Drew Thurman (2:06 pm)

The 2008 season exposed the growing frustration Buckeye fans are having with what appears to be a lack of offensive identity. Or maybe it was creativity? Regardless, it was not hard to see that the Ohio State offense was several steps behind the other major programs around the country. Sure there are tons of reasons why, which the Tressel's defenders would like to highlight. Items like: Pryor stepped into the starting role in the 4th game for the Buckeyes, the offensive line was slow and disappointing, and Pryor held onto the ball too long trying to make big plays. The reasons may have some validity, the question is though, will Tressel and the staff improve things this season?  

Well, first let me say that I still feel Tressel will always be limited while he is calling the plays for the Buckeyes. I called for Tressel to hire an offensive coordinator in the off-season several times, because it is obvious that it is not his forte. It is not for a lack of effort though. Last season the staff spent time trying to learn the pistol formation, and this season Tressel revealed in his press conference that the staff spent time talking with a multitude of ACC schools. I am sure that changes will be implemented early on, as they were last season, but he quickly falls back into his old ways. Just as we witnessed last season, the pistol formation last several weeks before Tressel fell into the rut of running up the middle and throwing the long ball. I just think it will always be hard for a man like Tressel whose MO is special teams and defense first, to open up the playbook they way it needs to be. 

Does this mean there is no hope for the 2009 offensive unit?

Not at all. Buckeye fans can have hope for an increase in offensive production based on two words, Terrelle Pryor. The only time in Tressel's tenure that the Buckeye offense truly looked dynamic was when Troy Smith was at the helm, and I think the same principles could be true now with Pryor. With two seasons removed since Smith sported the number 10 jersey, it has become abundantly clear how much he did with pure athleticism. The Buckeyes are going to need to use Pryor's athleticism in the same way.

I am not saying that there is not serious talent at wideout or even an increase in potential on the offensive line, but the identity of the 2009 offensive will rise and fall with Terrelle Pryor. His discernment will help develop an intermediate passing game with wideouts and tight ends, his legs will make linebackers respect the potential of a big run, and his "escapabilty" will turn broken plays into back breakers. Someone could easily argue that the identity of the 2008 team was on the shoulders of Beanie Wells, but 2009 will be the year of Terrelle Pryor. If he takes a page out of the book of Troy Smith, Buckeye fans could be celebrating another Big Ten title and possible BCS berth.       

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