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Buckeyes Take Over the Combine: From Horseshoe Heroes to Pro Prospects

The 2024 NFL Combine is buzzing, and guess who's turning heads? That's right, our Ohio State Buckeyes! These former college stars traded their familiar scarlet and gray uniforms for workout gear, ready to impress NFL teams in Indianapolis. Let's catch up with some of them!

OhioStateCombine

Josh Proctor: Battling Back and Shining Bright

Safety Josh Proctor is a true inspiration. He's faced more challenges than a six-pack of Cedar Point roller coasters! Six years at Ohio State meant six different defensive coordinators, talk about a whirlwind! But tough times often build strong athletes. Even battling a broken leg in 2021 and getting benched early last season couldn't stop him. Now, Josh is standing tall in Indy, ready to show everyone what he's made of. "This has been a dream of mine forever," he says. "It's been a tough road, but I'm at the combine, and I'm prepared to prove myself."

Marvin Harrison Jr.: Carrying on the Legacy

Tomorrow's media darling? None other than Marvin Harrison Jr. Yep, the same name that echoes through the halls of Lucas Oil Stadium. His father, Marvin Sr., carved out a Hall of Fame career with the Colts. Now, Junior's here, measuring up at 6-foot-3¼, weighing 209 pounds, with arms that could launch a football to the moon (okay, maybe not the moon, but you get the drift). Marvin won't sweat it out in workouts—his pedigree speaks for itself.

Michael Hall Jr.: The Hamstring Saga

Michael Hall Jr., the man with a tweaked hamstring, won't be strutting his stuff at the combine. But fear not!
Mike Hall did not experience a hamstring issue while playing for Ohio State. He suffered the recent hamstring injury preparing for the 2024 NFL Combine in February of 2024. The minor injury is preventing him from participating in drills, but he is looking forward to participating at Ohio State's Pro Day on March 20, 2024.

The Combine Scoop

Eight Buckeyes made the cut for the combine:

1. Marvin Harrison Jr. (WR)
2. Miyan Williams (RB)
3. Cade Stover (TE)
4. Matthew Jones (OL)
5. Michael Hall Jr. (DT)
6. Steele Chambers (LB)
7. Tommy Eichenberg (LB)

3/1/2024 6:40:45 PM
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Buckeyes Legend Laurinaitis Officially Promoted to Linebackers Coach!

Buckle up, because the past few weeks have been a coaching carousel for Ohio State football! The latest news? James Laurinaitis is now the head Linebackers Coach. Son to the legendary Road Warrior Animal, Laurinaitis brought his wealth of football wisdom to Ohio State in 2023, where he served as a graduate student coach.

James Laurinaitis Linebackers Coach

Now, he's stepping up to the big leagues, leading the next generation of Ohio State linebackers.

james laurinaitis

Cleveland Browns Interview

What's interesting is Laurinaitis's journey to this position. This move comes after Laurinaitis reportedly interviewed with the Cleveland Browns, potentially using that interest as leverage to secure his spot in Columbus.

Utilizing his connections and skills, Laurinaitis successfully secured the linebackers coach role for the Buckeyes after a series of interviews in Berea, demonstrating both his ambition and his knack for seizing opportunities.

Similar to Brian Hartline

This move also reminds me of Brian Hartline's journey. He too returned to his alma mater as a coach, and look how successful he's been! Could Laurinaitis follow a similar path?

Will he follow in Hartline's footsteps and achieve similar success? Only time will tell as Laurinaitis embarks on this new chapter in his football journey with the Buckeyes.

2/16/2024 6:03:17 PM
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Buckeyes Boost Defense with Acquisition of Freshman All-American Caleb Downs

Holy Toledo! Buckle up, Buckeye Nation, because the offseason just got spicy!** Caleb Downs, the hottest name in the transfer portal and arguably the best safety in the country, just traded his crimson for scarlet and gray! That's right, folks, Nick Saban's retirement sent Downs packing, and guess who snatched him up? You guessed it: Ryan Day and the Buckeyes!

CalebDowns

Remember that freshman phenom who led Alabama in tackles last year? He's got the swagger, the hits, and the hair (that mane deserves its own scholarship, trust me). And get this, folks. Downs isn't just a stud, he's a Buckeye for life! Three years of pure defensive dominance await, with at least two before he even thinks about the NFL. That's enough time to build a statue of the guy outside the Shoe, and frankly, I wouldn't be surprised if they started construction tomorrow!

We already got Lathan Ransom and Denzel Burke back there, and now we add Downs? Forget the Horseshoe, we're building a Fortress Scarlet in Columbus!

And get this: Downs isn't the only five-star talent eyeing the Buckeyes. Whispers are circulating about Julian Sayin, the number one quarterback recruit in the nation, throwing some serious glances our way.

Social media's already losing its mind over Downs' decision. Buckeye Twitter's going bananas, Dawg Nation's got the blues, and the rest of the country's scrambling to figure out what just hit them. This ain't your grandpa's Ohio State team, folks. This is a program on the rise, a sleeping giant awakened, and Caleb Downs is just the first domino to fall.

So put on your scarlet caps, crank up the fight song, and get ready for a wild ride, Buckeye Nation. The future's looking brighter than Brutus' smile after a touchdown, and I wouldn't trade it for all the tea in Alabama. Go Bucks!

1/20/2024 10:45:09 AM
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Seth McLaughlin's Transition to Ohio State and the Future of Buckeye Football

In the realm of Ohio State sports, an exciting announcement echoed through the Buckeyes' universe as former Alabama starting center, Seth McLaughlin, declared his transfer to Ohio State this Saturday. In a significant transfer move announced this Saturday, Seth McLaughlin, the former starting center at Alabama, is set to make a mark at Ohio State. With 25 career starts for the Crimson Tide, McLaughlin's decision to enter the transfer portal marks the beginning of a new chapter.

Seth McLaughlin

Experience at Alabama

Hailing from Buford, Georgia, McLaughlin spent four years with Alabama, showcasing his skills as the starting center for the better part of two years. His journey includes a notable start in the 2021 SEC Championship and consistent snaps for all 14 games this fall, albeit facing challenges in establishing a steady rhythm with quarterback Jalen Milroe.

Transfer to Ohio State

Despite facing challenges in finding a consistent rhythm with quarterback Jalen Milroe during the past season, McLaughlin's dedication and skill set make him a valuable addition to the Buckeyes. Reflecting on his time with Alabama in 2023, McLaughlin faced some challenges with snaps, a frustration that likely resonated deeply within him. The move to Ohio State gives an opportunity for McLaughlin to bring his experience and skill set to a new team.

Ohio State Transfer Players

The Buckeyes' roster additions have been nothing short of remarkable, with the commitment of tight end Will Kacmarek and the acquisition of Kansas State transfer quarterback, Will Howard. However, the crescendo of positive developments reached new heights as Seth McLaughlin, a seasoned figure from the Alabama football trenches, officially pledged his commitment to Ohio State.

1/6/2024 2:45:52 PM
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From Buckeyes to Eagles: Ryan Turner's Next Chapter at Boston College

Picture this: scarlet and gray replaced by maroon and gold. Ohio State's standout cornerback, Ryan Turner, has embarked on a new journey, declaring his transfer to Boston College. The announcement, made on a Friday, signifies more than just a change of colors; it's a fresh start, a quest for more playing time, and a promising future in the Eagles' nest.

RyanTurner

Ohio State

Let's rewind to Turner's time in Columbus, marked by potential but hampered by limited chances. Hailing from Florida as a highly-touted recruit in 2022, he brought immediate expectations of contributing on the field. Yet, a stacked defensive backfield at Ohio State kept him waiting on the sidelines, his talents showcased in just five games over two seasons. Despite modest stats – three tackles and one sack – Turner's speed and instincts hinted at the untapped potential within.

The Transfer Portal

In search of a more significant role, Turner took the leap into the transfer portal, catching the eye of Boston College. Head coach Jeff Hafley, renowned for defensive prowess, recognized Turner's promise and swiftly extended an offer. The allure of a program on the ascent and the chance to vie for a starting spot proved too tempting for the young cornerback to resist.

Boston College

Now, in Chestnut Hill, Turner injects much-needed depth and talent into the Eagles' secondary. His arrival promises size, athleticism, and a competitive spirit that will push his new teammates. This move comes at a strategic juncture for both Turner and Boston College, addressing defensive challenges faced last season, especially after Elijah Jones' season-ending injury. Turner's addition is seen as a valuable boost to the BC defense, a timely reinforcement.

The announcement of Turner's commitment to Boston College marks a significant addition to their football roster, the fourth transfer acquisition this cycle. Turner himself shared the news on his social media, shedding light on his decision to join the Eagles.

This isn't just about Turner; it's part of a larger trend. Ohio State transfers are finding new homes, with Chip Trayanum heading to Kentucky and former Ohio State running back Evan Pryor committing to Cincinnati. The transfer portal is reshaping college football dynamics, and the impact is evident as talent disperses across various programs.

12/15/2023 9:40:23 PM
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Nate Roberts' Journey to Becoming a Key Player in Ohio State's Tight End Renaissance

In the ever-evolving landscape of college football recruiting, one name is buzzing among Ohio State fans and recruiting aficionados alike – Nate Roberts, a promising tight end hailing from Oklahoma, class of 2025.

Standing tall at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing in at 235 pounds, Roberts is more than just a standout on the gridiron. Initially committed to Notre Dame, the dynamic 17-year-old prospect had a change of heart, redirecting his path toward the Buckeyes' territory.

NateRoberts

Roberts' decision to pivot resonates with the growing recognition of Ohio State's innovative use of tight ends in their offensive strategy. The Buckeyes' approach has not gone unnoticed, especially by athletes of Roberts' caliber.

According to the latest 247Sports Composite Rankings, Roberts commands attention as the No. 5 tight end nationally and holds an impressive overall player ranking at 126th. Man, Nate Roberts is more than just a football guy. I mean, the dude's a beast on the gridiron, but check this out – he's tearing it up on the baseball field too! Roberts isn't about sticking to just one sport; he's showing everyone he's got skills all over the place. It's like, don't box him in – he's the real deal, whether it's football or baseball.

Ohio State’s Use of Tight Ends

Under the leadership of head coach Ryan Day, Ohio State's tight ends are experiencing a renaissance, shedding the image of mere glorified offensive linemen. Day's commitment to transforming this narrative reflects in the program's evolving strategy and the heightened interest from recruits like Roberts.

The journey of Nate Roberts serves as a testament to the changing tide within Ohio State football. As the Buckeyes shake things up with how they use tight ends in their offensive playbook, Roberts steps into the spotlight as a key player in this exciting new chapter. It's not just about Nate Roberts' athletic talent; my goodness, he's becoming a real force, molding the team's dynamics in a big way. Keep an eye on this journey as we follow Nate's path, tracing the twists and turns that brought him to wear the Scarlet and Gray.

"In the world of college football, decisions are made, and paths are taken. As a coach who once saw the potential in Nate Roberts, it's bittersweet to witness his journey taking a different route. We recognized his skills, his dedication, and the promise he held for our team at Notre Dame." a Notre Dame recruiter.

Life in football is dynamic, and players make choices that shape their destiny. Though Nate Roberts initially committed to Notre Dame, his change of heart led him to the vibrant realm of Ohio State. While it's natural to feel a sense of loss, there's also pride in seeing a player spread his wings and venture into new horizons.

11/19/2023 8:31:02 PM
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Byron Louis American Heritage Running Back

Ohio State football has been busy recruiting for its 2025 class, and one of the top running backs in the nation has taken notice.

Byron Louis, a four-star prospect from Fort Lauderdale (FL) American Heritage, announced his top ten schools on Sunday afternoon. The 6-foot, 205 pounder is considering Ohio State, Miami, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, USC, Florida State, Oklahoma.Recently was predicted to select Ohio State.

Byron Louis

Louis has been a standout player for American Heritage since his freshman year, when he got some varsity action. He had a breakout season as a sophomore in 2022, scoring 11 touchdowns for the Patriots. He rushed for 186 yards and 2 TD on 28 carries in 6 games as a freshman.

Ohio State has a lot of options at the running back position in the 2025 class, but Louis is one of the most coveted ones. Two notable football players from American Heritage High School who had committed in recent years to Ohio State were Mark Fletcher and Brandon Inniss.

Mark Fletcher is a talented running back who has been playing with Brandon Inniss since they were 9 years old. He has been praised for his work ethic and performance on the field. He ended up at Miami University after decommitting from Ohio State.

Brandon Inniss, on the other hand, is a wide receiver who had an impressive junior season at American Heritage. He accounted for 1,253 yards of total offense (341 receiving, 308 rushing) and was responsible for 11 touchdowns.

Going into his junior campaign, Louis is expected to be the lead back for the Patriots, after the departure of Miami freshman and All-American4. Some compare Louis to former Georgia Bulldogs running back Sony Michel.

As of now, Byron Louis is ranked as the No. 193 recruit in the class of 2025.

11/12/2023 7:57:38 AM
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Eli Lee: Fulfilling a Dream at Ohio State

In the midst of a truly talented Ohio class of 2025, the Buckeyes have extended a well-deserved scholarship offer to Akron Hoban's impressive linebacker, Eli Lee. For one talented young athlete, Eli Lee, that dream just took a monumental step closer to reality. The Ohio State Buckeyes have extended a coveted scholarship offer to Eli Lee, a standout linebacker from Akron Hoban, hailing from the beautiful city of Akron, Ohio.

EliLee

Eli Lee is not your average high school junior. At 6 feet 3 inches and 215 pounds, Eli Lee hails from Akron, OH, and has been making waves in the football scene.

For Eli, this offer from Ohio State is nothing short of a dream come true. Having grown up fervently supporting the Buckeyes, it took a moment for the gravity of the news to truly sink in. The excitement radiating from Eli is palpable. But once reality settled, elation washed over him, knowing that he was now one step closer to realizing his aspirations.

But Eli Lee is not the only star shining bright at Archbishop Hoban Knights. This past week has been nothing short of exhilarating for the Archbishop Hoban Knights, particularly for Eli Lee, a standout among the junior ranks, and two budding sophomore stars, Payton Cook and Elbert "Rock" Hill IV. The trio received Power 5 offers, a testament to their burgeoning talent and hard work.

The Buckeye coaching staff hit the road, tirelessly visiting prospects, carefully assessing who truly merited a scholarship, and identifying those who warranted further observation. However, for Eli Lee, they needed no additional convincing. His performance spoke volumes.

While Ohio State has recently reestablished its connection with Glenville, a new avenue is being paved in Akron. Just a week ago, defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, accompanied by Hoban graduate DeaMonte Trayanum, witnessed the Knights' spectacular 57-7 victory over the previously undefeated Walsh Jesuit.

The 2025 class calls for a robust linebacker lineup, and the Buckeyes are well aware of this. With the seasoned players in Columbus now, Jim Knowles and James Laurinaitis are tasked with recruiting multiple prospects in the coming cycle. On Wednesday, a new name emerged on their radar, Eli Lee, as the coaching staff sent out their latest offer to this promising linebacker prospect.

10/7/2023 2:03:02 PM
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Ohio State Men’s Basketball: A Look at the 2023-2024 Roster and Depth Chart

The Ohio State Buckeyes are coming off a disappointing season in which they finished 13th in the Big Ten and missed the NCAA tournament for the first time since 2016. However, head coach Chris Holtmann has reloaded his roster with a mix of returning veterans, talented transfers, and highly rated freshmen. Here is a breakdown of the Buckeyes’ projected roster and depth chart for the 2023-2024 season.

OhioStateBasketball2023

Point Guard

Starter: Bruce Thornton Backup: Dale Bonner

Bruce Thornton returns for his sophomore season as the Buckeyes’ starting point guard. He averaged 10.6 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game as a freshman, while shooting 37.5 percent from three-point range and 45.6 percent from the field. He is a strong and quick guard who can attack the rim, create for others, and defend at a high level. He ranked 17th in the Big Ten in offensive rating (113.7) and 20th in assists (92) last season1.

Dale Bonner is a graduate transfer from Baylor, where he played a reserve role for the Bears for two seasons. He averaged 4.7 points, 2.7 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.2 rebounds per game last season, while shooting 37.2 percent from beyond the arc and 44.1 percent from the field2. He is a versatile and experienced guard who can play both on and off the ball, as well as provide some defensive pressure.

Shooting Guard

Starter: Roddy Gayle Jr. Backup: Bowen Hardman

Roddy Gayle Jr. is a sophomore who transferred from Wasatch Academy in Utah, where he averaged 18 points, six rebounds, and four assists per game as a senior3. He is a four-star recruit who was ranked as the No. 48 player in the nation by ESPN4. He is a smooth and athletic wing who can score from all three levels, as well as rebound and defend multiple positions.

Bowen Hardman is a sophomore who played sparingly as a freshman, averaging 1.8 points and 0.6 rebounds per game in 5.8 minutes per game5. He is a sharpshooter who made 11 of his 22 three-point attempts last season (50 percent). He will look to earn more playing time with his shooting ability and improved defense.

Small Forward

Starter: Jamison Battle Backup: Evan Mahaffey

Jamison Battle is a graduate transfer from Minnesota, where he averaged 16.9 points and 5.5 rebounds per game last season, while shooting 40 percent from three-point range and 43 percent from the field6. He was named to the All-Big Ten3rd Team by the media. He is a skilled and versatile forward who can stretch the floor, attack the basket, and play inside-out.

Evan Mahaffey is a sophomore who transferred from Penn State, where he averaged 3.9 points and 2.3 rebounds per game as a freshman. He is a three-star recruit who was ranked as the No. 10 player in Ohio by ESPN. He is a long and athletic wing who can slash to the rim, finish in transition, and defend multiple positions.

Power Forward

Starter: Zed Key Backup: Devin Royal

Zed Key is a senior who has been a solid contributor for the Buckeyes for three seasons. He averaged 8.9 points and 4.8 rebounds per game last season, while shooting 55 percent from the field. He is a strong and physical post player who can score with either hand, rebound on both ends, and protect the paint.

Devin Royal is a freshman who was ranked as the No. 8 player in Ohio by ESPN. He is a four-star recruit who averaged 18 points, eight rebounds, and four assists per game as a senior at Pickerington Central High School. He is a skilled and mobile forward who can shoot from the perimeter, handle the ball, and pass well.

Center

Starter: Felix Okpara Backup: Austin Parks

Felix Okpara is a sophomore who transferred from Hamilton Heights Christian Academy in Tennessee, where he averaged 12 points, nine rebounds, and four blocks per game as a senior. He is a four-star recruit who was ranked as the No. 39 player in the nation by ESPN. He is an elite shot-blocker who can alter shots at the rim, run the floor, and finish with authority.

Austin Parks is a freshman who was ranked as the No. 11 player in Ohio by ESPN. He is a three-star recruit who averaged 16 points, 10 rebounds, and three blocks per game as a senior at St. Mary’s Memorial High School. He is a big and strong center who can score in the post, rebound well, and set hard screens.

9/28/2023 6:56:30 PM
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Buckeyes vs Hilltoppers: A Closer Look at Saturday's Clash

In the heart of Buckeye Nation, the No.6 Ohio State football team is gearing up to face the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, and while the spotlight might be on the looming clash with No. 9 Notre Dame, Coach Ryan Day and his squad are leaving no stone unturned in preparation.

Western-Kentucky-Hilltoppers

Now, to the untrained eye, the face-off with the Hilltoppers might not scream "Game of the Century", but let's not underestimate Western Kentucky. They come into this matchup with a perfect 2-0 record and a preseason buzz as the team to beat in the C-USA. Not arriving in Columbus alone, their head coach flanked by a roster of Hilltopper playmakers, all with one mission in mind - to shatter Ohio State's home-field advantage and mar their perfect record.

Air Raid

Ohio State has just 10 points conceded and 387 total yards given up in two games, a testament to their prowess. Sure, the opponents haven't been the most formidable, but now, facing Western Kentucky's Air Raid, we'll truly see if the Buckeyes have taken that pivotal step forward in their second season under Jim Knowles' guidance. While the early part of the schedule might have favored the Buckeyes, the Hilltoppers' Air Raid offense will provide a more revealing barometer of the strides the Buckeyes have made in their second season under defensive coordinator Jim Knowles' system.

Kyle McCord Named Starter

Speaking of progress, Ohio State's head coach, Ryan Day, has settled on Kyle McCord as his starting quarterback. McCord's mission now is to get the Buckeyes' offense running more smoothly. One player who has seen McCord's growth up close is wide receiver Emeka Egbuka. The potential first-round pick roomed with McCord when they both arrived in Columbus in 2021. Egbuka has had a front-row seat to witness not only McCord's development but also his leadership qualities. He knows firsthand just how good McCord can be.

9/14/2023 7:16:16 PM
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