I know it’s early, but a replay of the Ohio State spring game last week sparked some curiosity.
One of the most talented and esteemed classes in the history of Ohio State football has moved on to bigger and better things.
The Buckeyes lost a ton of talent to the NFL last April. With six new starters on offense, the Buckeyes have some holes to plug. Don’t worry, though. Ohio State is one of the rare programs across the country with a revolving door on its roster. The Buckeyes simply reload from within.
Fortunately, quarterback isn’t one of assumed problems. Sophomore Terrelle Pryor is a born leader and a darkhorse for the Heisman Trophy after an impressive freshman campaign.
Pryor’s freshman season proved to be a great learning experience for the phenom. His throws are inconsistent at times, but no one should doubt his right arm. It’s going to be fun watching Pryor grow into a complete quarterback for the next two-hopefully three-seasons.
Head coach Jim Tressel waved goodbye to Chris Wells who departed early for the NFL. Daniel “Boom” Herron gained some playing time in ’08 when Beanie went down for a couple games. Former Piqua grad Brandon Saine will try his best to help fill Beanie’s humongous shoes. The Bucks also brought in top-recruit Jaamal Berry.
Over the past few years, Tressel has made recruiting a strong offensive line a priority. The Buckeyes lost two starters in the trenches, but we shouldn’t notice with former Michigan Wolverine Justin Boren and top-recruit Mike Adams being placed on the line.
Wide receiver poses the largest question mark when it comes to the offense. Though Pryor isn’t primarily a passing threat, Ohio State loss of both Brian Robiskie and Brian Hartline could become a problem. Sophomores Lamaar Thomas and DeVier Posey seemed destined to be the next batch of solid wideouts out of Columbus. Junior Dane Sanzenbacher has the toughness and hands to fit the Anthony Gonzalez/Hartline mold with ease.
An improved line should give Pryor the space needed to get the rest of his teammates involved this year. The new-look running game is key to Ohio State’s 2009 success.
A look at the defensive changes can be viewed in next week’s edition of The Clarion