The Buckeye Times

I'VE BEEN USING FACEBOOK WRONG ... UNLIKE MR. GIOVANNI STRASSINI

2013-05-23T10:15:00.000-04:00

Strassini (middle)

Wait ... instead of posting on Facebook that I am a sports columnist for The Bryan Times, I could've just easily created a persona as a former star athlete for one of the most historic college football teams in the country?

And ... and ... people would offer to have me appear at their high-class (rubber chicken) functions for photos and autograph sessions with the die hards? Wow! I have not been maximizing my Facebook experience at all.

Unlike myself, Mr. Giovanni Strassini has sure made incredibly fine use of the popular social media site. In fact, he has been made famous for his Facebook page, which portrays him as a former All-American tight end from Ohio State — who scored a touchdown in the 1976 Rose Bowl loss to UCLA.

He has the rings, the Wikipedia page, the IMDB profile, as well as fan groups lining up to have this former Buckeye great as a featured guest at Charlotte-area fan functions.

OSU football SID, Jerry Emig, issued a statement about Strassini on Monday saying he "cannot find any documentation that Giovanni Strassini was ever a member of Ohio State’s football teams."

That's because it's completely made up. It's a hoax. It's a tale of Big Foot, Chupacabra and Lennay Kekua proportions.

It's been proven that Strassini never scored a touchdown in the 1976 Rose Bowl, was never an All-American tight end, didn't play third base on the Buckeyes baseball team, and was never drafted by the Cleveland Browns — all items residing on his (made up) resume.

He is not a Buckeye football star. The guy is a fraud, a con-artist. It's what they do. They make up a persona, build support and take advantage of ignorant people.

Which takes me to the real reason I am writing this column.

It's bad enough some yahoo makes up tales of being a football star, but who are the so-called Ohio State fans who touted this guy as a legend, going as far as putting together events with this goof ball as an honored guest?

I mean, if you have to Google someone's name to find out who they are, chances are pretty solid that they're not famous All-Americans from Ohio State, just saying.

Also, how can you claim to be a "club" of Ohio State football fans (Charlotte Buckeyes) — who possesses a board of trustees, pays annual membership dues, holds events and fund raising-type functions — and then selects a fictional player as your featured guest?

Do they not have fans in Charlotte with any working knowledge of the team they all claim to worship? Shouldn't they have a database, media guide or a link to OSU's official website to fact-check the list of actual All-Americans who have sported the scarlet and gray? It isn't as if they are trying to delve into the childhood background of Barack Obama. These are easily verifiable facts.

And wouldn't the name "Giovanni Strassini" stick permanently inside the frontal lobes of your brain? I know the name sounds more like a cast member on The Sopranos than a Buckeye football legend, but come on, we remember interesting names like Butler By'not'e and Ken-yon Rambo, and they never allegedly scored a touchdown in the Rose Bowl. (Editorial note: Strassini wasn't a part of The Sopranos cast ... according to his IMDB profile.)

I must put the Charlotte Buckeyes authenticity into question when they believe a guy who claims to be an all-American tight end from the mid-1970s. Any Buckeye fan knows that Jan White is the only All-American tight end to ever play at Ohio State. Not even John Frank was named All-American. Why didn't Strassini just say he won two Heisman Trophies, as well. They probably would've believed him.

The moral of the story is, you don't need any real credentials to garner celebrity in this country any longer. All you need is to find some idiots who think Facebook is the bible and you're golden. And trust me, there are many of them out there — especially in Charlotte, North Carolina it appears.

Now, if you don't mind, I need to find the "edit profile" icon on my Facebook page.

I am now Lee Hudnell ... the sixth member of the Michigan Fab Five.

HAVE TO AGREE WITH COOPER ... ORLANDO PACE 'WAS THE BEST'

2013-05-13T10:39:00.001-04:00

Orlando Pace

Many in Buckeye Nation know my thoughts on former Ohio State head football coach John Cooper's tenure in Columbus.

I believe it's a travesty that he's a member of the College Football Hall of Fame.

Sure, I haven't agreed with just about anything he has said or the tactics he has employed in the past, but one item the coach and I are in absolute agreement on is how great we feel former Buckeyes left tackle Orlando Pace was during his career — not only in Columbus, but in the NFL, as well.

"Orlando Pace is not only the best offensive lineman I have ever coached, but he is the best I have ever seen," Cooper said Tuesday.

Pace was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame this week by the National Football Foundation (NFF), something much deserving and long overdue.

While I always say that Chris Spielman is the greatest Buckeye to ever suit up in the Scarlet and Gray, Pace was the most dominant. He truly was a man amongst boys.

Not only was he a consensus first-team All-American (and all-Big Ten) in 1995 and 1996, but he was the first player to ever win the Lombardi Award twice (1995, 1996), given to the nation's best collegiate lineman or linebacker.

He was also a finalist for the Heisman Trophy in 1996. In fact, it was another "travesty" that he didn't win it over Florida Gators quarterback Danny Wuerffel.

Although it is common for offensive linemen to disappear during games, due to the fact that we are usually watching those who have the football in their hands, you had no choice but to notice Pace's dominance on the gridiron. I mean, he created what we call the "pancake block" for crying out loud.

He was big (6-foot-7, 325 pounds), he had the speed and athleticism of an NBA forward, had Einstein-esque football IQ, and was such a nightmare to opposing defenses that Freddy Krueger would be left in envy.

He was like no lineman ever seen before ... or since.

"Every game was a highlight reel for him," Cooper said. "We ran a lot of counter sweeps and a lot of screens, and on many of those plays Orlando had to be out in front of the ball carrier. And we had some pretty good ball carriers (including Heisman Trophy winner, Eddie George)."

Pace didn't just dominate on the collegiate field, he also starred on the NFL stage.

After being selected by the St. Louis Rams with the first overall pick of the 1997 NFL Draft, Pace went on to play 12 seasons with the squad, going to the Pro Bowl seven times, named All-Pro on five different occasions, as well as being an integral part of the Rams Super Bowl winning season in 1999.

Pace was also selected to the NFL's All-Decade Team (2000s).

"I don't know how you could play the position any better than he did," Cooper said of Pace. "He was just a fantastic football player. He was the best."

Hate to say it, but I have to agree with Coop on this one ...

Pace "was the best."

BUCKEYES HAVE A LONG WAY TO GO BEFORE HEADING TO PASADENA

2013-04-18T14:10:00.002-04:00

Braxton Miller
TBT/Darla Dunkle-Hudnell

Ohio State wrapped up its spring football season over the weekend, and will now go into the next few months with some screws to tighten, bruises to mend and some seriously sky-high expectations to live up to this fall.

The Buckeyes, who are now out from under the NCAA bowl ban which prevented them from playing in the postseason — and perhaps a national title — in 2012, will surely begin the 2013 campaign as a favorite to reach the BCS Championship game on Jan. 6.

But as lofty as those expectations are for the Buckeyes going into this fall, in this writer's opinion, they are far from reserving flights to Pasadena.

Here are five issues which need to be resolved before that can hit up Priceline.com ...

1. OFFENSE NEEDS TO BE ON EVERY WEEK

— Ohio State displayed flashes of brilliance last season on offense, but there were too many slow starts to games and inconsistencies throughout the season which prevent me from believing they will be a surefire 40-points per game unit in 2013, as many are predicting.

Playmakers need to be identified ... and utilized. Sure, quarterback Braxton Miller was an ultimate "playmaker" last season, compiling a school-record 3,310 yards and 28 touchdowns. But, to go unbeaten again — win a Big Ten title game and make it to Pasadena — Miller can't shoulder the load the entire way.

Senior tailback Carlos Hyde had a breakout season in 2012 and should be one of the best runners in the country this fall. However, it's "playmakers" on the edges which will determine how potent the offensive attack will be in Columbus.

Receiver Corey "Philly" Brown emerged last season — and this spring — as a player who can make big plays, and keep defenses on honest and off Miller's back. But as Meyer stated last season, the team needs more than one or two "wow factor" guys to compete nationally.

Devin Smith, Evan Spencer, Michael Thomas and Jordan Hall — as well as incoming freshmen Jalin Marshall, Ezekiel Elliott and Dontre Wilson — have to become those "wow factor" guys.

If two or three of those players can match that status, then expectations will be met. They could win the Big Ten with Miller, Brown and Hyde alone, but a national title? Unlikely!

2. RIGHT TACKLE

— The Buckeyes return four starters on the offensive line from last season — in Jack Mewhort (LT), Andrew Norwell (LG), Corey Linsley (C) and Marcus Hall (RG) — but lose right tackle Reid Fragel, a player who was integral part of Ohio State's success in 2012.

Sophomores Chase Farris and Taylor Decker have been competing to become Fragel's replacement on the right side this spring. And thus far ... have not impressed. At all.

"I would be disappointed if we're not the best offense in the Big Ten," Buckeyes head coach Urban Meyer said, following the spring game in Cincinnati. "The one glaring weakness is that fifth player of the offensive line. We have a legitimate concern about who that player is. I feel good about four of the five starters and unless we get that fixed, there goes the best offense in the Big Ten.

"One of those young players has got to step up and they haven't this spring."

3. DEFENSIVE FRONT NEEDS TO MAKE IMPACT ... NOW

— Contrary to public opinion, I am not worried about the Buckeyes at the linebacker position. There is great competition going on there and the talent is abundant, especially with Ryan Shazier, who I believe is the top linebacker in the nation going into the 2013 season.

Where I have concerns is on the defensive front, where the Buckeyes lose all four starters to graduation, including the Big Ten's defensive player of the year, John Simon.

Now, it isn't a lack of talent that causes me concern. Sophomore ends Adolphus Washington and Noah Spence may be the most talented bookend pass rushers the Buckeyes have had in 20 years. However, they will not have the luxury of growing into the shoes of Simon and Nathan Williams. They need to lace them up and go from day one.

They need to be great NOW!

4. KICKING GAME NEEDS SHARPENED

— I know you're thinking, "What? The kicking game could keep the Buckeyes from a national title run?"

Yes, it sure can.

Senior Drew Basil had an average season in 2012 (8-11 FG), and this spring he has seemed to regress. Couple in the fact that he's also the team's new starting punter and you have the ingredients of a troublesome kicking game.

If you don't believe that aspect is important in terms of a national title run ... just ask Oregon about it.

5. WEAK SCHEDULE

— Perhaps the biggest obstacle residing between the Buckeyes and a trip to Pasadena is their extremely weak schedule. I mean, it is really, really bad. Like Sun Belt Conference bad.

The Buckeyes will have problems competing with the Alabamas, Oregons, Georgias, LSUs and Floridas of the world with a schedule which consists of four pitiful out-of-conference tilts — against Buffalo, San Diego State, California and Florida A&M — and a less-than-spectacular Big Ten docket.

I know that Buckeye fans don't want to hear this, but they must hope that Wisconsin, Northwestern, Penn State and ... gulp ... that school up north have overachieving campaigns.

It will be difficult for the Buckeyes to reach the BCS title game without a "wow factor" win.

The Buckeyes will not make it to Pasadena without defeating a team in the top 20.

And sadly, there's a solid possibility that could be the end result for the Scarlet and Gray.

SCARLET DOWNS GRAY, 31-14, BEHIND AERIAL SHOW BY BRAXTON MILLER

2013-04-13T18:23:00.000-04:00

AP Photo

CINCINNATI (AP) — Ohio State coach Urban Meyer preferred to talk about Tiger Woods' two-shot penalty at the Masters than his team's final spring workout.

"Do you mind if we talk about that for a minute?" he said after the Buckeyes' annual spring game. "That's probably more interesting than what I've got to say."

Still, there was plenty of noteworthy items from Saturday's intrasquad scrimmage played at the Cincinnati Bengals' Paul Brown Stadium due to reconstruction being done at Ohio Stadium.

Braxton Miller threw for two touchdowns and ran for another to lead the Scarlet to a 31-14 victory over the Gray before 37,643 scarlet-clad fans.

The junior was the Big Ten's offensive player of the year last season as the Buckeyes surprised many with a 12-0 season in Urban Meyer's first year as head coach. Miller, who was 16 of 25 passing for 217 yards, threw scoring passes of 20 yards to Devin Smith and 3 yards to Corey Brown, and also rushed for a 3-yard score.

"I've still got to work on some things, watch some film and fix some mistakes," Miller said. "I was just trying to make the pass, get guys open and get the ball in their hands."

Miller, heralded as a Heisman Trophy contender this fall by several national publications, had a solid performance.

"Fundamentally he's pretty good. When it breaks down, that's when it starts to go," Meyer said. "But he's much improved. We have to improve everyone around him."

It was an informal practice session with scoreboards. There were TV cameramen on the field during some plays, and Meyer stood a few yards behind the backfield on almost all of the offensive plays for both squads.

There were 11 sacks by the two defenses, including four by Cincinnati native Adolphus Washington and three more by Noah Spence.

"Adolphus Washington has really raised his level of play," Meyer said.

"He's a legitimate player. You saw him today just have his way with our offensive line at times."

Washington raised his hand after each sack.

"It's a thing that the D-line does," he said. "It's called ringing the ball. That's what we do."

Safety C.J. Barnett believes the defensive line — which must replace all four starters — could be the key to the entire team's season.

"The line is the most important part of the defense," he said. "We're going to go as far as they take us."

Backup quarterback Kenny Guiton hit on a total of 13 of 22 for 151 yards and one score, playing for both teams, and third-teamer Cardale Jones was 7 of 16 for 65 yards with a touchdown pass, two lost fumbles and an interception to Kevin Niehoff on one of the last plays of the game.

Jones was a target for tacklers, unlike Miller and backup Kenny Guiton, who wore black jerseys and were not allowed to be hit to guard against injuries. That led to some two-hand tap sacks.

No rusher amassed 50 yards, while Michael Thomas — who had 12 catches a year ago in the spring game and followed with just three during the entire regular season — had seven more receptions for 79 yards and a 4-yard TD for the Gray. For the Scarlet, Smith, running back Bri'onte Dunn and Brown each had five catches.

"We just wanted to come out and play a full game and see what everybody's got," Brown said.

Miller led the Scarlet to scores on three consecutive possessions to break the game open. After helping Scarlet forge a seven-point lead at the half on a last-second score, he ran it in from 5 yards the next time his team got the ball to make it 21-7.

There were constant reminders that this was no typical game. Drew Basil kicked for both teams. And after the Gray's second-quarter touchdown he attempted seven extra-point kicks, the last three from 54 yards out.

On some plays, Scarlet players mingled with Gray players on the same defensive front.

Meyer stood a few yards back of the quarterbacks, watching closely, on each play for both teams. A 1986 University of Cincinnati graduate, Meyer was all in favor of taking the game to Cincinnati when athletic director Gene Smith first proposed the switch.

The team toured the nearby Cincinnati Reds museum and Bengals coach Marvin Lewis spoke to the team before the game. The Buckeyes were scheduled to go out for local specialties such as barbecued ribs, chili and ice cream on their way home.

"To have almost 40,000 people show up for a scrimmage (was great)," Meyer said. "It's been a great trip."

OSU SPRING FOOTBALL: WR DEVIN SMITH EXPECTED TO BE 'ELITE'

2013-04-10T10:25:00.000-04:00

Devin Smith
TBT/Darla Dunkle-Hudnell

COLUMBUS — Ohio State junior wide receiver Devin Smith created some oohs and awes last season as a sophomore, hauling in deep touchdown passes in victories against California, Michigan State and Indiana, as well as supplying the Buckeyes with one of the most outstanding catches in recent years — a miraculous one-handed TD snare in the season-opener against Miami University.

These are things OSU head coach Urban Meyer knows Smith is quite capable of, and usually doesn't praise the Buckeyes' talented pass catcher much for doing so. It's just expected of him.

"(Coach Meyer) acknowledges the good things I do ... some times," Smith said. "A lot of times he won’t because he expects that from me."

It's the dangs and darns (drops) which has garnered the most attention from Meyer and his coaching staff. They understand the rare talent Smith possesses, and they use the criticism as motivation to push him to play at the level they expect — an All-American level ... not 30 catches for 618 yards and six touchdowns.

Although not bad, Meyer feels Smith is better than those numbers, and there is no need in encouraging mediocrity for a player of his incredible talents.

"(It hurts) a little bit because I feel I’m doing way better than what I did last year," Smith said of Meyer's oft criticisms. "At the same time, he expects big things from me.

"And so do I."

OSU receivers coach Zach Smith points to that last statement as to why he thinks the native of Massillon (OH) will become the star player they all envision.

"No one is harder on Devin Smith than he is on himself," Zach Smith said. "He knows the potential of what he could achieve ... He knows the expectation now."

And the expectation is to be a star, not a circus-act, who occasionally makes the SportsCenter highlight reel.

"I just want to be making plays," Smith said. "I made a few last year, but I want to make more this year and be a guy everyone can count on. I don’t want to be remembered like, 'Oh, yeah, that one-handed catch.' I want everyone to know I can make big plays.”

Smith has some lofty goals this season ... ones that can be attributed to Meyer's approach with him.

"(Meyer) tells me I can play at the next level and compete with anybody," Smith said. "All I have to do is take the great coaching here and the sky’s the limit ...

"I felt, personally, that I played like an All-American at times (last season), and at times I played like I wasn’t," Smith said. "The one thing I’m really focusing on is I want to be an All-American.

"I want people to know that I’m a great player.

His position coach wants to work to make that happen ...

"That’s the plan over the next four months," Zach Smith said. "To get him to that elite status, because you’re not going to find a more talented guy than Devin Smith."

He and the rest of the Buckeyes will be on display this Saturday in Cincinnati, when they wrap up the spring season with the LiFESports Spring Game at Paul Brown Stadium.

OSU SPRING FOOTBALL: BUCKEYES HOPING MILLER CAN BE AN '11' IN 2013

2013-03-28T21:09:00.000-04:00

Braxton Miller, left, and Urban Meyer
TBT/Darla Dunkle-Hudnell

COLUMBUS — For a player who was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Year in 2011, and the conference's Offensive Player of the Year in 2012, Ohio State quarterback Braxton Miller still garners more than his fair share of criticism from the Buckeyes' coaching staff.

Listening to OSU offensive coordinator/QB coach Tom Herman speak about Miller on Thursday, you would think the talented signal caller stunk up the joint for 12 games, running around in circles with his head cut off.

"I would say if he was at a 1 this time last year and a 4 at the end of the season, he's at a 6 right now," Herman said, evaluating Miller's overall game on a scale of 1 to 10.

He was rated as a "4" last season? The same guy who finished fifth in the Heisman Trophy race, led the Buckeyes to an undefeated season, a Big Ten Leaders Division championship, and did it all while recording a school-record 3,310 yards of offense and 28 touchdowns?

Ok ... so ... Herman doesn't exactly think Miller is a hack. He is simply harder on him than others because he sees what Miller can be if guided properly. Simply said, Herman sees a diamond ... that still has a little bit of coal dust coating its exterior.

"He could be an 11 on a scale of 1 to 10," Herman said. "It's just a matter of the process and the teaching progression has to be at a pace where he can feel good about where he's at. And then take the next step, and get really good at whatever he's working on at that point, and then take the next step and the next step."

Miller has worked diligently on taking those "next steps." Although the Buckeyes lost 15 bowl practices in December because of an NCAA ban, the ultra-talented player out of Huber Heights (OH) hasn't been resting on his laurels this off-season, playing video games and hanging with his buddies.

No, Miller flew to Los Angeles in December — during Christmas break — to work on his fundamentals and passing mechanics with renowned quarterback guru George Whitfield Jr.

Miller said working with Whitfield has given him more of an understanding on the workings of passing the football, and how to correct mistakes.

"I know why a ball sails on me now," Miller said Thursday. "I know what's going on when I throw a bad ball."

Miller said he is far more comfortable this spring than he was a season ago, when he was trying to learn new head coach Urban Meyer's fast paced, high octane system — a scheme far more complex than the one he ran his freshman season under the tutelage of then-offensive coordinator Jim Bollman and QB coach Nick Siciliano.

"My consistency is better. I'm better at knowing where my guys are going to be on the field, and I'm not second-guessing myself as much," Miller said. "Last year, I second-guessed myself because I didn't know the plays as well.

"But this year I know the plays better and I'm throwing guys open and things like that."

Meyer stated that he felt Miller played well last season, but wished he hadn't been subjected to that rough 2011 campaign, where he was thrust into the starting lineup as a true freshman. Meyer said he was impressed with what Miller accomplished that season, but admitted he felt it may have set him back a bit in his progression.

"I thought he did good last year," Meyer said of Miller. "But you wish you didn't have to play him that first year (in 2011). He wasn't ready to play. And he was still Big Ten Freshman of the Year. It tells you how good he is."

Miller pointed out, though, that his freshman season actually was beneficial in many aspects.

"In some ways it was good," Miller said. "Being a young guy, coming in, stepping in, taking the first snap as a freshman. Handling the pressure. Taking the snaps in front of all those fans. It was big."

Miller's expectations coming into the 2013 season — where the Buckeyes are now eligible for postseason play — is astronomical. He has donned the cover of Sports Illustrated — during March Madness — and has been tabbed as a favorite to win the Heisman and lead his team to Pasadena for the BCS National Championship.

But he may need to turn into an "11" for that to happen.

This is something the Buckeyes staff is working hard to cultivate.

"Do we all want him to be an 11 today? Yes, we do. And he would tell you that, too," Herman said. "Because we see it, we know that it's there"

The lofty expectations — by both the coaches and the fans — do not faze the Buckeyes' star signal caller in the slightest.

"I've been hearing it every time I go somewhere, ever since the last game of the season," Miller said. "Finishing 12-0 was big.

"I'll live with the expectation and keep working hard."

OSU DB COREY BROWN NEEDS TO BE 'PITTSBURGH,' NOT 'THE OTHER'

2013-03-26T21:08:00.000-04:00

Corey "Pittsburgh" Brown
TBT/Darla Dunkle-Hudnell

COLUMBUS — When referring to Ohio State football player Corey Brown, you usually have to denote which one you are speaking of.

There is wide receiver Corey Brown, who is known as "Philly." And there is the defensive back Corey Brown, known as "Pittsburgh."

Can you guess where they are from?

"Philly" Brown, a senior, has become a star for the Buckeyes — a "wow factor player" for the Ohio State offense, according to head coach Urban Meyer — leading the team in receptions and receiving yards in 2012 with 60 grabs for 669 yards.

"Pittsburgh" Brown, a fifth-year senior, has been relatively quiet during his career with the Buckeyes, recording just 26 tackles — with no interceptions, pass breakups or passes defended — in 29 total games played.

Unfortunately for the former blue-chip recruit from western Pennsylvania, he has gone from "Pittsburgh" Brown to "the other" Brown.

This season will be his final one as a Buckeye, and the coaching staff is pushing him to become the player he was expected to be when he arrived on campus back in 2009.

Following Saturday's scrimmage — where Brown didn't perform to expectations — assistant head coach and Co-defensive coordinator, Everett Withers, told him via text message that it's time to step up, because he has recruited some star recruits (most notably, Vonn Bell) who will take his job if he doesn't elevate his game.

"I said, 'Hey, man, you've got to play better. I recruited real well at this position,'" Withers said. "I’m real honest with them. I think he understands the urgency. I think he wants to be a valuable member of this football team."

Brown has taken the coach's criticism as constructive, not destructive.

"It's motivation," Brown said following practice Tuesday. "I know I’ve got to come out here every day and work extremely hard."

During an 11-on-11 fourth down drill near the goal line Tuesday, Brown showed that he has paid heed to Wither's demands, firing in on sophomore tailback Bri'onte Dunn and stuffing him at the line, causing a huge turnover on downs and a cascade of cheers from his defensive teammates.

Meyer said following practice that he hopes Brown can have a turnaround season like Reid Fragel had last year, a player who went from three years of mediocrity at tight end, to a stellar campaign his senior year as a right tackle.

"I’m hoping (Brown's) our Reid Fragel," Meyer said. "He hasn't done a whole lot around here. He's a nice kid with some talent. He has confidence. It's time."

Withers said that the "nice kid" has to become more than that this season. He needs to start being "Pittsburgh" Brown, and not "the other."

"I want him to be a little more vocal and outgoing," Withers said of Brown. "He has to step out of his comfort zone a little bit, and that's what we're trying to push him to do."

Brown seems ready for the task.

"I'm trying to do everything I can possible," Brown said. "I just want to work hard.

"I just want to do whatever I can for the team."

OHIO STATE POINT GUARD AARON CRAFT WAS A FOOTBALL STAR FIRST

2013-03-26T11:44:00.000-04:00

Ohio State's Aaron Craft, middle, fights for the loose ball in the Buckeyes 78-75 win over Iowa State in the men's NCAA basketball tournament on Sunday in Dayton. (AP Photo)

Once upon a time, Ohio State basketball star Aaron Craft was known more for being a football player than a hoopster.

Sure, he was stellar since the first time he stepped on to the hardwood as a freshman at Liberty-Benton High School (outside of Findlay), leading the Eagles to a Div. III state runners-up finish in his freshman season (2006-07). He went on to lead L-B to an 88-5 record during his four-year career, and was selected as the Div. III Player of the Year as a senior in 2010.

However, being that football is more of a religion in the state of Ohio than it is a sport, Craft's prowess on the gridiron was what first made him a star.

As a freshman in 2006, Craft announced his presence with authority — as a starting quarterback and safety — leading the Eagles to the Div. V state semifinals. During that playoff run, Craft's squad defeated local teams, Tinora and Ayersville, by an average of four touchdowns per win.

During his sophomore campaign in 2007, Craft powered L-B to the regional finals after finishing the regular season at 10-0. After defeating Archbold and Tinora, the Craft-led Eagles fell to local power Patrick Henry. Although his team was unable to reach the state semis that season, it didn't prevent him from being named a Div. V first team all-Ohio selection as a quarterback.

As a junior in 2009, Craft had his finest season as a football player, leading Liberty-Benton to the state championship game, as well as being named the Div. V Player of the Year. Craft was the catalyst for a defense which recorded 10 shutouts that season, and allowed just 3.8 points per game for the year (15 games).

His junior season, however, would be his final one as a football player, as he sat out his senior year to concentrate on basketball full-time. His overall record as a starter on the football team (in three seasons) was 38-4. He accounted for close to 12,000 yards of offense, including nearly 7,000 in the air and 5,000 on the ground.

But those days seem like ancient history now, being that Craft is considered one of the finest basketball players in the collegiate ranks.

On Sunday, in the Buckeyes' third round contest of the NCAA tournament against Iowa State, Craft nailed the game-winning three-point shot to advance Ohio State to the Sweet 16. His inspiring play, guts and determination, though, can be traced back to his days on the gridiron in northwest Ohio.

Simply said, he plays the game of basketball like a football player.

According to Ohio State head football coach Urban Meyer, those traits Craft possesses has earned him an open invitation to play for the Buckeyes whenever he wants to suit up.

"Aaron Craft is playing football next year," Meyer said of Craft, during a recent banquet in Toledo. "(OSU basketball coach) Thad (Matta) doesn’t know yet. I think (OSU quarterback) Braxton (Miller) is going to sit, and I’m going to put Aaron right behind center."

Meyer reiterated those thoughts last week during spring practice.

"I love him," Meyer said. "He could play safety, linebacker, H-back or take snaps. So I’m going to work with him."

Meyer said those statements with tongue in cheek, but the reality is, Craft has the credentials and abilities to make that happen.

"Aaron has that football mentality at times and it definitely gives him a different view," Matta said of his point guard. "Guys I recruited who played high school football understand things a little bit better than most.

"The fact he’s strong, he’s quick, he’s smart definitely makes him a heck of a player."

Just think, Craft could do what he did in high school — dominate for three years, then concentrate on one sport his final season.

But this time it could be football he chooses, not hoops.

What a story that would be, huh?

AP: WITH FOUR TEAMS LEFT IN NCAA TOURNAMENT, BIG TEN LOOKS BEST

2013-03-26T11:37:00.000-04:00

AP Photo

EAST LANSING, Mich. (AP) — The Big Ten has a nation-high four teams still in the NCAA tournament, bolstering its season-long boast that its conference is the best in college basketball.

The Big Ten has combined to win 10 games so far, its best showing through the round of 32 — ever.

And, it could get even better.

An All-Big Ten Final Four is possible because top-seeded Indiana, second-seeded Ohio State, third-seeded Michigan State and fourth-seeded Michigan will compete this week in different regions.

"The fact that there are four teams advancing shows that this conference prepares you for any type of team or game," Hoosiers coach Tom Crean wrote in a text message Monday morning while preparing to play fourth-seeded Syracuse in the East Regional semifinals. "You develop possession by possession appreciation."

Indiana played grind-it-out, low-scoring games during the Big Ten — going 0-3 when held to fewer than 60 points — and had to rally late in some other games to win. The experiences paid off when the Hoosiers, who won the Big Ten regular season title, needed to close with a 10-0 run to beat ninth-seeded Temple 58-52 and get to the regional semifinals for the second straight year.

Being in closely contested games also seemed to help the Big Ten tournament champion Buckeyes, who advanced to a school-record fourth consecutive round of 16 by making enough stops and shots to outlast 10th-seeded Iowa State 78-75.

"Playing 21 straight Big Ten games with the caliber of players, teams and coaches that we have in the conference does prepare you for anything," Ohio State coach Thad Matta said in a telephone interview with The Associated Press. "You face so many different styles from how teams defend ball screens to how they run their offenses.

"I'm happy as heck for the conference, but we're just trying to figure out how to get past Arizona."

Ohio State will face the sixth-seeded Wildcats in the West Regional semifinals.

Michigan State will be matched up with second-seeded Duke in the Midwest, a highly anticipated game featuring coaches who have combined to appear in 25 regional semifinals since 1998.

Michigan, which has won two NCAA tournament games for the first time since 1994, will have to get past top-seeded Kansas in the South.

The Big Ten had seven teams start the NCAA tournament last week and only fifth-seeded Wisconsin failed to advance, losing by 11 points to 12th-seeded Mississippi.

Minnesota routed UCLA by 20 — though that didn't help Tubby Smith keep his job because he was fired Monday, a day after losing by 14 to Florida.

Illinois beat Colorado before losing a competitive game with second-seeded Miami.

The Golden Gophers and Fighting Illini helped to help the conference win 10 games, a total that trails the Big East's record of 11 wins through the round of 32 in 2009 and 2012, according to STATS. The Big Ten had won nine games four times up to this point of the NCAA tournament, including last season, when it also sent four teams to the regional semifinals.

Spartans coach Tom Izzo started saying the conference was the best in the country before the season opened and he felt even stronger about his opinion throughout the nonconference schedule when his team had one of the league's marquee wins by beating Kansas.

Even though the Big Ten has one more team than the Big East still in the NCAA tournament — and twice as many as the ACC and Pac-12 — Izzo insisted he doesn't feel as if his point has been proven.

"To some, it won't be validated unless the Big Ten wins a championship," Izzo said. "Perception becomes a little bit of reality and the more games you win, the farther you go. I think we earned our keep, again, over the 18 grueling games and that Big Ten Tournament.

"Now this is frosting on the cake. "

Michigan State and Michigan won their first two games relatively easily, putting the rivals in the same round of 16 for the first time.

Izzo, who has said it is "illegal" to like the Wolverines, acknowledged he is pulling for the maize and blue and the rest of the Big Ten during the NCAA tournament

Michigan coach John Beilein said he surprised himself by cheering for another rival, the Buckeyes, in their tight game with the Cyclones.

"During the season, I do not root for other schools in the Big Ten," Beilein told The AP. "But I found myself rooting for the Big Ten this past weekend, hoping Aaron Craft would make a free throw or a 3-pointer, because there's an appreciation for the competition we have within our conference."

The Big Ten hasn't had a national champion in men's basketball since the Spartans won it all in 2000, a title that ended an 11-year drought after Michigan cut down the nets in 1989. Before that, the Bobby Knight-led Hoosiers won national titles in 1987, 1981 and 1976 and Magic Johnson helped Michigan State beat Indiana State — with Larry Bird — in 1979 in a transcendent game.

Matta said the Big Ten is due for a title, telling reporters in Dayton, Ohio, it is "highly likely," a team from the conference will win the national championship.

"There's a very, very good chance of it," he said. "The one thing about the Big Ten this year is you've got great players. Obviously, you've got great coaches.

"It will be interesting to see how it plays out."

OSU VICTORY OVER IOWA STATE IS REMINISCENT OF 2003 WIN OVER MIAMI

2013-03-24T16:22:00.000-04:00

Aaron Craft (4) hits game-winner Sunday
over Iowa State. (AP Photo)

All of the commotion revolving around the questionable charging call against Iowa State, during their third round tournament game against Ohio State on Sunday in Dayton, reminds me of when the Buckeyes defeated the University of Miami in the 2003 Fiesta Bowl.

In overtime of the Buckeyes' 31-24 victory over the Hurricanes in Tempe (Ariz.), Miami was called for pass interference on fourth down, giving Ohio State the football on the one, as well as a first down. The highly questionable call allowed the Buckeyes to remain alive, and eventually win their seventh national championship in school-history.

OSU SPRING FOOTBALL: CUPBOARD ON DEFENSIVE FRONT ISN'T BARE

2013-03-21T21:31:00.000-04:00

Noah Spence

COLUMBUS — Ohio State football fans may be down in the dumps about the graduation of star defensive end John Simon. It's only normal that losing the Big Ten's defensive player of the year would leave some faithful a little melancholy.

Mix in the fact that the Buckeyes also lost fellow defensive end Nathan Williams, as well as both starting tackles, Garrett Goebel and Johnathan Hankins, and Buckeye Nation falls into a deep, deep depression.

However, before Buckeye Nation starts popping the Zoloft in record numbers, they should first examine those new faces on the OSU defensive front — most notably, sophomore Noah Spence.

Spence, a 6-foot-4, 247-pound end out of Harrisburg (Pa.), was the prize of head coach Urban Meyer's first recruiting class last season. A five-star prospect, and the nation's No. 4 overall player, according to ESPN, Spence wasted little time making his presence felt on the collegiate gridiron, recording a sack — for a loss of 20 yards — in his OSU debut.

Spence, who will be looked at by his staff this season as a catalyst on the Buckeyes' defensive front, is already catching praise of the coaches after just four practices this spring.

"I'm glad he's on our team that's all I can say," OSU offensive line coach Ed Warinner said of Spence. "His speed off the edge is amazing. He will make our offensive linemen better because he will give us something every day to work on. It's hard to coach speed. He can change the game on the edge and that's good for us.

"He can be an impact player for us"

Spence's natural abilities are abundant. He his long, quick, and possesses a high motor. Now all he needs to do is get in some work and acquire knowledge of the system.

"I don't always know what I'm doing, probably half the time I don't know," Spence smiled, following practice on Thursday. "But I'm going to give 100 percent on every play ... "

"I've got to know the defense and play every down the same, but that all comes with me knowing what I'm supposed to do on that play.

"That's the biggest thing I have to learn."

The Buckeyes also have a couple more five-star recruits from the class of 2012 who are looking to make their way up front as well, in end Adolphus Washington and tackle Tommy Schutt.

Each player saw significant playing time last season as true freshmen, playing in 10 games for the Buckeyes.

Washington, a 6-foot-3, 295-pound speed rusher out of Cincinnati, was a monster at times last season, recording three sacks — including one in the Buckeyes' season finale against rival Michigan.

Schutt, a 6-foot-2, 305-pounder out of Illinois, also showed signs of interior dominance late last season.

The great thing about the sophomore trio, according to defensive line coach Mike Vrabel, is that they are all eager to learn and succeed. He believes that they will fall right in line with the great defensive fronts of the past in Columbus.

"Noah has great ability and takes to coaching, and so do Adolphus and Tommy ... " Vrabel said.

"I’m always confident that at Ohio State you’re going to find four defensive linemen who are going to be able to go out there and play."

BENNETT NEEDS TO LEAD THE FRONT FOUR ... With three new starters on the defensive front, Michael Bennett — the lone Buckeye with any starting experience — needs to step up his game this season, stay healthy and play like the all-American he was coming out of Centerville (OH) High School in 2011.

"We need Michael Bennett," Vrabel said Thursday. "Michael Bennett needs some confidence in himself and he's gaining it. He has to stay healthy and take care of his body. It's not easy in there but we are expecting him to do that."

The 285-pound lineman agrees with Vrabel.

"I'd say I haven’t played up to my potential yet," Bennett said Thursday. "Last year I was coming off of some injuries. I didn’t do as well as I should have."

Bennett knows he has to be the leader up front if the Buckeyes young talent is to prosper.

"I feel like I need to step up in a leadership position," Bennett said. "I’m going to be hard on myself, the coaches are going to be hard on me and my teammates are going to be hard on me. But hopefully this year I play up to my potential."

OSU SPRING FOOTBALL: DRAYTON SAYS OFFENSE '60-PERCENT' IN 2012

2013-03-19T21:47:00.000-04:00

Jordan Hall (7) brings new dynamic to OSU offense.
TBT/Darla Dunkle-Hudnell

COLUMBUS — Ohio State running backs coach Stan Drayton said following the Buckeyes' third practice of the spring on Tuesday, that last year's offense "operated at about 60 percent (efficiency)."

So, essentially the coach is saying that the Buckeyes' offense — which averaged 37.2 points and 423.8 yards per game last season — has been given a 'D' on the report card? That compared to where they should be (at 100-percent efficiency), last year's version of the Buckeyes' offense performed at a rate and tempo reminiscent of the zombies from "The Walking Dead?"

That should terrify every opposing defensive coordinator on the schedule this season.

For the Buckeyes to reach optimal performance levels, the coaches are designing some things which should achieve that goal, including transforming senior Jordan Hall from a running back into a slot receiver.

The switch, in their eyes, will give Ohio State a unique threat in the passing game that they didn't have last season. It will force the defense to respect the pass, instead of bringing eight and nine players up in the tackle box to help defend the running of quarterback Braxton Miller and tailback Carlos Hyde.

"You’re going to see the offense work in its full function now," Drayton said. "We’re going to be able to displace defenders, get those linebackers out of the box, maybe force the defense to change personnel, maybe put more DBs on the field as opposed to linebackers. You can’t just home in on the quarterback or just the running backs.

"It should make life easier for the whole operation of the offense, no doubt about it."

"Usually when you catch the ball as a receiver, there are two people to make miss," Hall said. "When you catch the ball as a running back, you have to run through the D-line, the linebackers and the safety. So I figure I can make two people miss."

Coach Meyer stated that he is pleased with Hall's transformation process, and even said that he needs to slow him down sometimes so he doesn't fall victim to injuries again.

"I saw him lay out for a couple plays," Meyer said of Hall. "The amount of running compared to a running back that a receiver does, he just wasn't ready. We should have backed him off a little bit."

Hall isn't about to back off. The Pennsylvania-native said he is ready for the challenge of being the difference-maker of the offense, the man who catapults the Buckeyes' from D-students to the Dean's List — even if he's still not too sure what he's doing at his new position.

"I really don’t know, to be honest," Hall laughed, when asked about his knowledge of playing receiver. "I just know catching passes, motions to the backfield, catching screens, different things like that. So I’m really trying to figure it out for myself, too."

Hall, who has been granted a fifth season due to medical issues suffered during last season, is just happy to be able to play again.

“I’m really just trying to embrace it,” Hall said. “Because last year went fast, even though I had to sit out, so I know this year will go even faster with me playing. So I am just trying to embrace every day and have fun with it.”

FIRST PRACTICE IN FULL PADS ... After taking a week off for spring break, the Buckeyes held their first practice in pads on Tuesday, and received a ho-hum review from their head coach.

"We just got back from spring break and it was our first day in pads. So I helped them before we have to deal with excuses tomorrow," Meyer said. "I don't think it was a great day, but I don't think it was awful. We aren't in great shape and we don't expect them to be in great shape, but it didn't feel like a Top 5 practice."

Heisman Trophy contender, quarterback Braxton Miller, has been working diligently this offseason to perfect his craft, but according to Meyer, Tuesday's performance — although, not bad — wasn't anything to write home about.

"He looked alright," Meyer said of Miller. "Execution wasn't great because the defense was blitzing and we weren't protecting very well. I saw a kid training to play quarterback which means staying positive and trying to fix issues as opposed to maybe getting down and throwing the ball on the ground. I was pleased with Braxton and Kenny (Guiton)."

There was one player, however, who Meyer shed praise upon, and that is senior tailback Carlos Hyde.

"Carlos did well," Meyer said. "He's 3-for-3 in what we call 'Grade the Day,' when each one of these kids walk in the meeting rooms they are graded. I say he is a 3-for-3 so far.

"There is still competition but if he does what we saw at some points last year, I think he will be as good as any kid the country this fall."

NCAA TOURNEY PREDICTIONS: OHIO STATE MAKES IT TO ATLANTA

2013-03-19T10:52:00.001-04:00

March Madness is here, and my picks are in ... enjoy!

Note: I know this is strictly a football blog, but it's un-American not to fill out a bracket!

MIDWEST

Round of 64

1. Louisville over 16 NC A&T

9. Missouri over 8. Colorado State

5. Oklahoma State over 12. Oregon

4. St. Louis over 13. New Mexico State

6. Memphis over 11. Middle Tennessee

3. Michigan State over 14. Valparaiso

10. Cincinnati over 7. Creighton

2. Duke over 15 Albany

Round of 32

1. Louisville over 9. Missouri

5. Oklahoma State over 4. St. Louis

3. Michigan State over 6. Memphis

2. Duke over 10 Cincinnati

Sweet 16

1. Louisville over 5. Oklahoma State

3. Michigan State over 2. Duke

Regional Final

1. Louisville over 3. Michigan State

— I absolutely hate picking against Tom Izzo come tournament time, but his Spartans just won't match up well against the Cardinals' backcourt duo of Russ Smith and Peyton Siva.

Spartans' big man Adreian Payne should be able to hold his own against Louisville's 7-foot center Gorgui Dieng, but not enough to counter the backcourt mismatch presented by the Cardinals.

Louisville head coach Rick Pitino heads back to the Final Four for the seventh time in his career.

WEST

Round of 64

1. Gonzaga over 16. Southern

8. Pittsburgh over 9. Wichita State

5. Wisconsin over 12. Ole Miss

4. Kansas State over 13 La Salle

6. Arizona over 11. Belmont

3. New Mexico over 14 Harvard

7. Notre Dame over 10 Iowa State

2. Ohio State over 15. Iona

Round of 32

1. Gonzaga over 8. Pittsburgh

5. Wisconsin over 4. Kansas State

6. Arizona over 3. New Mexico

2. Ohio State over 7. Notre Dame

Sweet 16

5. Wisconsin over 1. Gonzaga

2. Ohio State over 6. Arizona

Regional Final

2. Ohio State over 5. Wisconsin

— The Buckeyes, under head coach Thad Matta, always seem to get hot during March and their impressive run through the Big Ten tournament will be enough momentum to power them all the way to the Final Four.

The Buckeyes also benefit from being placed in the weakest region in this year's tournament. That should successfully camouflage their poor shooting until they reach Atlanta.

SOUTH

Round of 64

1. Kansas over 16. Western Kentucky

8. North Carolina over 9. Villanova

5. Va. Commonwealth over 12 Akron

4. Michigan over 13. South Dakota State

11. Minnesota over 6. UCLA

3. Florida over 14. NW State

7. San Diego State over 10. Oklahoma

2. Georgetown over 15. Florida Gulf Coast

Round of 32

1. Kansas over 8. UNC

4. Michigan over 5. VCU

3. Florida over 11. Minnesota

2. Georgetown over 7. San Diego State

Sweet 16

1. Kansas over 4. Michigan

3. Florida over 2. Georgetown

Regional Final

3. Florida over 1. Kansas

— I know Florida has struggled a bit down the stretch after winning 18 of their first 20 games this season. Injuries have been an issue for the Gators for much of the latter part of the season, and now that they are back to good health, they should be able to put their resources to good use.

The Billy Donovan-led Gators are one of the best teams in the nation defensively, and that's essential when playing in the NCAA tournament. The SEC regular season champs — and conference tournament runners-up — will regain the power they had in November, December and January to make a deep run in March.

EAST

Round of 64

1. Indiana over 16. James Madison

8. NC State over 9. Temple

5. UNLV over 12 California

4. Syracuse over 13 Montana

6. Butler over 11 Bucknell

3. Marquette over 14 Davidson

7. Illinois over 10 Colorado

2. Miami (Fla.) over 15 Pacific

Round of 32

1. Indiana over 8. NC State

4. Syracuse over 5. UNLV

6. Butler over 3. Marquette

2. Miami (Fla.) over 7. Illinois

Sweet 16

1. Indiana over 4. Syracuse

2. Miami (Fla.) over 6. Butler

Regional Final

1. Indiana over 2. Miami (Fla.)

FINAL FOUR

1. Louisville (Midwest) over 2. Ohio State (West)

— As previously stated, the Buckeyes' shooting has been less than stellar for much of the season, and have gotten to where they are with great defense and opportunistic offensive play.

But that combination will not be enough to get to the Monday night showdown, as the Cardinals are able to find scoring from ALL five players on the court, while the Buckeyes live and die with the shooting of Deshaun Thomas. At this stage, one player can't carry a team to victory.

1. Indiana (East) over 3. Florida (South)

— Sure, the Hoosiers lost half of their final six games of the season, but when I look out on the floor and see the likes of 7-foot forward Cody Zeller (16.9 ppg., 8.2 rpg.) and 6-foot-5 guard Victor Oladipo (13.6 ppg., 6.4 rpg.) in Indiana red, I don't see a better one-two punch in America.

While I stated (previously with Ohio State) that a team can't win a title with just one man, you can, however, win with two.

NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

1. Indiana over 1. Louisville

— What a dream match-up. Two historically basketball-crazed schools — and states — located just two hours from one another, playing for the NCAA title. Wow!

Now, it's hard for me to pick a Tom Crean team over the likes of Rick Pitino, but when the former has Zeller and Oladipo getting his back, the decision to select the Hoosiers becomes far less difficult.

In the tournament, talent rises to the top ... and there's no team in America who can match Indiana's dynamic (future NBA Draft lottery) duo.

The Hoosiers win their sixth national title, and first since 1987 — when the "General" Bob Knight was roaming the Indiana sideline, and Keith Smart was hitting game-winning jumpers in New Orleans.

MICHIGAN'S DENARD ROBINSON COULD BE IDEAL FOR BROWNS

2013-03-17T11:31:00.003-04:00

Denard Robinson (16)
TBT/Darla Dunkle-Hudnell

I know many of my Ohio State readers are going to scream "sacrilege!" with my following statement, but I believe the Cleveland Browns should draft Michigan quarterback/athlete Denard Robinson with their second pick (third round) of the 2013 NFL Draft.

With the Browns losing all-pro athlete Joshua Cribbs to free agency — as well as lacking a premier athlete with the speed to turn a five-yard hitch route or a reverse into a 60-yard dash to pay dirt — picking up a player with Robinson's abilities would be an ideal selection. Especially in the third round. Nobody in that round will have the abilities and talent Robinson possesses.

Sure, there are a bunch of unknowns with Robinson, most notably learning a new position. But as Cribbs did coming out of Kent State — where he played quarterback — he transformed into a play-making, do-it-all athlete with the Browns, and earned a few trips to Hawaii in the process.

I believe D-Rob could be even better.

Robinson possesses attributes which cannot be taught. He has the build of a Victor Cruz, the speed of a Randy Moss, the quickness and elusiveness of a Gale Sayers, and can line up in a multitude of positions.

Robinson compiled nearly 11,000 yards of offense during his career at Michigan, including a total of 91 touchdowns. The Browns could definitely use that kind of weapon in their arsenal.

I don't believe that Robinson could be a line-him-up-out-wide type of receiver and have him run sophisticated routes. He just hasn't had the needed time to perfect his route-running skills.

"The only time I had played receiver was in a street football game," Robinson said, during his Pro Day in Ann Arbor this month.

However, he could be a player the Browns line up in the slot or in the backfield to create major mismatches with linebackers and safeties. He doesn't need crisp, precise route-running to shake players who are completely unable to match him step-for-step. He could change the way teams use the H-back from this point on. He could be that "street football" player.

Although the Browns have gathered more talent in recent years at the skill positions — especially with the additions last season of tailback Trent Richardson and wide receiver Josh Gordon — adding a unique, dynamic player like Robinson could give the Browns an element not seen in Cleveland since the days of Eric Metcalf in the late 80s and early 90s.

Another extremely important attribute that Robinson possesses is a great work ethic, something absolutely crucial when playing at the next level, especially in a blue-collar town like Cleveland.

D-Rob isn't a prima donna, he doesn't demand to be something he isn't. He isn't a quarterback, he's a football player, and understands what he has to do to be successful going forward.

"Once I seen what I had to work at, I was like, 'All right, seen what I have to work at, now let's get better,'" Robinson said. "That's how it was. Let's go to work. I looked at some of the film from the Senior Bowl and I was like, 'All right, do this better, do that better.'

"And I picked it up."

Now it's time for the Browns to pick him up.

OSU SPRING FOOTBALL: LB CURTIS GRANT FEELING LIKE OLD SELF AGAIN

2013-03-07T21:24:00.000-05:00

Curtis Grant

COLUMBUS — Ohio State sophomore Curtis Grant was considered the top rated high school linebacker in the nation coming out of Hermitage (Va.) High School in 2011, according to Scout.com.

Grant was the defensive prize of Jim Tressel's final recruiting class. He was expected to follow in the footsteps of a long line of OSU linebacker stalwarts like Chris Spielman, Tom Cousineau, A.J. Hawk and James Laurinaitis.

However, Grant hasn't lived up to those billings. In fact, he hasn't even followed in the footsteps of fellow class of 2011 linebacker, Ryan Shazier — a player rated as a four-star recruit by Scout who's dazzled ever since he stepped his first foot on campus.

While Grant has yet to solidify a starting spot in the Buckeyes' linebacking unit since arriving, Shazier has become one of the top at his position in the country. He led the Buckeyes last season in tackles with 115, while Grant tallied just eight.

But it isn't talent which has held Grant back.

"I got too complacent," Grant said Thursday. "I couldn’t handle the glory, I guess, of being a starter. I should have kept working harder."

Instead of simply quitting or asking for a transfer, Grant had a soul-searching moment this off-season.

"Either you man up or get out. It's pretty straight forward," Grant said.

"So I manned up."

Now the goals have changed for Grant. It's not about being a star player, it's about possessing a winner's attitude.

"My goal is to not get complacent," Grant said. "I just want to keep working hard and do everything the coaches ask me to."

Buckeyes' defensive coordinator Luke Fickell has taken notice in Grant's rebirth.

"That's where the maturity is showing. 'Can he respond?'" Fickell said Thursday. "If you sat with him and talked, that's probably what he didn't do a great job of last year. That's how you learn and how you grow.

"That's the joy of coaching is seeing guys move through things."

Grant said he has a sense that fortunes are changing for him and his collegiate football career in Columbus.

He feels like the guy who starred at Hermitage.

“When it’s your time, you feel it,” Grant said. “You feel different.

"I feel like my old high-school self again."

If that's the case, the weakest position on the team may become its greatest strength.

BUCKEYES GOING ON BREAK ... Ohio State will be on spring break next week and will not resume practice until Tuesday, March 19.

OSU SPRING FOOTBALL: THE NEXT FRAGEL? HOW ABOUT DORAN GRANT?

2013-03-06T18:20:00.000-05:00

Doran Grant

COLUMBUS — Ohio State head football coach Urban Meyer is always pushing his players to perform at their highest levels.

He has said numerous times in his year and a half in Columbus that he despises average. That being just average is plain unacceptable. He will not be around average.

Sure, he has had his number of athletes who have left the program because they couldn't ascend above run-of-the-mill status.

However, he has had some players who were dwelling in mediocrity, but ended up heeding the coach's call by turning their fortunes around with supreme effort and determination.

Former Buckeyes offensive tackle Reid Fragel exemplifies the "average" player who transformed into a Meyer favorite.

Fragel, who was a tight end his entire career at Ohio State, switched to right tackle last season under Meyer, and the big man from Michigan excelled, anchoring an offense line which helped the team run through the 2012 season unbeaten.

Now Meyer is looking for another Fragel to step up this season. In fact, he may name an award after the lineman.

"Who’s going to be our Fragel?" Meyer said. “We’re going to call that the Fragel Award. He was a very below-average football player, and he turned out to be a very good player for the Ohio State University’s undefeated season.

"Who’s going to be the Fragel?"

One player which could be the next Fragel is junior cornerback Doran Grant.

Grant — a blue-chip athlete out of Akron — hasn't lived up to the great hype coming out of high school, unable to crack the starting roster unless it was for an injured player.

In practices, Grant passes the eye test, displaying incredible quickness, speed and athleticism, as well great instincts. But the ultra-athletic Grant has yet to make his mark when the whistle blows on Saturdays in the fall.

He has all of the abilities it takes to be a shutdown cornerback, and with the graduation of Travis Howard, Grant should get all the opportunity to show the college football world why he was such a highly-regarded player coming out of St. Vincent-St. Mary.

Should be interesting to see if Grant can hold off blue-chip freshmen, Eli Apple and Cam Burrows, for the starting spot opposite All-American Bradley Roby.

It's certain Meyer will have his eye on that position all spring long.

FRAGEL'S REPLACEMENT? ... As for Fragel's vacant position at right tackle, the leading candidates are sophomores, Taylor Decker and Chase Farris.

Decker was a prized recruit for Meyer in 2012 out of Vandalia-Butler (OH) and will have every opportunity to win the starting spot. However, Farris has become a favorite of Meyer and could go to the top of the depth chart if the 6-foot-7, 315-pound Decker stumbles during spring camp.

PRO DAY ... Ohio State will hold its pro day for NFL teams today at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center in Columbus.

Buckeyes expected to be competing at pro day include: FB/LB Zach Boren, DB Zach Domicone, OT Reid Fragel, DT Garrett Goebel, DT Johnathan Hankins, CB Travis Howard, SAF Orhian Johnson, WR Taylor Rice, TE/H Jake Stoneburner, DE/LB John Simon, DE/LB Nathan Williams, LB Etienne Sabino and DL Kharim Stephens.

OSU SPRING PRACTICE: JORDAN HALL FINDS A NEW SPOT ... IN THE SLOT

2013-03-05T21:09:00.000-05:00

Jordan Hall
TBT/Darla Dunkle-Hudnell

COLUMBUS — Jordan Hall has played tailback ever since he stepped on campus as a freshman at Ohio State in the fall of 2009.

In four seasons with the Buckeyes, Hall has toted the rock 224 times for 1,032 yards and six touchdowns. He has speed, toughness, wiggle, and although he possesses a smaller frame (5-9, 195), Hall can run with power and tenacity.

However, the 2012 college football season wasn't too kind to the dynamic runner out of Jeannette (Pa.), as he suffered a foot injury prior to fall camp which resulted in missing the opening two games of the year against Miami (OH) and Central Florida.

After returning to the field in the third week of the season against California, Hall looked as if he hadn't missed a single rep, rushing for 192 yards (5.6 avg.) in back-to-back wins against Cal and Alabama-Birmingham.

It appeared as if the senior was about to hit his stride.

But during a week five tilt in East Lansing against Michigan State, bad luck struck again. In the second quarter of the Buckeyes' 17-16 victory over the Spartans, Hall went down with a knee injury which ended his season, and at the time, his career in Columbus. But fortunately for Hall, the NCAA granted the Pennsylvania-native with a medical red-shirt, meaning that he would be eligible to play a fifth season with the Buckeyes.

However, with the emergence of tailback Carlos Hyde, as well as the promising play of underclassmen Rod Smith and Bri'onte Dunn, it seemed as if there wasn't a place for Hall in the Buckeyes' crowded backfield.

Of course, that reality isn't going to prevent Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer from finding a place for Hall in his high-octane offensive attack. Meyer is all about playing his very best players, and Hall is certainly one of his elite talents.

So, the Buckeyes coach has moved Hall from tailback to H-back (slot receiver), and during Tuesday's opening practice of the spring, it appears to be another fantastic decision by Meyer.

Hall was an absolute mismatch for defenders all day long in scrimmage drills, and highlighted the practice by hauling in a pass over the middle from quarterback Braxton Miller for a 40-yard touchdown.

Meyer was extremely pleased with not only Hall's performance Tuesday, but also how well he has dealt with transitioning to a brand new position.

"Boy, (Hall) was big today," Meyer said, following practice on Tuesday at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center in Columbus. "I thought he was great today. I've got to be careful. I start to love players too much and it gets me in trouble, but I love that guy. He didn't bat an eye, (he's like) let's go play."

Hall has displayed an ability to help in the passing game during his career, hauling in 24 receptions for 233 yards and four touchdowns in his time in Columbus.

By the look of things Tuesday, that production may double this fall.

MILLER'S WORK LOOKS TO BE PAYING OFF ... Junior quarterback Braxton Miller has worked diligently this off-season on his passing mechanics and footwork, and those on-hand during Tuesday's opening practice noticed supreme improvement from a season ago.

That includes his head coach, as well.

"I thought Braxton Miller had one heck of a day," Meyer said. "I mean one heck of a day. His fundamentals and his footwork were not very good last year, but it was fantastic today."

Miller, who logged a school-record 3,310 yards of offense as a sophomore in 2012, is a major Heisman Trophy contender in 2013 and looked the part in the Buckeyes' first outing of the spring.

PHILLY BROWN GOES DOWN WITH KNEE ... Ohio State's leading receiver last fall, Corey "Philly " Brown, was removed from practice Tuesday after suffering a knee injury.

Fortunately, MRI results showed it to be a sprain. Meyer expects Brown to be back for the Buckeyes' second practice on Thursday.

BUCKEYES SPRING PRACTICE PREVIEW: FIVE THINGS TO WATCH

2013-03-04T10:14:00.001-05:00

Braxton Miller
TBT/Darla Dunkle-Hudnell

COLUMBUS — Spring practice begins on Tuesday for the Ohio State football team, and the Buckeyes — who are no longer on a post-season ban — are regarded as contenders for a national title this season.

Of course, in order to have a championship season, you must first take command of March and April.

Here are five things to keep an eye on this spring for the Buckeyes ...

1. Braxton Miller's improvement as a passer.

— Miller put together a record season in his first year under new head coach Urban Meyer, setting a school-record for total yards with 3,310, as well as 28 touchdowns.

However, as Buckeyes' offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Tom Herman stated this off-season, Miller underachieved — especially as a passer — completing just 58.3 percent of his throws in 2012.

Miller has taken heed to his coach's criticism, as the junior has worked diligently this off-season on his passing mechanics and footwork — even flying out to California for his holiday break to work with quarterback guru, George Whitfield. Miller has also worked on his game-management and leadership skills this off-season, something he felt needed great improvement.

Although the Buckeyes have surrounded Miller with more athleticism this off-season, the fact still remains ... the offense goes as Miller goes.

If he has a solid spring camp, it could give the Buckeyes all the momentum they need to make a run toward Pasadena this fall.

2. Freshmen impact.

— The Buckeyes' 2013 recruiting class was ranked in the top three by each of the major scouting services (Scout, Rivals, ESPN). While the Buckeyes will have to wait until summer for the arrival of offensive play-makers Jalin Marshall, Ezekiel Elliott and Dontre Wilson, they will have the services of some key defensive recruits, most notably defensive backs Eli Apple and Cam Burrows, and ends Tracy Sprinkle and Tyquan Lewis.

The defensive backfield lost two starters from a season ago in cornerback Travis Howard and safety Orhian Johnson. Apple and Burrows should be in competition to fill those roles.

Nonetheless, whether they start or not, they will be greatly needed this fall, and their transition to the college game is critical.

Same goes for Sprinkle and Lewis. The Buckeyes lost three starters on the defensive front, so there is playing time to be had. These two players must take advantage before the rest of the class arrives this summer.

3. Linebacker.

— Junior Ryan Shazier, the Buckeyes' leading tackler from a season ago, is the only returning starter at the linebacker position this fall. Because of this, Meyer made the position his main focal point in recruiting, bagging two All-American backers in Mike Mitchell (Plano, TX) and Trey Johnson (Lawrenceville, Ga.).

Unfortunately, the two freshmen — who will push hard for starting positions this fall — will not be available until the summer, so a big spring by veterans Curtis Grant, Jamal Marcus, David Perkins, Joshua Perry, Luke Roberts and Camren Williams is mandatory.

Linebacker is by far the biggest question mark going into the season, and answers need to come this spring.

4. Jordan Hall.

— The fifth-year senior, who was granted a medical red-shirt last season with a foot, then knee injury, will be one to keep an eye on this spring.

Hall's role this coming season is sort of a mystery. He has played mostly tailback during his career in Columbus, but with the huge emergence of now-starter Carlos Hyde, as well as the promising play of Rod Smith and Bri'onte Dunn, Hall's talents may be better served in the slot.

Only thing is, Meyer is surely going to use incoming freshman phenoms Marshall, Elliott and Wilson in those roles this fall, so Hall's prospects become even more unclear.

It's going to be quite interesting to see how Meyer plans to employ Hall into a crowded stable of offensive weapons.

5. Dealing with expectation.

— Last season, the Buckeyes were under a one-year bowl ban, so there really wasn't a whole lot of pressure for the team to succeed. However, after going through the 2012 campaign unbeaten, the Buckeyes are looked at as huge contenders for a national championship berth.

In 2012, they had the luxury to develop, to find their identity. In 2013, though, the Buckeyes are expected to win. Better yet, they are expected to go unbeaten.

The way they deal with these lofty expectations — especially this spring — will go a long way toward accomplishing their goals of winning a Big Ten title and a national championship this fall.

That journey begins Tuesday.

Note: For spring practice news, notes and updates, check out The Bryan Times, TheBuckeyeTimes.com, as well as Twitter (@LeeHudnell_TBT) daily throughout camp.

WHAT IS THE DEFINITION OF A "REAL MAN?" ... SEE: CHRIS SPIELMAN

2013-02-26T15:18:00.003-05:00

Chris Spielman

Someday my son is going to ask me what it means to be a "real man."

And hopefully I can be the definition he is looking for with his question.

However, I haven't faced the obstacles that many others have encountered. I can only hope that if I'm ever tested against certain adversity that I'd protect my family, always do what is right, and be an example of how to be a "real man."

Fortunately, there is one man that my son can readily use as a role model, a true definition of a "real man."

His name is Chris Spielman.

The former Ohio State football player was a two-time consensus All-American (1986, 87), a three-time All-Big Ten first-team selection (1985, 86, 87) and the winner of the Lombardi Award (given to the nation's best lineman/linebacker) in 1987. Spielman is the Buckeyes' all-time leader in solo tackles (283) and third in total tackles (546) for a career.

Spielman is tied with Tom Cousineau for the all-time record for tackles in a game at Ohio State with 29, which coincidentally came against arch-rival Michigan in 1986. He also collected 22 tackles at Washington that season. He is one of just two players in OSU history to record more than 200 total tackles in a season.

I have followed Spielman ever since he was wreaking havoc as a star linebacker for the Buckeyes.

When I was first beginning to watch football as a child I had a problem trying to figure out which guy had the ball. I remember my father sitting me in front of the television — with an Ohio State game on — and telling me to "just keep your eyes on number 36 and you will soon find the ball."

When it comes to natural linebacking instincts, Spielman has no equal. He could get from point A to point B quicker than any linebacker I have ever seen play the game, regardless of playing level.

In a nutshell, when I think Ohio State football ... I think of Spielman.

But it isn't just his incredibly inspiring play on the gridiron that makes me use Spielman as the answer to my son's question.

It's off the gridiron where he has walked the real walk.

As many know, football was life to Spielman. He was a student of the game and an absolute warrior on the field. It's who he was, it's in his blood. It's what he was meant to do on this Earth.

However, when the actual love of his life — wife Stefanie — was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1998, Spielman, who was in the midst of making a comeback after suffering a spinal injury, tossed the game of football to the side like he used to fling running backs to the turf.

"I told her that I'm taking a year off and she cried harder than she did when she found out she had cancer," Spielman said on the NFL Network show 'The Football Life.' "She knew what football meant to me, and what this supposed comeback meant to me ...

"I couldn't let her go through that alone, and it was my duty as a husband to walk through that with her. It's my duty, nobody else's duty," Spielman said. "I said in sickness and in health to her, and in front of God, and the witnesses, and I meant it."

Stefanie's sister, Sue Fitz, said Spielman dropped everything to help Stefanie fight her battle with cancer.

"He gave up everything for her," Fitz said, "and put his life aside to help her."

Before passing away in November of 2009 — after battling the disease for 11 years — Stefanie said that seeing Chris give up the game he loves so dearly, just to be by her side, was the most difficult part of the entire process.

"That's been the hardest part." Stefanie said. "I have seen him give up what he loves the best for me."

But that's what "real men" do. That's what Chris Spielman does.

"Her treatments go through January and it's impossible for me to be in two places at one time," Spielman said back in 1998, when Stefanie was first diagnosed. "I would play in a heartbeat, but what kind of man would I be if I backed out on my own word to her?

"I wouldn't be a man at all."

In this day and age of worshipping athletes who are great on the field, but a train wreck off of it — cheating on their wives, having multiple illegitimate children, doing drugs, and getting arrested — Spielman is a throwback in every sense of the word.

He is also a renaissance man ... in a manner of speaking.

"He became my nurse, my caretaker, Mr. Mom, the cook — if you can call it that," Stefanie joked, about Chris' contributions at home during a cancer awareness benefit prior to her death.

The fact is, Spielman didn't just do those things because that's what men do, he did it because Stefanie, and not football, was the real love of his life.

She was everything to him.

In fact, with all of the accolades which Spielman has garnered in his athletic life — two-time All-American, CFB Hall of Famer and four-time NFL Pro Bowler — he will admit that the greatest accomplishment he has ever witnessed in sports came from Stefanie.

Just weeks prior to her death in 2009, the Spielman family participated in the "Run for a Cure" cancer benefit in Columbus. As they were pushing Stefanie in her wheelchair down the final stretch of the race, she decided she wanted to walk the rest of the way to the finish, even though she hadn't walked in weeks.

With Chris and their oldest daughter holding her up, Stefanie walked the rest of the way through the finish line.

"That was the greatest sports victory that I've ever witnessed," Chris said of Stefanie's monumental accomplishment. "It's one of the best moments of my life."

Just before she passed, Stefanie and Chris had a final heart-to-heart ...

"I asked her if I was a good husband? And she said I was the best." Chris said. "And I remember telling her I promise to continue the legacy with the fund and raising money and awareness, and I'll be the best dad that I can be. And my effort is there on a consistent basis no matter what."

He has become Stefanie's champion, and said he will finish being so when "I open up the paper and it says 'Humanity wins, cancer loses'"

Spielman gives all he has no matter if it's being a football player, a husband, a father or fighting against a disease which took his wife's life.

So, what's the definition of being a "real man," son? ...

See: Chris Spielman.

— To contribute to the Stefanie Spielman Fund for Breast Cancer Research, click here.

BROWNS LOOKING FOR NEW QB ... HOW ABOUT TERRELLE PRYOR?

2013-02-23T13:57:00.002-05:00

Terrelle Pryor
TBT/Darla Dunkle-Hudnell

Brandon Weeden's chances of remaining as the Cleveland Browns' starting quarterback under the new regime, seems about as likely as an Israeli and a Palestinian holding hands by a campfire singing "Kumbaya."

Not gonna happen!

New owner Jimmy Haslam, president Joe Banner, GM Michael Lombardi, nor head coach Rob Chudzinski, have come out in support of Weeden, who continually regressed as his rookie season moved on in 2012.

It is no secret amongst NFL insiders that the Browns will be looking to upgrade at the quarterback position this offseason.

Many names have come up as potential successors to Weeden, including Alex Smith (49ers), Matt Moore (Dolphins) and Ryan Mallett (Patriots).

Naturally, Smith and Mallett are the most intriguing because Smith has worked with new Browns' offensive coordinator Norv Turner in San Francisco, while the strong-armed Mallett is a known favorite of Lombardi, and a nice fit for Chudzinski's vertical attack.

However, in order for the Browns to cop either Smith or Mallett, they must work out a trade with each players' respective team first.

Personally, I am not high on either player for the quarterback spot. I don't believe Smith has the arm strength to play in Cleveland during the late fall and winter months, while Mallett's mobility — much like Weeden's — makes him a liability in a game that has become more and more about speed and athleticism at the position.

Putting on my GM cap for a moment, I see a quarterback out there in the same situation as Smith and Mallett, who would be inexpensive, and would be a perfect match in the Browns new system ...

Terrelle Pryor.

The former Ohio State star — and current Oakland Raiders backup — is everything that Chudzinski wants leading his offense. In Carolina, Chudzinski put together a dynamic offensive package around dual-threat quarterback Cam Newton, a player with incredibly similar attributes as Pryor.

Using the eye test, Pryor and Newton are each 6-foot-5, 240-pounders, who possess live arms, incredible strength and wide receiver speed. In fact, Pryor has more speed and elusiveness than Newton, and although not as polished of a passer, still has the abilities to become a very formidable passing quarterback in this league.

Although Pryor has started in just one game as an NFL player — in the season finale last season against San Diego (200 yards, three touchdowns) — he is as dynamic of a player as there is in the league.

In three seasons at Ohio State, Pryor went 31-4 as a starter — including 2-0 in BCS bowl games, where he won Most Valuable Player honors in both outings. Pryor threw for 6,177 yards (3rd in school history) during his career for the Buckeyes and 57 touchdown passes (T-1st). He also added an all-time OSU record for quarterbacks with 2,164 yards rushing, as well as 17 scores. His career completion percentage of (.609) is the third-best in OSU history.

He was also unbeaten against arch-rival Michigan (3-0), where he guided the Buckeyes past the Wolverines by a combined score of 33-8. Pryor also led Ohio State to at least a share of the Big Ten title in every season which he played.

Pryor is a winner, has the abilities and the drive to become a solid NFL quarterback. All he needs, in my opinion, is a chance to showcase his abilities on the big stage, just as Newton received from Chudzinski in Carolina.

The Browns need something different. They need a winner. They need a play-maker. They need a player to bring them into the 21st century.

They need Terrelle Pryor ... not another regurgitation of Colt McCoy (Smith) or Derek Anderson (Mallett).

For Cleveland — more than any other city in the league — status quo is no way to go.

MARK EMMERT IS A HYPOCRITE, SHOULD RESIGN AS NCAA PRESIDENT

2013-02-19T12:40:00.000-05:00

Mark Emmert

Hypocrisy: the practice of claiming to have moral standards or beliefs to which one's own behavior does not conform.

Mark Emmert: a person who indulges in hypocrisy.

On Monday, NCAA President Emmert fired VP of Enforcement, Julie Roe Lach, in the midst of an investigation of the organization's handling of the University of Miami's improper conduct claims.

Last month, the NCAA issued a press release stating that some members of their enforcement staff obtained information about a bankruptcy proceeding, involving Nevin Shapiro — a former University of Miami booster, who allegedly pampered Hurricane football players for nearly a decade with cash, elaborate parties, and other benefits deemed improper by the NCAA.

However, the NCAA has no jurisdiction when it comes to Shapiro's private proceedings. And the very act of them working directly with Shapiro's attorney reeks of collusion against the University of Miami — who is the midst of an NCAA investigation regarding Shapiro and his relationship with the football program.

Not only did Lach lose her job, according to Yahoo! Sports, but others in the enforcement staff have allegedly lost their jobs, as well.

So, why hasn't Emmert been reprimanded? Why hasn't he been fired like Lach, forced to resign like former Ohio State head coach Jim Tressel, or given a four-year ban like Penn State?

Why is it that Emmert can pass legislation which states "a head coach is presumed responsible for major/Level I and Level II violations (e.g. academic fraud, recruiting inducement) occurring within his or her program unless the coach can show that he or she promoted an atmosphere of compliance and monitored his or her staff," but can't live up to those same responsibilities himself?

Why, you ask? There's a really simple answer for that ... Emmert is a hypocrite.

The NCAA, nor its boss, can't possibly be trusted any longer. Not only have they exploited young people for years and passed down laws which are completely illegal, but they have lost all credibility with their recent actions — and inactions — in the Miami case.

Both the NCAA and Emmert have zero credibility moving forward now, and it's time for them to finally pay the piper for their "improper conduct."

"Regardless of where blame lies internally with the NCAA, "Miami president Donna Shalala said in a statement released by the university Monday. "Even one individual, one act, one instance of malfeasance both taints the entire process and breaches the public's trust."

Malfeasance: wrongdoing, esp. by a public official.

(EDIT) Mark Emmert: 1. a person who indulges in hypocrisy ... and malfeasance.

2. a man who should resign immediately.

MEYER'S STORY OF A MOTIVATING WOODY HAYES IS A JOKE, PEOPLE

2013-02-14T14:15:00.001-05:00

Urban Meyer
TBT/Lee Hudnell

A fourth-grade school teacher in rural West Virginia is teaching the children in her history class about the Declaration of Independence.

The teacher asks her class, "Do any of you know who signed their name really big on the Declaration of Independence?" Every kid in the class raised their hand ... well, except lil Johnny.

The teacher noticed Johnny was the only student who didn't have his hand waving in the air, so she asked, "Johnny, do you know who signed their name really big on the Declaration of Independence?"

"I don't give a (expletive)!" Johnny replied.

The teacher instantly screamed, "Johnny ... such language! You can go stand in the corner of the room."

After about 30 minutes had passed, the teacher once more asked Johnny — who was still standing with his nose in the corner — "Do you know who signed their name really big on the Declaration of Independence?"

Again, Johnny replied, "I don't give a (expletive)!"

The teacher was at her wit's end with Johnny, so she called his father to come to the school. When Johnny's father, Jeb, arrived at her classroom — decked out in bib overalls, and sporting a long dark and gray beard — the teacher told him that his son wouldn't tell her who signed their name really big on the Declaration of Independence.

Jeb just scratched his beard curiously and said, "Don't ya worry ma'am, I'll be gettin' to the bottom of this rightch here."

Without hesitation, Jeb grabs Johnny by his shirt collar, goes into the hallway, slams his back against the wall and yells, "If you signed that dang gum thang, you best go in thar and tell yur teacher this instant or I'm gonna give ya a whoopin'!"

I am pretty sure all of those reading this understood that it was simply a joke. There is no lil Johnny or Jeb, and every West Virginian doesn't look or sound like Si from Duck Dynasty.

Recently, at a Ohio coaches clinic in Columbus, Ohio State head football coach Urban Meyer told those on hand a story about how when he was an assistant for the Buckeyes in 1986, then-head coach Earle Bruce brought in the great Woody Hayes to teach his staff about toughness.

Meyer spoke about how a dying Coach Hayes pulled a turtle out of a box and let it snap down on his southern region to show how tough he was, and that the staff needed to develop that same toughness in order to win.

Of course, once Meyer ended with a funny punch line — not suitable for print in the newspaper — it was obvious the entire story was a joke. Especially for those who have heard him tell it numerous times, using different characters and plots.

However, this didn't stop news outlets throughout the country to run with the story as if it were true, using headlines like NBC's "Urban Meyer tells an interesting story about Woody Hayes," or even more pathetic, USA Today's "How Woody Hayes used a turtle to motivate Ohio State's staff."

Sad thing is, the USA Today ran the story as if it were hard news. They will probably run another story later saying it was a hoax, and the turtle's name is Lennay Kekua.

It's hard to believe that anyone who actually heard Meyer tell the story would think it was true. I know this country's sense of humor has become as rare as the Yangtze River Dolphin, but wow, we have gotten to the point where we can't even decipher the difference between a true story and a flat out joke?

It's pitiful that Jerry Emig, the OSU football SID, has to send out e-mails to all of us on the OSU beat clarifying something that shouldn't have to be clarified in the first place.

I, unlike Emig, would have bluntly written, "Attn: Morons ... IT WAS A JOKE!"

So ... this attractive blonde woman walks into a bank in Manhattan and asks for a $5,000 loan. She tells the loan officer that she will be using her beautiful new Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss as collateral.

The banker instantly approves the loan, has one of the clerks pull her car inside the bank's private garage, and the lady calls for a cab and drives off with the $5000.

Two weeks later, the blonde woman arrives at the bank, pays back the $5,000, plus $15.71 interest to the loan officer who approved her. Just as the blonde was walking out, the officer asked, "Ma'am, we looked into your account and noticed you have nearly $800,000 in it. Just wondering why you needed a $5,000 loan when you have more than three-quarters of a million dollars in here?"

The pretty blonde just flashed a smile at the banker and asked, "Where else could I park my Mercedes-Benz in New York for two weeks for only fifteen dollars?"

By the way ... that's a joke, too.

BIG TEN NEEDS TO HIT REFRESH WHEN IT COMES TO RECRUITING

2013-02-11T13:53:00.002-05:00

Urban Meyer
(TBT/Lee Hudnell)

Ohio State head football coach Urban Meyer stated last week that teams in the Big Ten Conference need to step up their game when it comes to recruiting.

"We do need as a conference to keep pushing that envelope to be better," Meyer said Thursday during a radio show on 97.1 in Columbus. "Our whole conversation needs to be about ‘how do we recruit?’ When you see 11 of the SEC teams are in the top 25 that’s something that we need to improve."

Only three teams were ranked in the top 25 by ESPN: Ohio State (3), Michigan (6) and Penn State (24).

Furthermore, out of the top 300 recruits listed in ESPN's rankings, Ohio State and Michigan did their part, as the Buckeyes snagged 17 (eight in top 100) and Michigan 15 (four in top 100). However, the rest of the Big Ten (10 schools) hauled in just 13 combined, with only two players in the top 100.

That is inexcusable. Two teams cannot carry a conference.

So how can the Big Ten compete with those in the Southeastern Conference when it comes to recruiting?

Here are a few ideas ...

1. Update the style ...

— It seems the Big Ten is stuck in that old school, black and blue style of football. But kids aren't attracted to I-form, power ball any longer. They like spread, they like up-tempo, they want fireworks and excitement. Other than Ohio State, and to an extent Michigan, the rest of the Big Ten hasn't hit the refresh button in the past 50 years.

Sadly, this has made the conference uncool. And as we all know, kids want to be Fonzie.

2. "The gentlemen's clause" needs axed ...

— College football recruiting is ruthless, as the SEC has shown us in recent years. Just because a kid has committed, doesn't mean he's off limits. Meyer, who won two national titles in the SEC at Florida, hasn't adopted that unwritten agreement between Big Ten coaches. Meyer recruits the players he covets, whether they have pledged for another school or not.

"Let me make this real clear: Everybody (outside of the Big Ten) does that. And it's not wrong. Okay," Meyer said of recruiting committed players before signing day. "At the end of the day the young person has the right to go to any school he likes."

Let's face it, you will never hear Alabama's Nick Saban, LSU's Les Miles, Florida's Will Muschamp or South Carolina's Steve Spurrier complaining because another coach is trying to recruit their "committed" players. Last season, when Michigan State's Mark Dantonio and Wisconsin's Bret Bielema complained about Meyer's recruiting tactics, it just confirmed how far behind the conference is compared to the SEC.

3. Venture out of the midwest ...

— This kind of feeds off of the first idea I offered ... in order to change the "style" to an up-tempo, explosive scheme, you need the players to run it. While the midwest is loaded with great talent — and should never be ignored — scouting players from the south and west are crucial when looking for speed.

The Big Ten is notorious for being a slow conference, and the major reason why? Other than Ohio State, the Big Ten doesn't recruit hard enough in the south and west.

Of the 24 Ohio State signees for the class of 2013, half of them came from outside of the midwest, including 10 from the south.

The rest of the Big Ten needs to adopt this formula, ASAP.

4. Winning on a national stage ...

— Again, the No. 1 idea I listed previously is essential in making this happen. The Big Ten hasn't won consistently on a national level in years because they haven't changed their "style" in years.

To compete with the SEC, you have to recruit ruthlessly like the SEC — over-signing, poaching other's commits, etc. — in SEC territory (speed, speed, speed).

This is what Coach Meyer is speaking of when he says the Big Ten needs to keep "pushing that envelope."

He knows firsthand that the SEC excels because they keep on "pushing" when it comes to recruiting ...

While, the Big Ten continues to keep mailing it in.

BUCKEYES RECRUITING: WE TEND TO THINK THE LATEST IS THE GREATEST

2013-02-08T13:54:00.000-05:00

Jalin Marshall

COLUMBUS — We sometimes lose sight of the great things we already possess, because we're trying to grab on to the next great thing.

The same goes for college football recruiting. When signing day rolls around, we tend to flock to and hype up those who haven't committed yet, even though our teams have already hooked some serious prospects.

On Wednesday, for example, most Ohio State fans were tracking star recruits like Georgia five-star safety Vonn Bell, Texas blue-chip athlete Dontre Wilson and Florida speedster receiver James Clark. Many felt as if the success of the program depended solely on the ink pens in those three players' hands.

The truth is, though, the Buckeyes' class was already stacked. Sure, Bell, Clark and Wilson are some huge pulls for the program, but they are certainly not the only goodies in the cupboard.

"Jalin Marshall," Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer said, referring to his five-star wide receiver out of Middletown, who committed to the Buckeyes more than a year ago. "Can you imagine Ohio State University and the state of Ohio and Buckeye Nation if he would have waited and put on a hat?

"That would have been a great day."

Coach Meyer said Marshall isn't the only one besides the aforementioned three who would've received incredible hype if he had waited to pull his OSU hat on signing day.

"I think we have two corners that if they didn't early commit would be (viewed) as good a corners as there are in America, and that's Eli Apple and Cam Burrows," Meyer said of the two five-star recruits who enrolled at OSU in January. "And they're doing a fine job for us right now ...

"I think (quarterback) J.T. Barrett, when he did the Elite 11 and some of the feedback we got from him, if he didn't hurt his knee in some situation, if he didn't early commit, he would be another guy we'd be scratching and clawing and having a parade for him if he would have come on signing day," Meyer continued.

"(Defensive end) Joey Bosa, without question, one of the best players in the country, and a guy that committed early," Meyer said. "The other guy, (Defensive tackle/end) Billy Price. Billy Price is 6-foot-4, 305 (pounds) from Austintown, Fitch High School. He would have been one of those guys that put nine hats out there, that he would have thrown the Ohio State hat, there would have been a big celebration around here."

Ezekiel Elliott — who had committed to the Buckeyes last spring — decided to visit Missouri a couple weeks prior to signing day, and had Ohio State fans biting their nails down the stretch. Then, just a week later, the blue-chip running back from St. Louis received an offer from two-time defending national champion, Alabama, seriously sounding off the alarms in Columbus.

Elliott ended up signing with the Buckeyes on Wednesday during a 5 p.m. press conference at his school.

Although he was already a critical piece to their incredible class, Elliott's stock had risen because he put his name back in play by waffling late in the recruiting season.

Sadly, this is the world we live in.

We have an attitude that the latest is the greatest ... whether it's true or not.

RECRUITING ROUNDUP: MEYER SAYS BUCKEYES HAVE JUST ONE RIVAL

2013-02-07T11:33:00.002-05:00

COLUMBUS — During his signing day announcement in Georgia on Wednesday, all-American safety Vonn Bell made it really clear what his expectations are when he arrives at Ohio State to play football this fall.

“We're all on a mission. We want to do something special,” Bell said, after the five-star recruit selected to play at Ohio State over national champion Alabama. “We’re going to try to beat ‘Bama at national championships and try to get that crystal football.

"We’re going to complete that mission.”

Obviously, if you're trying to win national championships these days, going through Tuscaloosa seems to be the only route to the title. However, it's usually the University of Michigan who Buckeye recruits are targeting when signing on the dotted line. Not that school down south.

So, have the Tide become the Buckeyes' new rival?

"No, absolutely not," Meyer said Wednesday. "We have one rival, and that rival has been dictated many, many years ago. One rival, and that rival is clear. And they had a good recruiting class as well, by the way. Good for the Big Ten conference.

"I think anytime you're in SEC country recruiting, I think anytime teams start talking about who is the king of the hill right now, those words might come out of people's mouths, including mine once in a while. But, no, make it real clear there's one rival. There's one person we're going after, and that's our rival.

"That was dictated many, many years ago. So that's it."

Meyer is correct as well about Michigan having a good recruiting class this season. Although the buzz is on Ohio State's class ranking — No. 1 by Scout, No. 2 by Rivals and No. 3 by ESPN — the Wolverines have also put together a group which has garnered at least a top-six listing by each of the three major recruiting services, including a No. 2 spot on Scout.com.

Michigan also recruited nine players from the great state of Ohio.

"That school's always had great Ohio players on there team," Meyer said of Michigan. "A couple Heisman Trophy winners, too."

Make no mistake about it, Alabama is certainly the wall the Buckeyes must break down in order to "get that crystal football."

But in order to get to Pasadena, the Buckeyes will still have to travel through Ann Arbor to get there first.

And as Coach Meyer pointed out Wednesday, that's never going to change.

MEYER UPSET ABOUT THREE LOST SCHOLARSHIPS ... Many believe that the harshest penalty passed down by the NCAA for the Buckeyes benefits scandal was the one-year post-season ban.

But according to Meyer, the three scholarships lost — nine over the next three years — is just as painful.

On Wednesday, the Buckeyes coach discussed how difficult it is to recruit when he only has 82 scholarships, as opposed to the normal 85.

"That was awful. It was horrible. Can't take three more players. It's like a toothache," Meyer said. "I mean, every time you say, okay, let's ... well, we can't. Let's ... we can't, we can't. Then you start juggling the numbers.

"So, yeah, it's significant."

Oh, and don't tell Meyer to chill out because it's only three less players ...

"Someone said it's only three scholarships less," he said. "Wait a minute. That could be three Braxton Millers or John Simons. Three scholarships is a significant amount. It's not easy to deal with."

WILSON TO BE PERCY HARVIN OF BUCKEYES OFFENSE? ... One thing missing from Coach Meyer's offense this past season was a do-it-all player on the edges. He won national championships at Florida because he had athletes, not just receivers, e.g., Percy Harvin.

Meyer emphasized going after Harvin-types this recruiting class, and it appears he snagged one in Texas blue-chip athlete, Dontre Wilson.

"I see him being a potential dual threat. Hybrid, you might hear the term," Meyer said of Wilson. "That became kind of famous back when Percy (Harvin) started — the Percy name and all that."

Wilson, like Harvin, can beat a defense in a number of different ways ...

"(Wilson's) a guy that can run inside, outside, and also go (the distance)," Meyer said. "He had 35 receptions, 700 yards receiving and he had I think 1,800 yards rushing. So there's not many people in the country that can do that. That was most appealing to me when I saw that, along with the 20.8 in the 200 meters.

"That's a very unusual athlete."