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Posted
2 hours ago, BurntOrange&White said:

* KJ Lacey really impressed. Quick release, escapability and makes good reads. The escapability is something that really impressed, and the why is below.

a close up of a man 's face with the words david worren written below him

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Posted
2 minutes ago, Ghost of Shag said:

The WRs and OL are my biggest concerns. We lost tons of production at both and our WR this year simply doesn’t approach the talent we had last year.

Despite having Arch, our offense could take a step back.

I'm not concerned about WR. It's the OL for me. How soon can/will they get up to speed? To a much lesser extent, cornerback, and mainly for game 1.

I fully expect the front seven to make things easier on the secondary, but I want to see validation beyond camp reports that our corners are up to the task. Not handwringing over it by any means as the secondary is deep and talented, and I think we are solid at Safety and likely OK at N. But they will face a steller WR corps game 1, and thinking that is best avenue of attack for tOSU as I expect us to be tough to run against. I also expect that the secondary only gets better as the schedule progresses.

 

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Posted
16 minutes ago, Ghost of Shag said:

The WRs and OL are my biggest concerns. We lost tons of production at both and our WR this year simply doesn’t approach the talent we had last year.

Despite having Arch, our offense could take a step back.

We lost Matthew Golden. Bond was a nonfactor for much of the second half of the season. Are you worried about losing Cook?

Wingo is a year older and improved, Moore is a year older and has been locked in on this season as his launching pad to the NFL since arriving on campus, both played heavy snaps last year.

So let's say improved Wingo + improved Moore + Eric Decker + Mosley

Worse than Bond + Golden + Cook + Bolden + Moore + Wingo? (Based on what we knew about them heading into the season)

Definitely debatable.

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Posted
1 hour ago, LTtxfan said:

Ok... I'm not sure DeAndre Moore is that good of a starting WR.

I'll jump on the CTJ bandwagon that McJaggy is likely being hyped up way to much by the $9.95s write-ups and McJaggy's at best a possession WR and likely Texas 5th or 6th best WR for this year.

Hope one of our other young WRs not named "Wingo" really steps up during conference play.  Gotta plan on the Stanford transfer WR and Wingo having big 2025 seasons too.  


That’s a bad take. 

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Posted
16 minutes ago, Ghost of Shag said:

The WRs and OL are my biggest concerns. We lost tons of production at both and our WR this year simply doesn’t approach the talent we had last year.

Despite having Arch, our offense could take a step back.

I'll counter on the WR concern.

Last year we had:

  • Golden: 987 yards.
  • Bond: 540 yards
  • Wingo: 472 yards
  • Moore: 456 yards

Bond was pretty much a non-factor after he got injured (at least he didn't have his top end speed he showed earlier in the season), and there were several times he was not on the same page as Quinn in big moments. Plus, replacing his production likely won't be hard to do. 

So, it really comes down to replacing Golden. Can Wingo tap into more of his potential / get more looks to fill that role? Seems probable. Can Sark and Jackson get more out of Moore? Seems probable. Will Moseley get 400-500 of yards of production, at minimum? Seems certain (if healthy). Plus, reports are trending positive for the freshmen WRs. Let's not forget there is a statue being made for Livingstone outside DKR as we speak.

Golden definitely leaves a void. But the talent / experience in the WR room points to us being at least comparably fine at WR in 2025.

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Posted
12 minutes ago, Bevo said:


That’s a bad take. 

Throw a rock. 

(blitz gets home against Manning and he sails a pass intended for Moore) Texas internet fan: "Huh. I thought Manning would be good but I guess not. Maybe we can start Caldwell??"

(Manning later hits Wingo for a TD, despite tight coverage from Manny) "That's interesting. Is it too late to hit the portal for a DB who can replace Muhammad in the starting lineup??" 

(Shipley, after making eight consecutive 40-50 yard FGs, narrowly misses one from about 57 yards) "I think we should pay whatever it takes to get Bert Auburn back here and battle Stone for the kicking job." 

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Posted
16 minutes ago, SydneyCarton said:

It’s hard not to when certain posters pull their pants down and wave their gash over and over again. 

there's only one poster that insists on talking about their gash all the time.

Posted
24 minutes ago, Redneck Mutha said:

Mosley caught 48 for 525 yards in only 9 games for a putrid Stanford passing offense. I think he'll be a playa.

Silas Bolden did whatever he did that year at Oregon State with DJU throwing him the ball. 
 

He’s gotta find a solid role here to be productive. Gotta be consistently available to find a solid role. 

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Posted
Just now, BurntOrange&White said:

The positives with the OL is they may not start off strong but they could finish very strong. Where as last year what we started with is what we got all year. 

If the OL can just cut down on the stupid fucking penalties that seemed to kill at least one RZ trip per game that would be amazing

Posted

Went back and re read scipios book on the oline this morning. I get the hand wringing about the transition to new players, but it doesn’t seem like these guys are complete scrubs.

 

They aren’t the 93 Cowboys but they also don’t seem like Charlie Strong’s group either. A little time to gel might be warranted, like between Aug 31 and Oct 3. Columbus might be a little dicey but I don’t see any reason these guys can’t become good.

 

Convince me I’m wrong if you think so. 

Posted

CJ Vogel  - recalculating expectations for CJ Baxter 

Posted 2 hours ago

Following a busy weekend in Austin, where the first fall camp scrimmage drew significant attention, one of the most notable developments has been the return and involvement of running back CJ Baxter.

The third-year back was a full participant in the scrimmage and, according to multiple accounts, exceeded expectations with both his performance and usage. While Texas implemented a quick whistle in certain situations, one of the standout moments — already well-documented here at OTF — was Baxter’s goal-line touchdown run, an area that has been a persistent challenge for the Longhorn offense in recent seasons. Perhaps most encouraging was the fact that Baxter was practicing live, without a green non-contact jersey, and ran with a high level of competitiveness.

Baxter showed no signs of physical limitation during the first live-action period of camp. In the weeks leading up to this point, expectations for his early season workload had been tempered. However, after several conversations over the weekend, it now appears realistic to envision Baxter receiving 8–12 carries in the season opener at Columbus.

This is an encouraging sign not only for the Texas offense but also a credit to Baxter’s commitment to his recovery and rehabilitation process. At this stage, I am more confident than at any point this offseason that Baxter will play a meaningful role in week one against Ohio State. If the current trajectory continues, Texas fans should expect to see him on the field when the season kicks off in 20 days.


 

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Posted
1 minute ago, tbone_ said:

Went back and re read scipios book on the oline this morning. I get the hand wringing about the transition to new players, but it doesn’t seem like these guys are complete scrubs.

 

They aren’t the 93 Cowboys but they also don’t seem like Charlie Strong’s group either. A little time to gel might be warranted, like between Aug 31 and Oct 3. Columbus might be a little dicey but I don’t see any reason these guys can’t become good.

 

Convince me I’m wrong if you think so. 

it’s not like they’re true freshmen or guys we have to force into starting roles. I’d be interested to see a snap count breakdown of the starting 5. I think only Baker is the youngest and has fewest snaps. 

Posted
26 minutes ago, BrazilHorn said:

If the OL can just cut down on the stupid fucking penalties that seemed to kill at least one RZ trip per game that would be amazing

Need to cut down turnovers. Last year the QBs committed 20 turnovers in 16 games (3 arch/17 Quinn).  That is behind one of the best defenses in the country on team where the offense wasn’t asked to carry a heavy load. I am assuming the defense will be a top 10 unit this season. Have to cut down on the turnovers that can erase quality defensive performances this season 

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Posted
21 minutes ago, sith_horn said:

But they will face a steller WR corps game 1, and thinking that is best avenue of attack for tOSU as I expect us to be tough to run against. I also expect that the secondary only gets better as the schedule progresses.

 

There's the old joke about the two friends trying to run from a bear when one person takes the time to put on his running shoes, and the other guy screams at him that he can't out run the bear. "I don't have to outrun the bear. I just have to outrun you."

Texas doesn't have to be amazing at all facets of the game. They just need to be a little better than Ohio State. This game won't be played in a vacuum. Whatever UT's weaknesses, OSU will have some as well. As amazing as their WRs are - and they're truly amazing - they'll have a starting quarterback with virtually no starting experience. Much like Texas, they have a lot of new pieces on the OL that they're hopeful about, especially at tackle. That group will be facing their biggest challenge in their season opener.

I like our chances in this game. 

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Posted
1 hour ago, tbone_ said:

They aren’t the 93 Cowboys but they also don’t seem like Charlie Strong’s group either.  

charlie strong put an OL on the field that turned a 3-star afterthought recruit into a 2,000 yard rusher.

flood and sark have yet to even sniff those heights. 

Posted
Throw a rock. 
(blitz gets home against Manning and he sails a pass intended for Moore) Texas internet fan: "Huh. I thought Manning would be good but I guess not. Maybe we can start Caldwell??"
(Manning later hits Wingo for a TD, despite tight coverage from Manny) "That's interesting. Is it too late to hit the portal for a DB who can replace Muhammad in the starting lineup??" 
(Shipley, after making eight consecutive 40-50 yard FGs, narrowly misses one from about 57 yards) "I think we should pay whatever it takes to get Bert Auburn back here and battle Stone for the kicking job." 

Confirmed that you aren’t new around these parts.
Posted
4 hours ago, Mantis Toboggan, MD said:

Wingo’s biggest weakness last year was tracking and catching deep balls. He would always get open but would often look lost with the ball in the air. Now that they figured out he was very nearsighted and he got laser surgery, along with having more experience under his belt, I’m very hopeful he will show a lot of improvement in that area. Physically he is a freak. Also I have no doubt that Arch is going to throw a more accurate deep ball than Ewers did.

Hard to track and catch deep balls when Quinn under throws you by 15 yards 

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Posted
9 hours ago, closetojumping said:

We’re being gaslit about Jaggy McJaggerson. It’s pretty obvious if you are actually paying attention and not just biased towards hearing what you want to hear. 

This guy is allegedly super fast, right? So the dude is catching the ball downfield, but somehow not scoring? Right. They can’t claim a TD because others will debunk that who were there. But “downfield” could be 5 yards and then exaggerated for all of his fanbois. 

Arrested Development Tobias GIF

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Posted (edited)
53 minutes ago, Horndog said:

Nothing here is different
Nothing's changed at all
And Livingston's gone to Texas
They say he had a ball

Well he might not ever catch one in a ut uniform . The staff is furious with him. 

Edited by Da Fino
Posted
4 minutes ago, jdhorn92 said:

Huh?   What you talking about Willis?

Apparently Parker won't stop singing Alan Jackson songs during practice. Arch can't even hear the signals, just Chattachoochee.

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Posted

 

Given Ohio State's level of talent, they may well be deciding between good options and end up being good at these positions, but it's interesting that multiple key positions on offense appear to be unsettled.  If these reports are honest and accurate.

Specifically, 

QUARTERBACK

It's still supposedly a competition between Julian Sayin and Lincoln Kienholz.  Sayin's good throws / inconsistency, vs. Kienholz's reliability / lower ceiling.

LEFT TACKLE

Their transfer tackle from Rice is apparently not a lock;  they're considering Austin Siereveld (2 starts last year, played in most games, but mostly as a guard).  

RUNNING BACK

Guess they have Peoples and transfer Donaldson splitting time, with others getting looks ... Donaldson played a bunch at WV, but in the aggregate, sounds like a far less established group relative to Judkins and Henderson last year.

 

They appear thrilled w/ Klare (at least as a pass catcher) and their tight end group, and they of course have an elite set of WRs.

And they discuss their good depth on defense, at positions other than DT.

 

FULL ARTICLE

 

Ohio State fall camp notebook: Week One
What we're hearing coming out of the Buckeyes' preseason.
Patrick Murphy (Buckeye 247)
 

Spoiler

 

Ohio State fall camp notebook: Week One
What we're hearing coming out of the Buckeyes' preseason.
Patrick Murphy (Buckeye 247)
 

After beginning fall camp on July 31, Ohio State completed the team's first full week of preseason practice on Saturday with a scrimmage at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center. While the first three days of camp were open to fans and the media, there were no open practices during this week, except for Thursday, when the Big Ten Network made its stop in Columbus, which included this lengthy breakdown of the Buckeyes from analyst Jake Butt. 

However, the Scarlet and Gray began positional interviews this week. In addition to head coach Ryan Day, who spoke on Tuesday, Billy Fessler and the quarterbacks, James Laurinaitis and the linebackers, and Carlos Locklyn and the running backs all spoke to the media. This followed Day, offensive coordinator Brian Hartline and defensive coordinator Matt Patricia holding press conferences to conclude last week.

Bucknuts attended all three open practices and each interview session. During the first week-plus of fall camp, we've discussed much of what we observed and heard, but there are still some newsworthy items to explore further. Below, you'll find a collection of notebook items from fall camp so far, along with my insights and thoughts on these topics.


RUNNING BACKS ARE POPPING
After TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins both exceeded 1,000 rushing yards last season, Scarlet and Gray running back James Peoples said this week that reaching that milestone is the goal for Ohio State's primary running backs this season. We know Peoples and West Virginia transfer CJ Donaldson will handle most of the carries this season, sharing the workload like Henderson and Judkins did last year, but could a third running back start to play a bigger role?

Last season, Peoples played in eight games as the Buckeyes' third running back, rushing for 197 yards and two touchdowns on 49 carries. However, he did not play in most of the Scarlet and Gray's biggest games. There is at least a case to be made for expanding the running back duo into a trio in 2025.

Bo Jackson is a player to watch as he tries to earn a spot on the field as a freshman. Like Peoples did a year ago, nothing will be given to the young running back. However, he is doing the right things in practice to earn playing time in his first year at Ohio State.

Although not discussed as much as other running backs, Sam Dixon should not be overlooked. After a freshman year that included losing the running backs coach he committed to early in spring practice and having to adjust to Locklyn's tough-love coaching approach, Dixon is beginning to show the talent that made the Ohio native a Buckeye target. Once he decided to stay with the Scarlet and Gray after entering the transfer portal in January, Dixon talked about being more mature in Year 2. That has been evident as his second college season approaches.

Both Jackson and Dixon have worked hard in fall camp and were mentioned to Bucknuts as players who performed well during the first scrimmage of the preseason. In fact, all four of Ohio State's expected top four running backs (Peoples, Donaldson, Jackson and Dixon) reached the endzone in a pleasing Saturday performance.

There is only one football and running backs want the ball, but Locklyn's players live by his philosophy of one team and one unit. They will celebrate each other's successes as if it's their own. They will also have to earn their playing time and touches, and that includes Peoples and Donaldson. Nothing will be handed to any running backs.

 

QUARTERBACK COMPETITION CONTINUES
Nearly every time I talk to someone about the Buckeyes, they want to discuss the quarterback. But they often don't like my answer: this is a fair competition between Julian Sayin and Lincoln Kienholz.

Coming into fall camp, there was little separation between the two quarterbacks. During the first two practices, it played out that way, although Sayin demonstrated his five-star potential during the third practice with the largest crowd of fans present. 

The issue, as Bucknuts has reported, is consistency. Kienholz, in his third season with the Scarlet and Gray, has improved as a passer and has been more reliable than Sayin, showing steady performances day after day. When Sayin is at his best, he is the top passer on the roster. That’s the excitement around the redshirt freshman, but the Ohio State players and staff need to see it happen consistently.

Over the last week, Bucknuts understands that Sayin has started to put together consistent performances, including during Saturday's scrimmage. Meanwhile, in conversations with people in the WHAC, Kienholz's name keeps coming up as a player who looks good and can move the ball down the field.

Everything Kienholz and Sayin do is being observed and assessed. This includes their completion percentage, ball release and other on-field aspects. It also involves how they lead, command the huddle and how teammates react to each quarterback. These intangible qualities are areas where both need to continue developing, as they are talented and should excel with the support around them. However, playing quarterback requires more than just a strong arm or athletic ability.

 

OFFENSIVE LINE NOT SET YET
Day unintentionally made headlines this week when he mentioned that Austin Siereveld was getting reps at left tackle and could be the Scarlet and Gray's starter at that position. While Siereveld lined up at left tackle early in spring practice, he had moved to right tackle by the spring game and was the first-team right tackle early in fall camp.


Austin Siereved's versatility continues to be important for Ohio State. (Photo: Jason Mowry, Getty)
Day suggested that this is all part of Ohio State's plan to have a primary and secondary position for each offensive lineman after the multiple season-ending injuries the Buckeyes suffered on the line last season. However, saying Siereveld could start at left tackle raised questions about Ethan Onianwa, the Rice transfer who appeared to be the Scarlet and Gray's left tackle.

If Onianwa isn't definitely going to be the guy at left tackle, it's worth exploring other options. Siereveld demonstrated last season, when he played either left or right guard in the same game, that he is versatile. This does not mean Onianwa won't win the job by the start of the season, as the senior has had good days. But the Scarlet and Gray can't afford to be uncertain at the position in Week 1 when Texas star defensive end Colin Simmons visits Ohio Stadium.

Phillip Daniels, who transferred from Minnesota early this offseason, has begun settling in and appears more comfortable as fall camp progresses. Daniels is a no-nonsense player who takes pride in competing for his home state school. He is determined to win. Ohio State could benefit from Daniels adding depth at tackle.

 

DEFENSIVE DEPTH SHOWING

Losing eight starters from the top-ranked defense in the country isn't usually a recipe for success the next season. However, the Buckeyes are one team that might be able to keep things going on that side of the ball despite so many departures in the offseason.

Fall camp has showcased the talent and depth the Buckeyes possess on defense. While defensive tackle has been a concern, the Scarlet and Gray should feel confident in their No. 2 players at every other position.

The defensive end position has a solid mix of players, including Kenyatta Jackson, Caden Curry, C.J. Hicks, Beau Atkinson and Logan George. All of these players have demonstrated the ability to rush the passer in various ways. James Laurinaitis believes he has three starting linebackers — Sonny Styles, Arvell Reese and Payton Pierce — even though Ohio State typically plays only two at the position. Behind Davison Igbinosun and Jermaine Mathews Jr., the Buckeyes have Aaron Scott Jr., Bryce West, Miles Lockhart and Devin Sanchez, all of whom would start for most other defenses. The battle to start at safety beside Caleb Downs has shown that both Jaylen McClain and Malik Hartford can make plays and the best plan might be to utilize both extensively. The nickel position has begun to settle with Lorenzo Styles Jr. making plays and West providing backup.

Even defensive tackle has started to build depth, with Tywone Malone and Eric Mensah stepping up during Eddrick Houston's injury scare. Will Smith Jr. appears to be a more than capable backup to Kayden McDonald.

It's hard to imagine a defense that lost as much as the Buckeyes did being better than it was a year ago, but the Scarlet and Gray have the talent and depth to make that possible in 2025.

 

TIGHT ENDS CAN BE A REAL WEAPON
The addition of Max Klare to Ohio State's tight end room gave the Buckeyes something they haven't had before: a proven pass-catching option at the position. Klare was third-team All-Big Ten last season at Purdue. Playing for the Scarlet and Gray may decrease his targets because of the weapons around him, but those same weapons will help him get more advantageous matchups and coverages.

Klare is not the only reason to be excited about Ohio State's tight end room in 2025. Assuming health, Will Kacmarek, who Keenan Bailey called the best blocking tight end in college football, should be improved over a year ago when he missed time and was still adjusting to playing in the Big Ten. Bennett Christian is a player who has blossomed more as a complete tight end in fall camp as well.

Then there's Jelani Thurman, a player the Buckeyes have been waiting to emerge consistently over his first two years in the program. While Klare is now the Scarlet and Gray's primary pass-catching tight end -- although Bailey wants his players to do everything -- Thurman has looked closer to his potential in fall camp. Having Klare gives Thurman a more experienced player to emulate and push him to be the player he can be. That has seemingly worked out well. 

For the first time in a long time -- maybe ever? -- Ohio State's tight end room should not only be productive but one of the deepest on the team.

 

 

 

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Posted
35 minutes ago, Getafix said:

 

Given Ohio State's level of talent, they may well be deciding between good options and end up being good at these positions, but it's interesting that multiple key positions on offense appear to be unsettled.  If these reports are honest and accurate.

Specifically, 

QUARTERBACK

It's still supposedly a competition between Julian Sayin and Lincoln Kienholz.  Sayin's good throws / inconsistency, vs. Kienholz's reliability / lower ceiling.

LEFT TACKLE

Their transfer tackle from Rice is apparently not a lock;  they're considering Austin Siereveld (2 starts last year, played in most games, but mostly as a guard).  

RUNNING BACK

Guess they have Peoples and transfer Donaldson splitting time, with others getting looks ... Donaldson played a bunch at WV, but in the aggregate, sounds like a far less established group relative to Judkins and Henderson last year.

 

They appear thrilled w/ Klare (at least as a pass catcher) and their tight end group, and they of course have an elite set of WRs.

And they discuss their good depth on defense, at positions other than DT.

 

FULL ARTICLE

 

Ohio State fall camp notebook: Week One
What we're hearing coming out of the Buckeyes' preseason.
Patrick Murphy (Buckeye 247)
 

  Reveal hidden contents

 

Ohio State fall camp notebook: Week One
What we're hearing coming out of the Buckeyes' preseason.
Patrick Murphy (Buckeye 247)
 

After beginning fall camp on July 31, Ohio State completed the team's first full week of preseason practice on Saturday with a scrimmage at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center. While the first three days of camp were open to fans and the media, there were no open practices during this week, except for Thursday, when the Big Ten Network made its stop in Columbus, which included this lengthy breakdown of the Buckeyes from analyst Jake Butt. 

However, the Scarlet and Gray began positional interviews this week. In addition to head coach Ryan Day, who spoke on Tuesday, Billy Fessler and the quarterbacks, James Laurinaitis and the linebackers, and Carlos Locklyn and the running backs all spoke to the media. This followed Day, offensive coordinator Brian Hartline and defensive coordinator Matt Patricia holding press conferences to conclude last week.

Bucknuts attended all three open practices and each interview session. During the first week-plus of fall camp, we've discussed much of what we observed and heard, but there are still some newsworthy items to explore further. Below, you'll find a collection of notebook items from fall camp so far, along with my insights and thoughts on these topics.


RUNNING BACKS ARE POPPING
After TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins both exceeded 1,000 rushing yards last season, Scarlet and Gray running back James Peoples said this week that reaching that milestone is the goal for Ohio State's primary running backs this season. We know Peoples and West Virginia transfer CJ Donaldson will handle most of the carries this season, sharing the workload like Henderson and Judkins did last year, but could a third running back start to play a bigger role?

Last season, Peoples played in eight games as the Buckeyes' third running back, rushing for 197 yards and two touchdowns on 49 carries. However, he did not play in most of the Scarlet and Gray's biggest games. There is at least a case to be made for expanding the running back duo into a trio in 2025.

Bo Jackson is a player to watch as he tries to earn a spot on the field as a freshman. Like Peoples did a year ago, nothing will be given to the young running back. However, he is doing the right things in practice to earn playing time in his first year at Ohio State.

Although not discussed as much as other running backs, Sam Dixon should not be overlooked. After a freshman year that included losing the running backs coach he committed to early in spring practice and having to adjust to Locklyn's tough-love coaching approach, Dixon is beginning to show the talent that made the Ohio native a Buckeye target. Once he decided to stay with the Scarlet and Gray after entering the transfer portal in January, Dixon talked about being more mature in Year 2. That has been evident as his second college season approaches.

Both Jackson and Dixon have worked hard in fall camp and were mentioned to Bucknuts as players who performed well during the first scrimmage of the preseason. In fact, all four of Ohio State's expected top four running backs (Peoples, Donaldson, Jackson and Dixon) reached the endzone in a pleasing Saturday performance.

There is only one football and running backs want the ball, but Locklyn's players live by his philosophy of one team and one unit. They will celebrate each other's successes as if it's their own. They will also have to earn their playing time and touches, and that includes Peoples and Donaldson. Nothing will be handed to any running backs.

 

QUARTERBACK COMPETITION CONTINUES
Nearly every time I talk to someone about the Buckeyes, they want to discuss the quarterback. But they often don't like my answer: this is a fair competition between Julian Sayin and Lincoln Kienholz.

Coming into fall camp, there was little separation between the two quarterbacks. During the first two practices, it played out that way, although Sayin demonstrated his five-star potential during the third practice with the largest crowd of fans present. 

The issue, as Bucknuts has reported, is consistency. Kienholz, in his third season with the Scarlet and Gray, has improved as a passer and has been more reliable than Sayin, showing steady performances day after day. When Sayin is at his best, he is the top passer on the roster. That’s the excitement around the redshirt freshman, but the Ohio State players and staff need to see it happen consistently.

Over the last week, Bucknuts understands that Sayin has started to put together consistent performances, including during Saturday's scrimmage. Meanwhile, in conversations with people in the WHAC, Kienholz's name keeps coming up as a player who looks good and can move the ball down the field.

Everything Kienholz and Sayin do is being observed and assessed. This includes their completion percentage, ball release and other on-field aspects. It also involves how they lead, command the huddle and how teammates react to each quarterback. These intangible qualities are areas where both need to continue developing, as they are talented and should excel with the support around them. However, playing quarterback requires more than just a strong arm or athletic ability.

 

OFFENSIVE LINE NOT SET YET
Day unintentionally made headlines this week when he mentioned that Austin Siereveld was getting reps at left tackle and could be the Scarlet and Gray's starter at that position. While Siereveld lined up at left tackle early in spring practice, he had moved to right tackle by the spring game and was the first-team right tackle early in fall camp.


Austin Siereved's versatility continues to be important for Ohio State. (Photo: Jason Mowry, Getty)
Day suggested that this is all part of Ohio State's plan to have a primary and secondary position for each offensive lineman after the multiple season-ending injuries the Buckeyes suffered on the line last season. However, saying Siereveld could start at left tackle raised questions about Ethan Onianwa, the Rice transfer who appeared to be the Scarlet and Gray's left tackle.

If Onianwa isn't definitely going to be the guy at left tackle, it's worth exploring other options. Siereveld demonstrated last season, when he played either left or right guard in the same game, that he is versatile. This does not mean Onianwa won't win the job by the start of the season, as the senior has had good days. But the Scarlet and Gray can't afford to be uncertain at the position in Week 1 when Texas star defensive end Colin Simmons visits Ohio Stadium.

Phillip Daniels, who transferred from Minnesota early this offseason, has begun settling in and appears more comfortable as fall camp progresses. Daniels is a no-nonsense player who takes pride in competing for his home state school. He is determined to win. Ohio State could benefit from Daniels adding depth at tackle.

 

DEFENSIVE DEPTH SHOWING

Losing eight starters from the top-ranked defense in the country isn't usually a recipe for success the next season. However, the Buckeyes are one team that might be able to keep things going on that side of the ball despite so many departures in the offseason.

Fall camp has showcased the talent and depth the Buckeyes possess on defense. While defensive tackle has been a concern, the Scarlet and Gray should feel confident in their No. 2 players at every other position.

The defensive end position has a solid mix of players, including Kenyatta Jackson, Caden Curry, C.J. Hicks, Beau Atkinson and Logan George. All of these players have demonstrated the ability to rush the passer in various ways. James Laurinaitis believes he has three starting linebackers — Sonny Styles, Arvell Reese and Payton Pierce — even though Ohio State typically plays only two at the position. Behind Davison Igbinosun and Jermaine Mathews Jr., the Buckeyes have Aaron Scott Jr., Bryce West, Miles Lockhart and Devin Sanchez, all of whom would start for most other defenses. The battle to start at safety beside Caleb Downs has shown that both Jaylen McClain and Malik Hartford can make plays and the best plan might be to utilize both extensively. The nickel position has begun to settle with Lorenzo Styles Jr. making plays and West providing backup.

Even defensive tackle has started to build depth, with Tywone Malone and Eric Mensah stepping up during Eddrick Houston's injury scare. Will Smith Jr. appears to be a more than capable backup to Kayden McDonald.

It's hard to imagine a defense that lost as much as the Buckeyes did being better than it was a year ago, but the Scarlet and Gray have the talent and depth to make that possible in 2025.

 

TIGHT ENDS CAN BE A REAL WEAPON
The addition of Max Klare to Ohio State's tight end room gave the Buckeyes something they haven't had before: a proven pass-catching option at the position. Klare was third-team All-Big Ten last season at Purdue. Playing for the Scarlet and Gray may decrease his targets because of the weapons around him, but those same weapons will help him get more advantageous matchups and coverages.

Klare is not the only reason to be excited about Ohio State's tight end room in 2025. Assuming health, Will Kacmarek, who Keenan Bailey called the best blocking tight end in college football, should be improved over a year ago when he missed time and was still adjusting to playing in the Big Ten. Bennett Christian is a player who has blossomed more as a complete tight end in fall camp as well.

Then there's Jelani Thurman, a player the Buckeyes have been waiting to emerge consistently over his first two years in the program. While Klare is now the Scarlet and Gray's primary pass-catching tight end -- although Bailey wants his players to do everything -- Thurman has looked closer to his potential in fall camp. Having Klare gives Thurman a more experienced player to emulate and push him to be the player he can be. That has seemingly worked out well. 

For the first time in a long time -- maybe ever? -- Ohio State's tight end room should not only be productive but one of the deepest on the team.

 

 

 

Finding Nemo Smile GIF
Simmons and Co. seeing that blind side unsettled. 

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Posted
6 hours ago, Atticus said:

Silas Bolden did whatever he did that year at Oregon State with DJU throwing him the ball. 
 

He’s gotta find a solid role here to be productive. Gotta be consistently available to find a solid role. 

Granted I have not read every practice report but has Mosley been hurt?

Posted
7 hours ago, tbone_ said:

Went back and re read scipios book on the oline this morning. I get the hand wringing about the transition to new players, but it doesn’t seem like these guys are complete scrubs.

 

They aren’t the 93 Cowboys but they also don’t seem like Charlie Strong’s group either. A little time to gel might be warranted, like between Aug 31 and Oct 3. Columbus might be a little dicey but I don’t see any reason these guys can’t become good.

 

Convince me I’m wrong if you think so. 


better at run blocking

 slightly worse at pass blocking, and it won’t matter at all because Arch has wheels and Sark would rather run a lot and open up play action anyway

 It could be somewhat what hurt us last year was not being able to reliably run the ball against top defenses. 

Posted
8 hours ago, Zeus said:


better at run blocking

 slightly worse at pass blocking, and it won’t matter at all because Arch has wheels and Sark would rather run a lot and open up play action anyway

 It could be somewhat what hurt us last year was not being able to reliably run the ball against top defenses. 

We will see on the OL. Arch is going to help the run game. His legs will keep the backside from crashing. He also likes to go deep. Safeties are not going to be able to play flat footed against Texas this year. 

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Posted

Monday - Bobby

Spoiler

Monday

 

Bobby Burton

By Bobby Burton

  • 35 minutes ago
 

Young players - ones who have yet to play meaningful snaps in a game for Texas or are freshmen - with developmental “arrows up” following Saturday’s scrimmage and the early portion of camp:

WR Parker Livingstone

DB Graceson Littleton

RB Christian Clark

QB KJ Lacey

DE Zina Umeozulu

TE Jordan Washington

DB Xavier Filsaime

OL Nate Kibble

TE Nick Townsend

LB Bo Barnes

DB Kade Phillips

WR Daylan McCutcheon

**

There is another group worth watching, older players who are either new to the roster or have made significant strides to become more regular pieces to the Texas puzzle.

- DE Brad Spence

- DT Maraad Watson

- DT Alex January

- DT Travis Shaw

- LB Ty’Anthony Smith

- DB Kobe Black

- DB Warren Roberson

- OL Neto Umeozulu

- QB Matthew Caldwell

**

While many of us understandably have been tracking the progress of Cedric Baxter and his return from knee injury, do not forget about Derrick Williams, who did something similar.

Williams is said to have had a very good scrimmage and is firmly among the starting group in the secondary.

Remember, prior to his injury last season, Williams started over second-round pick Andrew Mukuba at safety.

**

While the Texas offense was little match for the Texas defense during the Saturday morning scrimmage, Gerry remarked about something that has gone too overlooked.

There was not a lot of disguise on Saturday by the offense, very little motion, not a ton of misdirection.

In other words, Sark kept the offensive game plan relatively vanilla. Whether he did that on purpose, I’m unsure.

It should be noted that there were “too many” pre-snap penalties and errant snaps according to a couple of folks in attendance.

Perhaps Sark is trying to get those sorts of things settled before letting the offense and so many new pieces become more nuanced.

**

So, is it time to worry about the offensive line and the offense in general?

No.

But what Sark said earlier in the week rings true. The defense is clearly ahead of the offense at this point in fall camp.

 

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Posted

A few more scrimmage notes from FCB

Spoiler

— The defense won the day overall, but the No. 1 offense had some bright spots on three possessions from the 25 against the No. 1 defense.

On the first possession, the offense ran the ball effectively (four times), capped by a CJ Baxter 3-yard TD run behind Neto Umeozuluand Trevor Goosby on the left side of the line.

On the second possession, Arch Manning hit Ryan Wingo for a 20-yard touchdown pass on a great route by Wingo.

On the third possession, the No. 1 offense got the ball to the 10 before settling for a field-goal attempt that was missed by Will Stone.

— Three sources said this year's defense will be better than last year's.

— Utah transfer punter Jack Bouwmeesterboomed punts, a couple with near-five second hang time, leaving the impression the punting is in good hands this season.

— WR Parker Livingstone had a couple nice catches on Saturday and is making a real push (in a battle with Stanford transfer Emmett Mosley V) to get into the top-three receiver rotation with DeAndre Moore Jr. and Ryan Wingo.

— Kicker Mason Shipley hit a 45-yard field goal and missed one attempt from further out. But sources said Shipley, who also hit a shorter field goal, going 2-of-3 on the day, had a much better day than Will Stone.

Shipley's kickoffs were all traveling into the end zone for touchbacks as well.

— Ethan Burke's length is a problem. His 83-inch wingspan helped bat two passes, one of which turned into a tipped-pass interception for linebacker Ty'Anthony Smith.

— Arch Manning's athleticism is going to make a difference. During Saturday's scrimmage, the offense ran a designed QB run in which Arch picked up 25 yards.

On another play, Manning had a few seconds in the pocket but couldn't find an open receiver and took off running, untouched for a first down.

— Freshman offensive tackle Nick Brooks, who came out of the scrimmage with what appeared to be a right leg injury, "is fine," said a source close to the situation.

— I'm told sophomore Brandon Baker was ahead of Andre Cojoe in their battle at right tackle before Cojoe went down with a season-ending knee injury a week ago.

— At tight end, Cal transfer Jack Endries and Jordan Washington showed great hands on Saturday and stood out in the passing game.

Sources said Endries will likely be the starting/primary tight end, while coaches are still working out who will be the second tight end in 12 personnel (one back, two TEs). One source said, "Washington has great hands!"

 

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Posted
10 minutes ago, MuellerHorn said:

It should be noted that there were “too many” pre-snap penalties and errant snaps according to a couple of folks in attendance.

In mid-season form already

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