Reload Overload: Ohio State Stacked With Young Talent AND Depth

To all you casual college football fans and/or Ohio State haters outside of the great state of Ohio—specifically those who have no idea what goes on along the banks of the Olentangy in Columbus—just thought you may want to know that those nasty rumors forecasting the demise of Buckeye football have been greatly exaggerated.

No, in fact, surely much to your chagrin, it's quite the opposite actually.

Despite the skewed and misleading "breaking news" and "inside info" you hear and read on ESPN, ESPN.com, and CBSSports.com, just to name a few culprits, Buckeye football is alive and well, and the Buckeyes are STILL the big fish in the Big 10 pond.

But you heard that Jim Tressel cheats and that without Terrelle Pryor and the rest of the Tat-5 thugs, the Buckeyes are going to be horrible, and now the program won't be able to recruit anymore, etc, etc...Sorry kids, but you are grossly misinformed.

Whether or not QB Braxton Miller is named the starter at some point during the 2011 season makes no difference since originally he would have been a definite redshirt this season. He's here, and now he gets to learn on the job early this season which will prepare him to lead OSU in 2012, 2013, and 2014.

The general consensus on Miller is that he is already a better passing QB than Pryor, while also possessing the same dual-threat capabilities that will give opposing defenders night terrors. If you somehow don't know who Miller is, come out from under your rock and watch this:



Of course, every great quarterback needs a running game to set up the pass. With Dan "Boom" Herron suspended until October, Jordan Hall, Jaamal Berry, Carlos Hyde and Rod Smith will all be called upon to carry the load in his place.

Four reasons NOT to worry in 2011:

Jordan Hall


Jaamal Berry


Carlos Hyde


Rod Smith (also pictured top right)


And as if those guys weren't enough to excite you or scare you to death (depending on your team affiliation), check out these running backs / 2012 Buckeye commits:

Warren Ball


Brionte Dunn


Yes, but without DeVier Posey, who is also out until October, Ohio State has no wide receivers....right?

WRONG.

Corey Brown


Chris Fields


James Louis


T.Y. Williams


While many of you are in the club that was hoping for the Buckeyes to crumble in the wake of recent events, they instead continue to thrive—much to your dismay—and FYI, that won't be changing anytime soon as you can see.

In the words of Wisconsin basketball coach Bo Ryan, "DEAL WITH IT."


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Cupboard Overload: Video Spotlight on Ohio State's Returning and Incoming Future Stars

With the 2010 season in the books and as National Signing Day 2011 approaches, it seems fitting to shift the focus onto several key returning and incoming prospects on the offensive side of the ball.

Given the pending suspensions for the tat-5 (assuming they keep their word and return in 2011) and the fact that a couple of them might have the opportunity to make an instant impact because of that whole unfortunate situation.

Quarterback is obviously the most important position on the field and with Terrelle Pryor out for up to five games, let's hope that doesn't mean the beginning of the Joe Bauserman era, but rather perhaps the beginning of the Braxton Miller era instead.



If Ohio State sticks to their original plan however, which by all indications is to redshirt Miller in 2011, redshirt sophomore Kenny Guiton would be a good choice to replace Pryor until his return.



Another option at QB is redshirt freshman Taylor Graham, son of former OSU quarterback Kent Graham. Unlike Pryor, Miller, and Guiton, Graham is more of a prototypical pocket passer.



At running back, there are several young and talented guys ready to step-up in place of suspended starter Dan Herron. Jordan Hall, Jaamal Berry, and Carlos Hyde all have game experience, while 2010 late-enrollee Rod Smith dazzled his teammates and coaches during the teams' Suagr Bowl preparations. Here's a look at each of them.

Hall


Berry


Hyde


Smith


Last but not least is the wide receiver position. Dane Sanzenbacher is graduating and DeVier Posey is among those suspended, leaving the Buckeyes with a plethora of youthful inexperience. Corey Brown, Chris Fields, James Jackson, James Louis, T.Y. Williams, Devin Smith, and Evan Spencer are all candidates for significant playing time early in 2011. Here is a look at each of them.

Brown


Fields


Jackson


Louis


Williams


Smith


Spencer


Despite losing DE Cam Heyward, LBs Brian Rolle and Ross Homan, and DBs Chimdi Chekwa and Devon Torrence, Ohio State's defense will still be one of the best in the nation.

As always, there are plenty of 4-star and 5-star young guys ready for their turn.

There are not videos of all of them, but several names to know of recent OSU recruits who could end up replacing the departing starters at each of those positions include D-Linemen Melvin Fellows, Adam Bellamy, JT Moore, David Durham, Chase Ferris, Michael Bennett, & Steve Miller, LBs Etienne Sabino, Keith Sweat, Storm Klein, Scott McVey, Jordan Whiting, Jonathan Newsome, Dorian Bell, Ryan Shazier, Connor Crowell, and lastly DBs Christian Bryant, Jamie Wood, Chad Hagan, Bradley Roby, Donnie Evege, Dominic Clarke, CJ Barnett, Doran Grant, Ron Tanner, Jeremy Cash, and the other Corey (DB) Brown.

It is safe to say that the cupboard is overflowing with talent in Columbus and that the Buckeyes will continue to be one of the best teams in the nation year-in and year-out for several years to come.

As an example of the bright future for OSU beyond 2011, here are two bonus videos of Warren Ball and Brionte Dunn. These guys are two of the top running backs in the nation and both have already verbally committed to Ohio State's 2012 class.

Ball


Dunn



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Young Guns: Five Offensive Buckeyes Ready to Break Out in 2010

Tim Bielik—Featured Contributor / Storm the Field Founder


Ohio State football in 2010 with an experienced Terrelle Pryor under center could mean a more explosive offense than in years past.

While the ability for the offense to be explosive is there, obviously the question will be whether or not Jim Tressel will let the dogs loose. And the dogs that Ohio State has, whether experienced or not, can be very explosive.

We all know about DeVier Posey, Brandon Saine, and Dane Sanzenbacher among others, but what about the guys we don't know? The guys that haven't seen time yet. The roster is full of players ready to break out and make an impact on the future—and maybe even the current season.

Here are five players that are very likely to do so.


5. James Louis, Fr. WR

The recruiting saga with James Louis was very strange, with the youngster from Atlantic High School stunning most by committing to Ohio State after Florida did not accept a commit.

Nearly a year later, Louis comes to Ohio State one of two Under Armour All-American WRs along with Cardinal O'Hara's Corey Brown, both of whom bring a strong combination of speed and explosiveness.

The early comparison a lot of experts out there have given of Louis is to former Buckeye standout Santonio Holmes, who was also a Floridian coming out of high school.

Louis, who runs a 4.45 40-yard dash, gained 682 receiving yards on just 38 catches and had 10 TD receptions as a senior with Atlantic in Delray Beach, Florida. The young man possesses great speed and a playmaking ability that should make him a favorite in Columbus, especially if he can win the third WR spot, which is very wide open after Duron Carter transferred to Colleyville CC in Kansas.

If he has a great fall camp and contributes right away, Buckeyes fans should feel very relieved that he came to Ohio State instead of staying in-state.


4. Carlos Hyde, Fr. RB

Another Florida product, Hyde brings a big body into fall camp after spending a full winter and spring with the football team.

At 6'1'', 235 lbs, and around a 4.55 40-yard time, Hyde actually was a commit for the 2009 class, but could not attend the university because of academics.

He spent the fall at Fork Union Military Academy in Virginia, much like Eddie George did before he came to Ohio State—And strangely enough, the two players are very similar.

Hyde will be a running back at Ohio State instead of being a fullback as listed on many different recruiting websites. Reports out of winter workouts and spring practices read that Hyde performed pretty well, showcasing his speed and power, plus a strong work ethic, something that should give him strong support among the fans.

Because of the depth at the RB position right now, Hyde may see time mostly in 3rd-and-short or goal-line situations. But finishing drives could be a great start for this kid who already has overcome plenty to get to this fall camp.


3. Corey Brown, Fr. RB/WR

Ohio State may be one of the only schools if not the only one to have two players with the same name.

While there already is a Corey Brown who is a redshirt freshman DB, the coaching staff reeled in a strong prize in Springfield, PA product Corey Brown for the 2010 class. Brown committed in September 2009 but was actually given the offer to pick his position from Coach Tressel.

Brown is similar in build to Louis with a strong combination of speed and explosion, and has drawn comparisons to Percy Harvin.

Early word out of Columbus is that Brown has caught the eye of the coaching staff and that he may be a major candidate for the third WR spot along with Louis and others and may even get a shot at kick returner.

If he shines in fall camp, Brown may fit the mold of a player that is too talented to keep off of the field, but like everyone else in a school like OSU with so much depth, he will have to gain the trust of the coaches, especially when it comes to ball control.


2. Chris Fields, Fr. (RS) WR

Maybe an unheralded prospect after committing in 2009, Chris Fields apparently has caught the eye of many out there in Columbus.

Fields redshirted in 2009, but spent the year learning the game and played the role of Oregon QB Jeremiah Masoli while on the scout team leading up to the 2010 Rose Bowl Game. His performances in the bowl practices and a stronger mental approach make Fields a very good candidate to see plenty of time on the field this season.

Fields came into Ohio State at 6'1'' and a 4.42 40 time, and enters 2010 as one of the leading candidates along with senior Taurian Washington for the third WR spot.

The advantage Fields has over Brown and Louis at this time is the year of practicing against college talent and adding strength to his frame.

Whether or not that equates to winning the job is a question to be decided at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center (WHAC) in a few weeks.

But don't be surprised if we see No. 80 making some big plays for the Buckeyes from the WR position in 2010.


1. Jaamal Berry, Fr. (RS) RB

For the past year, we have all heard about the young man from Miami who looked great in fall practices.

Unfortunately, injuries kept speedy back Jaamal Berry off the field for Ohio State in the fall, and during this year's spring game as well, to the disappointment of many fans. The word out of the WHAC is that the hype is justified, except that injuries have slowed him down early on in his Buckeye career.

He did redshirt in 2009 due to his injuries, but the year off did allow him to add some strength to his blazing 4.31 40 time.

Like Hyde, Berry may struggle to gain playing time because of the depth in the OSU backfield. As of right now, Berry is behind both Saine and Dan Herron as well as sophomore RB Jordan Hall, a high school teammate of Pryor.

But if Berry stays healthy, it might be a case, like Brown, of being too talented to keep off of the field. A strong fall camp and a clean bill of health could equal a chance for Berry to see the field, something that could scare opposing defenses in 2010.


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Ohio State Class of 2011 Recruiting Update

Here is the current, up-to-date list of recruits that have verbally committed to play for Ohio State starting in 2011.

The class size is expected to be right around 20, and with 15 recruits already on board, there are precious few spots left.

Coach Tressel and his staff have once again assembled a talented and highly-rated ensemble, headlined by top QB Braxton Miller (pictured at right), that should easily push this class into the nations' top five when the final rankings are released, after NSD arrives next February.





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Screen image of recruiting class via Scout.com

2010 Ohio State Buckeyes: Five Pitfalls That Could Derail Their Chances at a BCS Title Game Berth

After what was an incredible finish to the 2009 season that saw Ohio State win the Rose Bowl, 2010 is shaping up to be the best team Jim Tressel has ever had at Ohio State.

But with all of those expectations, there is the "what if?" factor.

What if Ohio State has another "Purdue" game?

What if Terrelle Pryor goes down with an injury? (*knock on wood*)

What if the defensive line isn't as dominant as in 2009 and late 2008?

Regardless of the reasoning, everyone knows that teams, especially in the Big Ten, will be gunning for the Buckeyes and trying to end their stronghold grip on the conference.

There are obviously high expectations for Ohio State in 2010. Many "way too early" 2010 rankings have put the Buckeyes as high as No. 2, but none of that matters if expectations don't translate into reality once the season begins.

Here are five Saturdays that could potentially cost Ohio State a shot at the BCS National Championship Game in Glendale.


No. 5—November 27 at Home vs. Michigan

This one is the least likely of the five, and some fans may consider it a stretch, but remember, it has happened before. Anything can happen in a rivalry game.

That being said, over the last six years, this rivalry have been very one-sided. Ohio State has not lost to Michigan since John Navarre and Chris Perry were running the show for UM back in 2003.

But there's always cause for concern when the Wolverines come to town because of the rivalry that it is. It's always one of those games where the records need to be thrown out when these two teams meet.

Of course, that meant very little the last time Michigan played in Columbus...UM got "McGuffied!"


Still, it is the biggest game of the year, even with UM down right now. To give an example of how the Buckeyes focus on Michigan, their training facility has active countdown clocks set specifically to countdown to the Michigan game.

With the Big Ten adding a bye week as of this year, this will be the first time the teams meet after Thanksgiving ever.

Could changing that 100+ year tradition of THE GAME always being played on the third Saturday of November finally change the recent misfortunes of the Wolverines?

It could happen, but even most logical Michigan fans (that is definitely an oxymoron, and a very small group of people) do not expect a win in Columbus this coming season.


No. 4—September 11 at Home vs. Miami (FL)

These two teams last met in 2003 for the National Title, which the Buckeyes won in double-overtime after a controversial (only in Florida) pass interference flag by referee Terry Porter.


Deja Vu coming for Miami fans?
Seven years later, the Hurricanes come North looking for revenge, and QB Jacory Harris will get to face off against his good friend Terrelle Pryor.

Miami should have reason for motivation, especially coach Randy Shannon, who was the Defensive Coordinator when these teams last met.

The 'Canes will likely be a top 10 team when they meet Ohio State, but this Miami team lost in the Champs Sports Bowl to a Wisconsin team that the Buckeyes beat by 18 points earlier in the season.

This game will be the barometer as to where the Buckeyes and the Big Ten stand in 2010. So to will the Penn State vs. Alabama game that will be played the same day.

Wins by each would be an even greater boost to the steadily recovering perception of the Big Ten conference, and could potentially set up a huge top-five showdown between the Bucks and Nittany Lions once conference play begins.

Speaking of Penn State...


No. 3—November 13 at Home vs. Penn State

Two years ago, when Penn State came to Columbus undefeated, the Buckeyes had the Nittany Lions on the ropes until a fumble by then-true freshman Terrelle Pryor, led to the game's only touchdown, allowing PSU to escape with a 13-6 win—their first in Ohio Stadium since 1978.


Terrelle Pryor giveth...
Last season, despite the Terrelle Cryor t-shirt non-sense, and a "white-out" in Happy Valley, OSU left no doubt, beating up on the previously once-beaten (by Iowa) Nittany Lions, 24-7.

In recent years, this matchup has become quite the rivalry in the Big Ten, though OSU fans still recognize Michigan as their true No. 1 rival, not Penn State, much to the chagrin of jilted PSU fans.

But this years meeting brings some interesting storylines, with QB Kevin Newsome making his first trip to Columbus after the departure of Daryll Clark, and the final year of RB Evan Royster's outstanding career.

These games are some of the most physical in the country, so by no means will this one be pretty.

The Buckeyes certainly can't take this one for granted, but with the experience edge in their favor, another "per-usual" home win over the Nittany Lions should be the most likely outcome.


No. 2—October 16 at Camp Randall vs. Wisconsin

Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin is no doubt one of the toughest venues for a visiting opponent to play in, in all of college football.

And in mid-October, the Buckeyes will get a refresher course against a much-improved Wisconsin team, led by QB Scott Tolzien and 2009 Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year RB John Clay.

Clay is the best RB in the conference, although to be fair, I must also mention that Ohio State's defense held him to just 59 yards on 21 carries last season, as the Buckeyes defeated the then-unbeaten (5-0) Badgers, 31-13.

Wisconsin fans surely have fresh memories (and revenge on their minds) of Pryor's big drive and late touchdown scramble and dive to win the game the last time the Badgers hosted Ohio State in 2008.


And Terrelle Pryor, taketh away...
Winning in Madison can often prove to be difficult for any team, especially at night under the lights. This game will be physical, and both teams will bring their "A" games.

Ohio State and Wisconsin both could be, and probably will be, undefeated when they meet, meaning the team that wins will very likely solidify their position at or near the top of the conference, and near the top of the national rankings.

With Pryor entering his third season as a starter, and the OSU defense looking like it should once again be dominant, the Buckeyes have to be the favorite in this game as of right now.

But, much like with Penn State, they cannot afford to overlook the Badgers, especially on the road.


No. 1—November 20 at Kinnick Stadium vs. Iowa

There is no bigger threat to the Buckeyes reign in the Big Ten than the team they escaped against to win the conference title outright in 2009 than the Iowa Hawkeyes.

Kirk Ferentz's teams are almost impossible to beat at home in November, and that's exactly when these two teams will meet head on, possibly for a conference title, and a trip to the BCS title game.

This time around, Ohio State should be dealing with Ricky Stanzi, who is one of the best QB's in the conference, and maybe even the nation.

With Stanzi out with an ankle injury last season, OSU nearly saw backup James Vandenburg lead Iowa to a win in Columbus.


Could the 2010 meeting be even better? In a word, YES!
Iowa, much like Ohio State likes to run the ball, control the time of possession, and play great defense.

I'm thinking Ferentz recently decided to copy Tressel's formula for success—If you can't beat'em, join'em, right?

In all seriousness, this game on paper should be just as good as last years. Both teams have veteran QB's, solid RB's, a a stud defense.

Adrian Clayborn and Tyler Sash are back, along with most of Iowa's talented skill players.

There's no doubt that Iowa will be motivated and wanting revenge after losing the game, and the conference title, in Columbus by a field goal in OT.

This could be the college game of the year if both teams are undefeated (a distinct possibility) when they meet.

Just like in 2006 when Ohio State and Michigan were both unbeaten in the final game of the year, we could see another No. 1 vs. No. 2 between OSU and Iowa if Alabama, Boise State and a few others (Texas, Florida, TCU, Va Tech, etc.) lose before week 13.


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Original article written by Tim Bielik—B/R OSU Featured Columnist & Block-O-Nation Contributor
Edits, changes, and additions to the original article made by HD Handshoe—Founder—Block-O-Nation
Photo Copyright of Jim Davidson--TheOzone.net

James Louis: "Around The Block" With The 2010 Buckeye WR Recruit

Most Buckeye fans that follow recruiting closely know that WR James Louis is one of the top prospects in the Ohio State 2010 class based on rankings from sites like Rivals and Scout.

But we here at Block-O-Nation thought you might like to know a little more about James in his own words (and other players coming soon).

We were fortunate enough to catch up with James recently, and assumed that Buckeye fans would be interested in what he had to say about his path to Columbus, among other things.

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Q:    James, thanks for taking the time to do this for the site. You originally verbally committed to Florida, then changed your verbal to Ohio State. There were some rumors as NSD neared that UF or Minnesota could still be options, but in the end you signed your LOI with Ohio State, and we are THANKFUL! So, what made Ohio State the right choice for you in the end?

A:    Yes, at one point I was very interested in Minnesota and Florida. Both were in my top. But Florida was always my number one. It was just that I really didn't want to be far away from home, but I came to realize leaving the state would be best thing for me and my family. So I stuck with Ohio State and I really loved the atmosphere over there and the coaching staff and the players are all great.


Q:    What coach, or coaches were most involved in recruiting you? Did you get an in-home visit and if so, with which coach or coaches?

A:    The coaches the were really involved in recruiting me were coach Hazell from Ohio State and coach Hightower from Minnesota.


Q:    Were any of your new teammates trying to recruit or sway you to pick Ohio State, and if so, care to name a name or two?

A:    No, not really. I am really good friends with Duron Carter, but he never really told me to come and he never told me not to. He just said that it's a great place and that I would love it and that they would be happy to have me.


Q:    It looks as though the Bucks will have some decent depth at WR, so do you have any sense yet as to whether or not you will redshirt or play in 2010?

A:    As of right now, I am looking forward to heading to Columbus to play as a true freshman. Redshirting isn't on my mind. I think I have a chance to make a difference in the offense and to help out with an undefeated 2010 season.


Q:    The Miami Hurricanes come to Columbus this year and it could very well be a game where both teams are ranked in the top 10. Being from Florida, do you have any inside scoop on how good they will be, and do you personally know some of the guys on their team?

A:    That's actually one of the games I'm looking forward to next season because I have a lot of family members who grew up Miami Hurricane fans so I'm excited. I have one good friend from that team and his name is Orlando Franklin. He plays on the O-Line.


Q:    Do you have a favorite Buckeye player of all-time?

A:    Cris Carter is my favorite all-time Buckeye, but I compare my game right now to Santonio Holmes, another former Buckeye favorite.


Q:    Who's your favorite NFL team?

A:    My favorite NFL team is the Cincinnati Bengals because Chad Johnson is my favorite WR in the NFL right now.


Q:    Do you have a favorite NFL player of all-time?

A:    My favorite NFL player of all-time has to be Jerry Rice.


Q:    What is your favorite kind of music? Who is your favorite artist or group?

A:    Rap, and my favorite artist has to be Gucci Mane.


Q:    Have you, or do you ever visit any Ohio State blogs or message boards online to see what Ohio State fans are saying?

A:    No, I really don't. Not really sure what websites to check out.


Q:    Are you in any videos on YouTube that you know of?

A:    I have one video on YouTube that I know of. It's my junior season highlight tape.


Q:    Any favorite TV shows you like to watch?

A:    Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.


Q:    What were you thinking the first time you were in Ohio Stadium, aka the Horseshoe?

A:    I couldn't believe it... It was so packed in the Horseshoe and the fans were crazy. I had never been in an environment like that before.

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Again, we want to thank James for his time.

I think I speak for all Buckeye fans when I say welcome into the Buckeye Family James.

We can't wait to see you on the field!

In case you don't follow recruiting or don't/didn't know much about him before now, James is a very talented WR and an excellent addition to our team.

Here's that YouTube video from his junior season that he referred to in case you haven't seen his on-the-field skills.



Bookmark us, and/or check back soon.
We have more player interviews coming soon!

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National Signing Day—Ohio State 2010 Recruiting Report Card: Did The Buckeyes Make The Grade?

by Tim Bielik
BlockONation Analyst
Ohio State Featured Columnist


With all 18 recruits signed, Ohio State has put together a decent class, though nowhere near at the level of 2008 and 2009, classes both in the Top 5.

Though OSU did not land the type of recruits they were able to score the previous two classes, the Buckeyes do have a solid group of sleepers to work with.

By comparison to 2008 and 2009, OSU did not land that one true superstar that made the class special (Pryor in 2008, Jaamal Berry in 2009).

But with the pieces they have, solid football players with alot of heart, Ohio State has depth in place for the future.

Here's a look position by position at the recruits Ohio State have signed.



QB Taylor Graham, Verlon Reed; Grade: B-



Terrelle Pryor will be a junior in 2010, but the need for a backup QB was immediate so OSU could have someone ready in case Joe Bauserman isn't as solid as many hoped.

To fill the void, Tressel landed Illinois QB Taylor Graham, the son of former NFL QB Kent Graham.

Graham is ranked 14th on Rivals.com's pro-style QB list, ahead of Washington commit Nick Montana. At 6'4", 215 lbs, he has the prototypical frame of a tall pocket passer.

Graham missed the end of both his junior and senior season with injuries, which is somewhat of a concern to the coaching staff.

But he has the accuracy and arm strength to be a solid quarterback, though he must learn how to be a more cerebral passer.

The Buckeyes also landed athlete Verlon Reed late in the process as a sleeper out of local Marion-Franklin in Columbus.

He will be given a shot at QB, but might switch over to defense depending on 2011, which I will discuss in further detail later.


RB Carlos Hyde, Roderick Smith; Grade: A



One thing the Buckeyes did well was bolster what many already thought was a deep stable of running backs.

Big RB Carlos Hyde, held up in 2009 by grade issues, returns as the big power back that many felt the Buckeyes lacked in 2009.

Hyde spent the last season at Fork Union Military Academy, but has enrolled at Ohio State for the winter quarter and will play this spring.

The other RB in 2010 might remind a lot of Buckeye fans of legendary RB Eddie George.

Roderick Smith comes to Columbus at 6'3", 220 lbs with a pedigree as probably the best running back ever to come out of the state of Indiana.

Smith is one of the most physical runners in the country and push for playing time this coming season, or at least by 2011.


WR James Louis, Corey Brown, Tyrone Williams; Grade: A



Ohio State lately has been churning out a great quantity of talented WRs into the NFL, surprising for a school built on running the football.

And the trend continues as the Buckeyes picked up three talented receivers to add to their collection.

The most prized product in this class might be Florida product James Louis, who shocked many by picking Ohio State over Florida during the summer.

At 5'11", 180 lbs, and 4.4 40-yard speed, Louis has all the physical measurables of a dynamic playmaker in the receiver corps.

Louis has drawn comparisons to Santonio Holmes and Andre DeBose, both of whom should raise some eyebrows at Ohio State.

Another major prospect similar to Louis is Pennsylvania native Corey Brown, who has a near-exact build to Louis at 6'0", 186 lbs, and 4.45 speed.

Brown is a talented receiver who is great in space and an excellent kick returner, drawing comparisons to Percy Harvin.

The third of the new receivers is a big target in Cleveland's Tyrone Williams.

And by big, Williams comes in at a massive 6'7", 216 lbs frame, making him a big target in the red zone.

Williams could one day move to TE if his body outgrows the WR frame, but having that size could be a big mismatch in the passing game.


OL Andrew Norwell; Grade C+



The offensive line has been an Achilles heel of the Buckeyes for the last few years, but the Buckeyes landed a huge fish early in the process.

Top-rated offensive tackle Andrew Norwell of Cincinnati brings a tremendous nastiness and tenacity to the position.

Norwell will probably redshirt like most offensive linemen to build up their strength, but he could be a big-time linemen for the Buckeyes.

The reason for the low C+ grade is that Norwell is currently the only offensive lineman committed to the Buckeyes.

Obviously, the quality of the entire class would have skyrocketed had Seantrel Henderson committed, or if he still does since he has yet to sign a LOI with USC.

If not, 2011 will need to be a big year for O-line recruiting in Columbus.


DL J.T. Moore, David Durham, Darryl Baldwin, Johnathan Hankins; Grade: B+



The defensive line was the staple of the 2009 season, and OSU started off 2010's recruiting season with a defensive lineman.

Boardman's J.T. Moore was the first to commit on Sept. 12, 2008, and comes in at 6'3", but not quite as big as some defensive linemen out there.

Moore has great lateral quickness and gets off the line quickly as well.

David Durham left Texas to play his senior year in North Carolina, but stayed a Buckeye through the process.

Durham comes to Columbus somewhat slender, but at 4.7 40 speed, very quick for a defensive lineman.

He might be converted to OLB with his speed, and is more of a DE/OLB hybrid.

It will be very interesting to see where Durham ends up at, but he has the speed to wreak havoc on the defensive side of the ball.

Big Darryl Baldwin hails from Solon and has the size and speed to play either position on the defensive line.

Baldwin is 6'7", 265 lbs, and a 4.7 40 time, meaning that he can be either a power rusher outside or a disruptor in the middle with his speed.

Baldwin was also a TE, but has been projected at DE for the impending future.

The biggest (in size) recruit for 2010 is DT Johnathan Hankins from Michigan.

Hankins brings his big body in at 6'3", 310 lbs, prototypical size for a NT if OSU is considering a 3-4 as they had experimented with during 2009.

DT was a big need, especially after Sharrif Floyd went to Florida over the Buckeyes.

Having a dominant D-line as the Buckeyes did in 2009 is crucial, hence the direction most of the recruiting was put into.


LB Scott McVey, Jamel Turner; Grade: B



Linebacker has always been a position of strength in recruiting, especially in the last two years where the talent pool is as stacked as any school in America.

This year, Ohio State added two more talented prospects to this pool.

The most talented and most intriguing of the two could be Jamel Turner.

Turner is a lightning rod athlete at OLB, but saw his stock plummet when he transferred to Fork Union Military Academy for his senior season.

Turner says he has matured and is ready for the Buckeyes.

The other man in the LB corps is St. Ignatius product Scott McVey.

McVey is Scout.com's third ranked MLB, and presents special types of instincts that you need at the MLB position.

McVey is compact at 6'1", 217 lbs, and has a 4.55 40 time, but he is also known as a great hitter and aggressive playmaker.


DB Christian Bryant, Bradley Roby, Chad Hagan; Grade: B



Defensive backs are another position Ohio State produces well when it comes to the NFL, and 2010 added a few more names to a potential legacy.

The big face in the secondary for 2010 is Glenville product Christian Bryant.

Bryant was a U.S. Army All-American and had a tremendous camp, shutting down many of the top receivers through the week of practices.

A Top 10 corner, Bryant is a very instinctive with great awareness despite his lack of size and supreme speed.

The speed belongs to Bradley Roby, who was a surprise pickup from the same school as superstar DT Cameron Heyward (Peachtree Ridge in Georgia).

Roby was originally a commit to Vanderbilt but switched to OSU after an outstanding visit.

And the staff was no doubt intrigued by Roby's frame at 6'1", 171 lbs, and 4.34 speed, something Ohio State will really enjoy.

Roby is a talented corner, but his specialty is his speed, which could also allow him to possibly play WR or be a returner for the Buckeyes.

The wildcard of this recruiting class might be S/LB Chad Hagan, who has a freakish athlete frame at 6' plus and over 200 lbs with speed in the 4.4 neighborhood.

Hagan might need a year to learn defense, and for his body to fully mature, but he could very well end up being a steal for the Buckeyes.

However, he has a heart condition that might be a worry for the coaches—but they have shown faith in Hagan by staying true to their scholarship.

K Drew Basil from Chillicothe, Ohio is the 18th and final commit of the 2010 recruiting class.




Looking to 2011: A Top Class in OSU's Future?

While OSU had limited scholarships to work with in 2010, 2011 could end up being a very different story.

Having a near-full complement of 25 scholarships, plus a loaded amount of top prospects in Ohio, OSU could have a class very similar to what they had in 2008 and 2009.

They've already gotten their 2011 class off to a great start, landing potential four-star DE Kenny Hayes from Toledo Whitmer, and four/five-star DE Steve Miller from Canton McKinley.

The top Buckeye targets from Ohio in 2011 are Wayne QB Braxton Miller, cousin of former Buckeye Dee Miler, and Springfield LB Trey DePriest.



Both superstar products (pictured above) have offers from everywhere, but OSU has a shot to land both as a package deal to Columbus.

No one has an indication as to when Miller might commit, although most indications are that he will eventually be a Buckeye—but Alabama has emerged as the main competition for DePriest's services, so that will be a wait-and-see situation.

On a positive note, Ohio State has a solid track record with singing in-state talent, so DePriest could definitely end up a Buckeye, and another super recruiting class in 2011 could easily be in the works!


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With NSD Looming, Ohio State Looks To Add Icing To Their 2010 Recruiting Class Cake

by HD Handshoe
Founder—Block-O-Nation



Five months ago, Ohio State had 11 players already committed to their 2010 recruiting class.

As of now, that number sits at 16, with as many as four to six slots still open before this class is full.

The Buckeyes are still hoping to land the No. 1 overall recruit in the nation, offensive lineman Seantrel Henderson, as well as top linebacker Jordan Hicks, among a few others currently not committed elsewhere, including o-lineman Matt James and safety Christian Bryant.

If the Buckeyes somehow find a way to land at least two, if not all four, of those kids, they could crack the top 10, and likely the top five if they do land all four.

As we enter the final stretch leading up to national signing day on February 3, here is the current list of OSU commits for 2010 (listed in order of star-rating via Rivals.com from top to bottom), and a link to their respective Rivals.com recruiting profiles.


4-Stars Corey Brown—ATH/WR

4-Stars Andrew Norwell—OL

4-Stars Rodrick Smith—RB

4-Stars Taylor Graham—QB

4-Stars Carlos Hyde—RB (pictured above)

4-Stars James Louis—WR

4-Stars Jamel Turner—DE

3-StarsDarryl Baldwin—DE

3-Stars Tyrone Williams—WR

3-Stars David Durham—DE/LB

3-Stars Scott McVey—LB

3-Stars J.T. Moore—DE

3-Stars Chad Hagan—LB/S

3-Stars Johnathon Hankins—DT

3-Stars Verlon Reed—QB/S

2-Stars Drew Basil—K


For what it's worth, WR Tyrone Williams would likely be at least a 4-star recruit on both websites, had he not suffered a serious knee injury during his junior year (2008).

Also of note, Rivals has Ohio State's current class for 2010 ranked at No. 24, while Scout.com has the Buckeyes at No. 19.

Scout also has every OSU recruit listed as either a 3-star, 4-star, or 5-star caliber player, so depending on which site you prefer, OSU has fives, fours, and threes, or fours, threes, and a two, and is in the top 20 for now, or barely in the top 25.

No matter how you slice it, you can count on the Buckeyes adding a few more quality ingredients to their 2010 "cake" before they finish it off.



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As the 2009 Season Nears, 2010 Recruiting Class Filling Up Fast

by HD Handshoe
Founder
BlockONation.com

As of today, the Buckeyes now have 11 recruits who have given OSU their verbal commitments to play football in Columbus. That means that only seven or eight more recruits will be allowed to join the Buckeyes 2010 class.

While this class may lack in quantity, it will make up for it in quality.

Some of the big names OSU has offered that are still undecided include No. 1 overall recruit Seantrel Henderson (OL), No. 14 overall, Lamarcus Joyner (DB), and No. 18 overall, Jordan Hicks (LB).

Several of these top recruits will most likely wait until after the Ohio State/USC game on September 12th before verbally committing to a program, as OSU and USC are both teams that some of them are interested in.

That means, there won't likely be any additions to the current OSU commited list until then.

Here is the current list of players who are committed to the OSU 2010 class:

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5-Star OT Andrew Norwell (6-6, 255)
Anderson HS (Cincinnati, OH)


5-Star OLB Jamel Turner (6-2, 205)
Ursuline HS (Youngstown, OH)


4-Star RB Roderick Smith (6-2, 215)
Harding HS (Fort Wayne, IN)


4-Star MLB Scott McVey (6-1, 215)
St. Ignatius HS (Cleveland, OH)


4-Star WR James Louis (5-11, 180)
Atlantic HS (Delray Beach, FL)


4-Star DE J.T. Moore (6-2, 215)
Boardman HS (Youngstown, OH)


4-Star QB Taylor Graham (6-4, 210)
Wheaton North HS (Wheaton, IL)


3-Star DE/LB David Durham (6-3, 225)
Charlotte Christian (Charlotte, NC)


3-Star DE Darryl Baldwin (6-6, 250)
Solon HS (Solon, OH)


3-Star K Drew Basil (6-0, 180)
Chillicothe HS (Chillicothe, OH)


(NR) S Chad Hagan (6-2, 230)
McMillan HS (Canonsburg, PA)

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Hagan, the most recent commit, mainly plays running back for his HS but the Buckeyes have recruited him as a safety.

Because of this, he currently has no rating at that position. He is however ranked as the 31st overall prospect in the state of Pennsylvania by Rivals.

We'll keep our ears to the ground, so check back with BlockONation in the future for any Ohio State recruiting updates.


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