2009 Preview: Ohio State Buckeyes

Michael Bradley - SportingNews.com

There are some who would consider it a bit over the top to take shots at the Buckeyes, who have been the conference's gold standard for much of this decade. They have won or shared the last four conference titles and played in two of the last three BCS championship games.

But when you establish high standards and don't reach them, people are going to criticize. Just ask Oklahoma.

The Buckeyes had a fine 2008 season by most schools' criteria, but their three losses came to top-10 teams and were on the heels of the humbling defeats in the past two BCS title games. Ohio State has been good, but it hasn't been able to make a big splash nationally.

Will that change in '09? We'll find out quickly, since USC visits The Horseshoe on Sept. 12. You can bet there will be plenty of people using that game as a way of determining whether Ohio State -- and by extension the Big Ten -- is capable of competing with the big dogs.

Can the Buckeyes do that and gather the necessary momentum to carry them through the Big Ten and past a first-rate bowl opponent? Right now, the answer is no. The loss of seven offensive starters, including running back Beanie Wells and wideout Brian Robiskie, along with the departures of defensive playmakers James Laurinaitis, Marcus Freeman and Malcolm Jenkins, leave the Buckeyes in something of a rebuilding mode, even though that term is not necessarily welcome in Columbus.

At least Terrelle Pryor returns at quarterback. Some may wonder if that's a good thing, given the rookie's growing pains last year, but there's no denying Pryor's skills and his fit for the spread offense. The question is whether he'll be more accomplished in it this year and if he'll be able to get the ball downfield more in the passing game.

What is certain is some form of change in the way the Buckeyes attack defenses. They will vary the formations, using Pryor in a modified "pistol" formation, about four yards behind center with a tailback behind him. Ohio State may put Pryor in the shotgun between a pair of backs, using motion to create confusion for opponents. He may even be under center with backs in the I-formation or a pro set. It will all be designed to showcase what Pryor can do while still staying true to coach Jim Tressel's running-game-and-defense credo.

Whether he throws it well could be a function of OSU's receiving corps, which loses not only Robiskie but also Brian Hartline. Dane Sanzenbacher, DeVier Posey, Lamaar Thomas and the oft-troubled Ray Small (who is finally back with the first-team receivers) battle to become the go-to wideout.

Finding a replacement for Wells might be a little easier, since sophomore Dan Herron played well last season while Wells battled a foot injury. Brandon Saine also should see plenty of action.

Last year the line struggled, and changes were made. Three starters return, and Michigan transfer Justin Boren finally gets a chance to play once, of course, he fully recovers from a knee injury sustained in camp. Expect a more physical unit.

The Buckeyes' defensive unit was its usual stout self against the run last year, but losing Laurinaitis and Freeman will make OSU vulnerable this season. That's why the front four, which brings back three starters, must be more effective in stuffing things.

The back line loses Jenkins, but strong safety Kurt Coleman is back after registering 78 tackles and picking off four passes. Expect the coverage to be simple early on as the Buckeyes build some secondary depth.

The return games are in great shape, thanks to Small's prowess bringing back punts, and Thomas' skill returning kicks. Aaron Pettrey made seven of eight field-goal tries last year, most being of the long-range variety, including a 54-yarder, so that position is secure.

For much more on the Buckeyes, purchase a copy of Sporting News College Football '09 yearbook by calling 1-800-380-7404. Or order it online at www.sportingnews.com or www.streetandsmiths.com.

Ohio State facts

2008 record: 10-3 overall, 7-1 Big Ten
Bowl: Fiesta, lost to Texas 24-21
Coach: Jim Tressel

Schedule (ET)

Sept. 5: Navy Noon
Sept. 12: No. 4 USC 8 p.m.
Sept. 19: at Toledo Noon
Sept. 26: Illinois TBA
Oct. 3: at Indiana 7 p.m.
Oct. 10: Wisconsin TBA
Oct. 17: at Purdue TBA
Oct. 24: Minnesota Noon
Oct. 31: New Mexico State TBA
Nov. 7: at No. 9 Penn State TBA
Nov. 14: No. 22 Iowa TBA
Nov. 21: at Michigan TBA

Three to watch

Terrelle Pryor, QB, So. Went 9-1 as a true freshman starter, and showed glimpses of his Heisman Trophy potential.
Kurt Coleman, SS, Sr. Second-team All-Big Ten selection had 78 tackles and four interceptions, despite missing two games in 2008.
Dan Herron, RB, So. Proved last year that he could replace Beanie Wells, rushing for 439 yards and six touchdowns as a freshman.

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