Fickell Takes Center Stage
Originally Published: August 2011 $2.50 PERIODICAL NEWSPAPER CLASSIFICATION DATED MATERIAL PLEASE RUSH!! C M
VVol.ol. 330,0, NNo.o. 2244 ““ForFor TheThe BuckeyeBuckeye FanFan WhoWho NeedsNeeds ToTo KnowKnow More”More” August 2011 Y FFickellickell TTakesakes K CCenterenter SStagetage NNewew EraEra BeginsBegins AAtt OhioOhio StateState By JEFF SVOBODA Buckeye Sports Bulletin Staff Writer In many ways, it seems as if first-year head coach Luke Fickell’s rise to the head of the Ohio State football program was preordained. The Columbus native rewrote the defensive record book at Ohio State, starting 50 straight games from 1993-96 at nose tackle and making 212 tackles. The toughness he boasted became the stuff of legend among his teammates when he played in Ohio State’s 1997 Rose Bowl victory with a torn pectoral muscle. JOSH WINSLOW “Luke was just as gritty and played just as hard as anyone NEW COACH, FAMILIAR FACE – With the exception of a brief NFL career and a couple of seasons at Akron on the field,” said Stanley Jackson, who was Ohio State’s as an assistant, new Ohio State head football coach Luke Fickell has been around the Buckeyes for much starting quarterback in 1996. “I’m not surprised (he has of the last 19 years since joining the team as a defensive lineman in 1992. become the head coach). I think most guys who played nose Dame was even offered at one point. thought of as one of the best prep grapplers in the history of guard in the trenches that were a little undersized, had a big Instead, Fickell chose to stay at Ohio State and continue the state. heart – whatever they set their minds out to do in life after to work on some of the best defenses in the country – all the “I just remember back to my dad telling me, ‘Whatever football, they’re usually fairly successful.” while impressing those around him. you do someday, do what you love to do,’ ” Fickell said. “I After a brief NFL career that was cut short by injury, “We all knew that someday Coach Fick saw him get up to go to work and just be Fickell returned to the program as a graduate assistant in would be the coach at Ohio State,” senior miserable going to the railroad every day 1999 before taking a job at Akron, Tyler Moeller said. “He’s an Ohio State guy BBSB’sSB’s when I was a kid, just hating it. But he had where he coached the defensive and he brings a lot to the table.” to do it because that’s what he did for our line for two seasons. The only person who might be surprised family. He then returned to Ohio 22011011 to find out that Fickell has become the 23rd “Those kinds of things hit me as I lay State in 2002 as special teams head coach at his alma mater is the teen- there hurt thinking I’m not going to play coach before working his way aged version of the man himself. FFOOTBALLOOTBALL football anymore. I reflected back on who up the staff ladder – first becom- “Actually I had no intentions of ever had a lot of impact on my life and I kept ing linebackers coach in 2004 being a coach,” Fickell said. “It’s funny PPREVIEWREVIEW thinking about the coaches I had. It kind and adding the co-defensive coor- because obviously we hired (new lineback- of just started to hit me (that) the next best dinator position to his title in ers coach) Mike Vrabel, and since I met him he’d always told thing to playing is coaching.” 2005 alongside coordinator Jim me he was going to be a coach. We were college roommates The rest, as they say, is history. Looking back, it seems Heacock. and I’d say, ‘Ah, I’m not going to be a coach.’ I was going to like the easy part for Fickell was getting to where he is now. “I don’t think there’s any ques- be a doctor or optometrist or something.” Now comes the true test – how will he do leading a program tion I knew he had this in him,” But a funny thing happened on the way to working in a in which excellence is the only standard? said Heacock, who was hired doctor’s office – a trip to one. as defensive line coach in 1996, Fickell suffered a torn ACL in 1997 while playing with the Making It His Own Fickell’s final season as an OSU New Orleans Saints, sidelining him for what turned out to be Of course, there’s no manual for Fickell to follow as he player. “You always knew he was his only professional season. While he was going through prepares to lead Ohio State into the 2011 season, which so passionate about coaching and rehab, he was hit by the reality of the situation. starts Sept. 3 in Ohio Stadium vs. Akron. He takes over studied the game and did it the “I remember just laying there in New Orleans and think- after the Buckeyes’ greatest sustained run of success in right way. I think you always kind ing, ‘I don’t know if this football thing is going to make it,’ ” three decades – and yet inherits a program that needs to be of knew that he was going to be he said. “It was kind of taken away before I wanted it to be patched back together in many ways. out front somewhere and just taken away.” After 10 excellent seasons that included one national cham- Call (614) 486-2202
Today To Subscribe To Today needed the opportunity.” From there, life lessons took over. Fickell immediately pionship and seven Big Ten rings, predecessor Jim Tressel was In recent years, Fickell’s stock thought about his father, Pat, who spent nearly two decades shown the door May 30 after a scandal that threatened to bring has continued to rise. He had loading cars at Conrail. down the program. Tressel did not report possible NCAA viola- overtures from Mid-American “It wasn’t a bring-your-son-to-work type of job,” Fickell tions to his superiors or the NCAA, a breach of his contract and Conference schools to take over said, looking back on the career that hardened his father. the rulebook of the collegiate sports oversight body. Your Mailing Label Goes Here Your their programs, and a high-pro- That toughness was passed on to Luke, who won three state file job as an assistant at Notre championships as a wrestler at Columbus DeSales and is still Continued On Page 12 Originally Published: August 2011
OOPINIONPINION Truth More Important Than Rumor In OSU Case Nearly every year since becoming BSB tion in scholarship numbers. Nevertheless, stories, rely upon questionable information editor, I have used this space in our annual the poison-penned critics and those of their provided by less-than-reliable sources and Football Preview issue for predictions and ilk live in their own reality, one where they even massage the truth to keep the train mov- Vol. 30, No. 24 prophecies regarding the upcoming Ohio are king and they make the rules. In their ing in the direction you want it to move. August 2011 State season. However, because of what has kingdoms, nothing less than bringing the Less than a week before Ohio State happened to the program over the past few Ohio State football program to its knees is was to meet with the NCAA’s Committee www.BuckeyeSports.com months and because this fall is so radi- good enough. on Infractions, ESPN curiously provided a cally different from any other I have experi- regurgitation of old news on its “Outside the Buckeye Sports Bulletin (USPS 705-690, Lines” program. Then, less than 72 hours ISSN 0883-6833.) is published 24 times a enced during my many years covering the year (weekly September through November, Buckeyes, I feel the need to get something EDITOR’SEDITOR’S before OSU was to meet with the NCAA, biweekly mid-March through May and off my chest before we go any further. the network fired one final salvo when col- January through early March and monthly Ohio State finally got its day in NCAA NOTEBOOKNOTEBOOK lege football writer Pat Forde reported that June through August and December) by: court Aug. 12 when athletic director Gene MMarkark RReaea according to multiple sources, the NCAA Columbus Sports Publications Smith, deposed head coach Jim Tressel had notified Ohio State by letter that it was 1350 W. Fifth Ave., Suite 30 and a team of university legal eagles trav- still investigating other issues involving the P.O. Box 12453 This isn’t anything new, of course. Others football program and the result could be a Columbus, Ohio 43212 eled to Indianapolis to meet with the NCAA (614) 486-2202 Committee on Infractions. have tried to bring down the program. second notice of allegations and a second trip Since you are reading this, I will assume Thankfully, it happens only about once every through the NCAA justice system. Periodical class postage paid at you know why the Buckeyes faced the NCAA 50 years. Forde alluded to allegations against Pryor Columbus, Ohio, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address chang- inquisition, but on the off chance you have One of the first attempts came in 1901. as well as a Columbus Dispatch report that es to: Buckeye Sports Bulletin, P.O. Box been on safari this summer, taken a trip to During a 6-5 home victory over Western scrutinized dozens of automobile sales to 12453, Columbus, Ohio 43212. Subscription Mars or take for gospel some of the mud Reserve, OSU star performer John Sigrest OSU athletes and family members from a rates: $74.95/year. that has been slung over the past six months, suffered a serious neck injury and died two pair of Columbus-area dealerships. PUBLISHER here in a nutshell is what has brought us to days later in a Columbus hospital. It apparently didn’t matter that Pryor was Frank Moskowitz this point. In the wake of the tragedy – Sigrest is long gone and that the “Great Car Scam” Several Ohio State players traded some the only player ever to die from injuries sus- had pretty much been debunked by no less ASSISTANT PUBLISHER EMERITUS Karen Wachsman 1944-1999 personal items – championship rings, jer- tained during an Ohio State football game – a an authority than the Ohio Bureau of Motor seys, etc. – for tattoos and/or in 2009. Under large portion of the faculty and student body Vehicles. Like the playground bully or jilted MANAGING EDITOR normal circumstances, that would be no big favored abolishing football at the university. lover, ESPN continually screams, “This isn’t Mark Rea deal since many young men today seem It wasn’t until Sigrest’s brother, Charles, who over until we say it’s over!” ASSISTANT PUBLISHER intent upon decorating their bodies with was the team’s right tackle, strongly defended Why Ohio State? Why the sheer volume Becky Roberts colorful graffiti. Unfortunately, that sort of the game and urged the sport be continued of vitriol directed at one particular pro- bartering is frowned upon by the NCAA. that university officials relented and voted to gram? That is anyone’s guess. Imagine for a PHOTOGRAPHY Sonny Brockway Terry Gilliam Worse yet, the players’ tattoo parlor of choice continue fielding a football team. moment that Troy Smith’s family had been Kevin Dye Josh Winslow was under FBI surveillance in a federal drug Sixty years later, Alumni Association sec- given money and housing worth six figures trafficking case. retary Jack Fullen suggested Ohio State give during the Heisman-winning quarterback’s CONTRIBUTORS up any pretense of amateurism, hire a profes- college career and then the school stone- Bill Armstrong Bob Roehm In April 2010, Tressel received e-mails David Breithaupt Julie Roy regarding the incident, and because he did sional team and control it under a bureau of walled the NCAA investigation for years. Rich Exner Mark Schmetzer not forward that information to Smith or football. He also made no bones about his Imagine if during his recruitment Pryor’s Matthew Hager Steve Siegfried share it with the NCAA, many observers opinion that Woody Hayes was borderline father had shopped the quarterback’s ser- Marcus Hartman Stacey Stathulis Rich Leonardo Jeff Svoboda deemed him the cheatingest cheater who insane and was not to be entrusted with the vices for $180,000. Imagine if the Buckeyes Craig Merz Mike Wachsman ever cheated and the coach was forced to molding of young men. had been caught paying a couple of guys Eric Loughry Ari Wasserman resign/retire. That notion may seem ridiculous now, but nearly $30,000 for “recruiting services.”
DIRECTOR OF GROUP AND CO-OP SALES Despite the breathless hand-wringing of at the time Fullen had more than his share of Imagine how ESPN would have covered Jack Woodworth most of the media covering the incident, supporters. Following the 1961 season, when those scandals, and then compare it with that’s pretty much it. No more, no less. Ohio State could have gone to the Rose Bowl how the network has actually covered the ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES One of the players, quarterback Terrelle and perhaps won a consensus national cham- investigations involving USC, Auburn and Ron Friedman Jan Jager Pryor, had other issues that ran afoul of the pionship, the university’s 44-member Faculty Oregon. 2010-11 PUBLICATION SCHEDULE (VOL. 30) NCAA, and Ohio State was likely going to Council voted to deny the Buckeyes their trip In hindsight, we really shouldn’t be sur- No. 1 Sept. 11 No. 13 December suspend him for the entire 2011 season. Even to Pasadena under the guise that athletics prised. ESPN’s dogged determination to No. 2 Sept. 18 No. 14 Jan. 15 keep this story going is rivaled only by the No. 3 Sept. 25 No. 15 Jan. 29 before that, however, Pryor had decided to was overtaking academics on the campus. No. 4 Oct. 2 No. 16 Feb. 12 leave the program and make himself avail- The university’s Board of Trustees – as way the Worldwide Leader backed up its No. 5 Oct. 9 No. 17 March 5 able for the NFL via the supplemental draft. feckless then as it is today – refused to over- truck of righteous indignation in 2003 during No. 6 Oct. 16 No. 18 March 19 Meanwhile, OSU tailback Dan “Boom” turn the Faculty Council’s vote, but there was the Maurice Clarett ordeal. I can only sur- No. 7 Oct. 23 No. 19 April 2 No. 8 Oct. 30 No. 20 April 16 Herron, offensive tackle Mike Adams, wide such a huge public uproar that no Rose Bowl mise that somewhere along the line Tressel No. 9 Nov. 13 No. 21 May receiver DeVier Posey and defensive end invitation extended to the Buckeyes has ever crossed swords with the higher-ups in Bristol No. 10 Nov. 20 No. 22 June Solomon Thomas remain and will sit out been turned down since. It is also worth not- and they swore vengeance. No. 11 Nov. 27 No. 23 July Unfortunately, that vengeance was not No. 12 Nov. 30 No. 24 August the first five games of this season, a spate of ing that after their 1961 showdown, Fullen contests that includes a crucial road game lasted only six more years on campus while satisfied by Tressel’s departure. With its 24- The next issue (Sept 10 cover date) will Sept. 17 at Miami (Fla.) and the Big Ten sea- Hayes coached another 17 seasons. 7 presence and constant drumbeat that the be mailed on Sept. 6. son opener at home Oct. 1 against Michigan Fast-forward to today and the “cause” Ohio State football program deserves severe Buckeye Sports Bulletin is a privately State. has been joined by several different fac- punishment or the NCAA is nothing more owned newspaper and is not affiliated One of the winningest coaches in the his- tions. Some are disgruntled, some are mis- than a paper tiger, ESPN long ago stripped directly or indirectly with The Ohio State tory of the program has been shamed, the guided and some are simply trying to cover itself of any pretense of impartiality. University. three-year starting quarterback has been run their own backsides. The foundation for In the end, it all comes down to a hand- off and three other offensive starters on what all of the venom, however, seems to have ful of kids being kids – knowing right from BSB e-mail address is: [email protected] could be considered a national championship been championed mostly by the self-serv- wrong but choosing the wrong path anyway. contender will be unavailable for nearly one- ing Entertainment and Sports Programming When all is finally said and done, the Ohio third of the season. Add vacating the entire Network of Bristol, Conn. State football program will survive. It will be 2010 season, including a Sugar Bowl victory It is anyone’s guess why a behemoth such bloodied but it will survive. over Arkansas, as well as an ongoing period as ESPN – a company whose entire being is But what of those who have made it their of NCAA probation and the penalties seem a inexorably married to big-time sports – would own personal crusade to hinder that survival? lot more than a mere slap on the wrist. Yet, want to take down one of college football’s Expect no embarrassment or pensive intro- it’s not nearly enough for the sanctimonious elite programs and thereby diminish what spection when the NCAA decides the punish- lot that predicted Draconian penalties and must be one of the network’s biggest mon- ment already suggested by Ohio State indeed now want their pound of flesh as vindication. eymakers. fits the crime. Like Don Quixote, another They want nothing less than bowl bans Supposition has been offered that ESPN is tilter at windmills, said, “I perceive every- and scholarship reductions. Never mind the simply doing what every other big business thing I say as absolutely true, and deficient in discretions committed by Tressel and his entity tries to do – crush the competition, nothing whatever, and paint it all in my mind players do not rise to the level of that type which in this particular case is the Big Ten exactly as I want it to be.” of punishment. Never mind that no school Network. Unfortunately when you are in the Fortunately for the rest of us, in this facing the allegations Ohio State is facing has news business, trying to crush the compe- particular case, reality is about to trump ever been levied a postseason ban or a reduc- tition often means you must manufacture perception. www.BuckeyeSports.com August 2011 BUCKEYE SPORTS BULLETIN • 3 Originally Published: August 2011
OOHIOHIO STATESTATE FFOOTBALLOOTBALL Ohio State Faces NCAA’s Music, Waits For Ruling Tressel did not speak to reporters follow- extremely short in comparison to other By MATTHEW HAGER ing the meeting, briskly walking through the such hearings – but that was not entirely Buckeye Sports Bulletin Staff Writer hotel’s lobby and into an elevator without unexpected. Months of scandal resulted in a hearing saying a word. His statement was also the The first hint that the meeting might that lasted approximately four hours. shortest of the three. not be tumultuous came July 22, one day Now the waiting game begins. It read, “I had an open and constructive shy of seven months after the university Two major violations that resulted in the exchange with the Committee on Infractions. announced the initial player suspensions. resignation/retirement of Ohio State foot- They were well-prepared and will now go On that day, the NCAA enforcement staff ball head coach Jim Tressel and the depar- about their work in deliberations. Again, I declared in a 15-page letter that it had ture of quarterback Terrelle Pryor for the would like to apologize to Buckeye Nation, essentially agreed with Ohio State and NFL were addressed in an Aug. 12 meeting most especially to the players, staff and fans Tressel on the facts of the case. Ohio State between Ohio State representatives, Tressel who remain so dear to me. I have no further had released its response to the NCAA’s and the NCAA Committee on Infractions at statement at this time.” Notice of Allegations on July 8. an Indianapolis hotel. Finally, Gee’s statement said the com- The July 22 letter from the NCAA stated The hearing began at 8:30 a.m. in the mittee treated the OSU delegation fairly and that the parties were “in substantial agree- Indianapolis Marriott Downtown’s Indiana gave the university ample time to share its ment as to the facts of both allegations ballroom and ended near lunchtime. Ohio perspective. and that those facts constitute violations of State president Dr. E. Gordon Gee, ath- “Throughout, we have been determined NCAA legislation. There are no remaining letic director Gene Smith and Tressel each to do what is right in responding to the issues regarding either allegation.” released written statements following the information we discovered,” the president’s The hearing with the COI went on as meeting, and Smith was the lone person to statement read. “As we move forward, I am scheduled, however, because the NCAA meet with the media, reading his statement committed to ensuring that The Ohio State said “the enforcement staff believed that a in the media workroom following the hear- MATTHEW HAGER University is a model for other colleges and hearing was appropriate, rather than a sum- ing. GIVING AN UPDATE – Athletic direc- universities. Our institution expects nothing mary disposition report, due to the nature Smith’s statement contained the biggest tor Gene Smith was the only Ohio less.” of unethical conduct involving the head piece of news of the day, the announcement State representative to speak with In addition to Tressel, Gee and Smith, football coach.” that Ohio State would forfeit the university’s the media Aug. 12 after university Ohio State was represented by compliance The most important news stemming share of its Big Ten payment for having officials and former head football director Doug Archie and new head football from the July 22 letter was that the NCAA played in the Sugar Bowl, a total of $338,811. coach Jim Tressel met with the NCAA coach Luke Fickell, among others. The OSU did not hit Ohio State with a failure to moni- That decision was added to OSU’s self-sanc- Committee on Infractions in a down- delegation faced the 10-person committee tor charge. The governing body did not feel that included attorneys, college conference tions that were unveiled July 8. Those pun- town Indianapolis hotel. it was appropriate because OSU adequately ishments included vacating the entire 2010 officials and university officials from across educated the players on the legalities of sell- season, including the shared Big Ten title the NCAA, a letter sent Aug. 3 from infrac- the country. ing their bowl gifts and team equipment. and Sugar Bowl victory over Arkansas, and tions committee director Shepard Cooper to The committee will ultimately decide the Although university officials did not spe- putting the football program on two years of Gee that was simply a copy of the NCAA’s punishments Ohio State will receive for the cifically inform the players until 2009 that probation. case record. two major violations. they were barred from selling their school The Committee on Infractions could “At no point in time did we receive – our The first stems from several members memorabilia – such as the Gold Pants impose additional penalties when its final president or I or anyone at our institution of the 2010 Ohio State football team who charms awarded for wins over Michigan – report is released, a process that will report- – receive a notice from the NCAA on addi- received improper benefits – free tattoos the NCAA enforcement staff did not believe edly take between eight and 12 weeks. tional allegations,” Smith said, again going and/or money in exchange for memora- that such an omission rose to the level of Smith did not take questions after read- off the script of his written statement. “We’re bilia – from Edward Rife, the owner of a failure to monitor. ing his statement but went off script in wrapping up some of the issues that have Columbus tattoo parlor. The second viola- Ohio State essentially pleaded guilty to saying that forfeiting the bowl money made been raised months ago.” tion comes from the fact that Tressel did the two major NCAA violations it had been sense. Ohio State did release a copy of a letter not inform Ohio State or the NCAA about accused of in its formal response to the “Since we had student-athletes play in NCAA director of enforcement Stephanie his knowledge of the situation when he first NCAA on July 8. The university announced that game and we ultimately vacated that J. Hannah sent to Cooper – and copied to learned of it in April 2010. its self-punishments at that time. game, it made sense that we would forfeit Tressel’s lawyer and a consulting firm help- Five players were suspended for the first “We are fully cooperating with the NCAA the dollars or … vacate the enrichment that ing OSU – on July 14. The letter detailed a five games of the season stemming from and we look forward to working together to we ultimately realized from that game,” said conversation the enforcement staff had with the allegations – Pryor, running back Dan bring a resolution to these current matters,” Smith, who added that he came up with the Ohio State earlier that week in which it was “Boom” Herron, wide receiver DeVier Posey, Smith said. “Throughout the entire process idea while speaking with Big Ten commis- discussed that the investigation into the OSU offensive tackle Mike Adams and defensive since we discovered possible infractions, sioner Jim Delany at a meeting of Big Ten program was still open but that the evidence end Solomon Thomas. A sixth, reserve line- Ohio State has consistently acted to inves- and Pac-12 athletic directors the week before did not warrant pushing back the Aug. 12 backer Jordan Whiting, was suspended for tigate any allegation, self-report its findings in California. hearing. one game, while a seventh left the team after to the NCAA, communicate transparently Smith’s statement also addressed an Aug. “At this point in the inquiry, the available the 2009 season and thus faced no on-field about its findings, and take necessary reme- 10 report by ESPN college football writer evidence does not warrant additional allega- punishment while at OSU. diation steps.” Pat Forde that said the NCAA notified Ohio tions; however, the investigation remains Those players were included in the original Ohio State’s letter explained why it felt State by letter that it is still investigating open,” Hannah wrote. Notice of Allegations that Ohio State received the self-punishments were enough. In a sec- issues involving the football program other In addition, Hannah’s letter notes that in April, but another player was included on tion headlined “Mitigating Circumstances,” than the ones that caused the Committee on OSU has been warned that further proven an amended list the university responded to the university points out that it self-reported Infractions hearing. allegations could result in a charge of failure in July. That player – who sources tell BSB the violations involving “a very successful Ohio State spokesman Jim Lynch denied to monitor or lack of institutional control. is linebacker Dorian Bell – received tattoo coach in a very popular sport in a very short Forde’s report, saying the university had not The letters, as well as many other docu- discounts and must appear before an NCAA period of time” and that it has been working received any additional allegations from the ments related to the scandal, can be found reinstatement committee. Bell faced a season- cooperatively with the NCAA in the matter. NCAA. Following the Aug. 12 hearing, Ohio online in the Aug. 16 electronic edition of long suspension from OSU and transferred to Additionally, the response notes that State released its last communication from Buckeye Sports Bulletin. Duquesne. institutional responsibility is limited, that Tressel lost his job after admitting he did Tressel did not commit the initial viola- not tell university officials about potential tion, that tattoo parlor owner Rife was not Rose Agriesti’s NCAA violations committed by two of his a booster or donor to the school, that the players. In addition, Tressel signed a compli- school was not charged with failure to Barber Shop ance form declaring he knew of no potential monitor or lack of institutional control and 1500 W. Third Ave., Suite 121 NCAA violations regarding his program and that the university has imposed significant then played a number of players he knew penalties, including “seeking and accepting 487-9215 were likely ineligible. He was initially sus- the resignation of Tressel,” upon itself. pended for two games and fined by the Ohio State also noted in its response WALK-INS WELCOME!! university. His suspension was later extend- that it could be subject to repeat violator ed to five games before Tressel ultimately punishment after a 2006 investigation into resigned on May 30. men’s basketball recruiting, but the univer- HOURS sity argued it should not be subject to such Monday: part-time • Tuesday-Friday:11-7 Agreement On Penalties penalties because of the dissimilar nature of Saturday: 10-4 • Closed Sunday The OSU hearing with the Committee the two situations. on Infractions lasted only four hours – Tressel bore the brunt of the blame in
10 • BUCKEYE SPORTS BULLETIN August 2011 www.BuckeyeSports.com Originally Published: August 2011
OOHIOHIO STATESTATE FFOOTBALLOOTBALL the OSU response. announced July 8, the university also dis- The board also reviewed the university’s University’s filings to the NCAA; Coach “The institution is embarrassed by the cussed several changes it will implement in compliance protocol – including athletics, Tressel’s formal, written response to the actions of Tressel in this matter,” the letter hopes of preventing a similar scandal from research and the medical center – in a July NCAA’s Notice of Allegations on July 8; and read. “The university sufficiently educated happening in the future. Ohio State will 22 meeting. With the help of outside con- the NCAA’s own Case Summary received him (and all coaching staff members) per- keep some apparel and prohibit the pur- sultants, the board plans to take inventory (July 21) all make clear that when Coach taining to a coach’s responsibility under chase of other memorabilia that previously of its current practices and gather outside Tressel was interviewed by a number of NCAA legislation to report information con- was handed out at the conclusion of each examples of alternative methods to be pre- people within the institution on Dec. 9 and cerning potential violations of NCAA legis- season until the end of each player’s career, sented to trustees for discussion no later Dec. 16, he did not share his knowledge lation and the means for this to occur.” and the school will require proof of posses- than Nov. 15. about the NCAA violation. Tressel also released his own statement sion for previously disbursed items. The board plans to move to a more “As we have previously stated to the public July 8, his first public comment since his Change is also coming to Ohio State’s centralized compliance model to be imple- and the NCAA in our filings, Coach Tressel resignation. compliance office. The full-time staff will be mented by Jan. 1. only sought advice from the University in “I take full responsibility for my mis- increased from six members to eight, and The board previously reviewed the ath- January 2011 – after the university had takes that have led to the ongoing NCAA a compliance staffer will accompany the letic compliance department’s handling of discovered e-mails that showed that he had inquiry and to scrutiny and criticism of the football team on all road trips. the tattoos and memorabilia scandal and knowledge of the matter and in contradiction football program,” he said. “I am grateful for Ohio State’s formal response to the NCAA found no further issues while concluding of his statements to the university the previ- this opportunity to retire from the univer- also stated the university will continue its the department’s “process and decision- ous December. That sequence of events is sity that I so deeply respect and that I will efforts to educate both student-athletes and making were fundamentally sound,” board summarized clearly by the NCAA in its Case continue to support.” the local business community about avoid- member Robert H. Schottenstein said. Summary. Tressel was required to release his own ing illegal benefits players receive through “The university categorically denies any- formal response to the NCAA allegations preferential treatment. Those efforts began Much Ado About Nothing thing to the contrary, and such allegations that he did not report his knowledge of pos- in the fall of 2009, after the time in which Ohio State received some good news are inconsistent with the conclusions of the sible violations committed by his players a number of the OSU violations originally when all but one of the players named in a NCAA and the university. when alerted in a string of e-mails in the occurred. June 6 Sports Illustrated cover story released “Any attempt to characterize events spring of 2010 by Columbus-area lawyer In the letter to the NCAA, it was noted shortly after Tressel announced his resigna- differently would be unnecessarily dam- Christopher Cicero. that a few of the players who sold memo- tion had been cleared of allegations of being aging, inaccurate and entirely mislead- Tressel listed the same reasons for his rabilia did not know that such actions were involved in the trade of items and/or auto- ing.” actions as he did when an original sus- violations of NCAA rules. graphs for cash and discounted tattoos. Schottenstein also voiced his displeasure pension and fine for the head coach were “Prior to 2009, the institution verbally Bell is believed to be the player who was that the story aired at all after the July 22 announced in March – that he feared for discussed extra benefits and awards gener- not cleared. board meeting. the safety of the student-athletes, that he ally at … student-athlete meetings but did In another report, WBNS-TV of “The NCAA’s Case Summary unequivo- did not want to interrupt a federal investi- not explicitly state that it was impermissible Columbus dropped a potential bombshell cally agreed with our assessment that we gation into Rife’s drug trafficking activities for student-athletes to sell athletic awards on July 22 when it reported Tressel told had no prior knowledge,” Schottenstein and that he respected the confidentiality or institutionally-issued apparel,” the letter university officials of his knowledge of said. “I categorically deny it. I think it’s requested at one point by Cicero. read. “Beginning in the fall of 2009, the possible violations in December during the wrong, I think it defames Ohio State However, not reporting the e-mails to (Athletic Compliance Office) enhanced its initial investigation of the players rather University and the individuals who are Smith, the athletics department compliance educational efforts in the areas of preferen- than January, as previously reported by mentioned, and I deeply regret that the office or anyone else at the school was a tial treatment and extra benefits.” the university, admitted by Tressel and story has come out because I just do not violation of his contract and NCAA bylaw The university’s board of trustees has accepted by the NCAA. believe that it’s true.” 10.1. In Tressel’s response, it was noted the announced an inquiry into whether the That report was quickly denied by BSB staff writers Marcus Hartman and coach “acknowledged the serious mistake compliance office should be moved out of the school in a statement that read, “The Jeff Svoboda contributed to this report. he made in not reporting information con- the athletic department and into its office of cerning potential violations of NCAA legis- legal affairs. In addition, Smith has talked lation” and “should have taken the matter to about how compliance will be more active officials at Ohio State.” when it comes to monitoring the car deals Also announced July 8 was the agree- of high-profile athletes and will keep a ment between Ohio State and Tressel that closer eye on the pass lists for games, both turned the 58-year-old’s resignation into a of which were questioned in media reports retirement. The university noted the agree- in June. ment resolved any issues arising out of “Consistent with the direction set by his employment with the school, and it our board of trustees, we are taking a very removed the $250,000 fine Tressel was fac- hard look on our own at all aspects of our ing before his resignation. athletic programs to identify and implement improvements designed to ensure that we Changes On The Way uphold the highest ideals of honor and In addition to the self-sanctions integrity,” Smith said.
www.BuckeyeSports.com August 2011 BUCKEYE SPORTS BULLETIN • 11 Originally Published: August 2011
CCOVEROVER STORYSTORY Fickell Hits Ground Running After Tressel’s Departure
Continued From Page 1 best, and that’s compete and obviously learn along the way. It has been exciting and chal- Soon after Tressel’s departure, quarter- lenging, but I think that’s what you get into back Terrelle Pryor – one of the players this field for.” named in the original scandal that included Fickell said he has talked to numerous selling OSU memorabilia and receiving dis- people and coaches for advice since taking counted tattoos – left amid further NCAA over and the overwhelming sentiment has investigations and a media frenzy that threat- been simple – be yourself. ened to swallow the entire program. Through the practices open to media, Once everything subsided, Fickell was that’s exactly what Fickell has done. A left overseeing a program without its beloved noticeable increase in practice intensity was head coach and its face-of-the-program quar- observed from the opening day of train- terback as well as the prospect of beginning ing camp. Team meetings have been made the season with three other offensive stars shorter with more teaching done visually suspended for five games because of the and on the field. scandal. The kick scrimmage, which was staged On top of it all, the new head coach must once each spring and fall under Tressel, deal with the uncertainty that he might was reduced in scope while more emphasis not get more than one year at the helm. was placed on pressure-packed live reps. Though Fickell’s interim tag officially has The traditional scoring system for the jersey been removed by the university, the school scrimmage, the all-important live battle each still plans to conduct a full coaching search camp between the offense and defense that at the end of the season and there is no guar- determines who gets to wear the coveted antee he will receive the job. scarlet jerseys all season, was done away The task might have seemed overwhelm- with for a grading system based on turn- MATTHEW HAGER ing at first, but Fickell said that has actually overs and toughness. OFF ON RIGHT FOOT – New Ohio State head football coach Luke Fickell has helped him get to work. Fickell has been more open to talking received good reviews from his players and assistant coaches. “Everything happened pretty fast,” he to the media than Tressel, at the same time said. “The greatest thing I guess I could say remaining loath to talk about individual play- together and the team’s together. I think from position coach to head man. Instead is I had no time to sit and think. I had no time ers or any distractions the team might be he’s done a good job of keeping everything of being in charge of putting a small group to feel sorry of any sort, to have a whole lot of facing. A new team slogan appearing on solid and together in there. I think the play- of players through the paces of a two-hour emotion. The situation arose and obviously I shirts and promotional items – “The Men of ers really respect him and he’s a players’ workout, Fickell has had to come up with an had to stand up. Action” – comes from an inspirational book coach.” overall organizational plan for the entire 104 “I think that’s what’s been best for me Tressel had the team read during the spring Junior Storm Klein, who spent the past players in camp. – not to have the ability to sit down and think at Fickell’s urging. two seasons under Fickell’s tutelage of the According to Mark Dantonio, Ohio State’s about the situation that’s ahead but hit the “He’s doing a great job,” Heacock said. linebackers, confirmed that fact. defensive coordinator from 2001-03 who is ground running, do what I know how to do “I know all of the assistants and everybody’s “He’s the right guy for the job, so we’re now the coach at Michigan State, that’s ready to go,” Klein said. “He’ll do anything to one of the biggest adjustments a coach can win and he’s always calm, cool and collected. make. He’s a great coach and an intense guy. He’s a “The initial thing I had to learn was that fireball, man, but he’s got us going.” I was no longer a defensive coordinator,” Fickell has admitted it hasn’t been the Dantonio said. “I have to be responsible for easiest transition when it comes to moving every aspect of the football program from
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12 • BUCKEYE SPORTS BULLETIN August 2011 www.BuckeyeSports.com Originally Published: August 2011
CCOVEROVER STORYSTORY what kind of socks we’re wearing to meeting “It’s not all about us,” Brewster said. “I “If someone trained harder than us this and talented roster will allow it to contend with the alumni. I always felt like I had a to- think the big thing is we want to help the pro- summer I’d like to meet them because I again. do list when I come in and I still do. These gram move forward and leave it better than don’t think that would be possible.” “As a team, we know how we can play,” are the things I want to get done today. we found it. It’s going to be a struggle but we Fickell likes that his charges are so fired junior tight end Jake Stoneburner said. “We “The problem is I’m on 15 other peoples’ feel like a good season can really do that. It’s up, but the man of action himself was also feel we’re going to be one of the best teams. to-do lists, so you get sidetracked. You get going to be a beautiful challenge” sure to point out that talk doesn’t always The voters might not agree with that, but I pulled out of a defensive meeting and you’re Brewster’s words were emblematic of a amount to much. This edition of the Ohio guess we’re just going to have to prove them asked to make decisions on discipline. The determination to overcome the scandal and State football team will have to prove itself wrong. buck stops with you, so you have a much the media firestorm that seemed to envelop on the field to its coach. “That’s kind of our mind-set during camp bigger scope of things you have to deal the team early in the summer. “Come Sept. 3, we want to see what they – ‘It’s just us.’ We’re the only people who with.” For those seniors who were part of the can really do,” Fickell said. “Can you say believe how good we’re going to be, so we’re Getting used to those decisions was going scandal – running back Dan “Boom” Herron, they’re hungry, can you say they’re inspired? just going to have to show people.” to take time, but Fickell was doing his best receiver DeVier Posey, tackle Mike Adams Yes. But when another adversity hits, that’s Even Fickell, who has done his best to to stay in the moment. However, there have and defensive end Solomon Thomas – they when you see what your team is really made make it clear he and his team should think finally been moments in which he realized had to listen to claims that their actions of. I feel good about where they are. I feel little of any opinions coming from outside the the scope of the situation as well. One of helped to bring down a proud regime. good about where their minds are, where Woody Hayes Athletic Center and the Hyatt those came Aug. 20 when he oversaw the Others who had no role in the situa- their effort and energy levels are, but we’re Place hotel the team has stayed in during team’s jersey scrimmage in Ohio Stadium. tion watched as the program was dragged not crowning anything until we actually see camp, admitted the lack of national respect “It’s a little bit real now,” Fickell said. through the mud nationally, often by accusa- it.” can be used to the team’s advantage. “I’ve had a couple of months here to think tions that were proved to be baseless. It’s fair Still, that’s not going to stop Brewster “You can ask me a million times – I’d about it and to see it, but it was a big day for to say it did not sit well. from being full of his trademark confidence. much rather be criticized than be praised,” me. I think the first time being in the ’Shoe “This is a big year for us,” Moeller said. “I feel like we can do something pretty he said. “I don’t handle praise very well. and actually coaching in a little bit of a dif- “This is going to define us for a couple of special this year by overcoming what’s hap- I don’t like it. I would rather have people ferent light, that was maybe one of the first years to come. We have a little more fire pened,” he said. “It’s going to be a really nice saying negative things and doubting you real times that I’ve kind of looked around under ourselves and – I don’t want to say opportunity. Maybe this will be a really nice because I think that’s a motivation.” and it made me realize the situation for a pressure – but we’re kind of pissed off. We way to send us out.” But the fact of the matter is Ohio State split-second.” want to make a statement out there this is Ohio State. Even if the national poll vot- year.” Feeling Disrespected ers aren’t expecting as much, the fan base ‘A Beautiful Challenge’ To accomplish that, the team put in some After a run of six straight Big Ten cham- from Ashtabula to Athens and Toledo to Fickell will not be alone as he tries to of its hardest work during the offseason. pionships – the last of which was vacated by Thornville wants big things, first-year coach deliver a successful season in the wake of Most admitted the summer months included the school – the Buckeyes face the odd situa- or not. controversy. more work than any they have seen since tion of entering the season as neither league Fickell – born and bred in Columbus and Ohio State boasts a senior class of lead- arriving at Ohio State and the uncertainty favorites nor national title contenders. a part of the Buckeye program for almost ers of varying scope. Some, such as center around the program served as an inspira- The Associated Press has the Buckeyes half of his 38 years – has made it clear he Michael Brewster, are going into the fourth tion. ranked 18th in its preseason poll, the team’s expects nothing less. year of starting. Others, such as quarterback “We’ve really rallied around each other, lowest opening rank since beginning 2001 “I think this team has a chance,” he said. Joe Bauserman, are moving into major roles kind of used it as fuel to the fire.” Brewster at No. 22. “We have a lot of things to prove, though. for the first time. Still others are somewhere said. “I feel like people think we feel sorry Appropriately, that was the last time OSU We’ll let our actions speak for us. That in between, but all want to put the football for ourselves or that we’re in confusion or went into a campaign with a new face calling doesn’t mean we change what our expecta- program back in a positive light. don’t know what to do, but if anything we the shots on the sideline. But while that team tions are. Again, we feel like they’ll live up The No. 1 way to do that, they say, is to know exactly what to do. We had a great was still pulling itself out of a two-year slide, to what we expect of them. Now they have win. summer. this one believes its championship pedigree to do it.”
www.BuckeyeSports.com August 2011 BUCKEYE SPORTS BULLETIN • 13 Originally Published: August 2011
FFOOTBALLOOTBALL PREVIEW:PREVIEW: DDEFENSIVEEFENSIVE OVERVIEWOVERVIEW Heacock Is Looking For Leaders On Defense them was a little different but they were a returning starters to take charge. That group takes to get the job done and make our goals By MARCUS HARTMAN neat group. I really enjoyed coaching those includes two seniors – linebacker Andrew for the end of the season.” Buckeye Sports Bulletin Staff Writer guys.” Sweat and Leo end Nathan Williams – and Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Chekwa, Heyward, Hines, Homan and a pair of juniors in lineman John Simon and Strong Up Front, Fresh In Back Heacock thinks about more than numbers Rolle were each drafted by NFL teams in safety Orhian Johnson. How the base defense winds up work- when he looks at replacing seven starters April while Larimore and Torrence joined “You would assume it would be the guys ing depends on how the staff utilizes some from a 2010 unit that finished in the top them in fighting for jobs during training who have played quite a bit,” Heacock said unique talents it finds at its disposal. eight in the nation in six major statistical camp after signing free-agent deals. But tal- when asked which players will play leader- The staff would like to see the 270-pound categories. ent is not usually an issue when it comes to ship roles. “Sweat is a natural. Unfortunately Simon evolve into a versatile end with the Heacock is not so much concerned with molding effective defenses at Ohio State. he is a guy who hasn’t talked a lot so it’s a speed to beat tackles on the outside as a pass the 396 tackles, 43 tackles for loss and 17½ “If we do a good job recruiting, you’re little different for him, but he’s going to have rusher and the strength to hold the point of sacks that went out the door after a Sugar going to have players, but it’s a matter of get- to step up. Nate Williams has been around attack against the run. Bowl victory in January. ting some leadership,” Heacock said. “That’s long enough that he’s got to step up. John They hope Hankins, a 335-pound dancing The coach’s No. 1 worry heading into going to be crucial this year. You don’t have Simon is a young guy who seems to enjoy bear, can wreak similar havoc inside, and this season is finding players who will lead Cam out there to get them in the huddle the leadership role. He might be a natural they want both players to be able to switch the defensive unit as linemen Cameron and say, ‘Let’s go.’ Jermale was always a leader for you. roles from snap to snap if necessary. Heyward and Dexter Larimore, linebackers guy who stepped forward when it got tough. “To be honest with you, I really don’t If those two can do that, Goebel will be Brian Rolle and Ross Homan, cornerbacks Brian Rolle was Brian Rolle. Homan never know yet. That’s what we’re waiting to see. I asked to tie up blockers inside to give Klein Chimdi Chekwa and Devon Torrence and said much, but if he did, they’d listen. We’re hope it hurries.” and Sweat room to operate at the second safety Jermale Hines did last year when going to need somebody to step up and take None of the returning starters was sur- level. the Buckeyes led the Big Ten in rushing over those roles.” prised to hear such expectations from their The third member of the linebacker corps defense, passing defense, turnover margin, On the bright side, the new lineup figures coach. is supposed to be Sabino, a junior who sat total defense and scoring defense. to have a fair amount of age considering how They are just as eager to prove to him out last season to further develop his skills So while fans were penciling in another many new starters it will contain. they can lead as they are to show the outside and knowledge of the game. He suffered top-notch unit, Heacock was sweating more Only two projected new starters – sopho- world that despite the NCAA problems that a setback when he broke a bone in his left than just the late-summer central Ohio heat more defensive lineman Johnathan Hankins plagued the program throughout the offsea- hand Aug. 20 but he is expected to be ready as the Buckeyes went through preseason and redshirt freshman cornerback Bradley son, they are still able to play at the same to go for the season opener. camp. Roby – have less than three seasons of expe- high level fans have grown accustomed to “He didn’t play last year because of the “We’ve got a little more work to do than rience in the program. Safety C.J. Barnett is over the past six years. redshirt, and anytime you sit out a year like we usually do,” he said Aug. 21 during Ohio a third-year sophomore, linebacker Storm “Every year a senior leaves you ask the that you put your career on hold for a while,” State’s annual Photo Day. “We lost seven Klein is a true junior and cornerback Travis juniors to step it up, so it’s expected that a Heacock said. “He’s getting back into it and guys and they were a unique group from the Howard, defensive lineman Garrett Goebel coach would come up to me and ask me to he’s been playing pretty well. He’s got to con- standpoint of the character of them. If you and linebacker Etienne Sabino are all fourth- step up,” Williams said. “I think everyone tinue to improve for us to be really good.” take those seven guys out of there that’s a year juniors. has a little more weight on their shoulders Heacock was eager to see Klein start to little bit of personality (drain). Each one of Of course, Heacock is looking for his to get the job done this year. Everyone needs accumulate snaps as well after the former to cut loose when they’re out there and know four-star recruit missed much of last season that if they do that then we’ll do whatever it and spring practice with injuries. Reds Fans! Follow The Reds Year-Round In Reds Report Reds Report is must reading for every Reds fan. Each information-filled issue includes player features; historical arti- MILWAUKEE BREWE GREAT AMERICA RS at CINCINNATI REDS N BALL PARK • CINCINNA MILWAUKEE BREWERS TI, OH • MARCH 31, 2011 ORIGINAL POS. CHANGE CINCINNATI REDS cles; extensive minor league coverage ORIGINAL POS. 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20 • BUCKEYE SPORTS BULLETIN August 2011 www.BuckeyeSports.com Originally Published: August 2011
FFOOTBALLOOTBALL PREVIEW:PREVIEW: DDEFENSIVEEFENSIVE OVERVIEWOVERVIEW to make sure he continues to play low and Johnson has the size and speed to cover a becomes a student of the game.” lot of ground, but he admitted he wants to be The rest of the secondary is relatively more of a playmaker this season. new but promising. “I definitely want to feel more comfortable Howard has been waiting in the wings for coming into the box, work more on my ball three years for his time to be a starter, and skills, understand routes and understand the that is at hand. game a lot more,” he said. His fellow 2008 signees pegged him a Safety also looks deep with Bryant and sleeper of the nation’s fourth-ranked recruit- sophomore Corey Brown having worked ing class, but the Miami Dr. Krop product their way up to the second team after a fierce was unable to prove them right his first two battle with junior Zach Domicone and sopho- seasons in Columbus as he battled nagging more Jamie Wood. shoulder injuries. “I feel like with this defense the coaches With those finally behind him last season, are going to put the best 11 on the field,” Howard eventually worked his way into a Johnson said. “Those guys have all been regular role as the team’s third cornerback. working hard, and the safety room is proba- His impact included an interception return bly the best it’s been since I’ve been in there for a touchdown against Penn State and a as a whole just because of the fact we’re a pick that short-circuited a Michigan posses- smarter group this year. We actually under- sion while the game was still in doubt. stand the defense, understand the game, and Howard is confident in himself and his I feel like the sky is the limit for us.” fellow new starter, Roby, who was one of JOSH WINSLOW the preseason surprises as he used his Expect Competition ONE MORE TIME – Senior Tyler Moeller (26), seen here with mother Amy long arms and nose for the ball to beat out While there were spirited battles through- (right), is back for a sixth season and will again man Ohio State’s Star position, Dominic Clarke for the starting role. out camp, Haynes said they might not be better known as the nickel back. “I always tell people that Ohio State over before the team opens the season Sept. “So many of these guys just need reps,” defensive coordinator Paul Haynes said. recruits the best athletes in the country,” 3 at home against Akron. Heacock said. “That’s the thing in a lot of “He’s going to fly around and give 110 per- Howard said. “When someone leaves or “We evaluate it every single day,” he said. cases where we are lacking. Storm was hurt cent. He’s going to give great effort and I someone goes down, we have guys to step “The film doesn’t lie. We keep evaluating it. all last year and then he didn’t play much in think the whole team thrives from that, not up. I feel like this defense is great. We’ve got The competition is the best thing to me. It the spring. This is as many reps as he has just the defense. He’s going to give you what good chemistry. We play together. We’ve makes both of those guys, whatever spot had since he’s been here, so we have to have he’s got and that’s what he’s been doing.” been here for a while and we’ve seen the they’re in, better because they know the a good week and hopefully get those guys The coach confirmed Moeller is the type guys who did it before us. We take after what guys behind them can play. polished up in their roles. We’re still a ways of player the defense could be built around. they did. We’re going to carry on the legacy “It could be a week-to-week thing as to away from where we need to be.” “But that’s what we stress from every- here and the tradition at Ohio State.” who performs the best. The bottom line is Sweat looks primed for a huge year back one,” Haynes said. “I think it’s natural to At safety, Barnett stepped into the starting production. We’ve got to get production from at his more natural position of weakside him to give 110 percent, and we need him to lineup on the first day of camp and showed no those guys.” (Will) linebacker after he was a starter at the make sure that wears off on everybody else. ill effects of a knee injury that wiped out the While expectations are high within the strongside (Sam) spot Sabino is expected to Tyler just being out there giving that effort last 11 games of the 2010 regular season for Ohio State fan base for its defense to be fill this season. will do that.” him. A heady player with good instincts, he dominant again, the players feel like they “I think the coaches implement a great Now the coaches just have to worry about was throwing his 190 pounds at ball carriers are being short-changed by the outside scheme,” Sweat said after the defense stuffed how to keep Moeller healthy after he missed and wide receivers even before the practices world. most of the offense’s attempts to run the ball more than half of last season with a torn pec- had officially become full-go in August. “You get that from all the stuff that in the annual fall camp jersey scrimmage. toral muscle, although their second option at Next to him on the last line of defense, goes on, but we don’t even pay attention,” “We play downhill. There were a couple the Star position is not too shabby. Johnson turned in a positive offseason after Williams said. “Everyone who pays attention of runs that squirted out, but we played a That would be sophomore Christian looking shaky at times when he took over to it are haters. We look to do our thing. It’s couple of different shifts with the D-line and Bryant, who is also a backup safety. after Barnett went down last season. a year-in and year-out tradition here at Ohio it just squirted through.” The 5-9 dynamo from Cleveland Glenville “Definitely there were ups and downs State to win games, and that’s what we’re He gave credit to new linebackers coach has an aggressive approach and finds his since it was my first time getting a chance to going to do. Mike Vrabel for helping his group grow. way to the ball with great frequency. start a couple of games and getting out there “Last year we lost one, which was unfor- “Coach Vrabel is doing a great job coach- “When I talk about Christian I talk about on the field for an extended period of time,” tunate, but this year we’re going to look to ing the linebackers,” Sweat said. “We’ve a football player,” Haynes said. “I think he’s Johnson said of last season. “It was a learn- improve that record and the only way to learned a lot from him, and the D-line is eat- just a raw, instinctive football player, kind ing experience. I tried to grow from each and improve it is to go undefeated. We’re just ing up blocks so we can flow.” of like Jermale. He has a knack for the ball, every one, be it positive or negative, and just going to win games and try to come out and Overall, Williams has liked what he has has a knack to get to the ball. We’ve just got try to fix the negatives.” knock someone’s head off as best we can.” seen from the entire front seven. “We’ve improved over the last two weeks and done a great job of staying healthy on the front line,” he said Aug. 21. “The injury to Etienne is unfortunate, but I think he’s going to be able to play through it. “I think the maturation is important since we lost seven starters and being that every- one says we’re not going to do this and that. We’ll see when everyone puts the pads and helmets on and it’s game day, we’ll see what everyone says after they see us play.”
Nicked Up? Try The Nickel Of course, calling the Buckeyes’ base defense a 4-3 alignment has bordered on incorrect in the past few years, and that could be the case again this year. Although the number of teams running full-out spread offenses on the schedule has declined, the best alignment Ohio State can put together this season likely includes Tyler Moeller, the sixth-year senior who is slated to play the nickel back position, also known as the Star. Pound-for-pound, the 6-0, 210-pound Moeller is one of the best players on the team. He possesses an uncanny knack for making plays and a motor that runs wide open at all times. “Tyler is Tyler,” safeties coach and co- www.BuckeyeSports.com August 2011 BUCKEYE SPORTS BULLETIN • 21 Originally Published: August 2011
FFOOTBALLOOTBALL PREVIEW:PREVIEW: OOFFENSIVEFFENSIVE OVERVIEWOVERVIEW Offense Has High Hopes Despite Changes Siciliano and tight ends coach John Peterson quarterback in college, Fickell comes to the By JEFF SVOBODA with the play-calling, the Buckeyes placed Buckeye Sports Bulletin Staff Writer remain the core of an offensive staff that has top job after playing on the defensive line 11th in the country in scoring offense (38.8 worked together for several years. and then coaching linebackers for seven points) and 20th in yardage gained (448.6 Jim Bollman sure has seen a lot hap- “It’s pretty much the same offense,” years at his alma mater. per game). pen in his place of work over the past few Stoneburner said. “Coach Bolls and Coach As a result, the new boss is more willing Many would have thought expecting months. Sis, they all came down from Coach Tressel. to stay out of the way and let his assistants such numbers again coming into camp First, the Ohio State offensive coordi- They’re just basing it basically on what they on that side of the football do what they do would have been absurd, but there have nator lost longtime wide receivers coach learned from him, I would say. I can’t really – until solicited. been good early returns – the best of which Darrell Hazell, a highly respected teacher tell a difference at all. Running the ball, it’s “I have the utmost confidence in Coach has been a happy Bollman. in his field who had also reportedly taken the same plays. Passing, it’s the same way.” Bollman and what they do on that side of the “I think he is (pleased) just because we a more active role in game-planning and That means a fair share of under center football,” Fickell said. “It’s kind of a different have progressed a lot more than we normally play-calling over the past few seasons, to and I-formation football mixed with shotgun perspective. We sat there (Aug. 20 and 21) have during camp,” Boren said. “In the past Kent State as the Golden Flashes’ new head snaps and some designed quarterback runs. talking about things and he said, ‘Hey, I just everyone has seen it take a couple of games coach. Ohio State also hasn’t been shy to use two like to hear what you have to say from a to finally get everything going, but this year Then head coach Jim Tressel, an offen- tight ends in a formation during camp, but defensive perspective – how we’re attacking through camp right now we’re all jelling and sive coach by trade who readily admitted he often one of those – especially Stoneburner you and what you guys are doing.’ that’s something that I haven’t seen since spent most of his X’s and O’s time working – has been split into the slot. The running “But to be honest with you, I’m not wor- I’ve been here. That’s nice to see.” with the offense, retired May 30 after his backs have also shown an ability to catch the ried about that.” part in covering up NCAA violations went ball, and junior Jordan Hall should see time The one thing Fickell’s hiring – as well as Personnel Report public. this fall as both a back and a slot receiver. the addition of the energetic Stan Drayton as While it’s not hard to think about what A few days later, Bollman watched explo- All are tweaks Ohio State has fiddled Hazell’s replacement – has brought to the (or whom) Ohio State will be missing – espe- sive quarterback and three-year starter with in the past, but tweaks seem to be offense is a sense of urgency. cially in the first five games – Bollman would Terrelle Pryor exit the program, a big blow about as far as OSU will go when it comes to “Everyone is running around a lot more,” rather think of what the team has back. considering Pryor’s elusiveness had helped editing the offensive plans. Stoneburner said junior fullback Zach Boren said. “Coach “(Quarterback is) a new position and overshadow breakdowns at other spots and he sees no reason for major changes. Fickell, he’s an energetic guy. He brings wide receiver is a new position,” he said. spearheaded the 2010 offense, one of the “It won us so many games over the something to the team that we haven’t “Other than that, there are a lot of veterans. most dangerous attacks Bollman has had years – the Rose Bowl, Sugar Bowl, we beat really had. When there was an interception There are a lot of veterans at running back. during his decade-long tenure. Michigan all those years with that same today, the whole offense was running after They are newer but they’ve been in there Add in five-game suspensions to three offense,” Stoneburner said. “I don’t see why the guy with the ball. We haven’t had that some. There’s a lot of experience at tight other important offensive starters – two of it would change too much. Maybe little before. It was kind of nice being able to see end and there’s a lot of experience in the whom in running back Dan “Boom” Herron things but nothing too great that people are that, and we get that attitude instilled in the offensive line. and left tackle Mike Adams were first-team like, ‘Wow, it’s really a different scheme they offense.” “It’s not all that young, but the quarter- All-Big Ten choices last season – and it would have out there.’ ” Of course, the good vibes will disappear back and receivers are guys that have to be easy to see why Bollman would finally be It helps that Bollman has been given a quickly if the Buckeyes don’t put up num- continue to develop and are working pretty as cantankerous as his mustachioed visage vote of confidence from new head coach bers close to those of 2010. Last year with hard and doing a pretty good job I think.” and occasional scowl suggest. Luke Fickell. Unlike Tressel, who was a Pryor at the controls and Tressel helping It’s no coincidence the experience Yet when approached during Ohio State’s Bollman mentioned is especially deep in Photo Day on Aug. 21 to discuss the upcom- the running game. A year after rushing for ing season, Bollman was all smiles. Could it 220.1 yards per game, good for 14th in the be because he thinks he’s got some pretty country, Ohio State has a cast of characters good pieces in place for the 2011 season? who should help the team move the ball on “Exactly,” he said with a chuckle. “I feel the ground with some proficiency. great about the guys.” That starts with the guys toting the Ohio State fans might be worried about rock. the offense in 2011 but it’s plain to see that Hall is the most veteran of the group that Bollman doesn’t share such an outlook. will be available for the opener, and he has Where others see holes that need to be shown quickness, elusiveness and the abil- filled, Bollman sees opportunities – and play- ity to wriggle free from tight situations while ers racing to fill them. rushing 85 times over the past two seasons His faith was rewarded Aug. 20 at the for 409 yards and three touchdowns. He also team’s jersey scrimmage. Though Ohio State worked as a kick returner a season ago. offered no official score, the offense held on Sophomore Jaamal Berry has many of to the scarlet practice shirts after scoring the same skills – including nice quickness three touchdowns and committing only one and moves – but has more of an ability to turnover against the vaunted “Silver Bullets” break off long runs as evidenced by his 8.3- on the other side of the ball. yards-per-carry average a season ago. “I feel pretty good right now,” Bollman Then there are Carlos Hyde and Rod said after the scrimmage. “Not that we’re Smith, two bigger backs who can carry the where we want to be. I don’t mean that. But mail when a sledgehammer is needed. Hyde, I think the guys, their focus, their determi- a sophomore, checks in at 238 pounds but nation, their work ethic, their toughness, I still has quick feet and got some experience think all those things are headed in the right a year ago, while Smith (6-3, 230) appears to direction. be the total package and drew rave reviews “Is the job done? No. Am I optimistic? a season ago while taking a redshirt. Yes.” Herron should provide a boost upon He was joined in that feeling by Ohio his return Oct. 8 vs. Nebraska. The senior State’s offensive players, who to a man topped the 100-yard barrier three times in said the unit had been clicking under quar- the last four regular-season games, scored a terbacks Joe Bauserman, Braxton Miller, touchdown in each of OSU’s last 12 games Kenny Guiton and Taylor Graham. last year and has been the most vocal of “Really, the whole camp on offense, we leaders during fall camp. feel like we’ve been moving the ball pretty “All of them have impressed me,” Boren well,” junior tight end Jake Stoneburner said. “They’ve all been competing well and said. “(We’ve been) finding our reads, run- competing hard, and it’ll be fun to see what ning the ball well, blocking well, protecting they can do this year.” when Joe or Braxton needs to pass it.” The guys blocking aren’t too shabby Perhaps one reason for the preseason either. Michael Brewster returns for his success is the fact that, despite all of the senior season at center after earning All- turnover, not much has changed. Ohio State America honors in 2010, while right tackle is using the same playbook it was under FILE PHOTO J.B Shugarts is also a senior with plenty Tressel while Bollman, running backs coach FEELING GOOD – Despite an offseason full of change, Ohio State offensive of experience. Adams will be missed early Dick Tressel, quarterbacks coach Nick coordinator Jim Bollman is confident his offense will perform well in 2011. but his replacement, sophomore Andrew 28 • BUCKEYE SPORTS BULLETIN August 2011 www.BuckeyeSports.com Originally Published: August 2011
FFOOTBALLOOTBALL PREVIEW:PREVIEW: OOFFENSIVEFFENSIVE OVERVIEWOVERVIEW Norwell, was a five-star prospect coming out “I’ll be honest with you,” Fickell said of ning back/receiver roles while coaching at of high school and has impressed. the position. “I’ve loved what I’ve seen.” Florida. Meanwhile, the two sophomores pen- Those players should be helped out by Of course, much will rest on just how ciled in to start at guard – Jack Mewhort on a competent group of backs and tight ends the quarterbacks adapt to the spotlight. As the left side and Marcus Hall on the right who can catch the football. Ohio State fans camp was winding down, Bauserman and – were highly rated four-star talents coming often wondered during Tressel’s tenure Miller appeared to be moving ahead of out of high school who have waited their when those players would become a major Guiton and Graham. turns. part of the passing game, and 2010 was the Bauserman, a fifth-year senior, brought Ohio State also boasts a dominating edge year with backs and tight ends grabbing 96 experience to the table and has had his best blocker in junior tight end Reid Fragel and passes – an average of 7.4 per game – for 924 camp, while true freshman Miller is burst- one of the best fullbacks in the country in yards and 10 scores. ing with talent both in his arm and legs and Boren. Many of those weapons return again, has shown rapid progress in directing the “I think it’s something that we’ll have to starting at tight end. Stoneburner snagged offense since arriving in January. rely upon and make sure that we make good 21 passes for 222 yards and two scores a Those two quarterbacks took the lion’s use of,” Bollman said of the running game. year ago despite fighting off an early ankle share of the snaps during the team’s Aug. “We have good running backs. We’ll have injury, and the team has used 20 jersey scrimmage, splitting a pretty good offensive line. We have good him in the slot during spring and time with the No. 1 offense tight ends. We have a really good fullback. fall to create mismatches against and combining for three We have some things you need to have a opposing defenses. touchdown passes – two by really good running game, so we want to Meanwhile, Fragel has Miller and one by Bauserman make sure we work hard enough to get that shown he can catch just about – and a lone interception by where we want it.” as well as he can block. At 6-8 Bauserman. As for the passing game, there’s no and 280 pounds, Fragel is an Afterward, Fickell was doubt there is a lot to replace. Pryor spent imposing target going down the impressed with what he saw as three years under center and tied the school middle and in the red zone. True the unit went live against the record for touchdown passes in a career, freshmen Jeff Heuerman and defense. while the team’s leading receiver, Dane Nick Vannett also have shown “They looked like they were JOSH WINSLOW Sanzenbacher, has moved on to the NFL they can be dangerous and sure- in control,” the OSU head coach Reid Fragel SOLID TARGET – Junior tight end Jake after graduation. handed receivers. said. “I didn’t see any horrible Stoneburner (11) caught 21 passes Add in the loss of senior DeVier Posey Though OSU suffered the graduation decisions as far as guys being covered and for 222 yards and two touchdowns for five games because of suspension and it loss of Brandon Saine, who had 23 grabs throwing it right to the defense, and that’s in 2010 and could be a bigger part of seems like a large hill to climb, but Bollman for 195 yards and five touchdowns last year, probably one of the biggest things – to go the offense this fall. said he’s been happy with the early returns. there are some pass catchers remaining in live, to throw that upon them, to know that That’s especially true at wide receiver, the backfield. Herron snagged 19 balls a they’re not protected with a black jersey divulged by the coaching staff, Bollman did where the offensive coordinator said the year ago for 180 yards while Boren had 10 on. say he expects at least two to see time when team could be deeper than it has been in catches for 68 yards, and Hall could be the “Do we really want to hit them? No, but the season begins. years. Sophomores Corey “Philly” Brown next coming of Saine. we do want to give them a mental test to “I think based on what we’ve done in and Chris Fields as well as redshirt fresh- “If he continues at the rate that he’s see how they would handle it. That was the the past, we have to have two quarterbacks man Verlon Reed all have stepped up, while going right now, I believe that he can biggest thing. I think I was impressed with ready, especially early in the year,” he said. Posey – who has 124 career catches – looked be one of the most versatile players in what I saw.” “We’ve always played a couple of guys so I almost impossible to cover during the spring college football,” said Drayton, who put Though any concrete plans on how the think right now we would follow suit in that and should add a boost at the midway point. Percy Harvin and Jeff Demps in similar run- quarterbacks would be used had not been direction.”
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www.BuckeyeSports.com August 2011 BUCKEYE SPORTS BULLETIN • 29 Originally Published: August 2011
FOOTBALLFOOTBALL PREVIEW:PREVIEW: QQUARTERBACKSUARTERBACKS Battle To Replace Pryor Comes Down To Wire media as well as the jersey scrimmage while figure out what they do well, what gives us needs,” Fickell said. “We’re going to stick By JEFF SVOBODA the opportunity to be great on the offensive with it. Whether it’s a 25- or 26-year-old guy Buckeye Sports Bulletin Staff Writer Graham and Guiton were left working with the second and third teams. side of the ball.” out there or an 18-year-old guy out there, we When Ohio State started fall camp Aug. As a result, the safe bet seemed to be that That meant different things for each play- need to do what’s best for the team.” 8, four quarterbacks were in the running for Bauserman and Miller were the two likeliest er. Bauserman has the most experience of the one spot under center against Akron in choices to take the first snap from center the group, feels he can make the throws and Senior, Frosh Move Ahead the Sept. 3 opener. Michael Brewster when the Zips come to is mobile enough to be moved around the The most tenured quarterback and By the time camp reached the pivotal town. How things would be broken up from pocket, while Graham has the best pocket the man who has taken the first rep each jersey scrimmage 12 days later in Ohio there, though, remained to be seen. presence and arm of the group. Guiton day with the first team is Bauserman, who Stadium, it appeared two men had emerged “I still see it as a competition,” Fickell said boasts mobility and is second on the team entered OSU in 2007 after a professional in the battle to replace Terrelle Pryor. Aug. 21 as the team staged its annual Photo in experience, and Miller can be electrifying baseball career before spending four years However, efforts by local media to con- Day. “I think we’re going to have a competi- but is still getting the playbook down. in the background. firm that senior Joe Bauserman and fresh- tion for a very long time. I think everybody “As things are going, what talents do Bauserman’s most extensive playing time man Braxton Miller had pulled ahead of did some good things (in the jersey scrim- those guys have?” Bollman said. “Are some with the top unit came during an ill-fated Kenny Guiton and Taylor Graham wouldn’t mage), but we have to test them in front of guys better runners than others? Do you cameo at Illinois last year. During that game, be confirmed by the OSU coaching staff. 106,000 fans. structure a quarterback running game? How which wound up as a 24-13 win for the “We have not made up our mind yet,” “I don’t know that you’ll ever truly know good are they at what different types of Buckeyes, he threw an interception in a tight first-year head coach Luke Fickell said. until they get on the field to see who really passes? Maybe they’re better at outside or game while subbing for the injured Pryor. “Obviously there is an order and you saw the takes over and see what they can really do.” inside throws or swings, etc.” Nevertheless, that seems far in the past as number of reps guys took, but to me the big- As the days counted down to the opener, Intangibles would also be important in Bauserman has turned heads for much of gest thing we want to do is challenge them.” there was likely to be even more movement sorting out the group. Siciliano pointed to fall camp. Added quarterbacks coach Nick Siciliano, on the quarterback front. A number of offen- toughness as among the key traits his quar- “I think he’s done a great job,” Fickell “I don’t know. It’s changed daily so I wouldn’t sive coaches admitted it would be prudent terbacks must have while Fickell had a few said. “His confidence level is up. He has the want to say anybody is a leader right now but to cull the field to two main options – both similar attributes in mind. ability to do a lot of different things, but I those two guys had some more of the reps of whom would need to be ready, offensive “To me, it’s confidence and leadership,” think the biggest thing is his confidence. (at the scrimmage). It doesn’t mean it’s coordinator Jim Bollman said. the OSU head coach said on the opening That shows in the huddle as well as just going to stay that way or it’s been that way With game prep looming, there would day of fall camp. “You can lead in different emotionally. He’s been pretty solid.” every day.” be the need to install a game plan for those ways. You don’t have to be the vocal guy but Despite the trouble at Illinois – a game in What reporters could determine, how- expected to play while one or two quarter- you’ve got to have confidence. You’ve got to which he had a quarterback rating of minus- ever, appeared to be a thinning of the herd. backs would be needed on the scout team. exude confidence. Guys have to believe in 45.8 – Bauserman still had the best season of The four quarterbacks split reps – each As a result, the team was trying to figure out you, and I think that’s the thing we’re trying his career in 2010. He finished the campaign 16 working at times with the No. 1 unit – the best use for each signal caller. to develop.” for 22 (72.7 percent) with two touchdown pass- during the opening week of camp before “To me, the biggest thing right now as One thing does seem for sure. Age likely es, just that one interception and a quarterback Bauserman and Miller appeared to pull away we move forward I think is really trying to won’t be the determining factor, meaning rating of 160.1. Pryor completed 65.0 percent in week two. focus in on what we think they do well,” Miller will get as much chance as anyone of his passes and his QB rating was 157.9. Those two took the bulk of the reps Fickell said. “We threw as much at them as else. Bauserman has built on that success and – including all snaps with the top offense we could right now, but I think as we go into “I think we’re comfortable with what- has had a solid fall camp that has impressed – during Aug. 16 and 18 practices open to the two weeks before a game, it’s really trying to ever this team needs, whatever this program his teammates and coaches.
JOSH WINSLOW ELDER STATESMAN – Fifth-year senior Joe Bauserman (middle, with football) was the first quarterback to take reps during preseason practices and scrimmages open to the media in August. 30 • BUCKEYE SPORTS BULLETIN August 2011 www.BuckeyeSports.com Originally Published: August 2011
FFOOTBALLOOTBALL PREVIEW:PREVIEW: QQUARTERBACKSUARTERBACKS “He has a really good arm, he has a quick release and like anyone else, the more and more work he gets, the better and better Bauserman Making Most Of Final Shot he gets,” Bollman said. “He’s working at it. He’s doing well. You can see it on film. You For four years, Joe Bauserman was year as well with a neatly trimmed beard. you just kind of know where everybody’s can see it at practice. Guys are getting balls essentially an understudy with little hope “You definitely come out here with more of going to be and it just works out a lot bet- with good accuracy and timing and all of of a promotion. an attitude.” ter.” those things we’re looking for. He’s doing a Bauserman, who arrived in Columbus The change has been one for the good. The No. 1 unit has responded under his good job.” the year the patient Todd Quarterbacks coach Nick command, starting in the summer when Bollman added that the 6-1, 230-pound Boeckman finally ascended to Siciliano said the 25-year-old senior center Michael Brewster said he senior has solid wheels, allowing him to buy the starting role, took a redshirt has had his best camp since first noticed Bauserman stepping up his time in the pocket when necessary. season in 2007 as Boeckman arriving at Ohio State and his efforts. For his career, Bauserman is 25 for 47 directed Ohio State to the preci- performance has him squarely “If anything, I’ve seen Joe working a lot (53.2 percent) for 320 yards, two touch- pice of the national champion- in the race to become the start- harder,” Brewster said as offseason work- downs and one interception. He also has 27 ship. er along with the Buckeyes’ outs drew to a close. “I’m sure it was a hard rushing yards on 20 career attempts. Then Bauserman watched newest five-star signal caller, time being behind Terrelle when you’re an “I feel like I want to be consistent,” he as Ohio State won the sweep- Braxton Miller. older guy and you know Terrelle is going said. “I feel like I can make a lot of plays, stakes to land the services of “It’s a little different when to be the starter. Joe’s really brought his make all the throws. I hope I can run the five-star wunderkind Terrelle you have a light at the end of the workouts to a new level.” offense as well as they want me to.” Pryor, who emerged as the tunnel for anybody,” Siciliano As a result, Siciliano said he has seen starting quarterback by the said. “Joe sees that light and Bauserman emerge as a leader in his final While Bauserman enters the season as Joe Bauserman the old hand at 25, Miller is nearly the polar fourth week of his college he’s preparing well. He’s been campaign. That’s a key factor on a team opposite as an 18-year-old true freshman. career and held the job for three seasons. playing well through camp. I think (he’s with three senior offensive starters sus- However, he comes with much more hype In the meantime, Bauserman earned improved in) everything. He’s increased his pended for the first five games and no one after leading Huber Heights (Ohio) Wayne a total of 47 passing attempts in the three urgency in everything he’s done. It’s really else older than a sophomore in the quarter- to the Ohio Division I title game and earning campaigns. Though it was never said, there been a good thing for the team to see Joe backs room. a five-star rating from Scout.com. was an understanding that he would see practice the way he’s been practicing.” How the rest of the competition He has impressed on big stages since the field only in the case of calamity or in Bauserman said the increased reps in with Miller falls remains to be seen, but enrolling early in January. Miller led scor- mop-up duty. practice have helped. He began camp as Bauserman said he’s having fun just being ing drives on three of four possessions in As such, one can see why Bauserman the first signal caller to get reps in each drill part of it. the annual spring game, going 7 for 12 with came to Ohio State’s 2011 camp with a new – just as he did during spring practice when “I came into camp and I wanted to do a touchdown, before tossing two scores lease on life. Pryor was out with a foot injury – and as a the best I could, put everything out there, against no interceptions in the fall jersey “It’s a different perspective when you result has seen the most work with the No. and that’s all I could do,” Bauserman said. scrimmage. come to camp and you know it’s an open 1 unit in his career. “I can’t do anything other than that, and Though Miller boasts a quiet, reserved spot and you have a chance to win it,” said “It’s great,” he said. “You get the timing whatever happens, happens.” personality, he seems to be at his best when Bauserman, who has added a new look this of the receivers, you get the feel of the line, – Jeff Svoboda the lights go on. a late offer from Ohio State in the class of The 6-2, 195-pounder got off to a solid “Kenny has shown to be a tough kid. We’re “When it’s game time with the fans out 2009. start in camp and provides another dual- right on task with where we need to be right there, be ready, it’s time to go,” he said. “I do feed off of it,” Guiton said of being threat option should the Buckeyes need now.” “There’s no holding back. You can’t be tight overlooked. “It motivates me. I know that one. One of the most popular players on the On the field, Guiton redshirted his first when it’s game time. You have to win. No if people aren’t saying your name, it’s like team, Guiton also provides leadership in the season and was the third-string quarterback holding back.” motivation because you see that you don’t huddle. in 2010 behind Pryor and Bauserman. He got There aren’t many who will question have anything to lose. They’re not expecting “He’s got great leadership, he has great into five games, completing 1 of 2 passes for Miller’s credentials coming out of high anything out of you anyway, so I just go out communication, he is very consistent in 5 yards but throwing an interception. On the school. He took over as the Warriors’ starter there and play every day.” what we’re asking him to do,” Siciliano said. ground, he ran four times for 21 yards and as a freshman, going 31-7 over four seasons scored a 15-yard touchdown late in a rout and accounting for 34 touchdowns – 17 on against Eastern Michigan. the ground, 17 through the air – as a senior Graham faces the uncertain prospect of while dealing with a leg injury. being a pocket passer in a group of play- The 6-3, 210-pounder boasts an uncanny ers who can move around the pocket when pocket sense that allows him to evade rush- things break down and also make plays on ers plus the ability to keep his eyes downfield designed quarterback runs. while scrambling. His biggest issue might be The son of former OSU quarterback Kent learning the playbook. Miller has admitted Graham, Taylor possesses a 6-4, 225-pound he’s been overwhelmed at times with the frame and is by far the least mobile of the transition and was attempting to learn four group. On the other hand, he boasts a passing plays per day in camp. strong arm, possesses a good command of “We’ve always talked about walking the the offense and has the presence one might line of how much you do,” Bollman said. expect out of a pocket passer. “How much do you throw at guys? How “If you come in and take charge, you much can they keep learning before they have my respect,” fullback Zach Boren said hit the wall and things start sliding off? He’s in July. “Taylor Graham did a little bit (in steadily grasping more, improving more. spring) just because he knows everything. Obviously when you watch him, he’s a very He was out directing people and stuff like good athlete so we’ll have to give him some that, which was a breath of fresh air, espe- chances to use his athleticism.” cially with a young guy like that.” Many people expected Miller to contend After an injury-plagued prep career, for the starting role right away, and the Graham redshirted last year while dealing quarterback himself was pleased with how with another injury, meaning the Buckeyes far he had progressed heading into the think his potential is yet untapped. homestretch of camp. “Taylor is a young guy that has great “I feel like I’m on track,” he said. “It feels leadership qualities,” Siciliano said of the like I’m learning a lot each and every day, former three-star prospect from Wheaton, and I just go in after practice to see what I did Ill. “We’re still working on some little things wrong and critique myself with the coaches with him just because he hasn’t been here as and the players.” long as he missed part of the year last year. A Pair To Spare We’re still building with Taylor but he’s still doing a great job for us.” While Miller and Bauserman have seen Ohio State also has redshirt sophomore their shares of the reps go up, Guiton and Justin Siems (6-2, 209) of Charlotte (N.C.) Graham have fallen into the background. Providence at the quarterback position. For Guiton, that’s a familiar feeling. Siems has not thrown a pass in his OSU He earned a starting role in high school career and has not been taking reps in full- only because of injury before becoming a JOSH WINSLOW team scrimmaging in practice but is a key three-year starter for Texas power Houston LOOKING AHEAD – Freshman Braxton Miller (5) worked during preseason member of the team that relays plays to the Eisenhower. Despite solid prep credentials, camp to try to impress head coach Luke Fickell (background) and win the start- field. he was set to go to Prairie View A&M before ing quarterback job. www.BuckeyeSports.com August 2011 BUCKEYE SPORTS BULLETIN • 31 Originally Published: August 2011
OOPINIONPINION Fickell Has Chance To Stake Claim To Coaching Job The dog days of summer will soon be as out of sight could mean out of mind Ryan Kerrigan. Player to watch: DE Gerald for a bowl trip if Ferentz works some of his replaced by the decision days of fall for first- and given everything that’s happened in Gooden. magic. Player to watch: DT Mike Daniels. year Ohio State head coach Luke Fickell. Columbus since spring football ended it’s all 6. Indiana – First-year coach Kevin Wilson 6. Minnesota – First-year coach Jerry Kill Nearly as much as wins and losses, just as well. is doing what he can to change the attitude in couldn’t have known what he was getting Fickell’s decision-making will go a long way If the Buckeyes can focus solely on foot- Bloomington, but it won’t be accomplished himself into, right? Why else would he take toward shaping the direction of the program ball and put the recent past in mothballs, overnight. The Hoosiers don’t have a ton of a job at one of the Big Ten’s worst outposts? and his perception among OSU fans. there’s no telling what this group can accom- talent or much depth, so it will be up to vet- There aren’t enough Big Ten-caliber players Everyone in the Buckeye Nation is an plish. I’ll go on record as saying it’s good eran players to show the way. Running back in the program, and the offensive line and armchair quarterback and knows what’s best enough to win double-digit games and con- Darius Willis and receiver Demarlo Belcher defense as a whole are among the worst in for the team, so when Fickell ultimately tend for a BCS bowl bid. The schedule isn’t are solid offensive pieces, but if the Hoosiers the country. Implementing a new offense, names his starting quarterback – and that nearly as difficult as people are making it out are to contend they must turn around a one that puts sizable demands on the quar- shouldn’t be too much longer – he’ll please to be with Wisconsin and Nebraska looking unit that allowed 34.0 points per game last terback, probably won’t help things much one faction while upsetting another. to be the only real impediments to what year. Player to watch: LB Jeff Thomas. – at least this year. Player to watch: QB Since quarterback is the highest-pro- would otherwise be a fabulous season. MarQueis Gray. file position on most teams – and more so Whether 10 or 11 wins is enough to keep Legends Division this year for the Buckeyes since incumbent Fickell as head coach remains to be seen, but 1. Nebraska – The breath of life the A Second Chance … Sort Of Terrelle Pryor is no longer around – the very that’s a decision to be made after the season Cornhuskers will give to the stodgy Big Ten In stark contrast to his time at Ohio fate of the program hinges on which young – and one that Fickell won’t be making. will be welcomed as will the fact Nebraska State, decision-making seems to be some- man Fickell chooses to lead the team. Maybe has a team that should be one of the bet- thing Terrelle Pryor is doing well now that that’s overstating it a bit, but not much. Scoping The Conference ter ones in the country under former OSU he’s on the verge of being an NFL player in The laugh content provided by the Big player Bo Pelini. There is a ton of history at Oakland. Ten’s hurriedly produced divisions continues Nebraska, but the new history begins this Since leaving the Buckeyes this summer, to be sizable but will likely dissipate once the year. Nebraska made the Big 12 title game Pryor has said and done many of the right TTHEHE FACTSFACTS MANMAN action on the field begins. last year and has the horses to do the things, and at his Aug. 19 workout he men- Be forewarned, however. This is the only same in the Big Ten this season. Potential tioned that though he wants to get a shot at MMikeike WachsmanWachsman time all year that the divisions will be referred Big Ten defensive player of the year Jared quarterback, he would be willing to switch to by their names in this column as such sil- Crick anchors a stout defensive line, and the positions if it helped his team win. He also liness is not something the Facts Man toler- offense should have just enough passing skill said he wasn’t going to appeal the misguided “The biggest thing I want to do is chal- ates. Here is one man’s view of how the Big to cause problems for opponents. Player to five-game suspension the NFL will dole out lenge them,” the new head man said after Ten race will shape up in 2011 along with a watch: QB Taylor Martinez. upon his signing with a team. the Aug. 20 jersey scrimmage. “Whether we player to watch from each team. 2. Northwestern – A lot of people think The opinions on Pryor are many, which move them from second to third (unit) or sec- Michigan State will be Nebraska’s primary was to be expected since he is the most ond to first or first to third, I want to see how Leaders Division contender for the division crown, but I like polarizing figure to come through Columbus they handle things and how they react.” 1. Ohio State – Any penalties that might the Wildcats for one reason. QB Dan Persa since Maurice Clarett. Some thought Pryor The reaction of the quarterbacks will be occur won’t affect this year’s team, which tossed 15 touchdowns and only four inter- should be made an example of since he put important, but it will be the reaction of the is still the most talented in the league. New ceptions last year (and ran for over 500 OSU in such a bad light and cost Tressel fans that will be almost as interesting to faces at quarterback and running back could yards), and he’s surrounded by experienced his job. (It doesn’t matter that Tressel is the watch. impact the early-season results, and a young skill-position players. Pat Fitzgerald was a one who cost himself his job by covering up The smart money says senior Joe bunch of receivers need to step up. But tough-as-nails linebacker when he played improprieties. That’s not something people Bauserman will be under center in the open- the defense, led by star-in-the-making John at Northwestern, so he understands what it want to hear.) er against Akron, though at some point fresh- Simon, will keep the Buckeyes in things until takes to get things done on that side of the Most Buckeye fans I heard from believe man Braxton Miller will win the job because their suspended players return. Player to ball. Player to watch: DE Vince Browne. that Pryor should have been denied entry he’s the most talented of the bunch. Miller’s watch: RB Rod Smith. 3. Michigan State – Mark Dantonio has into the NFL’s supplemental draft. head was swimming a bit early in camp, but 2. Wisconsin – It would be easy to think a talented squad at his disposal, but the I thought the whole thing was laughable. once he gets the mental part of it down he the Badgers will take a step back with the Spartans have always been a team that buck- That a kid shouldn’t have an opportunity for should be ready to go as he already has the loss of some major components. But getting led under the weight of expectations. We’ll employment in a professional league because physical tools. North Carolina State quarterback Russell see if this year is different. There are pieces some people deem him to be a “character Quarterback isn’t the only position that Wilson makes this a contending team. The in place with quarterback Kirk Cousins and concern” or because he comes off as selfish will be intently watched, though. defense might be a little soft, but the offense running back Edwin Baker, but five starters and arrogant is preposterous. I don’t recall The group that quarterback throws to will should be able to score with just about any- have to be replaced on defense, including such rogues as Lawrence Phillips or Adam also be under the microscope, more so since one. The Big Ten opener at Nebraska could all-everything linebacker Greg Jones. If MSU “Pac-Man” Jones being held out of the NFL top pass catcher DeVier Posey will be sus- determine the Badgers’ fortunes. Player to can get past tricky early-season road contests draft for the same reasons. pended for five games. That means the early watch: DE Pat Muldoon. with Notre Dame and Ohio State, they could In actuality, the NFL dragged its feet on going should feature a true collective effort. 3. Penn State – Questions abound for be set up for a nice run and make the Oct. 29 this issue when it could have correctly ruled Corey “Philly” Brown probably has the JoePa’s boys and they’re third in this divi- tilt at Nebraska for the division title. Player to Pryor eligible for the draft from the outset. most natural ability but hasn’t shown con- sion due more to the lack of strength top to watch: LB Steve Gardiner. He isn’t the one who inconvenienced the sistent hands yet. Verlon Reed has sizzled bottom in the division than to anything the 4. Michigan – New coach, new attitude, other eligible players, the league is. And in camp and has taken to receiver after tran- Nittany Lions might have. There are no real old expectations. With the Rich Rodriguez whether you like him or loathe him is irrel- sitioning from quarterback in high school. playmakers on offense, so it will be up to experiment going down as an abject failure, evant because Pryor should have the oppor- Chris Fields has been a big-play guy, and the defense to set the tone. Penn State will U-M turned to one of its own to recapture tunity to show if he can hack it in the NFL. youngsters Devin Smith and Evan Spencer know early where it stands when it welcomes the tradition. Brady Hoke has done and said The suspension is also mind-boggling. have also shown flashes. Alabama to town in the season’s second all the right things, but while talk is one You’re talking about a guy who hasn’t even While it would be nice to have a go-to guy week. Player to watch: LB Michael Mauti. thing, results are another. As long as Denard officially entered the league and already he’s from the outset, the Buckeyes might be able 4. Illinois – Sometimes you wonder if Ron Robinson is around, the Wolverines can subject to the tenets and bylaws of the Player to get by with what they have, especially if Zook has some feline in him because he’s be a handful on offense. It’s defense where Conduct Policy? hard work equals results. somehow kept himself alive for six seasons the team struggled, and that may take a bit That his suspension is five games takes Defensively, I’ll be interested to see how in Champaign despite less than stellar results of time to turn around. Still, Michigan will the cake. Ben Roethlisberger was accused of the linebacking corps shapes up. Andrew (28-45). Nate Scheelhaase is a talented yet be improved from last year – how much sexual assault and got four games. Marshawn Sweat is a burgeoning star in the mold of inconsistent leader at QB, and the offense remains to be seen. Player to watch: CB Troy Lynch missed three games in 2009 for having Ross Homan, and the unit has more than will need to run through him for the Illini Woolfolk. a concealed firearm. Shawne Merriman was enough talent to go around. to be competitive. The defense must find a 5. Iowa – This season will test the coach- sidelined four games for a steroid violation. The D-line is young but talented, and the way to make critical stops or else it could be ing mettle of Kirk Ferentz, routinely called And Pryor is getting five games for selling his secondary has a mix of familiar faces and a long season for the Illini. Player to watch: the best coach in the Big Ten. Quarterback own memorabilia and profiting a little bit from neophytes. It should add up to, at the very RB Jason Ford. James Vandenberg has shown flashes, and a system that works its hardest to make sure least, an exciting campaign and one in which 5. Purdue – Football in the state of Indiana he has solid weapons in RB Marcus Coker the workers have nothing? That’s his crime? you really may not be able to tell the players isn’t in great condition right now, and the and WR Marvin McNutt to work with. But I generally like NFL commissioner Roger without a program. (The older readers will Boilermakers are one example. Yes, inju- there isn’t a lot of depth at the skill posi- Goodell and believe that he usually has the get that reference.) ries derailed a lot of what Purdue hoped tions, so health will be a prime concern. The best interests of his league in mind. But this Ohio State isn’t getting much attention to accomplish last year, but a look at the defense will be a work in progress, though time, in casting his lot with the NCAA – an nationally, showing up in the lower reaches roster doesn’t show a ton of talent. QB is in getting LB Tyler Nielsen back after a neck organization that is at the highest level of of the preseason rankings for the first time in flux, the skill position guys are questionable injury is a positive. Iowa doesn’t get OSU dysfunction – Goodell is not only making a ages. That’s probably a good thing, though, and the defense lost pass-rushing dynamo or Wisconsin this year, so it could be in line mistake. He’s also just plain wrong.
66 • BUCKEYE SPORTS BULLETIN August 2011 www.BuckeyeSports.com Originally Published: August 2011
OOPINIONPINION No Reason Not To Expect Buckeye Success This Season I may wind up feeling like a complete fool some interesting, timely and entertaining come the end of the season, but I’m really information, I wonder why in these economi- optimistic about the 2011 Ohio State football cally challenging times someone would take team. TTHEHE VIEWVIEW FROMFROM 15TH15TH & HIGHHIGH advantage of less than half of what they pay I’m not suggesting the Buckeyes will win FFrankrank Moskowitz,Moskowitz, PublisherPublisher for. the national championship, but I certainly We had three electronic issues in August think they will contend for a spot in the first that featured a wealth of information about Big Ten championship game, and after that, and total defense. Last season, the Buckeyes Keep The Ball In His Hands fall camp including analysis of the quarter- who knows? were fifth in scoring defense and fourth in Back when Pryor was just establishing back battle, which freshmen looked good Why am I so bullish on the Buckeyes? total defense. himself as the starting quarterback at Ohio and all sorts of other things that our staff First of all, I believe all the turmoil sur- Just as I believe that you win with defense, State, there were those fans who thought that observed, not to mention the latest in football rounding the program has had a greater I also believe football remains a game that is the coaches should move him to wide receiv- recruiting. We even reprinted most of the effect on the fan base than the team itself. won in the trenches, and the Buckeyes once er. I genuinely thought those people were relevant documents from Ohio State’s meet- Throughout the spring and preseason fall again feature both depth and talent along the nuts. Why would you want a player of Pryor’s ing with the NCAA Committee on Infractions practice sessions, it’s been pretty much busi- defensive line. They may be a little thin at ability to touch the ball 10 times a game at on Aug. 12. ness as usual – except maybe the Buckeyes linebacker and are perhaps inexperienced in most when you can have him handling the Thousands of you took advantage of this have a bit of a chip on their collective shoul- the secondary, but the 2011 edition should ball on every offensive play? free service to BSB print subscribers, but der. be another in a long line of outstanding Ohio Now, as Pryor moves to the pros, the thousands of you didn’t. I would think some “We’ve really rallied around each other, State defenses. question again comes up as to whether he of you would sign up just to get me to stop kind of used it as fuel to the fire,” senior cen- While there are more questions for the can produce more from a position other than writing about this all the time. ter Michael Brewster said of the controversy. team on offense, I am not throwing in the quarterback. I still ask the question: Why not In order to start enjoying the extra 36 “I feel like people think we feel sorry for our- towel on that side of the ball, either. Pryor have the ball in his hands at all times? electronic issues, just send an e-mail to us selves or that we’re in confusion or don’t know may be gone but there is a plethora of running I’m sure NFL scouts know a lot more at [email protected] with what to do, but if anything we know exactly backs to help make up the difference regard- about this stuff than I do, but I also keep your name, address, phone number and what to do. We had a great summer. less of who the starting quarterback winds up hearing from the nation’s Monday morning preferred e-mail address and we’ll send back “If someone trained harder than us this being. And though there have been concerns quarterbacks who insist Pryor will never simple instructions on how to access this summer I’d like to meet them because I don’t about the wide receiver position, especially make it as a signal caller in the pros. Is this service. Don’t forget, our popular Football think that would be possible.” in the first five games without DeVier Posey, all part of the national pastime of Buckeye Friday electronic editions with staff predic- Additionally, no amount of controversy can the young receivers in reserve look good and bashing? tions, the latest injury reports, recruiting override the fact that Ohio State’s cupboard is hopefully will hold their own until Posey’s If you want to look at Pryor’s skills, remem- news and much, much more start Sept. 2. hardly bare. The Buckeyes have had consis- return in game six. ber a two-play sequence at Iowa last season. tently strong recruiting classes – among the The abundance of talent at tight end, Late in the game with the Buckeyes fac- Different Feel At Booster Fete best in the Big Ten – year after year. Likewise, coupled with inexperience at wide receiver, ing a third-and-10 situation, Pryor threw a I always look forward to the Buckeye the players from the other conference pro- may even lead the Buckeyes to look toward 50-yard pass to Posey – a beautiful strike as Boosters’ annual Kickoff Dinner, held this grams haven’t suddenly gotten better nor that position as a receiving option more often well as Johnny Unitas, Joe Montana or Peyton year on Aug. 23 at the Ohio Union. It’s always have the Buckeyes suddenly gotten worse. than they have since the graduation of Ben Manning could have thrown it. Unfortunately, a great and informative event and gives me a Gone, of course, is quarterback Terrelle Hartsock following the 2003 season. Posey dropped the ball. chance to catch up with old friends, some of Pryor, and that’s a huge hole to fill. Don’t If you are looking for an area of concern, Facing fourth down and with his team whom I see only once a year at this banquet. forget, however, that when Pryor arrived on it might be the offensive line where the tal- trailing the Hawkeyes, 17-13, Pryor ran 14 I was particularly eager to attend this year the Ohio State scene, most of you figured he ent is there but depth is not. If the Buckeyes yards for the first down in a way that few other because I was curious to see how the event would be off to the pros after his junior year can avoid injuries up front, especially in than the former OSU quarterback can do. The would be without Tressel. This was a venue anyway. In the end, that’s what happened the first five games when left tackle Mike Buckeyes went on to win the game, 20-17. where the former coach was at his best, dis- – just in a different way than anyone could Adams is serving his suspension, things That may be the one thing scouts should playing a sense of humor that he didn’t always have predicted. should be fine on that side of the trenches not overlook when evaluating Pryor as a quar- show in public and always demonstrating an The bigger question mark surrounds the as well. terback. He’s a winner and he wins on the big amazing knowledge of and compassion for absence of head coach Jim Tressel. No one After years of taking heat from critical fans stage. Think about how he led his Buckeyes his players that stretched all the way down to knows exactly how Tressel’s departure will for lack of imagination in play-calling – calls to victory at Wisconsin as a freshman. What the most little known walk-on. The Boosters’ affect the program. After all, he will undoubt- that were usually made by Tressel – it will be about the wins in the Rose Bowl over Oregon rank and file loved it. edly (along with Woody Hayes) go down as interesting to see what the attack looks like or against Arkansas in the Sugar Bowl? Some Fickell did just fine in his first appearance one of the greatest coaches in school history. with offensive coordinator Jim Bollman actu- players just have that knack. as head coach though he was more brief, dry Yet let’s not forget that the bulk of the ally at the controls. With all due respect to Tressel, Bollman and less interactive with the other coaches coaching staff returns with the interesting Still, a good dose of Tresselball might be and OSU quarterbacks coach Nick Siciliano, and players in attendance than his predeces- additions of Mike Vrabel and Stan Drayton. in store for the team given the strength on Pryor might not have had the best coaching sor. Also, all indications are that the procedures defense and the questions on offense. If that as far as learning his craft while at Ohio State. One of the funniest moments of the event and values put into place by Tressel continue is the case, one player who needs to step up is I’ll be eager to see if he improves with more came when Heacock was called on to discuss under new coach Luke Fickell and the other punter Ben Buchanan. experienced coaching. the OSU defense. Heacock noted the pres- assistants, many of whom – including Fickell At first glance, Buchanan’s 41.0-yard At Oakland, he will be playing under offen- ence on the staff of new linebackers coach – worked with Tressel for years. punting average last season as a sophomore sive coordinator Al Saunders, who as an Vrabel. The staff on the defensive side of the ball seemed respectable. But look closer and his assistant with the St. Louis Rams helped build “He’s lightened things up in the defensive in particular remains intact with the notable net punting average ranked just 94th in the “The Greatest Show on Turf” offense that set coaches room a little bit,” Heacock said addition of ex-Buckeye and NFL great Vrabel country. Also, of his 15 punts that landed an NFL record by racking up 442.2 yards of of Vrabel. “We laugh. He’s brought a nice taking over the linebackers from Fickell. The inside the opponent’s 20, only four were inside offense a game in 2000. Saunders also served change to our room. It’s more fun.” early returns on Vrabel as an assistant have the 10 and none was inside the 8. More impor- as an assistant in San Diego under Don “What’s that mean, ‘more fun’? ” Fickell been positive. tantly, Buchanan did not bury a kick inside Coryell, creator of the “Air Coryell” offense, asked when he took the microphone back. The major source of my optimism about the 10 in any of the final eight games of the one of the most prolific and exciting passing “Is that because I’m not in the room any- the Buckeyes is their continued strength on season – the time when contenders separate games in NFL history. more?” defense. Not only is the staff pretty much themselves from pretenders. Let’s see how Pyror looks after working a Also speaking to the group was Bollman, untouched, but there is also – as was almost For Tresselball to be effective, the punt while with Saunders. who held out hope for many fans who have always the case in the Tressel era – an abun- must be a weapon and Buchanan, while com- craved change in the OSU offensive strategy dance of talent returning on that side of the petent, was hardly a weapon last season. Keep I Remain Puzzled for years now. ball. The OSU defense is also far less affected your eye on production there. There are all sorts of things that I wonder “It comes down every season to the ques- by the early-season suspensions. Let me leave you with this thought. about. Why didn’t Tressel tell someone about tion about our tight ends being receivers,” For all the infatuation among many fans The last time a legendary Ohio State coach the e-mails from Christopher Cicero? What Bollman said. “Well, this year, they may be with offense, it is the view from this corner went down in flames was in 1978, when Hayes happened in the national championship game receivers.” that you still win with defense, something that fired his famous punch in the Gator Bowl. against Florida after the 2006 season? Why With Jake Stoneburner and Reid Fragel was proven throughout the Tressel era. Little was expected of the Buckeyes under does ESPN seem to have an agenda concern- back at the position, there would seem to be As I have pointed out many times in this new coach Earle Bruce the next season, and ing Ohio State? reason to pass to the tight end this year, but space, since Jim Heacock was elevated to all Ohio State did in 1979 was go undefeated But one of the things that really puzzles Bollman’s operative word in that statement defensive coordinator in 2005, the Buckeyes in the regular season and come within one me lately is why more of our subscribers could be “may.” have finished in the top six nationally in scor- point of defeating USC in the Rose Bowl for don’t take advantage of our extra 36 issues For information on how to join Buckeye ing defense every year, including 2007 when the national championship. of Buckeye Sports Bulletin that are free with Boosters or details of their popular road trips, Ohio State led the country in both scoring Will history repeat itself in 2011? their paid subscription? Aside from missing call (614) 326-3300. www.BuckeyeSports.com August 2011 BUCKEYE SPORTS BULLETIN • 67