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Lots of names and lots of speculation this spring. (Photo via TheOzone.net)
Dave Thurman (2:47 pm)

Well the first week of Spring Practice is in the books, and as usual there are some compelling stories coming out of Columbus.  Since both Drew and I now live out of state we have not seen any of the action personally, but are relying on the excellent reports that have been posted by numerous eyewitnesses.  As I sought to harmonize this information it became apparent that there are a few things about the 2010 edition of the Buckeyes that are becoming obvious:

1. Terrelle Pryor is still inconsistent but seems more relaxed.  I think it is fair to say that he is never going to be a pure passer who hits a high percentage of his throws.  However, with his amazing athleticism, if Pryor is confident and relaxed there is no reason he can't have an excellent year.

2. The third wide receiver spot is up for grabs.  With Duron Carter still ineligible, the fight is on for playing time.  Although Taurian Washington is listed as the number three guy, everyone raves about Chris Fields who may be the next great one at OSU.  Both Posey and Sanzenbacher are looking good, and should have excellent years.  The surprise so far is Grant Schwartz, who might actually see a few snaps this season as a second team receiver.

3. Defensive tackle depth is extremely thin.  After Simon, Larimore, and Goebel, there are only question marks.  Adam Bellamy is in the two deep right now and Jonathan Hankins reports in the fall, but neither has ever taken a snap.  The fact that Connor Smith and Evan Blankenship have both auditioned at DT this spring tells us two things: they aren't expected to make an impact on the o-line this year; and, defensive tackle is desperate for bodies to throw out there.  On the other hand, defensive end looks well stocked, with the young guys progressing nicely.

4. Offensive tackle is still not set.  While everyone expects to see the Block-O guys (Shugarts and Adams) start against Marshall, both Andy Miller and Marcus Hall are battling, and nothing is written in stone.  It is nice to finally have some depth at this position, and all four guys should be solid.
5. Young runners are looking good. We all know that Boom and Zoom   will get most of the carries if healthy, but Jordan Hall has drawn heavy praise this spring, Jaamal Berry is knocking off the rust and showing some explosiveness, and Carlos Hyde looked good until he tweaked a hammy.  This bodes well for the future, and Roderick Smith joins the fray this fall.

6. Kicking game progressing.  All three guys have had their moments according to reports, and most feel that punting will definitely improve this year.  If the season started tomorrow it would probably be Ben Buchanan punting, Devin Barclay place kicking, and Drew Basil kicking off.  That might be a lucky trifecta. Don't count Buchanan out kicking long field goals after the kick scrimmage though!

7. Cornerback is a surprisingly big concern.  With Chimdi Chekwa sitting out, a number of players have been getting time next to Devon Torrence, and the young pups have been overwhelmed.  Most people thought that Corey Brown and Dominic Clarke would flash their athleticism this spring, but apparently they have been getting burned regularly, as has the veteran Torrence, which does not bode well.  The one guy impressing so far has been Donnie Evege, who everyone thought was destined to the "Shaun Lane" special teams role.  He may surprise and wind up in the two deep. As for Travis Howard, I haven't heard much good or bad.

8. Safety looking more solid than expected.  Jermale Hines is a beast, and Orhian Johnson seems to have locked down a starting spot, so this position may be okay in spite of its youth.  Although not much has been said about C.J. Barnett, I expect him to be a player, as well.

9. Sabino settling in nicely.  We've all waited for the light to go on for this exceptionally talented linebacker.  It seems this spring that has happened, and he may be ready to become a star.  If so, look out, because Rolle and Homan are already a handful.  Obviously Andrew Sweat will have something to say about who starts at the third linebacking position, but it is great to hear good things about Etienne.

10. Most players healthy at this point.  Injuries are a huge spring concern, and so far they have been few in number, and seem to be pretty minor.  However, that can change in a heartbeat.  The good news is that guys coming off surgery seem to be progressing ahead of schedule and looking good: Terrelle Pryor, Melvin Fellows, Andrew Sweat, and Tyler Moeller in particular.  Moeller could be a valuable addition to the defense if he rounds back into form, and may battle Nate Oliver for the Star.

All in all, the first week has brought mostly good news, and hopefully the team will look solid come April 24th.  I'll be there to cover the Spring Game, and look forward to seeing things with my own two eyes!
 


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