-
Follow us on Twitter @buckeyeplanet and @bp_recruiting, like us on Facebook! Enjoy a post or article, recommend it to others! BP is only as strong as its community, and we only promote by word of mouth, so share away!
- Thread starter ScriptOhio
- Start date
And in my eyes, it might be much better. Obviously having Lewis, Hubbard, Holmes and Bosa back is the best DE unit out there and one of the deepest and most talented DE unit we've had. But then Cooper will have a year and presumably some more bulk under his belt to contribute at the DE position.
Even more importantly in my eyes is DT. We will have Sprinkle back for a final campaign and since the injury occurred in game 1, I would assume he would be full go. I really think he would have been our best DT last year and his absence was felt although some others stepped up. Jones and Landers really stepped it up and those 3 are a good group, and hopefully Cornell will be improved and contribute. But I am really excited to see Malik Barrow, who I think would have contributed right away if not for his injury his senior year of HS...he would have been a 5 star if not for the injury and could be a star for us at DT. I think you could see a really solid rotation at DT to go along with our studs at DE.
Upvote
0
ScriptOhio
Everybody is somebody else's weirdo.
WHAT IS NEXT FOR OHIO STATE'S DEFENSE? IMPROVING FROM AN IMPRESSIVE 2016 CAMPAIGN WITH SEVEN RETURNING STARTERS
Much is made — and rightfully so — about the talent Ohio State lost early to the NFL Draft. Especially on defense.
The Buckeyes said goodbye to three defensive backs who still had eligibility remaining when safety Malik Hooker began an onslaught of draft declarations that also included cornerbacks Gareon Conley and Marshon Lattimore. Raekwon McMillan made it four members gone from a unit that finished sixth in the nation in total defense.
What is perhaps more staggering is how Hooker and Lattimore were both first-year starters and now look like top-10 picks in the 2017 NFL Draft. In fact, they were two of six first-time starters on Luke Fickell's defense in 2016.
The unit actually statistically improved from a terrific 2015 campaign, one that saw stars Darron Lee, Joey Bosa, Vonn Bell, Eli Apple, Adolphus Washington and all Joshua Perry leave school and get drafted. Safety Tyvis Powell also bolted early and even though he didn't hear his name called on draft weekend, first made the Seattle Seahawks 53-man roster and recently was claimed by the Cleveland Browns.
The roster attrition was unlike anything we've ever seen and happened again after Ohio State's 31-0 loss to Clemson in the Fiesta Bowl, though not quite on the same scale. The addition of Greg Schiano as co-defensive coordinator and safeties coach ahead of the 2016 season clearly helped despite all the new starters, as the numbers show. Here is a look at Ohio State's three most recent defenses, starting with the unit that helped bring the first-ever College Football Playoff National Championship back to Columbus.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...e-2016-campaign-with-seven-returning-starters
Much is made — and rightfully so — about the talent Ohio State lost early to the NFL Draft. Especially on defense.
The Buckeyes said goodbye to three defensive backs who still had eligibility remaining when safety Malik Hooker began an onslaught of draft declarations that also included cornerbacks Gareon Conley and Marshon Lattimore. Raekwon McMillan made it four members gone from a unit that finished sixth in the nation in total defense.
What is perhaps more staggering is how Hooker and Lattimore were both first-year starters and now look like top-10 picks in the 2017 NFL Draft. In fact, they were two of six first-time starters on Luke Fickell's defense in 2016.
The unit actually statistically improved from a terrific 2015 campaign, one that saw stars Darron Lee, Joey Bosa, Vonn Bell, Eli Apple, Adolphus Washington and all Joshua Perry leave school and get drafted. Safety Tyvis Powell also bolted early and even though he didn't hear his name called on draft weekend, first made the Seattle Seahawks 53-man roster and recently was claimed by the Cleveland Browns.
The roster attrition was unlike anything we've ever seen and happened again after Ohio State's 31-0 loss to Clemson in the Fiesta Bowl, though not quite on the same scale. The addition of Greg Schiano as co-defensive coordinator and safeties coach ahead of the 2016 season clearly helped despite all the new starters, as the numbers show. Here is a look at Ohio State's three most recent defenses, starting with the unit that helped bring the first-ever College Football Playoff National Championship back to Columbus.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...e-2016-campaign-with-seven-returning-starters
Upvote
0
ScriptOhio
Everybody is somebody else's weirdo.
SPRING PREVIEW: WITH AN ABUNDANCE OF TALENT RETURNING, OHIO STATE LOADED ALONG THE DEFENSIVE LINE IN 2017
When Ohio State's 2016 season concluded, there was potential the Buckeyes could lose three of their top pass rushers.
Defensive ends Tyquan Lewis, Sam Hubbard and Jalyn Holmes were all draft eligible. Each had a decision to make regarding their respective futures.
All three opted to stay.
As a result, Ohio State enters the 2017 season absolutely loaded along the defensive line. The Buckeyes lost 75 percent of their starting secondary in addition to their starting middle linebacker, but with the entire defensive line back in the fold, Larry Johnson's unit will be heavily relied upon to anchor the defense.
With spring practice for Ohio State set to begin in two weeks, we continue our preview series with a look at what should be the Buckeyes' strongest defensive unit.
DEFENSIVE END
With Lewis, Hubbard, Holmes and Nick Bosa all back, Ohio State returns its top four defensive ends from 2016. The foursome has the potential to be among the best groups in the country at the position.
Lewis' return was perhaps the most surprising, as he opted to come back for his fifth year after a redshirt junior campaign saw him record a team-high eight sacks and 10.5 tackles for loss. Lewis was named the Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year for the 2016 season.
He graduated in December so many pegged him to forgo his final year of eligibility, but Lewis opted to return for a final run. A captain last season, Lewis is the unquestioned leader of this group.
Many picked Hubbard to have a breakout season in 2016 as it was his first as a full-time starter. The statistical production didn't exactly indicate that — Hubbard had 3.5 sacks and eight tackles for loss — but Hubbard proved he's more than capable of holding down the starting spot opposite Lewis and playing at a high level. He'll be a redshirt junior in 2017.
A big spring lies ahead for Nick Bosa.
Holmes flashed in bunches during his junior season — the first in which he saw any significant playing time. He recorded 8.5 tackles for loss with a pair of sacks and also showed the versatility to move inside when Ohio State used its famed 'Rushmen' package on third downs. Holmes will be a senior in the fall and he'll continue to push the other three ends for reps.
Bosa was outstanding as a true freshman last fall as he ranked second on the team with five sacks to go along with seven tackles for loss. His snaps increased as the season went along as the Buckeyes brought him on slowly early in the season as he returned from a significant knee injury suffered in high school. This is a huge spring for Bosa — his first in the program — as he has the potential to become a star in the fall.
If there's a downside to Ohio State returning its top four defensive ends, it's that some of the younger players — sans Bosa — won't get the reps they probably want in the fall. There simply aren't enough snaps and the Buckeyes are going to want their best players on the field. But spring ball is the perfect opportunity for some of the younger players as Ohio State often limits its veterans.
The fifth end in the pecking order is probably sophomore-to-be Jonathon Cooper, who played sparingly in 2016 as a true freshman — primarily in mop-up duty. Cooper was a highly-touted recruit like Bosa who will be participating in his second spring with the team as he enrolled early last season. This will be a big spring for him, as well, as he looks to crack the rotation.
Rashod Berry and Darius Slade are the other two defensive ends on Ohio State's roster. Slade suffered a ruptured Achilles last season during fall camp and missed the entire season. His status for spring practice is unknown though it's unlikely he participates much.
The lone defensive end signed by the Buckeyes in the 2017 class, five-star Chase Young, was not one of the team's nine early enrollees so he will not participate in spring practice.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...ng-ohio-state-loaded-along-the-defensive-line
When Ohio State's 2016 season concluded, there was potential the Buckeyes could lose three of their top pass rushers.
Defensive ends Tyquan Lewis, Sam Hubbard and Jalyn Holmes were all draft eligible. Each had a decision to make regarding their respective futures.
All three opted to stay.
As a result, Ohio State enters the 2017 season absolutely loaded along the defensive line. The Buckeyes lost 75 percent of their starting secondary in addition to their starting middle linebacker, but with the entire defensive line back in the fold, Larry Johnson's unit will be heavily relied upon to anchor the defense.
With spring practice for Ohio State set to begin in two weeks, we continue our preview series with a look at what should be the Buckeyes' strongest defensive unit.
DEFENSIVE END
With Lewis, Hubbard, Holmes and Nick Bosa all back, Ohio State returns its top four defensive ends from 2016. The foursome has the potential to be among the best groups in the country at the position.
Lewis' return was perhaps the most surprising, as he opted to come back for his fifth year after a redshirt junior campaign saw him record a team-high eight sacks and 10.5 tackles for loss. Lewis was named the Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year for the 2016 season.
He graduated in December so many pegged him to forgo his final year of eligibility, but Lewis opted to return for a final run. A captain last season, Lewis is the unquestioned leader of this group.
Many picked Hubbard to have a breakout season in 2016 as it was his first as a full-time starter. The statistical production didn't exactly indicate that — Hubbard had 3.5 sacks and eight tackles for loss — but Hubbard proved he's more than capable of holding down the starting spot opposite Lewis and playing at a high level. He'll be a redshirt junior in 2017.
A big spring lies ahead for Nick Bosa.
Holmes flashed in bunches during his junior season — the first in which he saw any significant playing time. He recorded 8.5 tackles for loss with a pair of sacks and also showed the versatility to move inside when Ohio State used its famed 'Rushmen' package on third downs. Holmes will be a senior in the fall and he'll continue to push the other three ends for reps.
Bosa was outstanding as a true freshman last fall as he ranked second on the team with five sacks to go along with seven tackles for loss. His snaps increased as the season went along as the Buckeyes brought him on slowly early in the season as he returned from a significant knee injury suffered in high school. This is a huge spring for Bosa — his first in the program — as he has the potential to become a star in the fall.
If there's a downside to Ohio State returning its top four defensive ends, it's that some of the younger players — sans Bosa — won't get the reps they probably want in the fall. There simply aren't enough snaps and the Buckeyes are going to want their best players on the field. But spring ball is the perfect opportunity for some of the younger players as Ohio State often limits its veterans.
The fifth end in the pecking order is probably sophomore-to-be Jonathon Cooper, who played sparingly in 2016 as a true freshman — primarily in mop-up duty. Cooper was a highly-touted recruit like Bosa who will be participating in his second spring with the team as he enrolled early last season. This will be a big spring for him, as well, as he looks to crack the rotation.
Rashod Berry and Darius Slade are the other two defensive ends on Ohio State's roster. Slade suffered a ruptured Achilles last season during fall camp and missed the entire season. His status for spring practice is unknown though it's unlikely he participates much.
The lone defensive end signed by the Buckeyes in the 2017 class, five-star Chase Young, was not one of the team's nine early enrollees so he will not participate in spring practice.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...ng-ohio-state-loaded-along-the-defensive-line
Upvote
0
ScriptOhio
Everybody is somebody else's weirdo.
SPRING PREVIEW: RAEKWON MCMILLAN'S DEPARTURE LEAVES OHIO STATE WITH MASSIVE HOLE AT MIDDLE LINEBACKER
Spring practice is a time where some questions get answered. Ohio State certainly has a huge one in the middle of its defense.
Who is going to be the Buckeyes' starting middle linebacker?
The early departure of Raekwon McMillan wasn't exactly something that blindsided Ohio State. McMillan was on the three-and-out plan from the moment he stepped on campus and after an incredibly productive career, the Hinesville, Georgia native declared for the NFL Draft at the conclusion of the Buckeyes' 2016 season.
So while both Jerome Baker and Chris Worley return at the two outside spots, Ohio State has a huge hole to fill in the middle. The Buckeyes will use the next six weeks to help determine McMillan's potential replacement.
Our spring preview series rolls along today by examining the options and much more with Ohio State's linebackers.
THE RETURNERS
A pair of NFL Draft picks left Ohio State's linebacker unit following the 2015 season, but the Buckeyes got solid production from a pair of first-year starters throughout 2016 as Worley and Baker each had their moments.
Stepping in for Darron Lee, Worley registered 70 tackles (4.5 for loss) as he started all 13 games at the SAM linebacker position. Worley didn't necessarily flash the same type of game-changing potential Lee did, but he was a solid first-year starter nonetheless. He's a leading candidate to be a captain this fall. As a fifth-year player, Worley will likely be somewhat limited during spring ball, but, barring injury, he'll be a starter in the fall.
Baker wasn't a starter at the beginning of the year, but after Dante Booker injured his knee during Ohio State's season-opener, the sophomore started the rest of the Buckeyes' games in his place at the WILL linebacker spot. All he did was register 83 tackles — second on the team behind McMillan — with 8.5 coming for loss, 3.5 sacks and a pair of interceptions. Baker's play was good enough to keep Booker on the sidelines when he returned from injury and he all but solidified a starting spot in the fall.
Ohio State should feel pretty good about its two returning starters in Billy Davis' meeting room. Davis, of course, took over for Luke Fickell as the Buckeyes' linebackers coach after Fickell left to take the head coaching position at Cincinnati — another wrinkle in this particular position group.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...leaves-ohio-state-with-massive-hole-at-middle
Spring practice is a time where some questions get answered. Ohio State certainly has a huge one in the middle of its defense.
Who is going to be the Buckeyes' starting middle linebacker?
The early departure of Raekwon McMillan wasn't exactly something that blindsided Ohio State. McMillan was on the three-and-out plan from the moment he stepped on campus and after an incredibly productive career, the Hinesville, Georgia native declared for the NFL Draft at the conclusion of the Buckeyes' 2016 season.
So while both Jerome Baker and Chris Worley return at the two outside spots, Ohio State has a huge hole to fill in the middle. The Buckeyes will use the next six weeks to help determine McMillan's potential replacement.
Our spring preview series rolls along today by examining the options and much more with Ohio State's linebackers.
THE RETURNERS
A pair of NFL Draft picks left Ohio State's linebacker unit following the 2015 season, but the Buckeyes got solid production from a pair of first-year starters throughout 2016 as Worley and Baker each had their moments.
Stepping in for Darron Lee, Worley registered 70 tackles (4.5 for loss) as he started all 13 games at the SAM linebacker position. Worley didn't necessarily flash the same type of game-changing potential Lee did, but he was a solid first-year starter nonetheless. He's a leading candidate to be a captain this fall. As a fifth-year player, Worley will likely be somewhat limited during spring ball, but, barring injury, he'll be a starter in the fall.
Baker wasn't a starter at the beginning of the year, but after Dante Booker injured his knee during Ohio State's season-opener, the sophomore started the rest of the Buckeyes' games in his place at the WILL linebacker spot. All he did was register 83 tackles — second on the team behind McMillan — with 8.5 coming for loss, 3.5 sacks and a pair of interceptions. Baker's play was good enough to keep Booker on the sidelines when he returned from injury and he all but solidified a starting spot in the fall.
Ohio State should feel pretty good about its two returning starters in Billy Davis' meeting room. Davis, of course, took over for Luke Fickell as the Buckeyes' linebackers coach after Fickell left to take the head coaching position at Cincinnati — another wrinkle in this particular position group.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...leaves-ohio-state-with-massive-hole-at-middle
Upvote
0
ScriptOhio
Everybody is somebody else's weirdo.
SPRING PREVIEW: FIVE OHIO STATE POSITION BATTLES TO WATCH
The majority of open starting jobs at Ohio State usually aren't solidified until the end of fall camp.
Frontrunners certainly emerge during spring practice, though.
And like every team in the country, the Buckeyes have some spots to fill as they begin preparation for the 2017 campaign. Ohio State starts spring practice Tuesday, March 7.
Our preview section rolls along today with some of the top position battles surrounding the Buckeyes as they head into spring ball.
DEFENSE
MIDDLE LINEBACKER
The candidates: Dante Booker, Nick Conner, Tuf Borland, Justin Hilliard, others
Breakdown: We outlined the middle linebacker opening a bit in our positional preview, but the general feeling is Dante Booker will get the first crack at the job and has the skill set best suited among the linebackers on the current roster.
But there are a number of other linebackers who have to figure out where exactly they're going to play. Nick Conner and Tuf Borland seem like natural inside backers and Justin Hilliard came to Ohio State as a WILL, but after multiple injuries, he may be a better fit playing inside.
A pair of sophomores, Keandre Jones and Malik Harrison, are also intriguing options, but with the athleticism each possesses, playing outside may make a bit more sense at this time. With that said, they'd likely have to run with the second team as Chris Worley and Jerome Baker figure to be the starting outside linebackers, so if they're good enough to play right now a move to the middle could happen.
And don't forget about five-star early enrollee Baron Browning, who looks like a college-made linebacker much like Raekwon McMillan did when he arrived at Ohio State. But Browning's a freak athlete and it feels like his skill set may also best be suited on the outside.
There are a lot of options here and we won't really know until we get a glimpse at where each is lining up when practice officially begins.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...iew-five-ohio-state-position-battles-to-watch
The majority of open starting jobs at Ohio State usually aren't solidified until the end of fall camp.
Frontrunners certainly emerge during spring practice, though.
And like every team in the country, the Buckeyes have some spots to fill as they begin preparation for the 2017 campaign. Ohio State starts spring practice Tuesday, March 7.
Our preview section rolls along today with some of the top position battles surrounding the Buckeyes as they head into spring ball.
DEFENSE
MIDDLE LINEBACKER
The candidates: Dante Booker, Nick Conner, Tuf Borland, Justin Hilliard, others
Breakdown: We outlined the middle linebacker opening a bit in our positional preview, but the general feeling is Dante Booker will get the first crack at the job and has the skill set best suited among the linebackers on the current roster.
But there are a number of other linebackers who have to figure out where exactly they're going to play. Nick Conner and Tuf Borland seem like natural inside backers and Justin Hilliard came to Ohio State as a WILL, but after multiple injuries, he may be a better fit playing inside.
A pair of sophomores, Keandre Jones and Malik Harrison, are also intriguing options, but with the athleticism each possesses, playing outside may make a bit more sense at this time. With that said, they'd likely have to run with the second team as Chris Worley and Jerome Baker figure to be the starting outside linebackers, so if they're good enough to play right now a move to the middle could happen.
And don't forget about five-star early enrollee Baron Browning, who looks like a college-made linebacker much like Raekwon McMillan did when he arrived at Ohio State. But Browning's a freak athlete and it feels like his skill set may also best be suited on the outside.
There are a lot of options here and we won't really know until we get a glimpse at where each is lining up when practice officially begins.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...iew-five-ohio-state-position-battles-to-watch
Upvote
0
ScriptOhio
Everybody is somebody else's weirdo.
SPRING PREVIEW: FIVE OHIO STATE PLAYERS THAT MUST BREAK OUT IN 2017
Ohio State doesn't have nearly as much youth in its football program as it did a year ago when 44 freshmen entered fall camp. But Urban Meyer's team isn't that old all things considered, since it only lost six seniors and just one of them — All-American center Pat Elflein — was a full-time starter on either offense or defense.
The Buckeyes also lost six guys to the NFL that had eligibility remaining, four from a defense that ranked among the nation's best. Malik Hooker and Marshon Lattimore look like surefire first-round draft picks, while Gareon Conley could work his way into the discussion with a strong performance at the NFL Scouting Combine next week in Indianapolis. Elflein is one of the top linemen in this year's draft class, Curtis Samuel did everything and then some for Ohio State's offense in 2016, Raekwon McMillan put together a terrific three-year run at middle linebacker and Noah Brown is an intriguing prospect at wide receiver.
One thing that all of them have in common, however, is they leave behind noticeable holes on Ohio State's depth chart. Spring practice is the first opportunity the program has at deciding who gets the first crack at filling them.
Every year, a handful of names dominate headlines in Columbus as the breakout stars of spring drills. Let's pick five that need to make waves this time around.
JORDAN FULLER — SAFETY
Like Mack, Fuller played a bunch on special teams as a true freshman. A key component to the punt and kickoff team, Fuller has a knack for being around the ball. Fuller finished his first year at Ohio State with 11 total tackles and the Buckeyes listed him second on the depth chart behind Damon Webb at strong safety.
With the Buckeyes saying goodbye to three more assumed draft picks from the secondary in Malik Hooker, Marshon Lattimore and Gareon Conley, plenty of attention will be focused on those next in line. Greg Schiano and Coombs have their hands full trying to replicate the production that turned pro, considering Ohio State intercepted 21 passes and returned seven of them for touchdowns in 2016.
Identified early in the recruiting process as one of Ohio State's favorite defensive backs in the 2016 class, the former 4-star recruit is blessed with a solid frame (6-foot-2, 205 pounds) and elected to come to Columbus instead of joining Michigan or Notre Dame. A late get in the recruiting cycle, the Buckeyes pulled the long athlete from the east coast two days before signing day.
Fuller, Erick Smith and Jahsen Wint are all in line to battle for the open safety spot alongside Webb this spring. Isaiah Pryor also enrolled early to join the fray. Smith should be considered the leader at the spot but dealt with an ACL injury near the end of 2015 that allowed Webb and Hooker to win the safety jobs ahead of last season. How does it shake out? Schiano will push to get the best player on the field at the back end of Ohio State's defense. With Fuller's potential being what it is, he will likely garner plenty of attention this spring.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...hio-state-players-that-must-break-out-in-2017
Ohio State doesn't have nearly as much youth in its football program as it did a year ago when 44 freshmen entered fall camp. But Urban Meyer's team isn't that old all things considered, since it only lost six seniors and just one of them — All-American center Pat Elflein — was a full-time starter on either offense or defense.
The Buckeyes also lost six guys to the NFL that had eligibility remaining, four from a defense that ranked among the nation's best. Malik Hooker and Marshon Lattimore look like surefire first-round draft picks, while Gareon Conley could work his way into the discussion with a strong performance at the NFL Scouting Combine next week in Indianapolis. Elflein is one of the top linemen in this year's draft class, Curtis Samuel did everything and then some for Ohio State's offense in 2016, Raekwon McMillan put together a terrific three-year run at middle linebacker and Noah Brown is an intriguing prospect at wide receiver.
One thing that all of them have in common, however, is they leave behind noticeable holes on Ohio State's depth chart. Spring practice is the first opportunity the program has at deciding who gets the first crack at filling them.
Every year, a handful of names dominate headlines in Columbus as the breakout stars of spring drills. Let's pick five that need to make waves this time around.
JORDAN FULLER — SAFETY
Like Mack, Fuller played a bunch on special teams as a true freshman. A key component to the punt and kickoff team, Fuller has a knack for being around the ball. Fuller finished his first year at Ohio State with 11 total tackles and the Buckeyes listed him second on the depth chart behind Damon Webb at strong safety.
With the Buckeyes saying goodbye to three more assumed draft picks from the secondary in Malik Hooker, Marshon Lattimore and Gareon Conley, plenty of attention will be focused on those next in line. Greg Schiano and Coombs have their hands full trying to replicate the production that turned pro, considering Ohio State intercepted 21 passes and returned seven of them for touchdowns in 2016.
Identified early in the recruiting process as one of Ohio State's favorite defensive backs in the 2016 class, the former 4-star recruit is blessed with a solid frame (6-foot-2, 205 pounds) and elected to come to Columbus instead of joining Michigan or Notre Dame. A late get in the recruiting cycle, the Buckeyes pulled the long athlete from the east coast two days before signing day.
Fuller, Erick Smith and Jahsen Wint are all in line to battle for the open safety spot alongside Webb this spring. Isaiah Pryor also enrolled early to join the fray. Smith should be considered the leader at the spot but dealt with an ACL injury near the end of 2015 that allowed Webb and Hooker to win the safety jobs ahead of last season. How does it shake out? Schiano will push to get the best player on the field at the back end of Ohio State's defense. With Fuller's potential being what it is, he will likely garner plenty of attention this spring.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...hio-state-players-that-must-break-out-in-2017
Upvote
0
ScriptOhio
Everybody is somebody else's weirdo.
SPRING PREVIEW: OHIO STATE MUST FIND WAY TO REPLACE TWO POTENTIAL FIRST-ROUND PICKS AT CORNERBACK
How would Ohio State replace Eli Apple?
That was a big question heading into the 2016 season. The Buckeyes had one returning starter at cornerback in Gareon Conley, but how would they manage to find a replacement for Apple, a top-10 pick in the NFL Draft?
It's fair to say Ohio State found a more than adequate replacement.
Marshon Lattimore has a shot to be the first cornerback taken in this upcoming NFL Draft despite playing just one full season for the Buckeyes. Lattimore stepped in for Apple and blossomed into a star at the cornerback position.
Lattimore is a surefire first-round pick in April and Conley, who also left Columbus with eligibility remaining, has a shot to join him and hear his name called on the opening night. What it leaves, however, is a pair of giant holes at cornerback for Ohio State heading into the 2017 season.
With just over a week until spring practice opens for the Buckeyes — Ohio State's first practice is Tuesday, March 7 — our preview section rolls along with a look at what's inside Kerry Coombs' meeting room and the likely candidates to start for the Buckeyes at cornerback this fall.
DENZEL WARD, JUNIOR
Barring an injury, junior Denzel Ward will start at one corner spot for Ohio State. He was the third cornerback a year ago — essentially a co-starter — and proved he was more than capable of becoming that No. 1 corner the Buckeyes have relied on so heavily in recent years.
Ward is a bit smaller in stature than some of Ohio State's previous No. 1 corners — he's listed at just 5-foot-10 and 185 pounds — but a former state champion sprinter in high school, he's arguably the fastest player on the Buckeyes' roster.
Now the elder statesmen in the cornerback room, Ward will be heavily relied upon this spring to develop some of the young talent behind him.
DAMON ARNETTE, REDSHIRT SOPHOMORE
Arnette started the season as Ohio State's fourth cornerback. He played in nickel situations for the first half of the year, primarily covering slot receivers on third down.
But after Arnette struggled in the Buckeyes' game against Northwestern, Ohio State shifted its nickel package. Conley slid over into the slot and Ward entered on the outside leaving Arnette, mostly, to special teams duty.
It's clear the staff likes his progression and thinks he can be a starter — they wouldn't have played him last season if they didn't — but it was also apparent he maybe wasn't quite ready last season to see significant snaps.
Arnette is probably the favorite to open spring ball with the first-team defense at a cornerback spot opposite Ward, but there is a ton of young talent that just arrived on campus who will make this race very interesting.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...to-replace-two-potential-first-round-picks-at
How would Ohio State replace Eli Apple?
That was a big question heading into the 2016 season. The Buckeyes had one returning starter at cornerback in Gareon Conley, but how would they manage to find a replacement for Apple, a top-10 pick in the NFL Draft?
It's fair to say Ohio State found a more than adequate replacement.
Marshon Lattimore has a shot to be the first cornerback taken in this upcoming NFL Draft despite playing just one full season for the Buckeyes. Lattimore stepped in for Apple and blossomed into a star at the cornerback position.
Lattimore is a surefire first-round pick in April and Conley, who also left Columbus with eligibility remaining, has a shot to join him and hear his name called on the opening night. What it leaves, however, is a pair of giant holes at cornerback for Ohio State heading into the 2017 season.
With just over a week until spring practice opens for the Buckeyes — Ohio State's first practice is Tuesday, March 7 — our preview section rolls along with a look at what's inside Kerry Coombs' meeting room and the likely candidates to start for the Buckeyes at cornerback this fall.
DENZEL WARD, JUNIOR
Barring an injury, junior Denzel Ward will start at one corner spot for Ohio State. He was the third cornerback a year ago — essentially a co-starter — and proved he was more than capable of becoming that No. 1 corner the Buckeyes have relied on so heavily in recent years.
Ward is a bit smaller in stature than some of Ohio State's previous No. 1 corners — he's listed at just 5-foot-10 and 185 pounds — but a former state champion sprinter in high school, he's arguably the fastest player on the Buckeyes' roster.
Now the elder statesmen in the cornerback room, Ward will be heavily relied upon this spring to develop some of the young talent behind him.
DAMON ARNETTE, REDSHIRT SOPHOMORE
Arnette started the season as Ohio State's fourth cornerback. He played in nickel situations for the first half of the year, primarily covering slot receivers on third down.
But after Arnette struggled in the Buckeyes' game against Northwestern, Ohio State shifted its nickel package. Conley slid over into the slot and Ward entered on the outside leaving Arnette, mostly, to special teams duty.
It's clear the staff likes his progression and thinks he can be a starter — they wouldn't have played him last season if they didn't — but it was also apparent he maybe wasn't quite ready last season to see significant snaps.
Arnette is probably the favorite to open spring ball with the first-team defense at a cornerback spot opposite Ward, but there is a ton of young talent that just arrived on campus who will make this race very interesting.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...to-replace-two-potential-first-round-picks-at
Upvote
0
ScriptOhio
Everybody is somebody else's weirdo.
SPRING PREVIEW: CAN OHIO STATE FIND ANOTHER MALIK HOOKER AT SAFETY?
Ohio State's best defensive player in 2016 essentially came out of nowhere.
Malik Hooker's rise from backup safety to superstar and potential top-10 pick happened in the blink of an eye. The Buckeyes lost a pair of multi-year starters at the position following the 2015 season in Tyvis Powell and Vonn Bell and replaced them with a player who became a consensus first-team All-American.
But because of Hooker's rapid ascension, Ohio State is once against left with a giant hole to fill in the back end of its defense. The Buckeyes return Damon Webb at one safety spot — Webb is the lone returning starter in the entire secondary — but Hooker's spot is wide open as Ohio State prepares to begin spring practice March 7.
Our spring preview series rolls along today with a look at the safeties, led by position coach Greg Schiano.
DAMON WEBB, SENIOR
Webb made the move from corner to safety last season as a junior and started all 13 games for Ohio State alongside Hooker. He registered 57 tackles and one interception on the year.
As the lone member in the Buckeyes' back four who started last year, Webb will not only be the leader of Schiano's meeting room but the secondary as a whole. Ohio State is going to need him to make a leap as the anchor, as Webb was a bit inconsistent throughout the 2016 season.
ERICK SMITH, SENIOR
Smith's career to this point has been rather interesting. He showed great promise during his freshman and sophomore seasons before a knee injury cut his second year short. Then, he was jumped by both Hooker and Webb last season for one of the open starting spots as he continued to battle back from injury.
Smith spent most of last season, his junior year, as a special teams contributor and now, as a senior, has a shot to finally grab the starting job many thought he'd have a couple of years ago. There is plenty of young talent behind him, however, so Smith is going to need a big spring if he wants to start for the Buckeyes in the fall.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...hio-state-find-another-malik-hooker-at-safety
Ohio State's best defensive player in 2016 essentially came out of nowhere.
Malik Hooker's rise from backup safety to superstar and potential top-10 pick happened in the blink of an eye. The Buckeyes lost a pair of multi-year starters at the position following the 2015 season in Tyvis Powell and Vonn Bell and replaced them with a player who became a consensus first-team All-American.
But because of Hooker's rapid ascension, Ohio State is once against left with a giant hole to fill in the back end of its defense. The Buckeyes return Damon Webb at one safety spot — Webb is the lone returning starter in the entire secondary — but Hooker's spot is wide open as Ohio State prepares to begin spring practice March 7.
Our spring preview series rolls along today with a look at the safeties, led by position coach Greg Schiano.
DAMON WEBB, SENIOR
Webb made the move from corner to safety last season as a junior and started all 13 games for Ohio State alongside Hooker. He registered 57 tackles and one interception on the year.
As the lone member in the Buckeyes' back four who started last year, Webb will not only be the leader of Schiano's meeting room but the secondary as a whole. Ohio State is going to need him to make a leap as the anchor, as Webb was a bit inconsistent throughout the 2016 season.
ERICK SMITH, SENIOR
Smith's career to this point has been rather interesting. He showed great promise during his freshman and sophomore seasons before a knee injury cut his second year short. Then, he was jumped by both Hooker and Webb last season for one of the open starting spots as he continued to battle back from injury.
Smith spent most of last season, his junior year, as a special teams contributor and now, as a senior, has a shot to finally grab the starting job many thought he'd have a couple of years ago. There is plenty of young talent behind him, however, so Smith is going to need a big spring if he wants to start for the Buckeyes in the fall.
Entire article: http://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-...hio-state-find-another-malik-hooker-at-safety
Upvote
0
ScriptOhio
Everybody is somebody else's weirdo.
Ohio State 2017 Spring Positional Preview: Defensive Tackle
The Buckeyes return all of their defensive tackles from last season.
A year ago at this time, the Ohio State defensive tackles were one of the biggest question marks on the roster. They were replacing a pair of starters and doing it with only two players who had even played before. Then, in the first game of the season, Tracy Sprinkle was lost for the season, forcing those young players to mature much more quickly than expected.
Players like Dre'Mont Jones, Robert Landers, and Davon Hamilton all stepped up and solidified a unit that now returns everyone from a season ago, including Sprinkle. There is going to be a fierce competition inside for the Buckeyes this spring, and defensive line coach Larry Johnson wouldn't have it any other way.
The Players
9 Jashon Cornell (6-3 280) Redshirt Sophomore
Played in just five games due to injuries a season ago...had a fantastic spring in 2016...played in three of the Buckeyes' final five games last year...quick and athletic...
53 Davon Hamilton (6-4 297) Redshirt Sophomore
Played in all 13 games last season...finished with 10 tackles...2.5 tackles for loss...0.5 sacks...was the backup to Dre'Mont Jones...was a disruptive pass-rushing force in the spring...
55 Malik Barrow (6-2 288) Redshirt Freshman
Redshirted last season...enrolled early, but was recovering from an injury...should get a good, long look this spring...
58 Joshua Alabi (6-5 295) Redshirt Sophomore
Played in five games last season...finished with two tackles and a fumble recovery...dealt with health issues early in his career which put him behind the rest of his class...
67 Robert Landers (6-1 285) Redshirt Sophomore
Very effective at times last season...played in every game...7.5 of his 16 tackles were in the backfield...also had a sack...great leverage and extremely quick...
77 Michael Hill (6-3 305) Redshirt Senior
As selfless as you want your nose tackle to be...started every game last season...21 tackles...3 tackles for loss...teammates constantly credited him for OSU's success in run defense...
86 Dre'Mont Jones (6-3 280) Redshirt Sophomore
Started the final 12 games of the season last year in place of Tracy Sprinkle...finished sixth on the team with 52 tackles...also added four tackles for loss...very active for an interior player...
93 Tracy Sprinkle (6-3 293) Redshirt Senior
Was injured in the season opener...due to his ability to rush the passer, was expected to be part of the Rushmen package...may not be ready to go for the spring...
94 Dylan Thompson (6-5 280) Redshirt Junior
Missed the season due to academics...
The Depth Chart
Note: This is a projection of the depth chart for the first practice. There will likely be some shifting from nose tackle to the three technique here and there.
Nose Tackle
77 Michael Hill
67 Robert Landers OR
53 Davon Hamilton
58 Joshua Alabi
Defensive Tackle
86 Dre'Mont Jones
9 Jashon Cornell OR
55 Malik Barrow
94 Dylan Thompson
The Storyline
Like the situation at defensive end, there isn't really much conflict to focus on. Ohio State returns everyone who played last year, though Tracy Sprinkle might have to wait until fall camp in order to fully take part. Even without him, however, the Buckeyes have five redshirt sophomores who are poised to take this defense wherever it is going to go. Senior nose tackle Michael Hill is a quiet senior leader and provides an example for each of his teammates. Then you've got a young guy like Malik Barrow readying to provide plenty of evidence of what he can do. While this isn't the most proven group, they certainly have some pretty good answers to some difficult questions.
Three Questions
1. Can the Buckeyes find a viable nose tackle behind Michael Hill and Robert Landers?
2. Will this position group repeat its excellent 2016 spring camp?
3. What will we see from Malik Barrow?
Best Case Scenario
The reason Tracy Sprinkle wasn't listed in the depth chart is because he told me he wouldn't be 100% until March or April, which tells me that he won't be doing much in spring camp. While that isn't a "best-case scenario", it is the reality with which the Buckeyes are working. There is certainly a silver lining here, however, as it will allow guys like Jashon Cornell and Malik Barrow more reps throughout camp. As a fifth-year senior, Sprinkle has had plenty of reps, so others can get more out of them than he would have. The best case here would be for those extra opportunities to begin a process of confidence building and overall improvement that continues well into the 2017 season. Also, the continued emergence of the rest of last season's backups will be a very welcome -- and expected -- sight.
Entire article: http://theozone.net/Ohio-State/Foot...17-Spring-Positional-Preview-Defensive-Tackle
The Buckeyes return all of their defensive tackles from last season.
A year ago at this time, the Ohio State defensive tackles were one of the biggest question marks on the roster. They were replacing a pair of starters and doing it with only two players who had even played before. Then, in the first game of the season, Tracy Sprinkle was lost for the season, forcing those young players to mature much more quickly than expected.
Players like Dre'Mont Jones, Robert Landers, and Davon Hamilton all stepped up and solidified a unit that now returns everyone from a season ago, including Sprinkle. There is going to be a fierce competition inside for the Buckeyes this spring, and defensive line coach Larry Johnson wouldn't have it any other way.
The Players
9 Jashon Cornell (6-3 280) Redshirt Sophomore
Played in just five games due to injuries a season ago...had a fantastic spring in 2016...played in three of the Buckeyes' final five games last year...quick and athletic...
53 Davon Hamilton (6-4 297) Redshirt Sophomore
Played in all 13 games last season...finished with 10 tackles...2.5 tackles for loss...0.5 sacks...was the backup to Dre'Mont Jones...was a disruptive pass-rushing force in the spring...
55 Malik Barrow (6-2 288) Redshirt Freshman
Redshirted last season...enrolled early, but was recovering from an injury...should get a good, long look this spring...
58 Joshua Alabi (6-5 295) Redshirt Sophomore
Played in five games last season...finished with two tackles and a fumble recovery...dealt with health issues early in his career which put him behind the rest of his class...
67 Robert Landers (6-1 285) Redshirt Sophomore
Very effective at times last season...played in every game...7.5 of his 16 tackles were in the backfield...also had a sack...great leverage and extremely quick...
77 Michael Hill (6-3 305) Redshirt Senior
As selfless as you want your nose tackle to be...started every game last season...21 tackles...3 tackles for loss...teammates constantly credited him for OSU's success in run defense...
86 Dre'Mont Jones (6-3 280) Redshirt Sophomore
Started the final 12 games of the season last year in place of Tracy Sprinkle...finished sixth on the team with 52 tackles...also added four tackles for loss...very active for an interior player...
93 Tracy Sprinkle (6-3 293) Redshirt Senior
Was injured in the season opener...due to his ability to rush the passer, was expected to be part of the Rushmen package...may not be ready to go for the spring...
94 Dylan Thompson (6-5 280) Redshirt Junior
Missed the season due to academics...
The Depth Chart
Note: This is a projection of the depth chart for the first practice. There will likely be some shifting from nose tackle to the three technique here and there.
Nose Tackle
77 Michael Hill
67 Robert Landers OR
53 Davon Hamilton
58 Joshua Alabi
Defensive Tackle
86 Dre'Mont Jones
9 Jashon Cornell OR
55 Malik Barrow
94 Dylan Thompson
The Storyline
Like the situation at defensive end, there isn't really much conflict to focus on. Ohio State returns everyone who played last year, though Tracy Sprinkle might have to wait until fall camp in order to fully take part. Even without him, however, the Buckeyes have five redshirt sophomores who are poised to take this defense wherever it is going to go. Senior nose tackle Michael Hill is a quiet senior leader and provides an example for each of his teammates. Then you've got a young guy like Malik Barrow readying to provide plenty of evidence of what he can do. While this isn't the most proven group, they certainly have some pretty good answers to some difficult questions.
Three Questions
1. Can the Buckeyes find a viable nose tackle behind Michael Hill and Robert Landers?
2. Will this position group repeat its excellent 2016 spring camp?
3. What will we see from Malik Barrow?
Best Case Scenario
The reason Tracy Sprinkle wasn't listed in the depth chart is because he told me he wouldn't be 100% until March or April, which tells me that he won't be doing much in spring camp. While that isn't a "best-case scenario", it is the reality with which the Buckeyes are working. There is certainly a silver lining here, however, as it will allow guys like Jashon Cornell and Malik Barrow more reps throughout camp. As a fifth-year senior, Sprinkle has had plenty of reps, so others can get more out of them than he would have. The best case here would be for those extra opportunities to begin a process of confidence building and overall improvement that continues well into the 2017 season. Also, the continued emergence of the rest of last season's backups will be a very welcome -- and expected -- sight.
Entire article: http://theozone.net/Ohio-State/Foot...17-Spring-Positional-Preview-Defensive-Tackle
Upvote
0
ScriptOhio
Everybody is somebody else's weirdo.
Ohio State 2017 Spring Positional Preview: Defensive End
Everybody's back and a good time will be had by all
Ohio State returns each of their defensive ends from a season ago, and will even add another 5-star prospect into the mix this summer. For now, however, the players they have on campus in the present will more than suffice.
The quartet of crush is back, as Tyquan Lewis, Sam Hubbard, Jalyn Holmes, and Nick Bosa all return for another go round, though there won't be much need for a few of those guys to exert too much energy this spring.
The Players
6 Sam Hubbard (6-5 266) Redshirt Junior
Started every game last season...46 tackles...8.0 tackles for loss...3.5 sacks...honorable mention All-B1G...
11 Jalyn Holmes (6-5 274) Senior
Has never started a game, but is essentially a co-starter given how often he rotates in...honorable mention All-B1G last season...33 tackles...8.5 tackles for loss...2.0 sacks...
13 Rashod Berry (6-4 252) Redshirt Sophomore
Played in 10 games last season...7 tackles...moved over from tight end prior to the 2016 season...
18 Jonathon Cooper (6-3 248) Sophomore
Played in six games last season...six tackles...one sack...former 5-star prospect...
42 Darius Slade (6-4 258) Redshirt Junior
Has rarely been healthy...
59 Tyquan Lewis (6-4 266) Redshirt Senior
Started all 13 games for the Buckeyes last year...named the B1G Defensive Lineman of the Year...29 tackles...8.0 sacks...10.5 tackles for loss...
97 Nick Bosa (6-4 265) Sophomore
Played in every game last season as part of the four-man defensive end rotation...29 tackles...5.0 sacks...7.0 tackles for loss...has a brother...
The Depth Chart
Defensive End
6 Sam Hubbard OR
11 Jalyn Holmes
18 Jonathon Cooper
Defensive End
59 Tyquan Lewis
97 Nick Bosa
13 Rashod Berry
42 Darius Slade
The Storyline
There's really no silly movie or television show to meld into this storyline because there isn't really any conflict, and you have to have conflict for a truly good story. The storyline here is that Ohio State returns four outstanding defensive ends, and three more that could be, we just haven't been able to see what they can do to this point. So I guess there is at least some mystery, which is nice. But it's the kind of mystery that doesn't involve any of the main characters. Maybe this turns out to be an M. Knight Shyamalan story, and the twist is that Jonathon Cooper and Rashod Berry end up being the best of the bunch. We'd probably have to wait for the sequel in 2018 to find that part out, however.
Three Questions
1. Is there room for more than four guys in the rotation?
2. What will Nick Bosa do in Year Two?
3. What will Jonathon Cooper do with his extended reps this spring?
Best Case Scenario
The best-case scenario this spring is that everybody stays healthy and the older guys get some rest while the younger guys get the reps and blossom because of it. Jonathon Cooper and Rashod Berry are both outstanding athletes with tons of untapped potential, so they'll get a very good opportunity to show what they can do over the 15 spring practices.
Entire article: http://theozone.net/Ohio-State/Foot...-2017-Spring-Positional-Preview-Defensive-End
Everybody's back and a good time will be had by all
Ohio State returns each of their defensive ends from a season ago, and will even add another 5-star prospect into the mix this summer. For now, however, the players they have on campus in the present will more than suffice.
The quartet of crush is back, as Tyquan Lewis, Sam Hubbard, Jalyn Holmes, and Nick Bosa all return for another go round, though there won't be much need for a few of those guys to exert too much energy this spring.
The Players
6 Sam Hubbard (6-5 266) Redshirt Junior
Started every game last season...46 tackles...8.0 tackles for loss...3.5 sacks...honorable mention All-B1G...
11 Jalyn Holmes (6-5 274) Senior
Has never started a game, but is essentially a co-starter given how often he rotates in...honorable mention All-B1G last season...33 tackles...8.5 tackles for loss...2.0 sacks...
13 Rashod Berry (6-4 252) Redshirt Sophomore
Played in 10 games last season...7 tackles...moved over from tight end prior to the 2016 season...
18 Jonathon Cooper (6-3 248) Sophomore
Played in six games last season...six tackles...one sack...former 5-star prospect...
42 Darius Slade (6-4 258) Redshirt Junior
Has rarely been healthy...
59 Tyquan Lewis (6-4 266) Redshirt Senior
Started all 13 games for the Buckeyes last year...named the B1G Defensive Lineman of the Year...29 tackles...8.0 sacks...10.5 tackles for loss...
97 Nick Bosa (6-4 265) Sophomore
Played in every game last season as part of the four-man defensive end rotation...29 tackles...5.0 sacks...7.0 tackles for loss...has a brother...
The Depth Chart
Defensive End
6 Sam Hubbard OR
11 Jalyn Holmes
18 Jonathon Cooper
Defensive End
59 Tyquan Lewis
97 Nick Bosa
13 Rashod Berry
42 Darius Slade
The Storyline
There's really no silly movie or television show to meld into this storyline because there isn't really any conflict, and you have to have conflict for a truly good story. The storyline here is that Ohio State returns four outstanding defensive ends, and three more that could be, we just haven't been able to see what they can do to this point. So I guess there is at least some mystery, which is nice. But it's the kind of mystery that doesn't involve any of the main characters. Maybe this turns out to be an M. Knight Shyamalan story, and the twist is that Jonathon Cooper and Rashod Berry end up being the best of the bunch. We'd probably have to wait for the sequel in 2018 to find that part out, however.
Three Questions
1. Is there room for more than four guys in the rotation?
2. What will Nick Bosa do in Year Two?
3. What will Jonathon Cooper do with his extended reps this spring?
Best Case Scenario
The best-case scenario this spring is that everybody stays healthy and the older guys get some rest while the younger guys get the reps and blossom because of it. Jonathon Cooper and Rashod Berry are both outstanding athletes with tons of untapped potential, so they'll get a very good opportunity to show what they can do over the 15 spring practices.
Entire article: http://theozone.net/Ohio-State/Foot...-2017-Spring-Positional-Preview-Defensive-End
Upvote
0
Can't name all of the faces, But browning is looking like he's college ready already! Keandre Jones looks like he certainly has been hitting the weights, its good to see Hilliard without a cast or sling, and Jerome Baker looks straight chiseled! And on a side note, who the hell is the jacked ginger on the right? If he's a walk on, my good god!
Upvote
0