This week we lost a musical legend and great Ohioan… so, this morning’s soundtrack should help you get through the middle of your workweek.

Silver Is Pretty Freaking Awesome

Buckeye 411

• Net Success- Congrats to the Tennis-Bucks, who won this year’s NCAA Indoor Championship earlier this week. In doing so, Ohio State defeated top ranked Virginia (who hadn’t lost in 30+ matches) and perennial power Southern Cal. When you’re led by the B1G Athlete Of The Week, good things happen.
• Decorated And Bona-fied- Tonight as the Buckeye hoopsters face off against Nerdwestern, Braxton Miller will be awarded his second straight silver football as the B1G’s top player. This brings Braxton up to 7 conference year end awards, most for any player according to OSU’s SID.
• Mat Excellence- After falling to Minnesota in the National Duals, Ohio State rebounded with a solid beating of Oklahoma to pick up third in the tourney… although, I’d love to have seen them square off against second ranked Cornell.
• Even More Awarding- The Aaron Craft Tour De Elegance continues, with Swoony C being a finalist for the Bob Cousy Award.
• Proud Moment- Ignore the misspelling on this thing… I’d be totally down with an annual “Marcus Hall” award as an addition to the Gold Pants, for the MVP of The Game.  Thoughts??
• Next- And this weekend in Indianapolis, six Buckeyes look to continue that legacy: Read More

Tags: Aaron Craft, All Players United, Archie Griffin, Assembly Hall, Bert Bielema, Braxton Miller, Brutus, Dr. Drake, Kain Colter, Malik McDowell, Marcus Hall, Mark Pantoni, NFL Combine, Northwestern, Ohio State Wrestling, Rick Pitino, Sammy Silverman, SBP, Tennis
Categories: College Football, Humor, Ohio State Basketball, Ohio State Football

You’re either reading this from home on a “ice day”, or from work after having dug yourself out of yet another mid-week snow storm.  Stupid freaking groundhog…  At any rate, here’s today’s soundtrack… for reasons that will hopefully soon be evident.

In addition to Gold Pants…

Buckeye 411

• Thank You, CB2- Sad news this week for Buckeye Senior and site favorite Christian Bryant, who had his appeal for a medical redshirt denied by the NCAA. Bryant, who missed parts of one whole season due to injury during his tenure in Columbus, had already had his case denied by the B1G Office… this means that his playing career in the Scarlet and Gray is officially over.  Godspeed, Christian… Glad you were a Buckeye, Bro.
• Going Pro In Pro Football- In spite of what the NCAA will tell you, a good portion of D1 Athletes who choose football are looking at careers in that field. Today, we found out which Buckeyes were invited to explore the next step, as Carlos Hyde, Ryan Shazier, Bradley Roby, Jack Mewhort, Philly Brown, and Corey Linsley will be part of the 350+ member NFL combine in Indianapolis later this month. Hyde, Roby, and Shazier are expected to be the highest rated of those six, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see Linsley and Mewhort with lengthy professional careers.  Best of luck, gentlemen!
• This Week In “Journalism”- Not going to point fingers, but rumors of an unfortunate incident between Coach Meyer and former Coach Vrabel swirled across the internet after being published on another Ohio State website.  These were shot down from a pretty solid source; but it makes you wonder why some sites continue to get press access while the rest of us merely toil from our basement.
• Some Things, You Just Can’t Run From- Amazing article today about Eddie George’s struggle with depression following his football career, and what he’s done to address it.  If it encourages people to get help, then that’s one more amazing score that number 27 can be credited with.
• Another Former Buckeye Struggles With Past Issues- Linebacker Jamal Muhammed (who left OSU to play at Bethune Cookman) is a part of a class action suit against the NCAA regarding head injuries/concussions.
• Taking Her Talents Closer To South Beach- Our BFF Janelle had some amazing news this week… hope she doesn’t forget us little people when she’s getting her mojito on in Florida.
• Archie Griffin Is Awesome. In case you forgot… I’ve personally declared tomorrow Archie Griffin day.
• RE:Crootin’- When you want the best, you send the best… and Ohio State’s top 3 national class was shaped by amazing coaches, including Scout.com’s top recruiter in the conference, Zach Smith. Smith, who was instrumental in Jalyn Holmes, Noah Brown, Johnnie Dixon, and Terry McLaurin’s joining the Buckeyes talked this week about his relationships with high school coaches in Florida.  The other top guns in the conference are indicative of the power programs, with Michigan’s Greg Mattison and Penn State’s James Franklin also being acknowledged by Scout. You read that correctly- most of the conference was out recruited by a guy who spent three weeks bringing in players that were previously going to Vanderbilt.  Proud.
• Also? Flags Planted- Visualized by Sammy Silverman: Read More

Tags: 2014 Class, Archie Griffin, Bo Pelini, Bradley Roby, Carlos Hyde, Christian Bryant, Corey Linsley, Eddie George, Jack Mewhort, LSUFreek, Malik McDowell, Mike Vrabel, Oversigning, Philly Brown, Ryan Shazier, Sammy Silverman, SBP, SEC, Zach Smith
Categories: College Football, Humor, Ohio State Football, Recruiting

Well, given the news today in college sports and elsewhere, I think I’ve got a couple of soundtrack offerings that will draw it all together.  Stay warm people!! (it’s supposed to be down to the 60s in Los Angeles today… brrrrrrr.)

Squirtgun In January

Buckeye 411

• Chosen Frozen- We’ve got to give major kudos to Buckeye coach Tom Herman, who was stuck for 12 hours in the Atlanta Traffic crapstorm following their epic blizzard of about one inch or so of snow.  Seriously, I guess the folks in the Snow Emergency Conference are in need of someone from the north to show them how to deal with the cold.
• RE: Crootin’- Last time we chatted, it was Demetrius Knox that had Buckeye Nation wringing their hands in worry of a last minute exodus from #TheDream14. That was addressed by Coach Meyer and Coach Johnson, and ‘Meech is fully locked and loaded once again.  Now, though, we’ve got another offensive lineman who may be wavering, this time Illinois’ Jamarco Jones who is reconsidering his choice of Ohio State over the Spartans from East Lansing. Jones, who has several friends headed to Sparty in the fall, has his official “in home” from Dantonio and staff today, with Ohio State’s Warriner and Johnson following up tomorrow.  Jeremy Birmingham at Eleven Warriors has the best overview of the situation, and it will definitely be worth watching… if Jones heads to East Lansing this weekend for his “official”, then I think the writing is on the wall.
• Four! More! Years? Well, if you’re not a fan of current Athletic Director Gene Smith, this won’t make you happy: It was announced today that he’s been promoted to Vice President and given a contract extension/raise.  Hooray?
• Final Visit, Final Answer? Also of note this last weekend of “recruiting season 2014″ is that H-Back David Njoku will be in Columbus on an official visit, as will Michigan defensive lineman standout (and one time Wolverine “lock”) Malik McDowell.  Again, Birm’s got the latest.
• Presidential News? Rumors on Tuesday began swirling (I think they started on Scout, but I saw it on twitter and other OSU boards) that The Ohio State University would soon be naming Michael Drake as their next President. Drake currently serves as the Chancellor at the University of California at Irvine, and is notable for his work with the health sciences within the UC system.  Given the significance of Ohio State’s medical centers, that may be an important skill set to bring to the table. Even though he’s currently an Anteater, there’s hope that Mr. Drake can bring something else to Columbus with him…
• This Week In Silverman- Another great design from Ohio State’s master of visual excitement: Read More

Tags: Brendan Gibbons, David Njoku, Demetrius Knox, Gene Smith, Jamarco Jones, Kain Colter, Malik McDowell, Mekka Don, Missouri Tigers, NCAA Reform, Northwestern, Oversigning, Rutgers, Sammy Silverman, Taylor Lewan, Tom Herman
Categories: Humor, Michigan Football, Ohio State Football

Quick change of title format for our Wednesday update, for reasons that will soon be evident.  Also taking a beat from the news, today’s soundtrack goes all Roger Goodell on life.

Buckeye 411

• 

  21 And Over, Please

  Tight End, Loose Cannon? Kyle Rowland of Eleven Warriors broke the news late Tuesday that Buckeye tight end Marcus Baugh had been suspended from the team indefinitely for yet another issue with underaged alcohol usage.  While many of us would file this either under “meh” or “college lyfe!!”, it’s important to note that this would be Baugh’s third “incident” while a Buckeye, and his second involving alcohol.  He was removed from scholarship last summer, and was removed from team activities in September as well… it will be interesting to see if Coach Meyer believes in a “three strikes and you’re done” policy.  Baugh has always been seen as an amazing athlete, but his absence will mean that the other tight ends in the system (Heuerman, Moore, and Vannett) may be asked to bear the burden during the spring and beyond; the 2014 recruiting class does not have a tight end in the mix as of yet.

• Happy Birthday! One day late, but still- Jack Nickalaus turned 74 on Tuesday. I would have mentioned this yesterday, but like most things involving my golf game I was way off target.
• Hard Knox? Buckeye verbal Demetrius Knox made news on Tuesday with the announcement that he would be making an official visit to UCLA this weekend in spite of his commitment to Ohio State. Many feel as if this is a “vacation” opportunity, but it should be noted that the Bruins have several of Knox’ teammates in the fold and only have one offensive lineman in the class thus far.  Interestingly enough, though, Coach Meyer, Warriner, and Herman will all have their “in home” with him today, so it remains to be seen if the trip to Westwood actually occurs.  If it does, I might need to head that way myself to wander around campus with my Ohio State swag on.
• Speaking Of Recruiting- It was an interesting day in Ann Arbor on Tuesday, with their number one recruit for the 2015 class, 5 star running back Damien Harris decommitting from That Team Up North. What makes this worthy of the “Buckeye 411″ you ask? Well, his recent two twitter follows include Stan Drayton and Tim Hinton, and it’s rumored that he spoke with Urban Meyer over the weekend.  Hmmmmm…
• The Future Is Now- Sammy Silverman with a look at the early enrollees in the Dream 2014 class:

Read More

Tags: 2014 Recruiting, Academics, Christian Bryant, Damien Harris, Demetrius Knox, Jack Nicklaus, Marcus Baugh, Mekka Don, NCAA Reform, Purdue, Sammy Silverman, Veneric Mark
Categories: College Football, Humor, Michigan Football, Ohio State Football, Recruiting

After an exciting week in Berkeley, the Bucks return home in a final warmup before B1G season. As the Rattlers come to town, there’s only one choice for the soundtrack this week.

Trophy Hunting

Buckeye 411

• Injury Update- The plan is for Braxton to play some on Saturday; reports from practice had him wearing a brace but with no noticeable limp. That’s the good news.  The “not yet” news is that Adolphus Washington will miss the FAMU visit to Columbus, as the Buckeyes try to ensure that he’ll be healthy for B1G play. Coach Meyer said several times this week that he would be “probable” for Wisconsin.
• Good Problem To Have- Meyer seemed most optimistic about the play of the defensive line, and praised Coach Vrable’s work with the “young pups”. Given the pressure that they’ve been able to apply minus Adolphus and Tommy Schutt, you’ve got to think that something is going right in the trenches for the Scarlet and Gray.
• And Then- There’s the linebackers, who still have some question marks in place for Ohio State. Meyer emphasized again that the depth is not what it needs to be given some of the “misses” in recruiting in the last four years; fans will remember that several key stars either haven’t panned out as of yet or have left the program altogether. At this point, the ‘Backers haven’t been tested, but with conference play coming up that’s sure to change.
• Seeking Hyde- Carlos is back after his three game suspension, but won’t immediately fall into the starting lineup on Saturday. Not only is the current lineup firing on all cylinders, it will take a bit to find a “fit” for Carlos’ game within the offense.  In addition, it wouldn’t be fair, according to the coaches, to sit Jordan Hall given the work results that have been produced over the past three weeks.
• For The Sake Of Argument- Gene Smith helped schedule this week’s FAMU game in part to bring their amazing band to The Shoe. However, as an FCS school (and not a great one, at that), the game certainly won’t help Ohio State’s “strength of schedule” perception. On the off chance that three or more schools finish undefeated (Alabama, Clemson, Oregon, tOSU), this game might cost the Buckeyes a chance at the Crystal Trophy… Or, as a friend of mine put it, “Gene Smith will have cost the Buckeyes two consecutive chances to play for a national championship”.  Discuss.
• Smooth- The same goes for Kenny Guiton, who will certainly have a large number of opportunities behind center moving forward. Again, he’s certainly earned the right to do so.
• Remember When- Ohio State fans used to envy schools like Southern Cal for their full stable of tailbacks and five star QBs? Pretty nice living, ain’t it?
• Young’uns- There’s a lot of anticipation that some of the newer faces for Ohio State will see action this week; Corey (Pittsburgh) Brown spoke at length regarding Eli Apple, Cam Burroughs, and Vonn Bell’s work in practice. Here’s hoping they get to showcase on Saturday.
• Jazz Brings The Swoons- Or is it that folks Swoon for Jazz? Either way… this photo does both.
• Bitter Bear Face- If you hadn’t already, you should read this article about how Cal’s football program has higher ideals in mind than Ohio State. Then, you should remember that Cal’s APR from 2012 would put them dead last in the Big Ten…  16 points behind the team at the bottom (hint: The Harvard Of The West).
• New Threads- Sounds as if this year’s Nike uniforms for The Game will be a white version of the ones we saw in last year’s win.
• Four Times The Awesome- Sammy Silverman had a well deserved extra design this week: Read More

Tags: 2013 Season, Aaron Craft, Adolphus Washington, Bo Pelini, Braxton Miller, Carlos Hyde, Eleven Warriors, FAMU Rattlers, Gene Smith, Kenny Guiton, Mekka Don, Mike Vrable, Ramzy, Sammy Silverman, SBP, Urban Meyer
Categories: College Football, Ohio State Football

As you’re reading this, I’m prepping for the drive from Los Angeles to the Bay Area with the Mrs. for Saturday’s game. Given that we got engaged on the Marin Headlands, this song by one of her favorite performers is the obvious choice for this week’s soundtrack. Gonna’ warn you, though… this week’s reflection is… uh… verbose.

Waiting

Buckeye 411

• Injury Update- The question that everyone’s been asking hasn’t yet been answered, as Coach Meyer said that Braxton threw a bit on Wednesday before leaving practice to get more treatment on his knee. Coach commented that the issue isn’t pain, but seems to be “stability”, and that Braxton is adjusting to his knee brace. It would not be surprising to see Kenny G start and be relieved by Miller, nor would it be a shock to have them split time at the position. Both will travel, Coach Meyer indicated that they would know more after Thursday’s practice and that he remained optimistic.
• Two Thoughts- 1) The last time Braxton was held out of play in a game he returned to action and performed pretty well. 2) That being said, if Ohio State feels that they can win the game with Smooth Jazz and give Braxton a week (or two) to recover, I wholeheartedly support that decision. Long term goals here, peeps.
• Also- Adolphus Washington did not practice on Wednesday, but is expected to travel. His is a bit of a different situation, as the injury is something that can linger. Also, as amazing as Washington is on the field, the Young Bucks are doing good work under Coach Vrable’s direction.
• Good News- Corey Linsley is scheduled to play the entire game this week at center, having gotten the clearance to do so from the medical staff after his foot injury has significantly healed
• Red, Not Scarlet- A couple of older “back ups” that many are surprised have not gotten the playing time they were expected to were discussed on Wednesday, and Coach Meyer said that it’s a possibility that Bri’onte Dunn and Michael Thomas may end up redshirting if they aren’t going to be a part of the planning this season. He also discussed how he felt that they were “wasted” by the coaches last year, and didn’t want to make the same mistake moving forward.
• Getting Defensive- Ryan Shazier talked about the Silver Bullets’ excitement to play Cal, and that they were working diligently to ensure that the Bears didn’t have the success necessary to string together drives and run 100 plays a game. He also spoke about the need to maintain leverage on Cal’s running back Brendan Bigelow, as his ability to get to the edge is a strength that created issues for Oho State last year. However, Shazier mentioned that Bigelow’s talents were helped by a number of small mistakes that the young defense made last season.
• Getting Ready- Playing the role of Bigelow this week in practice? Carlos “I’ll be back next week” Hyde. Not too shabby.
• Stripes Lost- I guess we’re still doing that now, as Cameron Johnston, Tyquan Lewis, and Trey Johnson all had their black stripes removed today. Woot!
• Honors- This week’s Sammy Silverman graphics, for your enjoyment Read More

Tags: 2013 Season, Adolphus Washington, Alabama, Amateurism, Braxton Miller, Brionte Dunn, Cameron Johnston, Carlos Hyde, Charles Robinson, George Dorhmann, Kenny Guiton, Les Miles, Michael Thomas, Mississippi State, Oklahoma State, Ryan Shazier, Sammy Silverman, SBP, Sports Illustrated, Tennessee, Trey Johnson, Tyquan Lewis, Urban Meyer, Yahoo!
Categories: NCAA Investigations, Ohio State Football

Well, given Coach Meyer’s perspective for this season, the soundtrack for today should be pretty obvious. There’s the awesome option, and the Ah!Sum! possibility. Happy Thursday, Buck-aroos!

Heart you, Dee Dee McCall

Buckeye 411

• Health Update- According to Coach Meyer, CJ Barnett will be back in action this week against SDSU, and Corey Lindsley will see more time; although the staff will continue to be cautious with his recovery.
• Back On The Attack? Although he had a good practice today, Bradley Roby has not yet been bumped up to the starter at corner this weekend. Rod Smith, curiously left off the depth chart released on Tuesday, finds himself on several special teams this weekend, which is a pretty good sign.
• Isn’t That Special- A lot has been made of Ohio State’s practice of having players earn playing time by being a part of Coach Coombs’ charges for a time. If you want to play, prove that you’ve got the heart and passion… I like it, and am hopeful Bri’onte Dunn (who seems to have been singled out this week) will rise to the challenge.
• Hybrid No More? Coach Meyer mentioned that Dontre Wilson is more of a receiver at this point than a running back.
• Getting Defensive- San Diego State runs a 3-3-5 Stack Defense, which is a bit different than what the Buckeyes have seen in the past. However, several players mentioned that Buffalo chose a similar look on Saturday, so they feel more prepared. That being said, don’t be surprised to see quite a bit of unorthodox pressure coming from the Aztecs.
• The Chase- While Ohio State dropped in the AP poll to #3 (I guess beating an FCS school is a good idea, huh NikeU?), they stayed at the #2 slot in the Coaches’ poll.  Oh, and they’re #1 on the Facebook poll… which reminds me; can we be friends? Read More

Tags: 2013 Season, A&M, Aaron Craft, Adidas, Asteroid Strike, Bradley Roby, Brionte Dunn, CJ Barnett, Concussions, CuppyCup, Dennis Hopson, Ed O'Bannon, Facebook, Freeh Report, Hop2theRafters, Jared Sullinger, Jim Tressel, Joe Paterno, Johnny Manziel, Kyle Berger, LeBron James, NCAA, NCAA Reform, Rod Smith, Sammy Silverman, San Diego State, SBP, Special Teams, Stanford, TBDBITL, Terrelle Pryor, UCLA, Uniforms
Categories: College Football, Humor, NCAA Investigations, Ohio State Basketball, Ohio State Football

While camp is in session over at the WHAC, it’s important to remember that in 1936 another Buckeye was rocking the world this week. By this time that year, Jesse Owens had already won three of his four gold medals in the 100 and 200m, as well as the long jump; the fourth would come on August 8th. So, as excited as we are for the speed that OSU has gained on it’s football team, it’s important to also remember someone who was so talented that he broke another barrier. Today’s soundtrack is a song that was at the top of the charts in both Europe and the United State in 1936 as well… pretty appropriate for August.

Buckeye Bullet: Ohio State Speed

Buckeye 411

• We’re Talking Practice! Day three in the books, and based on comments from Coach Meyer, it was a pretty good one. He was impressed by the strides that Braxton has taken and where he is with his leadership/communication. He also talked frankly about freshman Dontre Wilson, that he had electric speed and brought something they didn’t have in the past.
• Line? Up- Taylor Decker seems to be leading the battle for the starting right tackle slot, while Marcus Hall has trimmed down significantly in a move that has helped his mobility/agility- Coach Warriner commented that he needed a belt now.  Corey Linsley is still recovering from off season foot surgery, but there’s no concern regarding his being ready to play in a few weeks.
• That Being Said- Coach Meyer singled out the line and the linebackers as still being areas of concern, particularly in terms of depth.  When asked what would help get these positions to look more “Ohio State-ish”, he replied “another recruiting class”.
• Good News! No one was in trouble with the law this week! W00t!
• In Fact- Carlos Hyde, Marcus Baugh, and Bradly Roby were all part of practice on Tuesday.  No decisions have been made re: Roby, as Meyer stated that he was “still getting information” on the situation.
• For Kicks- Cameron Johnston is the starting punter, according to Meyer, and has athletic ability to the point where they are able to do some “different things” with the punting game this year.
• The Downside- As powerful as the offense is expected to be, we might not get to see Johnston or the amazing Bryce Haynes work their magic much this season. Alas.
• Triumph From Tragedy- News broke on Monday that B1G programs would be recieving “refunds” of sorts, as the Penn State bowl allocation would be split among the rest of the conference due to their sanctions. Ohio State announced that they were donating the amount to child advocacy groups, which is pretty cool, given the circumstances. No word on how other programs are planning on using their allocation.
• Buckeye Pron- Looking for a schedule wallpaper for the old laptop? Well, this one from Sammy Silverman will do nicely, I think: Read More

Tags: 2013 Fall Camp, 2013 Football Season, Bradley Roby, Braxton Miller, Bryce Haynes, Cameron Johnston, Carlos Hyde, Conference Expansion, Corey Linsley, Derrick Green, Dontre Wilson, Jay Bilas, Jesse Owens, Johnny Manziel, LSU, Marcus Baugh, Michigan, Notre Dame, Penn State, Sammy Silverman, SBP, SEC, Taylor Decker, Uniforms
Categories: College Football, Humor, Ohio State Football