S1 uest Qto be the Best

Curtis Samuel playoff Ohio State Buckeyes preview

A supplement of the

Thursday, December 29, 2016

Deshaun Watson Jonathan Allen Washington Huskies Alabama Crimson Tide

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2 Thursday, December 29, 2016 PREVIEW Delaware Gazette & Sunbury News

No. 3 Ohio State vs. No. 2 Clemson vs Fiesta Bowl Dec. 31, 7 p.m. ESPN TigersAn inside look at Clemson Football A look at Clemson players , Watson believes he should have won Heisman 6-3, 215, Junior, Clemson QB finished runner-up, pick, Swinney said The The championship is what Watson would runner-up has completed third last two seasons talk about when he used his key to unlock 67 percent of his passes Clemson’s indoor practice facility late at for 3,914 yards and 37 night and throw balls to rehabilitating . He also receiver Mike Williams during the The Associated Press is the Tigers’ second- offseason. leading rusher with 526 yards and 6 TDs. “He knows he is the best player in the CLEMSON, S.C. — Clemson country. He doesn’t need a trophy to say quarterback Deshaun Watson believes he that,” Williams said. MIKE WILLIAMS, is the best player in the country no matter 6-3, 225, Junior, Wide And while the voters might have rejected what the Heisman Trophy voters say. Watson, the people who know football will Receiver Watson finished second in the Heisman validate his talent when he enters the NFL Williams combines size Trophy voting to Louisville QB Lamar draft, Clemson co-offensive coordinator Jeff and speed. He has 84 Jackson. Jackson’s rise also meant Watson Scott said. catches for 1,171 yards did not repeat even as first team All- AP photo “As soon as this season is over, the and 10 touchdowns this Atlantic Coast Conference quarterback. Clemson quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) looks scouts, GMs, head coaches and offensive season. He was first- Clemson coach agrees to pass during the first half of the Atlantic Coast coordinators will start speaking with team All-ACC. with Watson that he should have won the Conference championship game against Virginia Deshaun and he is going to go straight back Heisman Trophy. Tech. to the top,” Scott said. , Swinney said Heisman voters likely were remarkable season. Swinney said Watson showed his 6-3, 305, Senior, numbed by Watson’s amazing play over Watson’s 2016 stats are similar to his leadership by taking full advantage of the Defensive Tackle three years. 2015 numbers in almost every category. He experience of being a two time Heisman Watkins is the leader of a The quarterback is excited that his chief has thrown two more in two Trophy finalist without letting the third big, strong defensive line goal in college — winning the national fewer games, but he also has thrown just place finish in 2015 and the second place for Clemson. The championship — is still out there. four fewer passes so far this year than in finish in 2016 get to him. Tigers led the ACC in The Tigers (12-1, No. 2 CFP) play Ohio 2015 for the Tigers (12-1, No. 2 CFP) “I’m sure he’s disappointed. But he hasn’t scoring defense (18.4). State in the Fiesta Bowl on Dec. 31 in the Swinney said the Heisman Trophy has expressed that at all,” Swinney said. He had 10 tackles for semifinals of the College Football Playoff. been watered down as voters get swayed Watson said he is proud of his career no Watson, his coach and his teammates losses and 8.5 sacks. by the player who suddenly bursts on matter how the next game (or two) turns think the voters for the Heisman and the the scene and misses out on players like out. He wore this year’s ACC championship all-conference teams got it wrong when it , Watson, who are consistently good over a hat to during interviews on Monday and comes to the Clemons QB. career. is aware of how he took a Clemson team 6-0, 235, Senior, “I’m the best player in the country. That’s “I think Deshaun is so good, people are on the cusp of being a national contender Linebacker how I think. That’s how I feel. People have numb to it,” Swinney said. to join Alabama as the only back-to-back Boulware was Co- their own way of voting,” Watson said Both Watson and Swinney say they playoff teams. The Tigers also won two Defensive Player of Monday as Clemson wraps up its first week aren’t knocking Jackson’s talent and straight ACC titles for the first time in 28 the Year in the ACC of practice before playing Ohio State. they understand how he won. But unlike seasons. and was second-team Watson finished second in the Heisman Jackson, who only has the Citrus Bowl Watson has the same cool demeanor All-American. He has Trophy voting this year, one spot better against LSU left before his season ends, responding to questions about what his 114 tackles, 9 tackles than 2015. But Jackson won the award, Watson hopes to be play two more games college career will mean without a national for losses and 4 sacks. His brother has and knocked Watson out of first-team and achieve the ultimate goal he had title as he has had about not winning the played three years in the Cincinnati Reds Atlantic Coast Conference quarterback as when arriving Clemson from Gainesville, Heisman. But his quiet words point out farm system. well — two disappointing blows to a driven Georgia. how much a fourth loss of his college career competitor like Watson. “You could put the national will hurt. CORBIN TANKERSLEY, Though his losses weren’t caused as championship trophy and the Heisman, he “I’ve already experienced not getting it 6-1, 200, Senior, much by a slide in his own play as Jackson’s wouldn’t think twice about which one to — felt how big that was,” Watson said. Defensive Back Tankersley was first- team All-ACC and a Clemson wide first-team All-American. Clemson, Williams glad to be back receiver Mike He has 55 tackles, 6 Williams (7) tackles for losses and 3 throw from is stopped by interceptions. By Jim Naveau quarterback Deshaun Watson, Virginia Tech [email protected] he was shoved from behind, and , his head hit on the goal post as Adonis 5-10, 190, Junior Clemson’s season has he fell to the ground. Alexander Scott was selected been about a second chance, It was a scary moment, made (36) during second-team All-ACC. His something its standout receiver even scarier when Williams said the ACC 71 catches for 592 yards Mike Williams knows a lot later that for a few moments his championship ranks second among about. whole body felt numb. game. Williams Clemson’s receivers. The Tigers are in the College The diagnosis was that he has had a big He has five touchdown Football Playoff for the second had a fractured vertebra in his season after catches this season. season in a row. A year ago neck. He had to wear a neck missing last they lost 45-40 to Alabama brace for several months, and season with a in the national championship it wasn’t until two months after neck injury. game. the injury that he was allowed But they played that game to do some light running and AP photo without Williams, whose dumbbell curls. RECENT Clemson season ended in the 2015 He returned to the field in season opener when he suffered spring practice and has been Bowl History a season-ending neck injury on better than ever this season. By The Associated Press a freak play. Clemson coach Dabo Record: 20-19 The 6-2, 225-pound Williams Swinney calls him the “most Jan. 11, 2016 College Football caught 84 passes for 1,171 complete” receiver he has forever, and there ain’t none would be their last season and Championship — Alabama 45, yards and 10 touchdowns this had in his nine seasons as the better. His size, his length, his that they would leave for the Clemson 40 season for the Tigers (12-1). Tigers coach. toughness, his IQ, his speed NFL with one year of eligibility Dec. 31, 2015 — Clemson He is expected to be one of the “He’s 225 pounds and can and explosiveness is just rare,” remaining. 37, Oklahoma 17 first receivers taken in the NFL run and change direction. He’s he said. In addition to Watson and Dec. 29, 2014 Russell Athletic Bowl — draft. a load. He’s going to be a great, “He would have left (for the Williams, running back Wayne Clemson 40, Oklahoma 6 After catching 57 passes for great, great pro,” Swinney said NFL) last year if he had not Gallman and receiver Artavis Jan. 3, 2014 Orange Bowl — Clemson 40, 1,030 yards in 2014, he was at a press conference before gotten hurt. I don’t have any Scott said they were not Ohio St. 35 expected to be a big part of the Atlantic Coast Conference doubt about that,” Swinney said coming back in 2017. Dec. 31, 2012 Chick-fil-A Bowl — Clemson’s offense last season. championship game. at Clemson’s bowl media day In a rare move, Swinney Clemson 25, LSU 24 Eleven plays into the opener “I don’t have to see anybody press conference. allowed the four underclassmen Jan. 4, — West Virginia against Wofford changed all else out there. This guy — Williams is one of four to be honored along with the 70, Clemson 33 that, though. there is none better. I’ve made seniors for Clemson who seniors at Clemson’s Senior Dec. 31, 2010 Meineke Bowl — South As he grabbed a 4-yard my living coaching wideouts announced last summer this Day. Florida 31, Clemson 26 Dec. 27, 2009 Music City Bowl — Clemson 21, Kentucky 13 Jan. 1, 2009 — Nebraska 26, ACC STANDINGS CLEMSON SCHEDULE 2016 CLEMSON LEADERS Clemson 21 Atlantic Division Dec. 31, 2007 Chick-fil-A Bowl — Auburn Sept. 3 — at Auburn, 19-13 Passing Tackles ACC overall Sept. 10 — Troy, 30-24 Deshaun Watson...... 3914 Ben Boulware...... 113 23, Clemson 20, OT W L W L Dec. 29, 2006 Music City Bowl — Sept. 17 — at S. Carolina St., 59-0 Nick Schuessler...... 328 Kendall Joseph...... 107 Clemson 7 1 11 1 Van Smith...... 105 Kentucky 28, Clemson 20 Sept. 22 — Georgia Tech, 26-7 Rushing Louisville 7 1 9 3 Oct. 1 — Louisville, 42-36 ...... 1002 ...... 75 Dec. 27, 2005 Champs Sports Bowl — Florida State 5 3 9 3 Deshaun Watson...... 526 Carlos Watkins...... 66 Clemson 19, Colorado 10 Oct. 7 — Boston College, 56-10 NC State 3 5 6 6 Oct. 15 — N.C. State, 24-17 Tavien Feaster...... 209 Sacks Jan. 2, 2004 Peach Bowl — Clemson 27, Wake Forest 3 5 6 6 C.J. Fuller...... 205 Carlos Watkins...... 8.5 Tennessee 14 Oct. 29 — Florida State, 37-34 Boston College 2 6 6 6 Nov. 5 — Syracuse 54-0 Receiving Ben Boulware...... 4 Dec. 23, 2002 Tangerine Bowl — Texas Syracuse 2 6 4 8 Mike Williams ...... 1171 Kendall Joseph...... 3.5 Tech 55, Clemson 15 Nov. 12 — Pittsburgh, 42-43 ...... 637 ...... 3.5 Coastal Division Nov. 19 — Wake Forest, 35-13 Dec. 31, 2001 Humantitarian Bowl — Virginia Tech 6 2 9 3 ...... 621 Interceptions Clemson 49, Louisiana Tech 24 Nov. 26 — S. Carolina, 56-7 Artavis Scott...... 592 Jadar Johnson...... 5 Miami 5 3 8 4 Dec. 3 — Virginia Tech, 42-35 Jan. 1, 2001 Gator Bowl — Virginia Tech N. Carolina 5 3 8 4 Ray-Ray McCloud...... 443 ...... 3 41, Clemson 20 Dec. 31 — Ohio State, Playoff Punts ...... 1 Pittsburgh 5 3 8 4 semifinal, 7 p.m. Dec. 30, 1999 Peach Bowl — Mississippi Georgia Tech 4 4 8 4 Andy Teasdall...... 37.7 ...... 1 St. 17, Clemson 7 Duke 1 7 4 8 Field goals Punt Returns ...... 13/17 Ray-Ray McCloud...... 176 Jan. 2, 1998 Peach Bowl — Auburn 21, Virginia 1 7 2 10 Clemson 17 BCS BoatS Now oFFERING CAR DETAIlING AND AUToMoTIvE SERvICE!

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Delaware Gazette & Sunbury News COLLEGE FOOTBALL PLAYOFF PREVIEW Thursday, December 29, 2016 3

No. 3 Ohio State vs. No. 2 Clemson vs Fiesta Bowl Dec. 31, 7 p.m. ESPN BuckAn inside lookEyes at Ohio State Football Recruiting Update Four teams Six recruits who verbally committed to Ohio State’s 2017 class won high school state championships in three a good fit states. They are offensive lineman Wyatt Davis (Belleflower, Calif., John Bosco), for playoff cornerback Shaun Wade (Jacksonville Trinity Christian), Trevon What’s the perfect Grimes (Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas number of teams for the Aquinas), quarterback Tate Martell College Football Playoff? (Las Vegas Bishop Gorman), wide Is it the current four receiver Tyjon Lindsey (Las Vegas teams? Bishop Gorman) and defensive lineman Should it Haskell Garrett (Las Vegas Bishop expand to Gorman). eight? Or Martell also won the Gatorade even grow to National Player of the Year Award, 16 sometime which recognizes athletic and academic in the success. The 4-star quarterback threw future? for 41 touchdowns with only one Ohio and rushed for 21 TDs. State, Former Heisman Trophy winner Eddie Jim Clemson, George presented the award to him. Naveau Alabama and Martell plans to enroll at Ohio State in Columnist Washington January. certainly Brendon White (Olentangy Liberty) have no has graduated early from high school and trouble with it being four will begin classes in January at OSU. He teams. But many other has already practiced with Ohio State. people do. Five-star safety Jeffrey Okudah The core of the argument (South Grand Prairie, Tex.), who lists for expansion is that Ohio State in his final three schools, will there are more than four announce his commitment on Jan. 7. His deserving teams every year. other finalists are Oklahoma and Florida For now, the State. commissioners of four of Don Speck | The Lima News the Power Five conferences “Playoff bound.” The sign says it all as Ohio State fans celebrate the Buckeyes’ 30-27 double-overtime win over are in favor of keeping Michigan on Nov. 26 in Ohio Stadium. it at four teams. The commissioners of the Big < QUARTERBACKS in his last nine games. H-back < LINEBACKERS Ten, Pac 12, Big 12 and Say What? Ohio State’s J.T. Samuel is the deep threat with OSU’s Raekwon SEC want to keep things Barrett has had some 65 catches for 822 yards. McMillan was a the same. The ACC is the critics, but his value Mike Williams, a first-team second-team All- only league currently in cannot be overstated. All-ACC wide receiver, is American, and favor of expansion. In tough games, the Watson’s favorite target with Jerome Baker had a breakout It might be good for “I expected junior quarterback (2,428 yards 84 catches for 1,171 yards and season. the college game to passing and 24 touchdowns 10 touchdowns. Wide receivers Clemson’s Ben Boulware (113 hesitate when it comes to 2,000 yards and 847 yards rushing with Artavis Scott (71 catches) and tackles) was also a second-team expanding its postseason, nine touchdowns) has carried Ray-Ray McCloud (45 catches) All-American. Kendall Joseph though. and 20 OSU’s offense, as he did against and tight end Jordan Leggett has 107 tackles. NFL television ratings Michigan when he rushed the (38 catches) are also threats. Advantage: Ohio State have taken a significant ball 30 times. Advantage: Clemson dive. Too many games on touchdowns.” Clemson’s Deshaun Watson < DEFENSIVE television and too much (3,914 yards passing, 37 TDs) < OFFENSIVE BACKS parity seem to have diluted completed 67 percent of his LINEMEN OSU safety fans’ desire for the product. passes but was intercepted OSU center Pat ’s six On the other hand, the 15 times. He was second in Elflein and guard interceptions, three interest level in college the Heisman Trophy voting. Billy Price both were first-team of them for touchdowns, made football has remained —Ohio State Clemson averaged 40.2 points running back All-Americans and first-team him a first-team All-American steady. This year’s Ohio and 505 yards of offense. All-Big Ten. Left tackle Jamarco Mike Weber on in his first season as a starter. State-Michigan game was Advantage: Clemson Jones was second-team All-Big and the highest rated noon his goals for Ten. The biggest concern has also appear this season. kickoff game ever. < RUNNING BACKS been right tackle, where Isaiah to have the NFL in their futures. Maybe the fact that the Redshirt freshman Prince has been vulnerable to a Cornerback Cordrea college regular season Mike Weber (1,072 good pass rush. Tankersley (5 interceptions) means something every yards, 9 TDs) has Clemson guard Tyrone and safety Jadar Johnson (3 week is a good thing. been very good but comes up Crowder and center Jay interceptions) both were first- Maybe making it hard to short of territory. Guillermo were first-team All- team All-ACC for Clemson. get to the playoff helps But so would most people. ACC. The Tigers’ offensive line Tankersley was a first-team All- keep the interest level high. With OSU in a win-or-go-home has allowed only 15 sacks. American. Let’s be honest, though, situation, it will be interesting Advantage: Clemson Advantage: Ohio State once the television to see if gets the networks and college Buckeye Brain Busters ball more than he did in the first < DEFENSIVE LINE < SPECIAL TEAMS football figure out how to 12 games. Getting enough Kicker Tyler make a lot more money 1. What year did Clemson win the Wayne Gallman’s 1,002 pressure on Watson Durbin missed more with an expanded playoff, national championship? yards and 15 touchdowns lead to cause him to turn kicks (two) against they will throw their Clemson’s ground game. Watson the ball over could be Michigan than he weight behind it. 2. How many passes did Clemson’s had 526 yards rushing. a key for OSU. Defensive end had missed the rest of the If that ever happens, catch against OSU Advantage: Ohio State (7.5 sacks) was season (one). OSU hopes his there could be one in the 2014 Orange Bowl? the Big Ten Defensive Lineman confidence is intact. beneficial effect. It could < RECEIVERS of the Year. Clemson kicker Greg Huegel mean the end of league 3. Who caught ’s final Ohio State has Clemson ranks second is 13 of 17 on field goals, and championship games and completion at Ohio State? to be hoping its nationally with 46 sacks. punter Andy Tesdall averages divisions in leagues. receivers learned a Defensive end Carlos Watkins 37.7 yards per punt. That would be one way 4. What is ’s new few new tricks or added a gear (8.5 sacks) was second-team All- Advantage: Ohio State to address concerns about grandson’s name? since the Michigan game. Noah American. The other defensive seasons becoming too long. 5. Who is Ohio State’s career Brown’s 30 catches leads the end, Christian Wilkins, has 12 But there would have to be wide receivers. He has caught tackles for losses. some way to make up for interceptions leader? only two touchdown passes Advantage: Clemson the lost revenue. 6. How many TDs did Clemson’s William Perry score in the NFL? 7. Where did Clemson coach Dabo Swinney play college football? BIG TEN STANDINGS OSU SCHEDULE 2016 OSU LEADERS 8. What year did Clemson first admit Passing Tackles women students? East Division Sept. 3 — Bowling Green, 77-10 Big Ten overall Sept. 10 — Tulsa, 48-3 J.T. Barrett ...... 2428 Raekwon McMillan...... 87 9. What is the most points Ohio State w l w l Sept. 17 — at Oklahoma, 45-24 Joe Burrow ...... 226 Jerome Baker...... 79 Malik Hooker...... 67 has scored in a ? Penn State 8 1 11 2 Oct. 1 — Rutgers, 58-0 Rushing Ohio State 8 1 11 1 Oct. 8 — Indiana, 38-17 Mike Weber ...... 1093 ...... 60 10. What is the fewest points Ohio Michigan 6 2 10 2 Oct. 15 — at Wisconsin, 30-23 (OT) J.T Barrett...... 846 Damon Webb...... 53 Curtis Samuel...... 704 Sacks State has scored in a bowl game? Indiana 4 5 6 6 Oct. 22 — at Penn State, 21-24 Demario McCall...... 270 Tyquan Lewis ...... 7.5 Maryland 3 6 6 6 Oct. 29 — Northwestern, 24-20 Answers: 1. 1981; 2. Sixteen; 3. Receiving ...... 6 Michigan State 1 8 3 9 Nov. 5 — Nebraska, 62-3 Curtis Samuel ...... 822 Jerome Baker...... 3.5 Devin Smith; 4. Troy Xavier Dennis; Rutgers 0 9 2 10 Nov. 12 — at Maryland, 62-3 5. Mike Sensibaugh (22); 6. Three; Noah Brown ...... 385 ...... 3 West Division Nov. 19 — at Michigan State, 17-16 Dontre Wilson...... 352 Interceptions 7. Alabama; 8. 1955; 9. 47 in 1982 Wisconsin 7 2 10 3 (2OT) Marcus Baugh...... 269 Malik Hooker ...... 6 Holiday Bowl; 10. 0 in 1921 Rose Nebraska 6 3 9 3 Nov. 26 — Michigan, 30-27 K.J. Hill...... 254 Marshon Lattimore...... 4 Bowl. Iowa 6 3 8 4 Dec. 31 — Clemson, Playoff Punts Gareon Conley...... 3 Minnesota 5 4 8 4 semifinal, 7 p.m. Cameron Johnston ....46.2 Jerome Baker...... 2 Northwestern 5 4 6 6 Field goals Punt Returns Illinois 2 7 3 9 Tyler Durbin ...... 17/20 Dontre Wilson...... 107 Purdue 1 8 3 9

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4 Thursday, December 29, 2016 COLLEGE FOOTBALL PLAYOFF PREVIEW Delaware Gazette & Sunbury News

No. 4 Washington vs. No. 1 Alabama vs Peach Bowl Dec. 31, 3 p.m. CrimsonTide ESPN An inside look at Alabama Football A look at Alabama players Huskies could be toughest test for Tide’s defense JALEN HURTS, 6-2, 209, Freshman, Alabama leads the nation in total, Quarterback The Associated Press scoring and rushing defense. But the Tide The true freshman hasn’t faced a Top 25 scoring offense since became a starter in SEATTLE — Alabama’s stingy defense Week 2 against Western Kentucky, which ranks second. The Tide won 38-10 and held the second game of will face perhaps its toughest test against Jake Browning and Washington. Tennessee’s No. 26 scoring offense to 10 the season for the No. The top-ranked Crimson Tide, fresh points as well. 1-ranked Crimson Tide. from facing teams with pedestrian Florida ranks 84th in passing offense First-team All-SEC. passing games, will play the Huskies and Auburn, which faced Alabama in the Passed for 2,592 yards, 22 TDs. Rushed Dec. 31 in the Peach Bowl in Atlanta’s regular-season finale, stands 112th. for 841 yards and 12 TDs. . That’s where Alabama Saban downplayed any benefit of having (13-0) just dispatched Florida 54-16 in the been through the playoff preparations and JONATHAN ALLEN, championship atmosphere twice before. The Tide lost to 6-3, 291, Senior, game. eventual champion Ohio State two years Defensive Lineman The defending national champs are ago and last season beat Michigan State After choosing to return trying to go wire-to-wire No. 1 and become and Clemson. to school instead of going the first NCAA team to go 15-0. Alabama “I do know that we did it better one year into the NFL draft, Allen has made each of the first three College than we did it the other,” Saban said. became a consensus Football Playoffs and won 25 straight Here are some things to know about the All-American. He has 13 games. Peach Bowl matchup: tackles for losses and 8.5 “There was a lot of talk out there about CLASHING STYLES: Browning has sacks. Ohio State tried to recruit him out the playoffs and not much talk about the passed for 3,280 yards and been intercepted of high school. SEC championship game, which was a AP photo just seven times. Alabama’s passing game, little concerning to me as a coach,” Tide Alabama defensive lineman Jonathan Allen led by freshman Jalen Hurts, has sputtered at times but Hurts is a dangerous runner. CAM ROBINSON, coach Nick Saban said Sunday on ESPN’s (93) sacks Florida quarterback Austin Appleby selection show. “I was really proud of HEISMAN HOPEFULS: The different 6-6, 310, Junior, (12) during the Southeastern Conference the maturity that our players showed of championship game on Dec. 3 in Atlanta. styles of these teams is illustrated by Offensive Tackle competing in that game and wanting to win their respective candidates to be Heisman Robinson has started that championship. Trophy finalists, Browning and Alabama every game since he “The next step is what do we create as a there are some and their commitment defensive end Jonathan Allen. Allen has walked onto campus legacy for this team in terms of how they and persistence and focus, I think it’s recorded 8.5 sacks while returning two three years ago. Alabama do in the playoffs.” spectacular.” for a touchdown. has had a 100-yard The Huskies (12-1) rose from a No. 14 He joked that he feels like he knows QBS ON REBOUND: Browning and rusher in 70 percent of preseason AP ranking to earn a national Saban well because he’s on TV so often, Alabama’s Hurts have both been huge those game. Consensus All-American title shot. but said this will be the biggest challenge playmakers for their offenses, but neither this season. “This is not at all a surprise to me,” the Washington players and coaches have posted big numbers in their league Saban said on a teleconference, speaking of faced. championship games. Browning was just 9 ADARIUS STEWART, his respect for Petersen. “I think everybody knows about Alabama for 24 for 118 yards with two touchdown 6-1, 204, Junior, Wide They routed Colorado 41-10 for the Pac- and it’s not just one year, it’s every year, passes. The freshman Hurts was 11 of 20 Receiver. Stewart has 12 championship. Washington won a share how dominant they are,” Petersen said. for 138 yards with a touchdown and was 52 catches for 852 yards of the 1991 title under Saban’s mentor and “We’ll prepare hard and fortunately the mostly a nonfactor as a runner. and 8 touchdowns this college coach, the late Don James. Seahawks are here in town. Maybe they’ll SARKISIAN VS. HUSKIES: Former season. He had three TD “I think it’s awesome,” third-year scrimmage us to get us ready for those Washington and USC head coach Steve catches in two games. Washington coach Chris Petersen said. guys. I don’t know.” Sarkisian is facing one of his former teams. First-team All-SEC. “I think it’s awesome for the school. I The Huskies rank fourth nationally in The Alabama offensive analyst coached the think it’s awesome for Seattle and I think scoring offense, averaging 44.5 points per Huskies from 2009-13, so was involved in it’s awesome for our guys. There are a game. Browning is the nation’s fifth-rated recruiting some of the veterans. “He’ll have MINKAH FITZPATRICK, lot of guys in there that have been here passer, and his 42 touchdowns are one shy the same role in this game he’s had in every 6-1, 203, Sophomore, for a while — not a lot of them — but of Jared Goff’s Pac-12 record. other game,” Saban said. Defensive Back Five interceptions, including three against Alabama freshman Arkansas. Fitzpatrick has quarterback Jalen 56 tackles and 1 sack. Alabama freshman QB starts fast Hurts (2) breaks loose First-team All-American. on a run past LSU back from negative plays, linebacker Duke Riley REUBEN FOSTER, The Associated Press like a that Mississippi (40) in the second half 6-1, 228, Senior, returned for a touchdown. Big of a game earlier this Linebacker Alabama’s Jalen Hurts plays often follow the bad ones. season. The 18-year-old Foster is one of the defying his age with playoff run Hurts has gotten better later became the Crimson leaders of Alabama’s It’s easy to appraise Jalen in games, including in the Tide’s starter in the defense with 94 tackles, Hurts’ by the numbers: The second half of the Iron Bowl second game of the 12 tackles for losses and yards, the touchdowns and the against Auburn and the SEC season. 4 sacks. First-team All- wins. championship game against AP photo American. But perhaps the most Florida. notable number is his age, “That’s unusual because “As a team, I think we’ve the second half of games, when 18. Top-ranked Alabama’s freshmen are rookies,” done a great job,” Hurts said, he’s also produced many of his freshman quarterback has Alabama offensive coordinator repeating himself when asked a biggest plays. That includes shown poise beyond his Lane Kiffin said after the SEC second time. a 21-yard fourth-quarter RECENT Alabama years under the pressure of championship game in Atlanta. Being the quarterback of an touchdown run in a 10-0 win leading the Crimson Tide to a “What do they do? They active dynasty in a state where at LSU in a game that was Bowl History Southeastern Conference title usually screw up in the fourth college football reigns supreme otherwise dominated by the By The Associated Press and playoff berth. quarter. He’s special.” could overwhelm any player, defenses. Record: 37-24-3 Alabama’s offensive leader Of course, Hurts has also freshman or senior. “I think people were on Jan. 11, 2016 College Football is just a teenager from Texas had few games that were “He’s handled it extremely him a little bit after the LSU Championship — Alabama 45, who hadn’t let a team to a still undecided in the fourth well,” said McElroy, an SEC game and I just told him, Clemson 40 championship since he was an quarter. Network analyst who helped ‘Man, Jalen, you just went Dec. 31, 2015 Cotton Bowl — Alabama 8-year-old on the East Houston He has of course benefited lead the Tide to the 2009 into Tiger Stadium at night 38, Michigan St. 0 Aggies. He hasn’t often looked from a supporting cast full of national title. “Has he been in an Alabama-LSU game and Jan. 1, 2015 — Ohio St. 42, like an 18-year-old on the field. NFL talent and the nation’s perfect? No. Is there a lot won and really made the one Alabama 35 “I’m a firm believer in age best defense, much like ‘Bama of room for improvement? significant play on offense,’” Jan. 2, 2014 Sugar Bowl — Oklahoma 45, being nothing but a number,” predecessors including Jake Absolutely. But given the Kiffin said. “He’s a special Alabama 31 Hurts said. “And I feel like if Coker, AJ McCarron and Greg pressure and the circumstance player.” Jan. 7, 2013 BCS Championship — you step up to any situation McElroy — each of whom led of playing quarterback at Hurts credits his father Alabama 42, Notre Dame 14 and you’re able to play your the Tide to national titles. Alabama — as soon as and prep coach, Averion, for Jan. 9, 2012 BCS Championship — game, be confident, have the Hurts arrived in Tuscaloosa you’re named the starter you helping him be ready to handle Alabama 21, LSU 0 poise you need to have, you’ll in time to play Clemson’s immediately become one of the the challenges and successes at Jan. 1, 2011 Capital One Bowl — Alabama be all right.” Deshaun Watson for the most heavily scrutinized people Alabama. Hurts also absorbed in the entire state.” 49, Michgigan St. 7 Hurts is trying to become scout team leading up to the lessons by watching his older Hurts, the son of a high brother Averion Jr. — a Jan. 7, 2010 BCS Championship — only the second true freshman national championship game quarterback to lead a major last season. He has been able school coach, has put up big quarterback at Texas Southern Alabama 37, Texas 21 to escape some of the grind numbers along the way, already — learn the hard way. Jan. 2, 2009 Sugar Bowl — Utah 31, college team to a national title. Oklahoma’s Jamelle Holloway of being quarterback of a running for more yards in a “All the butt-chewings he Alabama 17 replaced an injured Troy national title contender since season than any other Tide got, I learned from those,” Dec. 30, 2007 Independence Bowl — Aikman in 1985 and led the coach Nick Saban doesn’t allow quarterback. he said. “Life is all about Alabama 30, Colorado 24 Sooners to eight straight wins. freshmen to talk to reporters He has rushed for 841 yards learning.” Dec. 28, 2006 Independence Bowl — So far, Hurts is a perfect during the regular season. and 12 touchdowns, keeping Then he went on to play Oklahoma St. 34, Alabama 31 12-0 as a starter since claiming So the SEC championship the offense going even when for another demanding coach Jan. 2, 2006 Cotton Bowl — Alabama 13, the job after the opener and postgame scrum looked like the passing game isn’t clicking. in Saban, who has regularly Texas Tech 10 has been named SEC offensive a full-out blitz, with Hurts He has also completed 65.3 held one-on-one Sunday film Dec. 31, 2004 Music City Bowl — player of the year. His journey surrounded by reporters and percent of his passes for 2,592 sessions with his quarterback. Minnesota 20, Alabama 16 to a College Football Playoff TV cameras scrambling for yards and 22 touchdowns with Hurts said not even Saban’s Dec. 27, 2001 Independence Bowl — semifinal matchup with No. 4 his first public comments as nine interceptions. chewing-outs can match those Alabama 14, Iowa St. 13 Washington on Dec. 31 hasn’t ‘Bama’s starter. Hurts has been a better coming from his father. Jan. 1, 2000 Orange Bowl — Michigan 35, been all paved in crimson glory, He handled it with aplomb finisher than starter. He has “There ain’t nothing like Alabama 34, OT but more a season-long rubber and didn’t bite when asked to passed for 14 touchdowns and getting a butt-chewing from Dec. 29, 1998 Music City Bowl — Virginia band-like grind of snapping evaluate his season. been intercepted just twice in your blood,” he said. Tech 38, Alabama 7

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Delaware Gazette & Sunbury News COLLEGE FOOTBALL PLAYOFF PREVIEW Thursday, December 29, 2016 5

No. 4 Washington vs. No. 1 Alabama vs Peach Bowl Dec. 31, 3 p.m. ESPN HuskiesAn inside look at Washington Football

A look at Washington players JAKE BROWNING, Keeping talent at home key for Huskies 6-2, 209, Sophomore, Quarterback Browning, the Pac-12 Defensive back Budda Baker a key recruit Offensive Player of the Year, threw for Washington their home, like 3,280 yards and 42 The Associated Press quarterback Jake Browning. But ultimately, for touchdowns. His six SEATTLE — It’s too simple Washington to be successful, it touchdown passes of an equation to say that must be keeping the top in-state against Oregon were a Huskies’ school Budda Baker was the cause and recruits at home. And beginning record. Washington being the Pac-12 with Baker, it has. champion and one of the four “I always heard it every day BUDDA BAKER, teams in the College Football by friends, family, even random 5-11, 192, Senior, Playoff. people that ‘You’re a hometown Defensive Back But it’s not too far of a guy, you can put this program Baker was first-team stretch to believe that the back on top,’ and all that type All-Pac 12 and a first- most impactful recruit landed of stuff,” Baker said. “It hit by Chris Petersen since he team All-American. He because like they said I have arrived at Washington came had 65 total tackles, two a lot of family here, I had a in February 2014. That’s when interceptions and two chance to go to a great school.” Baker decided to stay home sacks for the Huskies Since Baker’s commitment with the Huskies rather than this season. in 2014, the Huskies have had follow the lengthy parade of a pipeline of in-state talent premier recruits from the state JOHN ROSS, staying home, including running of Washington who decided to 5-11, 190, back Myles Gaskin, wide go out of state. Wide Receiver receiver Chico McClatcher, “We were very urgent. We Ross was Browning’s No. left tackle Trey Adams, safety knew he was a big time football and offensive 1 target with 76 catches player that could really change lineman Kaleb McGary. It’s not for 1,122 yards and 17 the direction of this program a huge list, and while California touchdowns. He was and that was job No. 1 when we AP photo will always be the hotbed for first-team All-Pac 12 and first took this job was to make Washington defensive back Budda Baker (32) intercepts a pass intended Washington’s recruits, getting had three touchdown sure we kept a homegrown for Washington State wide receiver John Thompson, right, in the second the top kids from the state is catches in a game twice. talent in Budda Baker here at half of a game between the two in-state rivals earlier this season. influential in what the Huskies the University of Washington,” are trying to build. MYLES GASKIN, Washington defensive backs bottom, but even under Steve the years following, all the “I didn’t know where I 5-10, 195, Sophomore, coach Jimmy Lake said. “It Sarkisian there was a plateau in-state talent that hey it is wanted to go. I thought if I was an intense battle and we’re reached — “7-win Sark” became cool to stay at home and play Running Back stayed here I would always obviously happy that we got the nickname — with little for the hometown (Huskies),” Gaskin has rushed being going home and doing him.” indication the Huskies would Lake said. “Now hopefully those for 1,339 yards after chores and stuff,” Gaskin said. There are numerous pieces rise much beyond that mark. young guys are seeing where gaining 1,302 yards as “My mom and dad kept it real. that Washington has woven Additionally, the group we’re at now and seeing the a freshman. He has six They said, ‘You are going to together to create a roster that watched a number of top following that he has here and 100-yard games this Washington.’ At the time I this year is 12-1. recruits from the state — now when his career is over at season with a high of didn’t understand why but I’m Some were holdovers from Jonathan Stewart, Jake Heaps, Washington he’s going to be a 197 against Oregon. He was first-team very thankful for them.” the previous coaching regime, David DeCastro, all the way up legend here. He’s already made All-Pac 12. When many of the current who have developed into stars to — take the route a ton of plays and hopefully Huskies were first making later in their careers, like out of the state rather than we do some bigger things this impressions about college ELIJAH QUALLS, linebacker Keishawn Bierria remain at home. year and next year and he’ll be football, Washington was a 6-1, 321, and wide receiver John Ross. Which all leads back to a legend here for a long time struggling program. The 2008 Defensive Lineman Others were recruits from why landing Baker was so to come if he keeps doing what season where Washington Qualls has been the run out-of-state that Petersen and important. he’s doing, and those other guys went 0-12 was the clear stopper on the interior of his staff convinced to make “It’s huge for that year and are seeing that.” Washington’s defensive line this season. He has 32 tackles, 5 tackles for losses and 3 sacks. He was first-team All-Pac 12. Browning adds confidence to his resume

SIDNEY JONES, The Associated Press coaches after throwing for 3,280 yards and 6-0, 181, Junior, 42 touchdowns. He led Washington to its Defensive Back SEATTLE — It was so out of character first conference championship since 2000 Jones has been first- it became the defining moment of his time and barely missed out on a trip to New team All-Pac 12 two at Washington. Maybe that’s because the York for the Heisman Trophy ceremony. Browning’s sixth-place finish in the years in a row. He also most exuberance Jake Browning had ever shown before was a fist pump and a smile. Heisman voting was still the second best in was a second-team All- Washington history behind only defensive American this season. Then came “The Point.” As the sophomore quarterback glided lineman who finished fourth He has 37 tackles and in 1991. three interceptions. into the end zone for a touchdown early in Washington’s blowout of Oregon, Browning is still an unassuming figure Browning quickly pointed in the direction on a national stage. He was an unplanned of an opponent. It was a different side player of the year because of an unexpected of Browning, one that is filled with self- jump from the end of his freshman season confidence and a little cockiness. to now, and he’s on the verge of setting RECENT Washington Underneath an exterior that seems to be Pac-12 records for the most touchdown Bowl History a plug-in of how Washington coach Chris passes in a season. Browning’s potential AP photo By The Associated Press Petersen is wired, Browning has a feisty sophomore slump instead became a Washington quarterback Jake Browning hands Record: 17-17-1 competitiveness that emerges only on sophomore showcase. off to running back Lavon Coleman during a Dec. 26, 2015 Heart of Dallas Bowl — occasion. It was improvement his coaches hoped a game against Washington State earlier this Washington 44, Southern Miss. 31 “You see him in the hall, you go like to see after throwing him into starting as a season. Browning has thrown for 42 touchdowns Jan. 2, 2015 Cactus Bowl — Oklahoma this,” Washington offensive lineman Trey true freshman. this year. St. 30, Washington 22 Adams said, mimicking Browning’s point. But this? Dec. 27, 2013 Fight Hunger Bowl — “Coach Pete hates that. That was awesome. “His accuracy in the red zone has been at giving Washington an athletic speedster a high level throughout the year. He’s really Washington 31, BYU 16 I love that play.” they desperately lacked a season ago. That Thanks to Browning’s evolution, improved there. His decision making when was never more evident than the Pac-12 Dec. 22, 1012 MAACO Bowl — Boise St. he has extended the play has improved, 28, Washington 26 Washington exceeded the preseason title game victory over Colorado when pass expectations of being a program on the rise not forcing a couple of balls where he did Browning intended to throw away instead Dec. 29, 2011 — Baylor 67, his freshman year,” Washington offensive Washington 56 and reached the College Football Playoff, became a spectacular TD catch for Ross. where it will face top-ranked Alabama coordinator Jonathan Smith said. “We’re Dec. 30, 2010 Holiday Bowl — The combo of Myles Gaskin and in the Peach Bowl on New Year’s Eve. putting a lot on his plate in recognition in Washington 19, Nebraska 7 Lavon Coleman have been productive Browning has developed into one of the coverage and changing plays.” on the ground; Dante Pettis and Chico Dec. 31, 2002 Sun Bowl — Purdue 34, top in the country as just a It’s the combo of Smith and Petersen McClatcher have made significant jumps Washington 24 sophomore and every so often — like the that have come to understand Browning’s as receivers; and Washington’s coaches no Dec. 28, 2001 Holiday Bowl — Texas 47, play against Oregon — his self-assuredness personality. They had a good feel of how longer have limitations on the playbook. Washington 43 has emerged. Browning would respond to the college Browning sums up his season like Jan. 1, 2001 — Washington 34, “I probably appreciate him more because game through years of recruiting Browning this: Getting rid of negative plays. Plays Purdue 24 he has a calmer demeanor than I do,” first at Boise State and then, Washington. that might have been interceptions as Dec. 29, 1999 Holiday Bowl — Kansas St. Petersen said. “I think it’s easier when “You don’t really know what you’re going a freshman have been incompletions or 24, Washington 20 you’re a player. You can just let it go out to get, but I think with him with as long as sacks. Browning knows those negative Dec. 25, 1998 Oahu Bowl — Air Force 45, there. When you’re on the sideline it just we recruited him and as much as he was plays can’t return if Washington is to have Washington 25 gets bottled up and you just try and bite around us we had a pretty good idea that a chance against Alabama. Dec. 25, 1997 Aloha Bowl — Washington your tongue as best as you can. I think the he was going to be like he is,” Petersen “I don’t think we’re a team that’s going 51, Michigan St. 23 thing is we’re both really competitive and said. “And then you just wait to see how to come out and throw the ball every play, Dec. 30, 1996 Holiday Bowl — Colorado sometimes, he’s awesome, but I try and do winning and losing affects guys. Do they or come out and run the ball every play. We 33, Washington 21 the best I can and not be too competitive change?” stay balanced and do our thing,” Browning over-coaching him because he gets it.” Browning’s numbers this season are said. “They’re good, but you can’t let a Dec. 29, 1995 Sun Bowl — Iowa 38, also the result of those around him. The Washington 18 Browning was named the Pac-12 good team get you away from what got you offensive player of the year in a vote of return of John Ross can’t be overstated, there.”

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6 Thursday, December 29, 2016 COLLEGE FOOTBALL PLAYOFF PREVIEW Delaware Gazette & Sunbury News

Landers proves he’s worth the gamble Big expectations, big payoff By Jim Naveau [email protected]

COLUMBUS – The phone calls just kept coming. As Huber Heights Wayne went deeper in to the state football Landers playoffs in 2014, every coach who had competed against the Warriors seemed to get on the phone and tell Ohio State’s coaches they should look at defensive lineman Robert Landers. Landers wasn’t a highly recruited player and was rated a 3-star prospect by the scouting services. At 6-foot, 1-inch and 285 pounds, he didn’t fit the profile of a defensive lineman at the highest level of college football. Too short, the experts said. There might be some issues with grades, others whispered. But, either on his own or because of those calls from high school coaches, OSU co-defensive coordinator decided to take a look at Landers. He liked what he saw and told coach Urban Meyer the Buckeyes should offer him a scholarship. Landers had already committed to Don Speck | The Lima News West Virginia, the only high-profile Ohio State’s Raekwon McMillian (5), (center) and converge to take down Maryland’s Brandon Ross during a 2015 game against school to offer him a scholarship. But a Maryland at Ohio Stadium in Columbus. few days after getting the OSU offer, he changed course and committed to the Buckeyes. The coach most responsible for Coaches pleased with McMillan’s work on, off the field getting him to Ohio State, though, was defensive line coach Larry Johnson. By Jim Naveau “Coach Johnson really made me [email protected] gravitate towards him just from the simple fact that he’s a real guy. When COLUMBUS – Before Raekwon McMillan we first met we didn’t talk football ever played a game at Ohio State, he knew at all. We talked about me, we talked there were big expectations for him. about him. We didn’t talk football at all He arrived in 2014 as a 5-star recruit who my whole recruiting process,” Landers was ranked as the top middle linebacker said. in the country. Sight unseen, many people “One thing that really got me was expected him to displace senior he was consistent. He stayed true to – also a 5-star recruit — as OSU’s starter at who he was. He’s a God-fearing man, middle linebacker. he doesn’t cuss, he doesn’t drink. You At the Buckeyes’ preseason media day in don’t really find too many college 2014, he compared the pressure he’d felt of coaches who will not cuss you out. The starting as a freshman in high school with fact that he is true to who he is and he those expectations. sticks to his morals. He’s not going to “It’s magnified here, but I’m used to yell at you, but he hits you with the ‘I’m coming in my freshman year with a lot of not mad, I’m just disappointed.’ That expectations,” McMillan said. “It’s either you hurts way more.” break under pressure or you make diamonds After redshirting last season, with it.” Landers has played a bigger role After backing up Grant in 2014, McMillan than expected this fall after starting has started and led Ohio State in tackles the defensive lineman Tracy Sprinkle last two seasons, a performance that is far was lost for the season in the opener from broken. He has 87 tackles, 5 tackles for against Bowling Green. As part of losses and 1.5 sacks this year, and he had 119 the rotation on the defensive line he tackles, 4 tackles for losses and 1.5 sacks last has played in every game and has 7.5 season. tackles for losses, fourth on the team But some people still question if Ohio State behind Tyquan Lewis, Jerome Baker has gotten diamonds from him. and . Earlier this season, McMillan “Going into this season my acknowledged the questions when he told a expectations for myself were to group of reporters “If I asked y’all, I’m playing contribute to the team the best that I the worst season in the world.” can and somehow become a factor to His coaches are quick to contradict any make the game easier for the team as a negativity about McMillan’s performance. As whole. I didn’t really expect to have the the middle linebacker he has responsibilities season that I’ve had, but I’m blessed to that don’t show up in his statistics, they say. have it and I try to take full advantage “His reputation here is solid as gold. He’s AP photo of it,” Landers said. exceeded every expectation. I’ve had very few Landers, whose brother Trey is a like that. From day one when he walked on Ohio State linebacker Raekwon McMillan (5) tackles Indiana running back Jordan Howard during a 2015 freshman on the University of Dayton’s campus, he was a grown man,” OSU coach game in Memorial Stadium in Bloomington, Ind. men’s basketball team, said he likes Urban Meyer said. being viewed as an underdog or as an Co-defensive coordinator Luke Fickell Something that happened very early in his Several mock drafts have McMillan as a unconventional player for a defensive says McMillan, a two-time second-team All- career convinced Fickell that McMillan was second-round choice if he chooses to enter lineman. American, compares favorably with former far from ordinary. the NFL draft after his junior season. “It plays to my advantage at times. OSU linebacker James Laurinaitis, a three- “I think it was his third day here. It was If he is down to his last game or two at Being the underdog, in my opinion, time consensus All-American. minus-17 degrees, they closed school, Ohio State, McMillan is happy with his career is probably the best position to be in “His body of work is unbelievable. James which they don’t normally do, and someone so far with one exception. because people do kind of overlook was a three-time All-American, he won didn’t pick him up for a 6 a.m. workout. He “I would have hoped to be a first-team you. I’ve felt that at times when I’ve this award, he won that award and maybe hustled over, walked, jogged, whatever it All-American,” he said. “I was a team been overlooked it’s allowed me to Raekwon hasn’t won those awards. But in my was. Got here late. Well, he had dawn patrol captain, Fiesta Bowl champion, Sugar Bowl focus onto my skill set and produce to mind, the body of work of what he’s done in (punishment) the next day because he was champion, national champion, Big Ten my best ability,” he said. that locker room to build that culture to what late for a workout,” Fickell said. champion. There’s not a lot more I can do but While coaches have stopped saying we have is second to none,” Fickell said. “We were on the road recruiting. I finish out this season great and see where we Landers is too short, he says he still “Maybe the people outside don’t see remember saying, ‘Hey, why do you have can go from there,” he said.. hears it from opposing players. everything because statistically he doesn’t dawn patrol?’ He said, ‘I was late.’ Simple as “I always wanted to be a first-team All- “They’ll say, ‘You’re a little too have the stats or the sacks or those kinds of that. ‘I was late.’ He didn’t make an excuse, American, but everything doesn’t always short,’ or ‘You might want to go back things, not make the flash plays like Ryan he didn’t blame somebody else, he owned work out the way you want it to. Hopefully, to the sidelines, little dude.’ I just smile Shazier or that made. But the everything that happened. Not to mention he since I’m not a first-team All-American, I can at them and think, ‘I got you, we’ll see reality is, I haven’t coached many guys that walked when it was minus-17 degrees. be a national champion.” how this goes,’ ” he said. mean more to that unit, to that group, to this “It was one of those things where you step team,” he said. back and say, ‘Wow. We’ve got something Reach Jim Naveau at The Lima News at 567-242-0414 or Reach Jim Naveau at The Lima News at 567-242- McMillan enrolled early and began special. I don’t know if he can play yet, but we on Twitter at @Lima_Naveau. 0414 or on Twitter at @Lima_Naveau. working out at Ohio State in January 2014. got something special in a kid,’ “ he said.

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Delaware Gazette & Sunbury News COLLEGE FOOTBALL PLAYOFF PREVIEW Thursday, December 29, 2016 7 Perfecting the pass Receivers, protection are concerns for OSU By Jim Naveau [email protected]

COLUMBUS – Urban Meyer admitted he was repeating himself when he said Ohio State needed to improve its passing game after this season is over. He said the same thing before this season. It’s still true, so he’s still saying it. Quarterback J.T. Barrett has thrown for 2,428 yards and 24 touchdowns, with only five interceptions. There have been only four Ohio State quarterbacks throw for more yards than that in a season – Joe Germaine (3,330) in 1998, Bob Hoying (3,269) in 1995, Barrett himself (2,834) in 2014 and Troy Smith (2,542) in 2006. It has been 42 years since a full- time starting quarterback at Ohio State had as few as five interceptions. So, despite a few critics, Barrett does not appear a major contributor Don Speck | The Lima News to whatever problems exist. Ohio State’s Curtis Samuel (4) carries the ball against Indiana earlier this season in Ohio Stadium. The junior H-back has been a big-play threat in both the He wasn’t near the top of Meyer’s run game and the passing game for the Buckeyes. list when he talked about the things that needed to improve in the Buckeyes’ passing game. “I thought we would be better throwing the ball. Whether it be protection, whether it be separation by wide receivers, it’s not just one Samuel key for OSU’s success thing,” Meyer said. “We will get there.” By Jim Naveau Ideally, No. 3 OSU would get [email protected] there by its College Football Player semifinal match-up against No. 2 COLUMBUS – It took Ohio State Clemson in the Fiesta Bowl. two years to figure out where it “We have to change that. In the wanted Curtis Samuel to be. offseason we’re going to become a If it hadn’t, it wouldn’t be where good throwing team and expand it is today. on it. We’re good now, efficiency Without a big season from wise, but we’re going to really start Samuel, Ohio State probably would expanding that and work hard at it,” not be in the College Football Meyer said. Playoff, preparing to play Clemson Interestingly, Ohio State has used in the Fiesta Bowl. the pass more this season than in The junior H-back has become 2015. This season, it has passed the most explosive player in OSU’s on 40 percent of its offensive plays offense. At times this season it versus 36 percent a year ago. And it felt like he was the Buckeyes’ only has averaged more passing yards per explosive player. game this year, 221 versus 188, than As a freshman, the 5-foot, a year ago. 11-inch, 197-pound Samuel was But finding consistency from the used mostly as a running back. Last receivers and the type of passes OSU year, he played receiver more than uses might be where OSU needs to running back with Ezekiel Elliott improve. rarely leaving the field. H-back Curtis Samuel (65 catches, This year as an H-back, a hybrid 822 yards, 7 touchdowns) has more of running back and wide receiver, than twice as many catches as the he has 704 yards rushing and next receiver, Noah Brown (30 averages nearly 8 yards a carry catches, 385 yards, 7 touchdowns). and has more than twice as many No wide receiver other than Brown catches as any other Buckeye with Don Speck | The Lima News had more than 17 catches. Brown 65 of them for 822 yards. Ohio State quarterback J.T. Barrett feels some pressure from Northwestern’s Alex Miller as he looks for a See PASS | 8 See SAMUEL | 8 receiver. Pass protection has been an issue at times for the Buckeyes.

Fickell balances new job with championship drive

By Jim Naveau He spent five years at OSU as 6-3, but lost its last four games, ever had the same feeling.” [email protected] a player, the last four as a starter including a Gator Bowl trip that Asked how much he has grown on teams that won 41 of 50 games many people would second- as a football coach in the five COLUMBUS – After spending but saw three chances at national guess after Urban Meyer’s first seasons since his one year in nearly half his life at Ohio State, championships slip away because OSU team was banned from the charge at Ohio State, Fickell said, achieving one of his biggest of losses to Michigan. postseason in 2012 by the NCAA. “I couldn’t even tell you how athletic dreams there and After an injury ended his Fickell said he learned a lot much. I can pull up my iPad, and meeting his wife and some of his dream of playing in the NFL, he from his previous year as a head I made 25 to 30 mistakes every best friends there, you would be returned to Ohio State in 1999 as coach. And he starts his next job single day. I tried to document correct if you think Luke Fickell a graduate assistant. in a much better situation with a them. has some strong feelings about He spent two years as an much better feeling than in 2011. “But the reality is I learned his upcoming separation from assistant at Akron, returned to “People ask that question, how to fall and get back up and OSU when he takes over as the Ohio State in 2002 and has been ‘What’s the difference?’ There’s an keep going forward. That’s the University of Cincinnati’s football there ever since, including being incredible amount of difference name of the game, whether it’s coach. interim coach in 2011 when Jim because last Saturday going life, whether it’s football,” he If you think he is going to Tressel was forced to resign after down there, having the ability said. let any sentimentality show as failing to inform his bosses and to be introduced, to have a press One thing that will be different he juggles his roles as OSU’s the NCAA of violations he was conference, was an unbelievable is that Fickell says he will say the co-defensive coordinator and the aware of. time. It was obviously nerve- word “Michigan” if he ever talks Bearcats’ next coach, though, you Five Ohio State players – wracking; it’s something new, but about Ohio State’s biggest rival. would be wrong. starting quarterback Terrelle my family was so excited for the “It’s not the same thing. Do “I can’t reflect. That’s not me. Don Speck | The Lima News Pryor, running back Dan Herron, opportunity,” he said. I have the same feelings? Yes. It’d be really difficult to even Luke Fickell isn’t leaving Ohio, but he receiver DeVier Posey, offensive “In 2011 it was a very, It never will change. Just so we think about it,” Fickell said. is leaving Ohio State to become head tackle Mike Adams and back- troubled, tough time. We’re know. But the name might change “That’s why you’ve got to keep coach of the University of Cincinnati’s up defensive lineman Solomon all human, and we’re going to just because I don’t want to put going, try not to think about it, football team. Thomas — were handed five- feel those things. It was tough. a different emphasis on it, we’ll keep going and now worry about game suspensions. We didn’t even have a press have our own things we need to the number of days. It is what it and wrestled at DeSales High Pryor left school rather than conference in 2011 until at least do,” he said. is. It’s a part of me that will never School. Along with being a serve the suspension, and Herron two and a half weeks after. Why? leave,” he said. Division I football recruit, he was and Posey later had another game We wanted a lot of things to die Reach Jim Naveau at The Lima News Fickell grew up in Columbus a three-time undefeated state added to their penalties. down, wanted to make sure we at 567-242-0414 or on Twitter at @ and played football and baseball champion in wrestling. Ohio State started the season were prepared. It just never, ever, Lima_Naveau.

Ohio State Bowl History By The Associated Press Jan. 7, 2008 BCS National Jan. 1, 1998 Sugar Bowl — Florida Dec. 28, 1985 Citrus Bowl — Ohio Jan. 1, 1976 Rose Bowl — UCLA 23, Championship — LSU 38, Ohio St. 31, Ohio St. 14 St. 10, BYU 7 Ohio St. 17 Record: 23-24 St. 24 Jan. 1, 1997 Rose Bowl — Ohio St. Jan. 1, 1985 Rose Bowl — Southern Jan. 1, 1975 Rose Bowl — Southern Jan. 1, 2016 Fiesta Bowl — Ohio St. Jan. 8, 2007 BCS National 20, Arizona St. 17 Cal 20, Ohio St. 17 Cal 18, Ohio St. 17 44, Notre Dame 28 Championship — Florida 41, Jan. 1, 1996 Citrus Bowl — Jan. 2, 1984 Fiesta Bowl — Ohio Jan. 1, 1974 Rose Bowl — Ohio St. Jan. 12, 2015 College Football Ohio St. 14 Tennessee 20, Ohio St. 14 St. 28, Pittsburgh 23 42, Southern Cal 21 Championship — Ohio St. 42, Jan. 2, 2006 Fiesta Bowl — Ohio Jan. 2, 1995 Citrus Bowl — Dec. 17, 1982 Holiday Bowl — Ohio Jan. 1, 1973 Rose Bowl — Southern Oregon 20 St. 34, Notre Dame 20 Alabama 24, Ohio St. 17 St. 47, BYU 17 Cal 42, Ohio St. 17 Jan. 1, 2015 Sugar Bowl — Ohio St. Dec. 29, 2004 Alamo Bowl — Ohio Dec. 30, 1993 Holiday Bowl — Ohio Dec. 30, 1981 Liberty Bowl — Ohio Jan. 1, 1971 Rose Bowl — Stanford 42, Alabama 35 St. 33, Oklahoma St. 7 St. 28, BYU 21 St. 31, Navy 28 27, Ohio St. 17 Jan. 3, 2014 Orange Bowl — Jan. 2, 2004 Fiesta Bowl — Ohio Jan. 1, 1993 Citrus Bowl — Georgia Dec. 26, 1980 Fiesta Bowl — Penn Jan. 1, 1969 Rose Bowl — Ohio St. Clemson 40, Ohio St. 35 St. 35, Kansas St. 28 21, Ohio St. 14 St. 31, Ohio St. 19 27, Southern Cal 16 Jan. 2, 2012 Gator Bowl — Florida Jan. 3, 2003 Fiesta Bowl — Ohio Jan. 1, 1992 Hall of Fame Bowl — Jan. 1, 1980 Rose Bowl — Jan. 1, 1958 Rose Bowl — Ohio St. 24, Ohio St. 17 St. 31, Miami 24, 2OT Syracuse 24, Ohio St. 17 Southern Cal 17, Ohio St. 16 10, Oregon 7 Jan. 4, 2011 Sugar Bowl — Ohio St. Jan. 1, 2002 Outback Bowl — Jan. 1, 1990 Hall of Fame Bowl — Dec. 29, — Jan. 1, 1955 Rose Bowl — Ohio St. 31, Arkansas 26 South Carolina 31, Ohio St. 28 Auburn 31, Ohio St. 14 Clemson 17, Ohio St. 15 20, Southern Cal 7 Jan. 1, — Ohio St. Jan. 1, 2001 Outback Bowl — Dec. 27, 1990 Liberty Bowl — Air Jan. 2, 1978 Sugar Bowl — Jan. 2, 1950 Rose Bowl — Ohio St. 26, Oregon 17 South Carolina 24, Ohio St. 7 Force 23, Ohio St. 11 Alabama 35, Ohio St. 6 17, California 14 Jan. 5, 2009 Fiesta Bowl — Texas Jan. 1, — Ohio St. Jan. 1, 1987 Cotton Bowl — Ohio Jan. 1, 1977 Orange Bowl — Ohio Jan. 1, 1921 Rose Bowl — California 24, Ohio St. 21 24, Texas A&M 14 St. 28, Texas A&M 12 St. 27, Colorado 10 28, Ohio St. 0 S8

8 Thursday, December 29, 2016 COLLEGE FOOTBALL PLAYOFF PREVIEW Delaware Gazette & Sunbury News

Pass Samuel

From page 7 From page 7 had six games of two or fewer catches and has only two Late in the season, he added punt returner to his touchdown catches in his last nine games after catching resume after Dontre Wilson struggled in that role. four of them against Oklahoma in what was viewed then Samuel had Ohio State’s longest pass reception as his breakout game. in six games. His 79-yard touchdown catch against OSU’s wide receivers have caught only 39 percent of Bowling Green, his 75-yard touchdown catch against the passes Barrett has completed this season. Ten years Nebraska and his 74-yard touchdown run at Penn ago in 2006, even in the era of Tressel Ball, with receivers State are the three longest scoring plays of the season like Ted Ginn Jr., Anthony Gonzalez, Brian Hartline and for OSU’s offense. Brian Robiskie, wide receivers made 72 percent of the Offensive lineman Billy Price called Samuel “a catches. freak” earlier this season and said he constantly does Young wide receivers like K.J. Hill, and incredible things in practice. Terry McLaurin have had some good moments but none Offensive coordinator says Samuel’s of them have been consistent. Older players such as James freakish talent jumped off the screen at him when he Clark and Johnnie Dixon have added little to the passing first saw videos of him when he was a 4-star recruit at game, and the often-injured Dontre Wilson has lost time Erasmus Hall High School in Brooklyn. to injuries again. “He was so electric in his high school recruiting When asked about the drop in Brown’s production since videos. He came in early and went through spring the Oklahoma game, Meyer said, “We have to target him practice and in every Saturday scrimmage, he would a little bit more. He has to separate a little bit better. And have a 50-plus yard run. There aren’t many people who we have to protect the quarterback better. It’s not one can run through Ohio State’s defense with that kind of thing, or we would fix the one thing.” speed and nobody can catch them,” Warinner said. Offensive coordinator Ed Warinner said Brown’s “There was no question he was an elite, explosive big game in a 45-24 win over Oklahoma increased the guy who could be a big playmaker for us in the run attention defenses are giving him. game and the pass game,” he said. “Very seldom does he get straight, no-help, man-to-man Maybe the only question about Samuel’s breakout coverage. I think Noah is capable of having a big game season is why he didn’t touch the ball more. He is at any time. It just depends on the defense and how they averaging 7.6 rushes per game and 5.4 catches a game. play and who it is they try to stop,” Warinner said. If Samuel himself has asked that question, it has not Clemson is second in the country with 46 sacks and has been in public. Don Speck | The Lima News two first-team All-ACC defensive backs, so improving the “I’m not a coach, I don’t demand touches,” he said. Noah Brown (80) leads Ohio State’s wide receivers with 30 passing game could be a challenge for OSU. “I just go out there and make plays and hopefully the catches this season. Finding consistency and a go-to receiver to coaches see when I am out there that I am doing a complement H-back Curtis Samuel has been a season-long search Reach Jim Naveau at The Lima News at 567-242-0414 or on Twitter at @ great job and want to put the ball in my hands more.” for OSU. Lima_Naveau. Samuel’s game-winning 15-yard touchdown run against Michigan and his arms-extended celebration are destined to be legendary at Ohio State. But the play he made just before it might have saved the game and OSU’s season. On third-and-nine at the 24-yard line in the second overtime, quarterback J.T. Barrett threw a screen pass to the right side to Samuel, which appeared to be headed nowhere. Samuel reversed field and started left, then he turned right and bumped into offensive tackle . At one point he was nearly 10 yards behind the line of scrimmage, which would have put the Buckeyes out of field goal range with Michigan up 27-24. But Samuel turned left again and managed to turn the play into an eight-yard gain, setting up Barrett’s one-yard run that left Jim Harbaugh bitterly disappointed. “I’ve watched it a couple of times. I can’t explain the play, I don’t know what happened, I don’t know what I was thinking. I just knew I had to make a play and do something for the team,” Samuel said. “I noticed when I crossed back to try to go the other way that mostly all the skill guys (for Michigan) were on the right side of the field so to the left it was probably the D-linemen and a couple of linebackers,” he said. Samuel was named first-team All-American by The Associated Press and The Sporting News. Like most players in December, he claims not to have thought much about entering the NFL draft early. “Next year, I don’t know. I have not thought about it. I don’t know what I am going to do. I am just focused on this team and playing Clemson,” he said.

Reach Jim Naveau at The Lima News at 567-242-0414 or on Twitter Photos by Don Speck | The Lima News at @Lima_Naveau. Ohio State takes the field for the start of the Ohio State-Nebraska game on Nov. 5.