Lurking, Waiting to be stepped on

Midweek review of all things Buckeye and from across college sports, including thoughts on the newest in controversial rule changes.

Buckeye 411

• Injury Update- According to coach Meyer, Jordan Hall is still not expected to be ready to participate this weekend, but was up and running on the treadmill earlier.  Also a probably scratch- Sophomore Michael Bennett, who re-injured his groin in pregame of Saturday’s contest: the depth chart lists he and Nathan Williams behind J.T. Moore at end, although the depth that OSU has in the defensive front makes this less than troubling.
• Dark Knights? In his comments thus far, Coach Meyer was candid about his respect for Central Florida, calling them a team with a B1G type defense. He commented that they’ll be looking to establish the run significantly more than Miami did (Duh), particularly with a mobile quarterback. Central Florida announced today that their starting running back would miss the game in Columbus, but will most likely be replaced by a stellar transfer from ‘Da U and former Georgia prep star.
• Bitter much? Interesting moment from today’s B1G media conference was a phone call from the Orlando Sentinel’s Mike Bianchi, who called in to ask if Meyer thought that Gator fans would be pulling for the Knights out of anger that Meyer left the University of Florida.  Meyer’s response, which you can listen to here, was essentially that Bianchi’s “facts are, not surprisingly, incorrect.”.  Given that Bianchi has been playing the part of scorned lover for the past six months, his actions are not really all that surprising.  Oh, how times have changed.
• Coach ‘em up-  Ohio State “added” a new member of the coaching staff this past week, as Kenny Guiton has been given the nickname “coach” by Ohio State’s head man.  You’ve got to wonder what he could do with a whistle around his neck, given the circumstances.
• Luddites beware- We’ve talked before about the new Ohio State iPad program for all of its athletes: Yahoo! has a great article regarding the impact this is having for student athletes.  Nice to have a Yahoo! story that doesn’t involve Charles Robinson for a change, amIrite? Oh, and John Simon is still breaking down film the way he always has- he stares at the footage until it relinquishes the information he requires. Read More

Tags: Auburn, Central Florida, Clemson, Helmets, Jordan Hall, Kenny G, Kenny Guiton, Michale Bennett, Nathan Williams, North Carolina, Our Honor Defend, SBP, Southern Cal, TBDBITL, UCF, Uniforms
Categories: College Football, Humor, NCAA Investigations, Ohio State Football

Welcome Home

The debut of the Urban Meyer offense everyone was hoping to see took a little longer than most would have liked.

After trailing the Miami University 3-0 after one quarter, Ohio State cruised to a 56-10 victory today at  Ohio Stadium.

The offense struggled in the first quarter, out gained 172 yards to 48 by the Redhawks, but thanks to the tough running of Carlos Hyde and a highlight catch by wide receiver Devin Smith, the Buckeyes found their rhythm in the second quarter.

Several things caught my eye from the game today, both good and bad. I will start with the good, though:

1. It was great to see Nathan Williams back on the field for the Buckeyes. He showed so much promise early in his OSU career, and has dealt with injuries the past couple of seasons. Today, though, he got back out there and was all over the field. In the first quarter, Williams pressured Miami quarterback Zac Dysert, causing him to throw the ball low and incomplete, on what would have been a touchdown for the Redhawks. On the next play, Miami missed a 24-yard field goal.
2. When give his opportunities, Carlos Hyde was very impressive. Hyde finished with 84 yards on 17 carries and two touchdowns. When he’s able to square his pads and run downhill, he really is a load to bring down. He also is a lot faster than people give him credit for.
   

   Just... wow.

3. The play of the wide receivers looked much improved. Devin Smith’s catch was no doubt the highlight of the game and Evan Spencer made a really nice catch as well, but I was really impressed with Philly Brown. Meyer had talked about how improved Brown was during camp, and I had questions about his hands, but he showed up big time in the first game of the season, finishing with seven catches for 87 yards and a touchdown.
4. When Braxton Miller is good, he’s really good. He is an outstanding athlete. But to me, the best thing about Miller is his vision. He sees things unlike any other player I’ve watched before. That 65 yard touchdown run was a thing of beauty.

In a 46 point win, it may seem difficult to pick out bad things, but even Meyer described the first quarter as “ugly.” So, here are three things I would like to see OSU address:

1. The OSU pass defense needs to get significantly better, as there were too many big plays allowed. The secondary gave up plays of 42 and 58 yards in the first quarter, but Miami was only able to come away with three points. In the third quarter, the Redhawks got another big play–a 44-yard touchdown pass from Dysert to Nick Harwell. Pass coverage must improve in the future for the Buckeyes.
2. The defensive line did not play very well, either. There weren’t a lot of blitzes called, but the defensive line is supposed to be the strongest point of this Buckeye defense. There wasn’t a whole bunch of pressure by the front four, allowing Dysert some time to throw when he needed it. A lot of Miami’s offense were quick passes, but he did have some time to sit back and throw, too. If not for a significant amount of drops by the Miami receivers, this game would have been a lot closer at halftime.
3. Braxton Miller still has a ways to go. Sure, it’s easy to be blinded by the numbers, 17 of 24 for 205 yards passing and 161 yards on the ground, with three total touchdowns. His ability to change the game with his legs is second to none, but you’ve still got to be a little worried about his arm. A lot of his throws, especially down the field, were ducks. His accuracy must improve for OSU to beat the better teams on its schedule.

Overall, though, Meyer’s debut was a good one. After a shaky start, Buckeye fans were able to see the Urban Meyer offense they were hoping for. Next week will be a bigger test, though, as Central Florida is a much better team than Miami.

We’ve got you covered all week here at The Buckeye Battle Cry.

Tags: 2012 Season, Braxton Miller, Carlos Hyde, Devin Smith, Evan Spencer, Kenny Guiton, Miami RedHa, Nathan Williams, Travis Howard, Urban Meyer, Zac Dysert, Zach Boren
Categories: College Football, Ohio State Football

Straight Up The Olentangy...

Midweek look at news and notes from around Ohio State and the nation… getting ready for what’s been predicted to be a very wet weekend.

Hey! Have you signed up for pick-em yet?

Buckeye 411

• Injury Updates- We found out Monday that Warren Ball has had surgery on his foot and will be redshirting this season, but Tuesday brought good news to the Scarlet and Gray.  According to Coach Meyer, Nate Williams passed the agility and mobility tests that the program had for him, and will more than likely see some action on Saturday against Miami.  While this will be more limited than he’d surely like, I’m confident that this gradual move to get him ready for the rest of the season will pay huge benefits.  It remains to be seen, though, if this plan gets adjusted in the weather situation… sloppy conditions might lead to a re-injury, and Ohio State will work to avoid that.
• ‘Bloody‘ Buckeyes- Tuesday’s practice was the most challenging of the week, but players interviewed afterwards said that it was mostly mentally taxing.  From the sound of it, they emerged with flying colors, and will not be “full go” for the rest of the week.
• Explosive- That was how Carlos Hyde described this year’s offense, and it also sounded as if Philly Brown has become a significant playmaker in the team’s eyes.  Braxton also talked about Jake Stoneburner’s move to receiver creating a number of opportunities for the team, given his skill set.
• Stormy Saturday? While Isaac will be on the minds (and raincoats) of tailgaters at the ‘Shoe, one Buckeye who will be glad to be in the weather is newly reinstated Storm Klein.  While his role with the team is still to be determined, Coach Meyer said that it was the conversations with both the Klein family and the family of the alleged victim that made him decide to allow the senior to return to the team.
• Earning Their (Loss Of) Stripes- Three more freshman became “Buckeyes” on Tuesday, including Armani Reeves and walkons Craig Cataline and Craig Fada.
• As If There Were Any Doubt- After a 12 year study, the four letter network finally announced why they give OSU so much coverage… eyeballs. Whether it’s creating covering controversy and scandal or blowing really bright sunshine up the derrieres of Buckeye fans during All Access, the number don’t lie: Columbus is the highest rated college football market in the country. They tie for that spot with Birmingham Alabama, although the latter only has ‘Bama football, “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo“, QVC, and episodes of “Cops” on their cable packages.  They had more channels, but they cut them loose. (see… ’cause they oversign a lot in Alabama… nevermind.)
• Rocketman- While Ohio and the nation mourn the loss of Neil Armstrong, a great idea popped up on reddit regarding a way to honor the hero during an upcoming OSU game. Huge h/t to Mark Titus, who pointed us in this direction- the idea being that Armstrong, an Ohio native and a Purdue grad should be remembered during the OSU/Purdue game in the ‘Shoe this season.  What do you think??
• Consider Yourself Warned. You’re getting ready for the Miami University game this week, and need your breakdown of the matchups to watch for between the Buckeyes and the RedHawks.  You want in-depth coverage and previews that will get you even more ready than you already are.  Get ready for something amazing on Thursday… the analysis that this team deserves.  What if there’s just a touch of greatness yet to come… how cool would that be? #BuckeyeVoltron

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Tags: 2012 Season, Alabama, Armani Reeves, Braxton Miller, Bret Bielema, Carlos Hyde, Corey "Philly" Brown, Craig Cataline, Craig Fada, Denard Robinson, ESPN, Fitzgerald Toussaint, Jake Stoneburner, Matt Barkley, Miami RedHawks, Nathan Williams, Neil Armstrong, Purdue, SBP, Storm Klein, Twitter, Urban Meyer, Warren Ball
Categories: College Football, Humor, Michigan Football, Ohio State Football

It’s your regularly scheduled look around the world of college sports- a bit more in depth than the tidbits we’ve got after practice. Following Tuesday’s notes, be sure to check the latest on “reform” from the NCAA and thoughts on Penn State’s constant appeals processes.

Buckeye 411

• 

  Always. Forever.

  Not So Fast…  Any speculation about Roby playing offense and defense was shut down by the coaches today. He made a spectacular play on an overthrow today, though- he’s going to be special. However, Corey Brown said that Roby wasn’t the fastest guy on the team, and called him out saying that he (Corey) wasn’t able to run during testing but that he could beat Roby in a race.

• Dunn Update- Brionte spent much of the day with the second team offense. He will be a part of this year’s successes offensively.
• Granted- Curtis Grant was back at practice after spending time in Virginia with his ill grandfather Josh Perry was back as well.
• That’s Nate!  Also out today in helmets and shoulder pads was Nathan Williams, who did some contact drills without a brace on his leg. It should be noted that the contact was only 3/4 speed, working technique with tackling sleds and dummies.
• Abandon Hope, B1G QBs- Shazier is now up 25 pounds and is actually faster than last year, although he’s honest that he played too fast last season. He talked about being able to let the play happen rather than rushing past it.
• On The Blocks- Orhian Johnson blocked a field goal attempt in today’s competition.
• Tackle Football- Reid Fragel and Taylor Decker split time at tackle today, with Decker working with the #1s during the final segment. This may be due to hydration issues from the heat today.
• And So, It Begins-  The “We still love you, can we be besties?” between the Buckeyes and ESPN kicks off with this coverage from ESPN The Magazine Read More

Tags: Academics, Adidas, APR, BCS, Bradly Roby, Brionte Dunn, BTN, Corey Brown, Curtis Grant, ESPN, Joe Paterno, Louis Freeh Report, Maryland, Nathan Williams, NCAA failures, Nike, Orhian Johnson, Penn State, Reid Fragel, Ryan Shazier, SBP, Taylor Decker, Television Revenue, Uniforms, Urban Meyer
Categories: College Football, Conference Expansion, Humor, NCAA Investigations, Ohio State Football

Another quick update on the state of Ohio State football, following media access on Monday. Huge thanks to our friend Josh Winslow for the photos!

• Injury Updates- Jacoby Boren practiced today, but no contact. Jordan Hall and Nate Williams were also present, but doing work on the side of the field. Coach Meyer commented that they were right on schedule in terms of rehab. Josh Perry tweaked a hamstring and spent time with the medical staff

• Doghouse Update- Brionte Dunn practiced, and Coach Meyer said that they were waiting to see how the legal process concluded before making final decisions regarding any punishment. Also, Jake Stoneburner and Jack Mewhort went with the #1 team- Meyer characterized them as “good kids, but stupid.” They will be on scholarship beginning fall semester.
• MIA- Curtis Grant missed practice, as did Verlon Reed and Pat Elflein. Grant was home in Virginia with his grandfather, who has been ill. No notes on Reed or Ellfein at this time, although Patrick had a cyst removed recently Read More

Tags: 2012 Season, Brionte Dunn, Curtis Grant, Devin Smith, Evan Spencer, Fall Practice, Garrett Goebel, Jack Mewhort, Jacoby Boren, Jake Stoneburner, John Simon, Jonathan Hankins, Jordan Hall, Josh Winslow, Marcus Baugh, Mark Mangino, Michael Bennett, Nathan Williams, Patrick Elflein, SBP, Urban Meyer, Verlon Reed
Categories: College Football, Ohio State Football

Notes from Tuesday’s Ohio State press conference and around the realm of college sports. No soundtrack today, but we’re totally shopping for a El Camino.

More Prestigious?

Buckeye 411

• Injury update: Braxton practiced, and by all reports looked “fine”, although he took it easy after the initial burst. Coaches will continue to monitor, but according to the depth chart, he’s the starter. Not as good news for Nathan Williams, who will need another surgery for microfracture issues and will miss the season. HOWEVER- there is the possibility that he can take a medical redshirt and be back for 2012. *crossesfingers*
• Captain, My Captain: Brewster (4th time), Sweat (3rd), and Stoneburner for this week’s tilt against the Illini.
• Fickell Speak:Lots of talk about disappointment, obviously, and some reflection on the difference between being an assistant and the man in charge (almost sounds like he misses the former): Read More

Tags: Andrew Sweat, Big lEast, Bradly Roby, Braxton Miller, Chris Spielman, Daniel Herron, ESPN, Illinois, Jake Stoneburner, Jamaal Berry, Jim Bollman, Kenny Guiton, Luke Fickell, Michael Brewster, Mike Adams, Mike Stoops, Nathan Williams, NCAA, Nebraska, SBP, SISU, TCU, Uniforms
Categories: College Football, Conference Expansion, Humor, NCAA Investigations, Ohio State Football

Eric, Jim and Joe Dexter sit down to talk about the Buckeyes leading into the big game down in Coral Gables between Ohio State and the Miami Hurricanes. Before they take a crack at Miami, however, they sit to chat about the suspensions of Jordan Hall, Travis Howard and Corey “Pittsburgh” Brown. They also debate the wisdom of playing Joe Bauserman the entire game against Toledo, and why Braxton Miller maybe should have seen time against the Rockets.

(Note: the podcast was recorded before the suspended players were reinstated on Tuesday, September 13th)

Joe Dexter joins Eric for the weekly interview this time around as they talk with Austen Gregerson of the Miami Hurricane, the University of Miami’s student newspaper. Austen hits on all things Miami, including the leadership intangibles of Jacory Harris, his thoughts on new head coach Al Golden, and how he feels about those new Maryland uniforms.

All this and more on this week’s Radio Hour!

Don’t forget: you can subscribe to The Buckeye Battle Cry Radio Hour on iTunes!

Tags: Al Golden, Braxton Miller, buckeyes, Corey "Pittsburgh" Brown, Hurricanes, Jacory Harris, Joe Bauserman, Jordan Hall, Luke Fickell, Miami, Nathan Williams, Ohio State, Ray Ray Armstrong, Sean Spence, Travis Howard
Categories: Analysis, Buckeye Battle Cry Radio Hour, College Football, Football Analysis, Ohio State Football

Well, that game was more than a little interesting. It’ll be hard to gauge this team over the next week, and I’m certain many are going to be expecting bad things in Coral Gables. Let’s see what the staff wanted to see again, and how much of it actually came to be.

Malibuckeye

Chris Fields gave the Buckeyes a boost when they needed it most.

- More of the same. I certainly don’t think we can qualify the entire game as “more of the same” as Akron.  That first drive was a thing of beauty, but the rest of the game was a fight the whole way.

- New wrinkles. Nothing particularly new here, nope.

- Ebner Touchdown. Would it be too much to ask?  For this game, apparently so.

- No False Starts. Shugarts took care of this one, and not in the good way.

Joe L.

- Continued QB play like the we saw this past Saturday.  Miller never saw the field, and Bauserman didn’t have quite the same day he did against Akron.  Though 16/30 for 189 yards and a touchdown isn’t bad.

- More speed from our team.  We had our moments – such as Chris Fields’ punt return – but for the most part, I don’t think we saw a lot of speed anywhere.

- Big Plays.  Outside of Fields’ return, the longest play was of 36 yards – one of which was Hyde’s first touchdown run.

- A three to four touchdown win.  So much for that.
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Tags: Braxton Miller, buckeyes, Carlos Hyde, Chris Fields, Jake Stoneburner, Jamaal Berry, Joe Bauserman, John Simon, Jonahthan Hankins, Luke Fickell, Nate Ebner, Nathan Williams, Ohio State, Reid Fragel, Rockets, Tim Beckman, Toledo
Categories: Analysis, College Football, Football Analysis, Ohio State Football