Scheduling
What seems as though it is consistently the discussion with college football the same questions greeted Jim Tressel in his first Tuesday Press Conference: Scheduling. Tressel said that he loves to give in-state schools a chance to play a big time program like Ohio State. For many of these teams it will be the best competition they face all season and it is an opportunity of a lifetime for many of their players to get a chance to play in a legendary stadium like the shoe. Not to mention it is an opportunity for these schools to use this money to make improvements to their campus. Looking ahead Tressel said there are no more Bowl Championship Series (Division 1-AA) for the next four or five years. As far as I am concerned I have no problem with Tressel trying to give his old team a handout.
Doug Worthington: DUI
Worthington (DT) will be ready and is expected to play but he is definitely not supposed to start. Tressel says that the team is moving on and as far as his driving under the influence arrest; it is resolved from an institutional level.
The Backup Quarterback
So far this spring season Joe Bauserman has been able to hold off Terrelle Pryor as the backup. He has taken most of the snaps with the second team offense and Pryor has seen most of his practice snaps with the Third Team. Tressel has said that Pryor has seen some snaps with the second team but he has been really impressed with Bauserman’s throwing ability. He can not hold of Pryor forever and Tressel expects all three quarterbacks to see time in the First Quarter.
Tressel on YSU
He said it is a lot like the Bill Murray's film Groundhog Day when he watches film from the place where he spent 15 years as the head coach. YSU likes to stack up in the box and dare you to run the football. They try and force teams to throw the football to beat them. With a running game and an offensive line like the buckeyes have they should have no problem doing either. Chris “Beanie” Wells struggled last year against YSU and Tressel attributed that to too much anxiety. “He wanted to score on each play, now he is more patient and is visualizing his blocks.” Offensively YSU is unveiling its new spread offense; the only problem is that Ohio State does not know what the spread will be featuring. This has been the major storey line in college football, it seems as though it has spread throughout college football like wild fire. Ohio State is successful against the spread when it can pressure the quarterback. They should have no problem with that this weekend.
Guys Jumping to the NFL
Tressel was asked about how they have many guys on the roster this year that very likely could have left early last season. He responded by saying that the coaching staff is very conscious of this and that it is a reminder to the staff that they (the players) have risked a lot (NFL salary) and they (the coaches) have to do their best.
Special Teams
Last season the Buckeyes struggled on special teams and at times were susceptible to big returns against them. Tressel said that it was a major emphasis during spring practice. Returning punts for the Buckeyes will again be Ray Small, Brian Hartline and Brian Robiskie will get some time back there this year as the 3rd stringer.
Running Backs
Daniel “Boom” Herron has been the #2 running back for most of the spring and is listed that way for the start of the season. Boom Herron has taken advantage of some injuries to Brandon Saine and Mo Williams.
Quarterbacks
Todd Boeckman is entering his second season as the full time starter for the Buckeyes and this off-season Tressel and the coaching staff has stressed consistency. His leadership off the field in the locker room has led to his run away selection as captain.
Final Thoughts
Tressel stressed managing expectations and says that he feels comfortable that this will not be a problem for this team because of its maturity level. “YSU brought it to the guys last year and the Michigan loss last season is in their minds”
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Monday, August 25, 2008
Ohio State Football Captains Named
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Todd Boeckman, Malcolm Jenklns, James Laurinaitis and Brian Robiskie were elected as 2008 captains of the Ohio State football team, as announced to the squad today.
“I’m extremely thankful and honored by the confidence shown by my teammates in my leadership,” said Boeckman, a senior quarterback from St. Henry High School in St. Henry, Ohio. “It’s a great feeling to have that type of role in this football program. You’re part of something much bigger than yourself.”
“When you think back on all the past captains at Ohio State, you realize what a great honor and opportunity this is,” said Jenkins, a senior cornerback from Piscataway (N.J.) High School. “This team is a very special collection of remarkable people; that’s why I came back for another year – to be around these guys.”
“It’s unbelievable to have the chance to represent the type of player and people we have on this team as their captain for another year,” said Laurinaitis, a senior linebacker from Wayzata High School in Hamel, Minn., who also served as a team captain in 2007. “With the number of outstanding leaders we have on our team, I will work to lead everyone in every way I can, on and off the field.”
Previous two-year captains: Richard T. Ellis (1891-92), Archie Griffin (1974-75), Glen Cobb (1981-82), Thomas Johnson (1984-85), Joe Cooper (2000-01), Steve Bellisari (2000-01)
“First and foremost, it humbles you. To have the respect of your teammates in such a way is definitely an honor,” said Robiskie, a senior who attended Chagrin Falls High School in Chagrin Falls, Ohio. “The tradition of guys who have led this team in the past shows you what an honor it is.”
“I’m extremely thankful and honored by the confidence shown by my teammates in my leadership,” said Boeckman, a senior quarterback from St. Henry High School in St. Henry, Ohio. “It’s a great feeling to have that type of role in this football program. You’re part of something much bigger than yourself.”
“When you think back on all the past captains at Ohio State, you realize what a great honor and opportunity this is,” said Jenkins, a senior cornerback from Piscataway (N.J.) High School. “This team is a very special collection of remarkable people; that’s why I came back for another year – to be around these guys.”
“It’s unbelievable to have the chance to represent the type of player and people we have on this team as their captain for another year,” said Laurinaitis, a senior linebacker from Wayzata High School in Hamel, Minn., who also served as a team captain in 2007. “With the number of outstanding leaders we have on our team, I will work to lead everyone in every way I can, on and off the field.”
Previous two-year captains: Richard T. Ellis (1891-92), Archie Griffin (1974-75), Glen Cobb (1981-82), Thomas Johnson (1984-85), Joe Cooper (2000-01), Steve Bellisari (2000-01)
“First and foremost, it humbles you. To have the respect of your teammates in such a way is definitely an honor,” said Robiskie, a senior who attended Chagrin Falls High School in Chagrin Falls, Ohio. “The tradition of guys who have led this team in the past shows you what an honor it is.”
Offensive Breakdown
With a team that returns 19 out of a possible 22 starters there are two things this Ohio State Team has: experience and depth. Each position seems as though it is filled with seasoned veterans or highly touted recruits. With their dominance of the Big 10 in recent years even a season filled with injuries could still lead to a successful result.
The O-Line
The offensive line returns four starters. Jim Cordle, the center, will enter his second year of starting. Last season, due to injury, he snapped most of the year from his weaker hand and did not miss a beat. Surrounding him, in the Guard positions, are two seniors Steve Rehring and Ben Person who both started every game last year. Replacing the All-American Right Tackle, Kirk Barton, is Bryant
Browning. Browning has continued to develop in game situations and is a crushing run blocker. The line is solidified by Outland Trophy contender Alex Boone. Boone who may be one of the best athletes on the team, not just the offensive line, could be a 1st round draft pick next year in the NFL Draft. Rounding out the depth in the O-line are three outstanding Freshman JB Shugarts, Mike Adams and Michael Brewster who are both 5 Star Recruits.
Wide Receivers
Brian Robiskie is the leading returning receiver from the past two seasons has outstanding speed and quickness. He is blessed with great hands and has a remarkable knack for the big play. Brian Hartline, who had six touchdown receptions last season, returns as Todd Boeckman’s go to receiver over the middle. Hartline, who is an Ohio State track star in the hurdles, has great hands, work ethic and an ability to find seams over the middle. Ray Small is trying to stay out of trouble and develop into the outstanding slot receiver that he has always been hyped up to be. Ted Ginn Sr. called him the best wide receiver that he has ever coached. Small has shown flashes of greatness and dynamic speed as a return man for Ohio State. Dane Sanzenbacher has solidified his starting role as the slot receiver in spring practice. Sanzenbacher is a speedy receiver who made an impact as a true freshman, showed great instincts for the game and developed into a solid red zone threat. Adding depth and talent to this already strong position are sophomore Taurian Washington, Five Star Recruit DeVier Posey and Four Star Athlete Lamar Thomas. If you include pass catching Tight Ends Rory Nicole and Jake Ballard this is a group that should keep Todd Boeckman very comfortable in passing downs.
Running Backs
With Heisman frontrunner Chris “Beanie” Wells you could move your back up running backs to defense and feel confident enough. Beanie fought through injuries last season to break Archie Griffin’s OSU sophomore rushing record with 1,609 yards and added 15 touchdowns. Barring any nagging injuries, like the ones that Beanie dealt with last year, the Buckeyes will do more than survive their schedule. Brandon Saine and Maurice Wells are very formidable speed backs that give Tressel several options offensively to slip them out onto the wings or use them on screen plays. In the Spring Redshirt Freshman Daniel “Boom” Herron took advantage of some injuries to the other running backs and should see some significant playing time.
Quarterbacks
Returning starter Todd Boeckman has a full season of starting under his belt and this being his fifth year in Tressel’s system should show some big signs of improvement. Todd was 1st Team Big Ten and led the conference in pass efficiency. In Spring Ball the word consistency was stressed with Todd who struggled in the
Buckeyes last four games. Todd was selected as a unanimous captain and has comfortably stepped up into that leadership role. Finally, I am at the part you have all been waiting for. Terrelle Pryor the number one recruit in the nation. Pryor, a 6 foot 6 freak of nature, is a dual threat at Quarterback and has the ability to score at any moment through the air or on the ground. Joe Bauserman, who was a more highly touted High School star than Brian Brohm, spent a few years in the Pittsburgh Pirates farm system has returned to Ohio State and adds depth and experience to the position.
The O-Line
The offensive line returns four starters. Jim Cordle, the center, will enter his second year of starting. Last season, due to injury, he snapped most of the year from his weaker hand and did not miss a beat. Surrounding him, in the Guard positions, are two seniors Steve Rehring and Ben Person who both started every game last year. Replacing the All-American Right Tackle, Kirk Barton, is Bryant
Browning. Browning has continued to develop in game situations and is a crushing run blocker. The line is solidified by Outland Trophy contender Alex Boone. Boone who may be one of the best athletes on the team, not just the offensive line, could be a 1st round draft pick next year in the NFL Draft. Rounding out the depth in the O-line are three outstanding Freshman JB Shugarts, Mike Adams and Michael Brewster who are both 5 Star Recruits.Wide Receivers
Brian Robiskie is the leading returning receiver from the past two seasons has outstanding speed and quickness. He is blessed with great hands and has a remarkable knack for the big play. Brian Hartline, who had six touchdown receptions last season, returns as Todd Boeckman’s go to receiver over the middle. Hartline, who is an Ohio State track star in the hurdles, has great hands, work ethic and an ability to find seams over the middle. Ray Small is trying to stay out of trouble and develop into the outstanding slot receiver that he has always been hyped up to be. Ted Ginn Sr. called him the best wide receiver that he has ever coached. Small has shown flashes of greatness and dynamic speed as a return man for Ohio State. Dane Sanzenbacher has solidified his starting role as the slot receiver in spring practice. Sanzenbacher is a speedy receiver who made an impact as a true freshman, showed great instincts for the game and developed into a solid red zone threat. Adding depth and talent to this already strong position are sophomore Taurian Washington, Five Star Recruit DeVier Posey and Four Star Athlete Lamar Thomas. If you include pass catching Tight Ends Rory Nicole and Jake Ballard this is a group that should keep Todd Boeckman very comfortable in passing downs.
Running Backs
With Heisman frontrunner Chris “Beanie” Wells you could move your back up running backs to defense and feel confident enough. Beanie fought through injuries last season to break Archie Griffin’s OSU sophomore rushing record with 1,609 yards and added 15 touchdowns. Barring any nagging injuries, like the ones that Beanie dealt with last year, the Buckeyes will do more than survive their schedule. Brandon Saine and Maurice Wells are very formidable speed backs that give Tressel several options offensively to slip them out onto the wings or use them on screen plays. In the Spring Redshirt Freshman Daniel “Boom” Herron took advantage of some injuries to the other running backs and should see some significant playing time.
Quarterbacks
Returning starter Todd Boeckman has a full season of starting under his belt and this being his fifth year in Tressel’s system should show some big signs of improvement. Todd was 1st Team Big Ten and led the conference in pass efficiency. In Spring Ball the word consistency was stressed with Todd who struggled in the
Buckeyes last four games. Todd was selected as a unanimous captain and has comfortably stepped up into that leadership role. Finally, I am at the part you have all been waiting for. Terrelle Pryor the number one recruit in the nation. Pryor, a 6 foot 6 freak of nature, is a dual threat at Quarterback and has the ability to score at any moment through the air or on the ground. Joe Bauserman, who was a more highly touted High School star than Brian Brohm, spent a few years in the Pittsburgh Pirates farm system has returned to Ohio State and adds depth and experience to the position.
Defensive Breakdown
D-Line
Loosing 2nd Team All Big Ten defensive end, Vernon Gholston, would slow down any teams pass rush. Except by the end of this season many fans will have forgotten about Gholston due to the play of Lawrence Wilson. Wilson, who was the starter opposite Gholston at D-End last season, went down in week one due to a broken leg. But know he is back and is poised to replace Gholston as the main sack artist for the Buckeyes. Thaddeus Gibson joins Gholston at the other defensive end position. This converted linebacker has incredible speed and drive and enough athletic ability to play safety. Look for Thaddeus to surprise some people with
Defensive Backs
Three words, Malcolm Jenkins Period. Jenkins possesses all of the skill and talent to be a number one cover 
corner in the NFL now. Passing up the draft Malcolm returned to
Linebackers
The buckeyes not only have one of the best inside linebackers in the nation, James 
Laurinaitis, but they also posses another top 10 linebacker in Marcus Freeman. Laurinaitis is a returning All-American, Butkus and Nagurski Award winner and one of the most proficient linebackers in the college ranks today. He has the ability to stuff the run, bring down the quarterback and drop back in coverage. Laurinaitis has 7 interceptions in his career at
Monday, August 11, 2008
3rd Times a Charm
Another college football season begins and, again this year, there are many questions surrounding each team. Can Georgia fight through the suspensions and live up to expectations? Can Tim Tebow match Archie Griffin and become the second player ever to win two Heisman trophies?
Can USC settle on a quarterback and be crowned King of the Pac 10 for the 7th straight year? With many new questions this year, Ohio State is still looking to answer questions from seasons past. Will their dominance over their big ten foes continue? Can they compete with the speed of the SEC? Will the voters even give OSU a shot at a third straight National Championship? Again this season, to the dismay of most college football fans, Ohio State is in the hunt for the National Championship. Last year the buckeyes were a bit of a surprise having had to replace so many stars on offense and defense. The Heisman Trophy Winner, Troy Smith, and the likes of Ted Ginn and Anthony Gonzales all found themselves selected in the NFL draft. The Buckeyes sent 8 draft picks to the NFL and many fans, including me, thought the Buckeyes would finish the 2007 season with two losses. It was exhilarating to see a team with just 11 returning starters excel a year earlier than expected. But all alliteration aside, it was troubling. With the success came some confusion. Questions arose and the chance that James Laurinaitis, Malcolm Jenkins, Alex Boone, Vernon Gholston and Brian Robiskie could all leave early for the draft. Gholston could not pass up the chance to be a Top 10 draft pick, but to the delight of all Buckeye fans everyone else returned. This Ohio State team returns an astounding 19 starters and, two National Championship games later, loads of experience. An undefeated march through the Big 10 and a record breaking third straight title are most certainty on the horizon. At just about any program, across the country, making it to the National Championship would be a success but now it’s different. The fact of the matter is that we have not returned any favor to the Big 10. In past years we received the benefit of the doubt that the Big 10 conference is a BCS conference. This year I would not expect that same sentiment to be present in the mind of the voters. 
This is the year for Ohio State to take a stand and to return some credibility to the conference. This offseason the Buckeyes brought home some interesting hardware; they were named the most hated team in College Football. Honestly, who can blame the voters the Buckeyes have been an embarrassment in the NC. I have tried to find a flaw in this team, something that assures me we will not make it to another National Championship game but I can not. This is one of the most talented and complete teams that have ever played under Jim Tressel and that is saying a lot. Let’s just hope they can live up to these lofty expectations. If they are the best team on the field in Southern California on Sep 13th there is nothing standing in their way of disappointing the general public once again.
Can USC settle on a quarterback and be crowned King of the Pac 10 for the 7th straight year? With many new questions this year, Ohio State is still looking to answer questions from seasons past. Will their dominance over their big ten foes continue? Can they compete with the speed of the SEC? Will the voters even give OSU a shot at a third straight National Championship? Again this season, to the dismay of most college football fans, Ohio State is in the hunt for the National Championship. Last year the buckeyes were a bit of a surprise having had to replace so many stars on offense and defense. The Heisman Trophy Winner, Troy Smith, and the likes of Ted Ginn and Anthony Gonzales all found themselves selected in the NFL draft. The Buckeyes sent 8 draft picks to the NFL and many fans, including me, thought the Buckeyes would finish the 2007 season with two losses. It was exhilarating to see a team with just 11 returning starters excel a year earlier than expected. But all alliteration aside, it was troubling. With the success came some confusion. Questions arose and the chance that James Laurinaitis, Malcolm Jenkins, Alex Boone, Vernon Gholston and Brian Robiskie could all leave early for the draft. Gholston could not pass up the chance to be a Top 10 draft pick, but to the delight of all Buckeye fans everyone else returned. This Ohio State team returns an astounding 19 starters and, two National Championship games later, loads of experience. An undefeated march through the Big 10 and a record breaking third straight title are most certainty on the horizon. At just about any program, across the country, making it to the National Championship would be a success but now it’s different. The fact of the matter is that we have not returned any favor to the Big 10. In past years we received the benefit of the doubt that the Big 10 conference is a BCS conference. This year I would not expect that same sentiment to be present in the mind of the voters. 
This is the year for Ohio State to take a stand and to return some credibility to the conference. This offseason the Buckeyes brought home some interesting hardware; they were named the most hated team in College Football. Honestly, who can blame the voters the Buckeyes have been an embarrassment in the NC. I have tried to find a flaw in this team, something that assures me we will not make it to another National Championship game but I can not. This is one of the most talented and complete teams that have ever played under Jim Tressel and that is saying a lot. Let’s just hope they can live up to these lofty expectations. If they are the best team on the field in Southern California on Sep 13th there is nothing standing in their way of disappointing the general public once again.
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