As one of the many 5-star recruits in Ohio State’s 2009 recruiting class, Jaamal Berry knows freshman don’t always have high expectations when it comes to on-the-field performance; especially with a program like Ohio State.

By Marlene Gundlach

However, Jaamal Berry feels he can make an impact as a freshman. Berry knows there are big shoes to fill with the loss of Beanie Wells, and is not bothered that he is playing with the third group behind Boom Herron and Brandon Saine. At media day, Berry confidently shared “I feel like I can make an impact at the college level as a freshman.”

As a blue-chip high school recruit, Berry realizes the differences he will face when playing the college game. "I feel like the game speed is so much faster in college," Berry said. "High school has people who don't really know what they're doing, but in college everyone is fast and knows what they are doing and takes good angles, so it's really hard to beat them." He hopes to keep up by studying the playbook and is learning all he can from veteran Boom Herron.

Berry knows he has been given a second chance after a run-in with the law over the summer, and hopes his work ethic will show coaches that he is worthy of that second chance. He is confident that he made the right decision in coming to Ohio State. "It feels great to be a Buckeye," Berry said. "I'm just ready to play some football right now. I can't wait to get on the field and showcase my talent."

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