 INTs. He was also sacked only 12 times. He also chipped in 334 yards and 4 scores on the ground, averaging over 4 yards per carry. Among his highlights were torching James Madison for 314 yards through the air, which is 8th most in school history, and gaining 100 yards on the ground against Illinois State. He was the leader of a very, very good offense last season on a highly successful team, and there are high hopes to continue that trend this year despite some inexperience behind him.
If Zetts gets hurt, the Penguins have very little behind him in terms of game experience. Sophomore Todd Rowan saw action in 13 games last year ... as a holder. No one who threw a pass last year is left on the roster behind Zetts, so it is imperative that the line protects him.
QB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Youngstown State versus Ohio State QBs
This type of comparison is an interesting one, because the Penguins have a well-established QB that has been playing good football for 3 years, and the Buckeyes are breaking in a new starter. One could make the argument that the Penguins are clearly more comfortable with their QB situation than the Buckeyes could possible be. Still, Zetts threw for just 95 yards in his only experience against a Big Ten defense last year (Penn State), and the Buckeyes are monumentally deeper at the position than the Penguins, which is a recurring theme when discussing the difference between I-A teams and I-AA teams.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
RB #20 Brandon Nicholson (5-7, 200, JR, Kenton Ridge HS, Springfield, OH)
RB #34 Jabari Scott (5-10, 191, SO, Taft HS, San Antonio, TX)
FB #30 Ben Lane (5-10, 260, JR, Hubbard HS, Hubbard, OH)
For a running team, this group is very inexperienced, and has to replace a standout (Marcus Mason) who gained a very impressive 1847 yards (at over 6 yards per carry) with 23 TDs. Gone also is top backup Monquantae Gibson, who added 540 yards and 8 scores. The top returning rusher (not counting Zetts) is Nicholson, who ranked 6th on the team last year with all of 83 yards. Ben Lane chipped in 30 with a TD, and that's about it. Nicholson, Scott, and freshman Jordan Edwards (#28) all saw significant carries in the spring game, so it will be interesting to see who wins the job, or if it will be a multi-headed monster. Scott and Edwards redshirted last year, so it appears all three will see time this season, though in what combination is anyone's guess at the moment.
Lane is a bulldozer who has little role with the football (3 carries, 1 catch) but he is a critical player in the running attack and offers experience in the backfield as well as his skills as a battering ram.
RB Rating: D
Head-to-Head: Youngstown State versus Ohio State RBs
This isn't even close, as the Buckeyes have several blue-chippers with plenty of game experience and the Penguins are basically creating a new stable to replace last year's stellar players.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
WR #2 Rory Berry (6-1, 185, SR, Beaver Falls HS, Koppel, PA)
WR #7 Da'Michael Horne (5-11, 180, JR, Twinsburg HS, Twinsburg, OH)
Berry was the team's second leading receiver last year (31 catches, 366 yards, 3 TDs), and offers some experience to a thin and inexperienced corps behind him. Horne started one game last season, and had a total of 6 catches for 61 yards and a TD. Ferlando Williams (#1), who redshirted last year, is a stellar pure athlete, and will probably be utilized in a variety of ways this season. Senior Dustin Helle (#22) is a veteran in the system but has not played much at all.
WR Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Youngstown State versus Ohio State WRs
Again this is a no-contest, as the Buckeyes, despite their own losses of 2 first round draft picks, return some players with big-time game experience, and the Penguins have nothing behind the important but modest production of Berry.
Edge: Ohio State
Tight Ends
TE #81 Louis Irizarry (6-5, 255, JR, Ursuline HS, Campbell, OH)
TE #87 Derrick Bush (6-4, 270, JR, Circleville HS, Circleville, OH)
This is the position that the Penguins can make the most noise, and it includes a rather famous name amongst Buckeye faithful. Louis Irizarry, a former Buckeye, made an impact last year, catching 25 passes for 304 yards and 2 TDs. He is mentioned on many preseason award lists this year. Bush is an absolute mauler who also contributed in the passing game a bit, catching 6 passes for 74 yards, but his primary function and skill set is in the blocking game. He was 2nd team All-Gateway last year, and the team will be looking to him to open holes in the running game again this season. The combination of production and blocking makes this one of the better TE combinations in all of I-AA.
TE Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Youngstown State versus Ohio State TEs
Here's one where Penguin fans might get their dander up, especially since there was a time that it appeared Irizarry was headed to the top of the Buckeye depth chart. The TE position is not a feature point of the offense in Columbus, but it does serve its purpose and the players know their role and perform it well. The Penguins have an impressive combination of size and speed here that adds credence to both the passing and rushing attacks. The Penguins can hold their own at the position.
Edge: Even
Offensive Line
LT #78 Tyler Booth (6-6, 300, SR, Tuscarawas Valley HS, New Philadelphia, OH)
LG #50 Josh Tanner (6-2, 305, SR, Edgewater HS, Orlando, FL)
C #51 Brian Mellot (6-3, 285, SO, Austintown Fitch HS, Austintown, OH)
RG #67 Brad Samsa (6-3, 280, JR, Howland HS, Warren, OH)
RT #66 Nhemie Theodore (6-3, 300, JR, Irvington HS, Irvington, NJ)
The line was beyond stellar in 2006, not only steamrolling their way to huge rushing yards but also allowing only 13 sacks for the entire season. The Penguin offensive line for 2007 is an interesting one, with 3 well-established players, and 2 converted DL taking over for very good players at the other 2 spots. The line is led by right guard Brad Samsa, who was 2nd team all conference in 2006 and is on most lists for preseason honors this season. He continues to progress quickly and could end up being one of Youngstown's best linemen in a long time. Left tackle Tyler Booth has 22 starts and continues to be productive. Senior Josh Tanner also has 21 career starts and provides leadership to the position in addition to road-grating opponents. He should bounce back nicely from an injury suffered late last season. On the flip side, the line can't help but miss All-American standout Ryan Jewell at center. They have tapped converted defensive lineman Brian Mellot to replace him. Theodore is charged with replacing standout guard Patrick Walker. Though the losses will certainly hurt the Penguins, the returning players should ensure the drop-off will be slight.
Seniors Matt Kishman and Leon Edwards have been in the system for several years and will contribute as top backups, and there is a bevy of young players eager to step up and help as well. Overall, this line is in pretty good shape.
OL Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Youngstown State versus Ohio State OL
As with some of the other comparisons, it is difficult to be fair because of the talent and pedigree of major Division I-A players. However, the Penguins have 3 standout players with plenty of experience, so expect them to be able to hold their own for most of the game against the powerful Buckeye defense. This will certainly be far less of a mismatch than the typical I-A versus I-AA game, and the in-state rivalry will have the Penguins mean and hungry. All of that said, the loss of the center in particular hurts the Penguins, especially when stepping up in competition to open the season. The Buckeyes are better, and very clearly deeper, than the Penguins, and get the edge here.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Offensive Analysis
The Penguins had a monster year last year, and they have arguable the two most important cogs (experience at QB, OL) returning this season. However, there is virtually no experience or track record amongst the skill position players, and it will be a monumental test to step into Ohio stadium for the first game of the year. The Penguins didn't play all that bad against Penn State last year, but they didn't really trouble the Nittany Lion defense all that much, and that was with the standout skill players they had. There is no reason to believe that the Penguins can't have a good season, but likewise there is no reason to believe this offense should keep the Buckeye defensive coaches awake at night either. This team will be good towards the end of the year, but it won't be nearly the contest as it would have been had these teams opened the 2006 season.
Overall Offensive Rating: C
Another season of Buckeye football starts with a contest against local Youngstown State from the Gateway conference in I-AA, which of course also happens to be coach Tressel's "old stomping ground". The Penguins had a stellar season offensively in 2006, ranking 3rd in school history with 5,442 total yards, 4th nationally in I-AA. Their rushing total per game (223.7 ypg) ranked 8th nationally, and their passing total (157.9 ypg) was 83rd. The Penguins also piled up the points, averaging 31.4 per contest, good for 10th nationally. Looking deeper, their successful 2006 can be traced to their 20 first downs per game, which was in the top 20, and their conversion rate on 3rd down, which was an impressive 46.9%, good for 11th. They also turned the ball over only 18 times, an amazing total for a full season. This team will be hard-pressed to repeat these numbers, particularly in the later categories, with so many newcomers to the starting lineup, but make no mistake about it, hopes are still very high in Youngstown for 2007.
Quarterbacks
QB #24 Tom Zetts (6-1, 210, SR, Boardman HS, Boardman, OH)
Zetts is ready to write the swan-song of a stellar career in Youngstown. He ranks in the school's top 5 all-time of almost every major statistical category, including completion % (1st), TD passes (2nd), attempts and completions (3rd), yards (4th), and efficiency (5th). With a young backfield behind him and a rather inexperienced receiver corps, he will probably have to carry even more of the leadership load himself this season.
Last season Zetts completed 56.8% of his passes for 2086 yards and 14 TDs to just 11 INTs. He was also sacked only 12 times. He also chipped in 334 yards and 4 scores on the ground, averaging over 4 yards per carry. Among his highlights were torching James Madison for 314 yards through the air, which is 8th most in school history, and gaining 100 yards on the ground against Illinois State. He was the leader of a very, very good offense last season on a highly successful team, and there are high hopes to continue that trend this year despite some inexperience behind him.
If Zetts gets hurt, the Penguins have very little behind him in terms of game experience. Sophomore Todd Rowan saw action in 13 games last year ... as a holder. No one who threw a pass last year is left on the roster behind Zetts, so it is imperative that the line protects him.
QB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Youngstown State versus Ohio State QBs
This type of comparison is an interesting one, because the Penguins have a well-established QB that has been playing good football for 3 years, and the Buckeyes are breaking in a new starter. One could make the argument that the Penguins are clearly more comfortable with their QB situation than the Buckeyes could possible be. Still, Zetts threw for just 95 yards in his only experience against a Big Ten defense last year (Penn State), and the Buckeyes are monumentally deeper at the position than the Penguins, which is a recurring theme when discussing the difference between I-A teams and I-AA teams.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
RB #20 Brandon Nicholson (5-7, 200, JR, Kenton Ridge HS, Springfield, OH)
RB #34 Jabari Scott (5-10, 191, SO, Taft HS, San Antonio, TX)
FB #30 Ben Lane (5-10, 260, JR, Hubbard HS, Hubbard, OH)
For a running team, this group is very inexperienced, and has to replace a standout (Marcus Mason) who gained a very impressive 1847 yards (at over 6 yards per carry) with 23 TDs. Gone also is top backup Monquantae Gibson, who added 540 yards and 8 scores. The top returning rusher (not counting Zetts) is Nicholson, who ranked 6th on the team last year with all of 83 yards. Ben Lane chipped in 30 with a TD, and that's about it. Nicholson, Scott, and freshman Jordan Edwards (#28) all saw significant carries in the spring game, so it will be interesting to see who wins the job, or if it will be a multi-headed monster. Scott and Edwards redshirted last year, so it appears all three will see time this season, though in what combination is anyone's guess at the moment.
Lane is a bulldozer who has little role with the football (3 carries, 1 catch) but he is a critical player in the running attack and offers experience in the backfield as well as his skills as a battering ram.
RB Rating: D
Head-to-Head: Youngstown State versus Ohio State RBs
This isn't even close, as the Buckeyes have several blue-chippers with plenty of game experience and the Penguins are basically creating a new stable to replace last year's stellar players.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
WR #2 Rory Berry (6-1, 185, SR, Beaver Falls HS, Koppel, PA)
WR #7 Da'Michael Horne (5-11, 180, JR, Twinsburg HS, Twinsburg, OH)
Berry was the team's second leading receiver last year (31 catches, 366 yards, 3 TDs), and offers some experience to a thin and inexperienced corps behind him. Horne started one game last season, and had a total of 6 catches for 61 yards and a TD. Ferlando Williams (#1), who redshirted last year, is a stellar pure athlete, and will probably be utilized in a variety of ways this season. Senior Dustin Helle (#22) is a veteran in the system but has not played much at all.
WR Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Youngstown State versus Ohio State WRs
Again this is a no-contest, as the Buckeyes, despite their own losses of 2 first round draft picks, return some players with big-time game experience, and the Penguins have nothing behind the important but modest production of Berry.
Edge: Ohio State
Tight Ends
TE #81 Louis Irizarry (6-5, 255, JR, Ursuline HS, Campbell, OH)
TE #87 Derrick Bush (6-4, 270, JR, Circleville HS, Circleville, OH)
This is the position that the Penguins can make the most noise, and it includes a rather famous name amongst Buckeye faithful. Louis Irizarry, a former Buckeye, made an impact last year, catching 25 passes for 304 yards and 2 TDs. He is mentioned on many preseason award lists this year. Bush is an absolute mauler who also contributed in the passing game a bit, catching 6 passes for 74 yards, but his primary function and skill set is in the blocking game. He was 2nd team All-Gateway last year, and the team will be looking to him to open holes in the running game again this season. The combination of production and blocking makes this one of the better TE combinations in all of I-AA.
TE Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Youngstown State versus Ohio State TEs
Here's one where Penguin fans might get their dander up, especially since there was a time that it appeared Irizarry was headed to the top of the Buckeye depth chart. The TE position is not a feature point of the offense in Columbus, but it does serve its purpose and the players know their role and perform it well. The Penguins have an impressive combination of size and speed here that adds credence to both the passing and rushing attacks. The Penguins can hold their own at the position.
Edge: Even
Offensive Line
LT #78 Tyler Booth (6-6, 300, SR, Tuscarawas Valley HS, New Philadelphia, OH)
LG #50 Josh Tanner (6-2, 305, SR, Edgewater HS, Orlando, FL)
C #51 Brian Mellot (6-3, 285, SO, Austintown Fitch HS, Austintown, OH)
RG #67 Brad Samsa (6-3, 280, JR, Howland HS, Warren, OH)
RT #66 Nhemie Theodore (6-3, 300, JR, Irvington HS, Irvington, NJ)
The line was beyond stellar in 2006, not only steamrolling their way to huge rushing yards but also allowing only 13 sacks for the entire season. The Penguin offensive line for 2007 is an interesting one, with 3 well-established players, and 2 converted DL taking over for very good players at the other 2 spots. The line is led by right guard Brad Samsa, who was 2nd team all conference in 2006 and is on most lists for preseason honors this season. He continues to progress quickly and could end up being one of Youngstown's best linemen in a long time. Left tackle Tyler Booth has 22 starts and continues to be productive. Senior Josh Tanner also has 21 career starts and provides leadership to the position in addition to road-grating opponents. He should bounce back nicely from an injury suffered late last season. On the flip side, the line can't help but miss All-American standout Ryan Jewell at center. They have tapped converted defensive lineman Brian Mellot to replace him. Theodore is charged with replacing standout guard Patrick Walker. Though the losses will certainly hurt the Penguins, the returning players should ensure the drop-off will be slight.
Seniors Matt Kishman and Leon Edwards have been in the system for several years and will contribute as top backups, and there is a bevy of young players eager to step up and help as well. Overall, this line is in pretty good shape.
OL Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Youngstown State versus Ohio State OL
As with some of the other comparisons, it is difficult to be fair because of the talent and pedigree of major Division I-A players. However, the Penguins have 3 standout players with plenty of experience, so expect them to be able to hold their own for most of the game against the powerful Buckeye defense. This will certainly be far less of a mismatch than the typical I-A versus I-AA game, and the in-state rivalry will have the Penguins mean and hungry. All of that said, the loss of the center in particular hurts the Penguins, especially when stepping up in competition to open the season. The Buckeyes are better, and very clearly deeper, than the Penguins, and get the edge here.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Offensive Analysis
The Penguins had a monster year last year, and they have arguable the two most important cogs (experience at QB, OL) returning this season. However, there is virtually no experience or track record amongst the skill position players, and it will be a monumental test to step into Ohio stadium for the first game of the year. The Penguins didn't play all that bad against Penn State last year, but they didn't really trouble the Nittany Lion defense all that much, and that was with the standout skill players they had. There is no reason to believe that the Penguins can't have a good season, but likewise there is no reason to believe this offense should keep the Buckeye defensive coaches awake at night either. This team will be good towards the end of the year, but it won't be nearly the contest as it would have been had these teams opened the 2006 season.
Overall Offensive Rating: C
2007 Youngstown State Penguins Defensive Preview
Returning Starters: 7
In 2006, the Penguins ran a 3 - 4 defense which was 6th out of 8 Gateway Conference teams in total defense. Despite the low ranking in total defense, however, the "bend don't break" philosophy worked well enough to win 11 of 14 games. Likewise, the Penguins were very good on 3rd downs, holding opponents to 36% success rate on 170 opportunities, good for first in the conference. The Penguins did give up just over 23 points per contest, but over a third of all those points came in just three games; 37 against PSU, 31 against UNI and 49 against eventual FCS National Champion Appalachian State.
This year, under first year Defensive Coordinator Jeff Mills, the Penguins are expected to run a 4 - 3 scheme. Returning seven regular starters, and nine players with starting experience, it is hoped that the defense can improve on its having allowed nearly 170 on the ground while giving up 24 touchdowns. Last year's squad gave 190 per contest through the air, picked off 15 passes, and allowed 16 scores. However, the Penguins must break in two new corners in 2007 losing last year's duo to graduation. The Penguins forced 2 turnovers per game in 2006 (15 interceptions, 21 forced fumbles (13 recovered)) and would like to see that continue in 2007.
Defensive Line
LE #98 Blake Halverson (6-3 245 SR)
LT #96 Mychal Savage (6-2 300 JR)
RT #55 Greg Jacobs (6-3 270 SR)
RE #39 Myles Banford (6-2 237 SR)
First Team All Gateway Tackle Mychal Savage provides the beef inside for this experienced group. Savage had 54 tackles in 2006, along with 5.5 for a loss and 3 sacks. Greg Jacobs started 8 of the 11 games he played, but is a bit of a question mark for 2007 owing to family issues. Halverson (5 starts) and Banford (2 starts) are undersized by Big Ten Standards, but could provide some quickness off the edges.
Depth will be provided by Sophomore Morehead State transfer DT #70 Jon Penick (6-2 285), redshirt Freshman DT #94 Torrance Nicholson (6-3 285), Freshman #54 Joshua Myers (6-2 250), Senior DE #57 Maurice Smith-Davis (6-1 255), and redshirt Freshmen Defensive Ends # 99 Luke Matelan (6-4 245) and #95 Chris Gammon (6-3 275).
DL Rating: C
Head-to-Head: YSU DL versus OSU DL
Ohio State has bigger and faster athletes at every line position. The only player with Big Ten size for his position is Mychal Savage. While he is quite accomplished in the Gateway Conference, this unit gave up nearly 400 yards of rushing offense to Penn State in 2006. Of course, this is a new year, and a new scheme. Still, there is little question that Ohio State's defensive line, even with 3 new starters for 2007, is bigger and quicker all the way across the line, and all the way down the depth chart. While one cannot expect YSU's line to shut down Ohio State, this is an experienced group who should improve on their 2006 numbers once conference play begins.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
OLB #52 Roshard Cotton (6-1 230 SR)
MLB #56 James Terry (6-2 235 SR)
WLB #25 Jeremiah Wright (5-10 215 SR)
James Terry is a two time First Team All Gateway linebacker and is the clear leader of this veteran group. Recording 76 tackles in 2006, he also had 5.5 sacks and an interception. Wright is a 5th year senior who was playing very well in 2006 before his season ended with a knee injury at Penn State. In the 2 full games he played, Wright recorded 27 tackles (good for 13th overall, even in 12 less games), 10.5 for loss, and 1.5 sacks. He is expected to return to form in 2007. Roshard Cotton had 53 tackles and 7 for loss in 2006.
Depth will be provided by Senior #40 Joe Nicholson (5-9 210), Junior #44 Mike Barlak (6-2 225), and redshirt Freshmen #11 Deon'te Williams (6-4 190) and # 60 Nick Mernedakis (6-2 218). Barlak, who saw action in each of the Penguins 14 games in 2006 is expected to play a bigger role in 2007. Also figuring in to the mix are incoming freshmen #48 Na'eem Outler (6-2 225) of Occoquan, Va. and #53 John Sasson (6-2 240) from Pittsburgh, Pa.
LB Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: YSU LBs versus OSU LBs
Once again, there is little comparison between YSU's unit and Ohio State's. Ohio State has one of the best units in the nation, lead by James Laurinaitis and Marcus Freeman. While YSU's starting 3 is a veteran and experienced group, they just simply are not of the same caliber. Likewise, Ohio State's reserves hold an advantage over YSU's and would very likely start if they played for the Penguins. As with the line, however, this unit will be an asset come conference play, providing YSU with a very solid and veteran front seven.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #8 Jarvis Richards (5-11 190 JR)
WS #6 Dorian Chenault (6-1 200 SR)
SS #21 Bob Perez (6-0 210 SR)
LCB #32 Lenny Wicks (5-9 183 SO)
The YSU secondary replaces First-Team All-Gateway corners Jason Perry (2006) and Codera Jackson (2005). Jarvis Richards played in each of YSU's 14 games in 2006, but will have some work to do to live up to what the Penguins lost to graduation. The other corner is a complete question mark. While Wicks is listed here as the starter, he is no sure thing over incoming Freshmen #27 Brandian Ross (6-0 180), 23 Nick Gooden (5-11 195), #9 Kamryn Keys (5-11 181) or # 5 Randy Louis (5-10 175) who are also trying to earn the job. Also on the roster at Cornerback are Juniors and Scout-Teamers #10 Tony Kavouras (5-8 170), #16 Tom Krupko (5-7 170).
What YSU lacks on the corners, however, they make up for at the Safety positions. Seniors Chenault and Perez both played extensively in 2006, Chenault starting each of YSU's last 11 games (27 overall) and Perez getting the starting nod in the first three. Chenault was the third leading tackler in 2006, and Perez is a vocal leader. They will be backed up by Seniors #18 Vince Gliatta (6-1 210) who began his college career in 2003 at Penn State and #49 Tony Lawrence (6-1 177).
DB Rating: D+
Head-to-Head: YSU's DBs versus OSU DBs
There is really no comparison. Malcom Jenkins is one of the best corners in college football and will be soon playing on Sundays. YSU has no one who can match him - or Donald Washington, for that matter. Worse for YSU is that the corner opposite Richards is likely to be a serious liability, none of the possible replacements to the outgoing seniors having played a college snap. While the strength of the Penguins Secondary is at the Safety Positions, there are no real game changers among them. Unlike Ohio State, depth for this unit is a serious concern. Aside from the Seniors backing up the Safeties, not one YSU DB in the mix has yet seen any action. This unit might deserve better than the D+ grade, but depth and experience issues prevents it. This unit will need to rely heavily on the front seven. If there are any breakdowns up front, injuries, or if YSU cannot put pressure on opposing QBs the yards will come in bunches.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
The Penguins are learning a new defensive scheme in 2007. Still, aside from the serious problems present in the defensive backfield, this is a veteran group who could perform better than they did in 2006. The D-Line will need to help the Secondary out by putting consistent pressure on opposing QBs, and the experienced LBs will also need to step up in coverage as the corners jell. While it is highly doubtful that this unit will provide enough resistance to Ohio State's young offense, it should provide Youngstown State with adequate to good production in conference play. If YSU has a little luck with the Secondary, considering the leadership of the front seven, this unit could end up being among the better units in the Gateway Conference.
Overall Defensive Rating: C
In 2006, the Penguins ran a 3 - 4 defense which was 6th out of 8 Gateway Conference teams in total defense. Despite the low ranking in total defense, however, the "bend don't break" philosophy worked well enough to win 11 of 14 games. Likewise, the Penguins were very good on 3rd downs, holding opponents to 36% success rate on 170 opportunities, good for first in the conference. The Penguins did give up just over 23 points per contest, but over a third of all those points came in just three games; 37 against PSU, 31 against UNI and 49 against eventual FCS National Champion Appalachian State.
This year, under first year Defensive Coordinator Jeff Mills, the Penguins are expected to run a 4 - 3 scheme. Returning seven regular starters, and nine players with starting experience, it is hoped that the defense can improve on its having allowed nearly 170 on the ground while giving up 24 touchdowns. Last year's squad gave 190 per contest through the air, picked off 15 passes, and allowed 16 scores. However, the Penguins must break in two new corners in 2007 losing last year's duo to graduation. The Penguins forced 2 turnovers per game in 2006 (15 interceptions, 21 forced fumbles (13 recovered)) and would like to see that continue in 2007.
Defensive Line
LE #98 Blake Halverson (6-3 245 SR)
LT #96 Mychal Savage (6-2 300 JR)
RT #55 Greg Jacobs (6-3 270 SR)
RE #39 Myles Banford (6-2 237 SR)
First Team All Gateway Tackle Mychal Savage provides the beef inside for this experienced group. Savage had 54 tackles in 2006, along with 5.5 for a loss and 3 sacks. Greg Jacobs started 8 of the 11 games he played, but is a bit of a question mark for 2007 owing to family issues. Halverson (5 starts) and Banford (2 starts) are undersized by Big Ten Standards, but could provide some quickness off the edges.
Depth will be provided by Sophomore Morehead State transfer DT #70 Jon Penick (6-2 285), redshirt Freshman DT #94 Torrance Nicholson (6-3 285), Freshman #54 Joshua Myers (6-2 250), Senior DE #57 Maurice Smith-Davis (6-1 255), and redshirt Freshmen Defensive Ends # 99 Luke Matelan (6-4 245) and #95 Chris Gammon (6-3 275).
DL Rating: C
Head-to-Head: YSU DL versus OSU DL
Ohio State has bigger and faster athletes at every line position. The only player with Big Ten size for his position is Mychal Savage. While he is quite accomplished in the Gateway Conference, this unit gave up nearly 400 yards of rushing offense to Penn State in 2006. Of course, this is a new year, and a new scheme. Still, there is little question that Ohio State's defensive line, even with 3 new starters for 2007, is bigger and quicker all the way across the line, and all the way down the depth chart. While one cannot expect YSU's line to shut down Ohio State, this is an experienced group who should improve on their 2006 numbers once conference play begins.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
OLB #52 Roshard Cotton (6-1 230 SR)
MLB #56 James Terry (6-2 235 SR)
WLB #25 Jeremiah Wright (5-10 215 SR)
James Terry is a two time First Team All Gateway linebacker and is the clear leader of this veteran group. Recording 76 tackles in 2006, he also had 5.5 sacks and an interception. Wright is a 5th year senior who was playing very well in 2006 before his season ended with a knee injury at Penn State. In the 2 full games he played, Wright recorded 27 tackles (good for 13th overall, even in 12 less games), 10.5 for loss, and 1.5 sacks. He is expected to return to form in 2007. Roshard Cotton had 53 tackles and 7 for loss in 2006.
Depth will be provided by Senior #40 Joe Nicholson (5-9 210), Junior #44 Mike Barlak (6-2 225), and redshirt Freshmen #11 Deon'te Williams (6-4 190) and # 60 Nick Mernedakis (6-2 218). Barlak, who saw action in each of the Penguins 14 games in 2006 is expected to play a bigger role in 2007. Also figuring in to the mix are incoming freshmen #48 Na'eem Outler (6-2 225) of Occoquan, Va. and #53 John Sasson (6-2 240) from Pittsburgh, Pa.
LB Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: YSU LBs versus OSU LBs
Once again, there is little comparison between YSU's unit and Ohio State's. Ohio State has one of the best units in the nation, lead by James Laurinaitis and Marcus Freeman. While YSU's starting 3 is a veteran and experienced group, they just simply are not of the same caliber. Likewise, Ohio State's reserves hold an advantage over YSU's and would very likely start if they played for the Penguins. As with the line, however, this unit will be an asset come conference play, providing YSU with a very solid and veteran front seven.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #8 Jarvis Richards (5-11 190 JR)
WS #6 Dorian Chenault (6-1 200 SR)
SS #21 Bob Perez (6-0 210 SR)
LCB #32 Lenny Wicks (5-9 183 SO)
The YSU secondary replaces First-Team All-Gateway corners Jason Perry (2006) and Codera Jackson (2005). Jarvis Richards played in each of YSU's 14 games in 2006, but will have some work to do to live up to what the Penguins lost to graduation. The other corner is a complete question mark. While Wicks is listed here as the starter, he is no sure thing over incoming Freshmen #27 Brandian Ross (6-0 180), 23 Nick Gooden (5-11 195), #9 Kamryn Keys (5-11 181) or # 5 Randy Louis (5-10 175) who are also trying to earn the job. Also on the roster at Cornerback are Juniors and Scout-Teamers #10 Tony Kavouras (5-8 170), #16 Tom Krupko (5-7 170).
What YSU lacks on the corners, however, they make up for at the Safety positions. Seniors Chenault and Perez both played extensively in 2006, Chenault starting each of YSU's last 11 games (27 overall) and Perez getting the starting nod in the first three. Chenault was the third leading tackler in 2006, and Perez is a vocal leader. They will be backed up by Seniors #18 Vince Gliatta (6-1 210) who began his college career in 2003 at Penn State and #49 Tony Lawrence (6-1 177).
DB Rating: D+
Head-to-Head: YSU's DBs versus OSU DBs
There is really no comparison. Malcom Jenkins is one of the best corners in college football and will be soon playing on Sundays. YSU has no one who can match him - or Donald Washington, for that matter. Worse for YSU is that the corner opposite Richards is likely to be a serious liability, none of the possible replacements to the outgoing seniors having played a college snap. While the strength of the Penguins Secondary is at the Safety Positions, there are no real game changers among them. Unlike Ohio State, depth for this unit is a serious concern. Aside from the Seniors backing up the Safeties, not one YSU DB in the mix has yet seen any action. This unit might deserve better than the D+ grade, but depth and experience issues prevents it. This unit will need to rely heavily on the front seven. If there are any breakdowns up front, injuries, or if YSU cannot put pressure on opposing QBs the yards will come in bunches.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
The Penguins are learning a new defensive scheme in 2007. Still, aside from the serious problems present in the defensive backfield, this is a veteran group who could perform better than they did in 2006. The D-Line will need to help the Secondary out by putting consistent pressure on opposing QBs, and the experienced LBs will also need to step up in coverage as the corners jell. While it is highly doubtful that this unit will provide enough resistance to Ohio State's young offense, it should provide Youngstown State with adequate to good production in conference play. If YSU has a little luck with the Secondary, considering the leadership of the front seven, this unit could end up being among the better units in the Gateway Conference.
Overall Defensive Rating: C
2007 Youngstown State Penguins Special Teams Preview
Returning Starters: 3
With 3 returning starters, YSU's cupboards aren't bare, but they did lose several starters including: punt returner Jason Perry, kick returner Josh Cayson and punter Joe Bishop (who also did kick-offs). Assuming their duties are an All-American JC transfer and a midseason replacement. The three returning starters, long snapper Mike Barlak, kicker Brian Palmer and kick returner Da'Michael Horne have varying degrees of experience.
Special Teams
P #36 Ben Nowicki (5-10 175 SO)
PK#88 Brian Palmer (5-11 175 JR)
PR#4 Da'Michael Horne (5-11 180 JR)
KR #4 Da'Michael Horne (5-11 180 JR)
LS #44 Mike Barlak (6-2 225 JR)
Kicking Game:
Returning kicker Brian Palmer is entering his third season as the Penguins starter. For his career he is 19 of 27 (70.4%) on field goals and 89 out of 95 (93.7%) on extra points. He improved his game last year by converting 12 of 15 field goals, but by Ohio State standards, more like Jim Tressel standards, it is sub par. I fully expect to him to improve again this year so he will be a more than adequate kicker and it seems like opposing kickers always perform above there heads when playing OSU. His career long is 44 yards and he never handled the kickoff duties (punter Jason Perry did them last year) so unless YSU is well within the 30, don't count on that happening too many times in this particular game, I don't expect them to attempt a field goal. He wasn't called upon to often previously either, so expect the kicking game to have a negligible impact on the game.
Junior College All-American transfer from Mesa Community College, Ben Nowicki will be given the reigns in the punting department. Last year at Mesa he lead the nation with an average of 44.2 yards per. He placed 14 kicks inside the 20 yard line and had a 73 yarder to add to his resume. If he stays this consistent YSU should be able to win the field position battle, that is if the kick coverage team can keep OSU's returners under wrap.
Kicking Game Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Brian Palmer and Ben Nowicki versus Ryan Pretorious/Aaron Pettrey and A.J. Trapasso
Trapasso doesn't have the average that Nowicki does, nor does he have the leg with only a long of 52 yards, but he has dropped 40% of his punts in the 20 yard line. Pretty close to a wash there.
Pettrey has the leg, Pretorious has the accuracy (so far this preseason anyway). I would take this duo over most kickers.
Edge: Ohio State
Return Game:
Inexperience. That pretty much sums it up. Da'Michael Horne only took over as kick returner midseason and had a respectable average of 20.3 yards per return with a long of 33. In preseason he had an 85 yard punt return for a TD, but will it carry over to the new season? My bet is not against OSU.
On YSU's entire roster, only one person has punt returning experience and he only has one attempt. After a productive preseason, look for Horne to take over here as well and have a solid season.
Return Game Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Da'Michael Horne vs. Ray Small (questionable), Maurice Wells and Malcolm Jenkins.
Other than Wells, OSU has little experience as well and without seeing them in action I would almost have to give the edge to any other team, but not here. As my old Madden games used to say A LOT: "Speed Kills" and with Wells and Small we have it in heaps. Expect Jenkins to be a solid punt returner who may not make us forget about Ginn, but is confident, won't fumble and will give us consistent yardage on returns.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Special Teams Analysis
I am sure Heacock has picked up a thing or two from his old protege Tressel, but no one will ever stress special teams as much as him, well except maybe Frank Beamer. YSU's kicking game should be solid this year with Nowicki having a great year I envision. The return game is questionable, but just because of the inexperience. Comparing the two teams though, is what brings the rating down, I am sure YSU has a good overall special teams, but OSU is really one of the cream of the crop of the entire nation.
Overall Special Teams Rating: C+
With 3 returning starters, YSU's cupboards aren't bare, but they did lose several starters including: punt returner Jason Perry, kick returner Josh Cayson and punter Joe Bishop (who also did kick-offs). Assuming their duties are an All-American JC transfer and a midseason replacement. The three returning starters, long snapper Mike Barlak, kicker Brian Palmer and kick returner Da'Michael Horne have varying degrees of experience.
Special Teams
P #36 Ben Nowicki (5-10 175 SO)
PK#88 Brian Palmer (5-11 175 JR)
PR#4 Da'Michael Horne (5-11 180 JR)
KR #4 Da'Michael Horne (5-11 180 JR)
LS #44 Mike Barlak (6-2 225 JR)
Kicking Game:
Returning kicker Brian Palmer is entering his third season as the Penguins starter. For his career he is 19 of 27 (70.4%) on field goals and 89 out of 95 (93.7%) on extra points. He improved his game last year by converting 12 of 15 field goals, but by Ohio State standards, more like Jim Tressel standards, it is sub par. I fully expect to him to improve again this year so he will be a more than adequate kicker and it seems like opposing kickers always perform above there heads when playing OSU. His career long is 44 yards and he never handled the kickoff duties (punter Jason Perry did them last year) so unless YSU is well within the 30, don't count on that happening too many times in this particular game, I don't expect them to attempt a field goal. He wasn't called upon to often previously either, so expect the kicking game to have a negligible impact on the game.
Junior College All-American transfer from Mesa Community College, Ben Nowicki will be given the reigns in the punting department. Last year at Mesa he lead the nation with an average of 44.2 yards per. He placed 14 kicks inside the 20 yard line and had a 73 yarder to add to his resume. If he stays this consistent YSU should be able to win the field position battle, that is if the kick coverage team can keep OSU's returners under wrap.
Kicking Game Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Brian Palmer and Ben Nowicki versus Ryan Pretorious/Aaron Pettrey and A.J. Trapasso
Trapasso doesn't have the average that Nowicki does, nor does he have the leg with only a long of 52 yards, but he has dropped 40% of his punts in the 20 yard line. Pretty close to a wash there.
Pettrey has the leg, Pretorious has the accuracy (so far this preseason anyway). I would take this duo over most kickers.
Edge: Ohio State
Return Game:
Inexperience. That pretty much sums it up. Da'Michael Horne only took over as kick returner midseason and had a respectable average of 20.3 yards per return with a long of 33. In preseason he had an 85 yard punt return for a TD, but will it carry over to the new season? My bet is not against OSU.
On YSU's entire roster, only one person has punt returning experience and he only has one attempt. After a productive preseason, look for Horne to take over here as well and have a solid season.
Return Game Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Da'Michael Horne vs. Ray Small (questionable), Maurice Wells and Malcolm Jenkins.
Other than Wells, OSU has little experience as well and without seeing them in action I would almost have to give the edge to any other team, but not here. As my old Madden games used to say A LOT: "Speed Kills" and with Wells and Small we have it in heaps. Expect Jenkins to be a solid punt returner who may not make us forget about Ginn, but is confident, won't fumble and will give us consistent yardage on returns.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Special Teams Analysis
I am sure Heacock has picked up a thing or two from his old protege Tressel, but no one will ever stress special teams as much as him, well except maybe Frank Beamer. YSU's kicking game should be solid this year with Nowicki having a great year I envision. The return game is questionable, but just because of the inexperience. Comparing the two teams though, is what brings the rating down, I am sure YSU has a good overall special teams, but OSU is really one of the cream of the crop of the entire nation.
Overall Special Teams Rating: C+
Predictions
BB73's prediction: 38-10, Ohio State
BuckeyeRyn's prediction: 41-10, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 51-3, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 48-13, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 45-10, Ohio State
daddyphatsac's prediction: 44-7, Ohio State
Deety's prediction: 45-10, Ohio State
Hubbard's prediction: 38-6, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 42-13, Ohio State
OSUBucks22's prediction: 38-7, Ohio State
OSUsushichic's prediction: 38-6, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 40-6, Ohio State
BuckeyeRyn's prediction: 41-10, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 51-3, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 48-13, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 45-10, Ohio State
daddyphatsac's prediction: 44-7, Ohio State
Deety's prediction: 45-10, Ohio State
Hubbard's prediction: 38-6, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 42-13, Ohio State
OSUBucks22's prediction: 38-7, Ohio State
OSUsushichic's prediction: 38-6, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 40-6, Ohio State
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Thank God it's finally here - I don't believe I have ever suffered through a longer summer in my life.....Great job on the preview. Wonder how much OSU will struggle according to the football genius, Mark May???
