Perception vs. Reality

This game is more than just Ohio State vs. Alabama. It's about the pride of conferences. Granted, one would like to think if either win or lose the effect would only effect the teams and not the conference, but we both know that's not true. Alabama wins and the SEC is Gods gift to college football. Alabama loses and the SEC is still Gods gift, it's just this year is a rebuilding year. Nothing changes perception wise. Ohio State on the other hand is simple. You win and you were lucky. You lose and you've done what was expected. Sense some disrespect?

 

The truth is simple. Against LSU, Miss St, and Arkansas, The Tide nearly lost. LSU took them into overtime. Miss St. lost by 5 points, and Arkansas lost by 1 point. LSU lost to Notre Dame, Miss St. has yet to play, and Arkansas destroyed a down Texas Longhorns. These are basically Bama's key wins. If you take 10 minutes and watch highlights of these games, you'll wonder where all the hype is coming from, after all that's the same Bama team we're playing tomorrow night. The hype is coming from the simple fact that Saban's reputation is almost as big as his team. The media can't help but bring up the past successes of both, Urban and Nick, when discussing the keys to this game, as if they mean anything. As there been a vastly dominant team during the entire schedule? No, not really. Auburn and Arkansas had the toughest schedule this year, and they both have at least 3 loses. Oregon has been the most dominant when facing quality opponents, and they have one loss. Even the undefeated Seminoles have come close to losing more then they have blown out an opponent.

 

Anyone that looks at Ohio State may not dig deeper than what they have to, after all it is easy to say the Buckeyes will get manhandled by the infamous Nick Saban. However, for those that follow the team, the infamous Nick Saban may be in for a rough night. Was it not a year ago at this time, that Oklahoma was going through the same situation. In fact, there was not a single analysts nor commentator that did not pick Alabama, furthermore; Alabama was said to be superior at every position. That superiority may be true, but that does not change the outcome does it? This years Ohio State Buckeyes have a striking resemblance to the Ohio State team of 2002. While Nick Saban and Urban stay respectful before the game, during the game may be a different issue. This team has a new face, new attitude, and new personality. It seems the biggest Wild Card is none other than Cardale Jones, which has taken the task of becoming more than just a shadow, but the leader of a National Championship contending team.

 

Sweat does not rise from the body of Cardale Jones, but rather anger and focus. Cardale is angry at the media perception of his own abilities to lead this team. He has made the comment several times, that if J.T. Barrett or Braxton Miller were the starter we would probably be about equal if not favored, but instead because of people's perception of him, they are underdogs. Needless to say, he is out to prove a point. My point is simple, the national perception is that Ohio State will be anything but competitive, when the exact opposite it true. How can one person say Ohio State has no chance when those calling the plays are award winning coaches? 

 

O-H!

What Is The SEC?

 

 

I keep hearing SEC speed, SEC talent, SEC this, SEC that. Whenever a team has fast players, big players, multiple play makers, they are called SEC caliber players. Let's start out with some facts, in terms of college football geography. The SEC stand for South Eastern Conference. The SEC consists of Louisiana (farthest West) to South Carolina (farthest East), with all of the States bordering the Gulf of Mexico, with a few northern States, such as Missouri. I could be wrong because I don't follow the SEC intimately, but as for common knowledge I'm assuming this is it. "SEC talent, skill, and whatever else" is a myth. If SEC speed means you're fast and agile, then is Marcus Mariota SEC quality? Is Melvin Gordon, Montee Ball, James White or Eddie George SEC quality? Is JT Barrett, Braxton Miller, Cardale Jones, Jameis Winston, Rashad Greene or any other top notch player in college football SEC quality? One could assume so, but to assume so would be to assume these players grew up on SEC territory, which most did not. However, some states are split between different conferences.

 

The fact of the matter is this, SEC anything is a myth. What the SEC does have is great coaches and great coaches that develop players into great players. The same can be said about any other conference. Oregon has great players that are from States outside the SEC. Traditional Powers, Oklahoma and Texas have had great players from outside the SEC as well. Ohio State and the Big Ten in general have developed nobodies into somebody's, and they're in the North. The argument could be had that the SEC gets the best players, which could be true. That means, however, that coaches from other schools have to do a better job of selling their program. How hard can that be? If one were to pay attention to all of the teams that have won Super Bowls, what area of the country do most come from? The North. New England, Green Bay, Baltimore, Seattle, Pittsburgh, etc. When's the last time any team from the South had won with the exception of the Saints? No one from Florida, Texas, Carolina, Atlanta, or any place in the SEC. When's last team from a warm climate to win a Super Bowl? Or indoor? To sell the Big Ten would be an easy sell.

 

Sure playing in college, in a predominantly warm environment is nice, but say goodbye to that once you get drafted, unless you get lucky enough for a warm climate, then good luck getting to the Super Bowl. The fact of the matter is simple, to recruit for future NFL players, is to point out that those carrying the Lombardi Trophy are predominantly from the Northern, colder climates, not the South. You want a chance, come to the North. I realize that players can be conditioned to play in any climate, that they choose a University based upon their chances of a title or for whatever reason. However, look at all the successful players or QBs; where did they come from? Tim Tebow is not playing anymore. AJ McCarron is hurt, Greg McElroy isn't playing. Those are three very successful Southern college QBs. However, look who is starting, Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady, Russell Wilson, Ben Rothlesberger, Joe Flaco, Drew Brees, etc. These QBs weren't from the South.

 

Whatever investment ESPN makes, they have the resources to advertise that brand into popularity and dominance. What happens if Ohio State and Oregon lose, than Florida State beats Alabama? Will the narrative still be the SECs dominance? Over the fact that Florida State hasn't lost a game in 2 years, including Bowl Games. Including the two best teams the last two years from the SEC. It would be interesting to find out. What if its Ohio State and Florida State? Would ESPN find a way to mention the SEC in the title game even though Alabama was knocked out?

 

The point is this, the region of the country you play in does not matter, it's the coaching staff. Whether a college team wins a title or not, does not matter, it's the players further development once they get into the NFL that does. What good is a team that wins titles, but which their drafted players end up doing nothing in the Pros? I don't see anyone saying Oregon or Florida State has SEC talent? Ohio State is entering the Sugar Bowl with an arsenal of talented and motivated players. Do they match up well with what Alabama brings to the table? I think so. Do these matchups mean Ohio State has SEC talent on their roster? No, that means all the players on the roster were developed by great coaches that have a variety of coaching experience. Urban Meyer and Chris Ash came from the SEC, Larry Johnson came from Penn State, Ed Warriner came from the Big 12, Tom Herman came from the MAC, Stan Drayton came from Florida, and the other coaches came from a variety of backgrounds. Does this mean Ohio State will win the Sugar Bowl? No, but it means that the talent we have on our rosters were coached by great coaches.

 

 

Well DUH!!!!!!

Why must reporters ask dumb questions? Other than to get people to click on their post and read what they're saying. So here's a rhetorical question. Will Urban Meyer use the teams underdog status as motivation for the team? Yeah think? Wouldn't you? If you're going up against one of the best football teams for almost the last decade, wouldn't you use everything in your arsenal? Is that even a question. As if this team needs any more motivation, I would think there's plenty to go around. I was watching ESPN and Campus Insider this morning until I felt like I was going to throw the remote at the television. First of all, ESPN was talking about the playoffs starting in less than a week. The host was a lady and she had Paul Finebaum as a guest host. As we all know, Paul Finebaum and Skip Bayless are about as SEC bias as they come, without a doubt. Paul Finebaum was asked who, out of the two underdog teams has the best chance of upsetting the favorite. Of course, Paul picks Florida State, and says that Alabama will be well prepared. That I expected, but what the host said, was kind of unexpected. She goes onto to say, even though Alabama lost the Sugar Bowl the year before, they have won it many times before, including to become National Champions.

 

This is my problem, it's as if one negative comment is followed by three positive. The very mention of Alabama losing last years Sugar Bowl, means that another mention of their many wins in that same stadium, becoming National Champs, and Nick Saban's record with time to prepare is deadly also has to be mentioned in order to end the news cast on a good note. Are you kidding me? When the same people talk about Ohio State, it is their inexperience, they are from a weak conference, weak schedule, and 3rd String Quarterback, with a faint mention of Urban Meyer being the type of coach he is. It is laughable.

 

The second show that got on my nerves and it's not because of their prediction about the game, it's about their explanation for why Alabama wins. The guest on the show stated that Ohio State has allot of playmakers, and Cardale will be prepared for the game, but Ohio State will lose because Nick Saban does not lose the same game twice. First off, that is a stupid explanation. If Alabama loses this game, then we find the same match up next year, then someone can say, Alabama does not lose the same game twice. The game is always the same, it is the teams that are different. If Oklahoma was Ohio State, that statement would apply. However, they are not and Ohio State is nothing like Oklahoma, so to say that Alabama losing last year means they win this year, is to say Bob Stoops and Urban Meyer coach the exact same way. What a moron!

 

 

Will The SEC Ever Fall?

I've been thinking allot about this question and I've come to this conclusion. The SEC will never fall figuratively, but physically they may. The difference being the physical nature of winning or losing, as compared to advertising and fan base. Even if Alabama were to lose the Sugar Bowl, the reputation of Nick Saban would carry them into another year. If next year doesn't pan out either, than advertising and their fan base would make up for their lack of W's. Meaning, if L's start coming more often, the reasoning wouldn't be the lack of talent on the field, it would be lack of experience or the so called, "rebuilding year." There will never be a lack of reasoning because of the businesses model the SEC and media have in place.

As much as ESPN Analysts and announcers like to announce their unbiased opinion, those that sign their checks are anything but. ESPN is a business that makes money from getting viewers amongst other sources of profit. As of now, the SEC is a very valuable part of ESPN considering the SEC Network is owned by ESPN. Therefore, to say there is no bias, is to say it's good for business. I've heard Chris Fowler, Kirk Herbstreit, Lee Corso and other analysts talk about how they are in the bag for no one, which I agree with. Their College GameDay is based upon the most attractive games in comparison to other conferences. For example, fans want to point out that College Game Day was in SEC territory quite often this year. That's true, but College Game Day has also been at Ohio State more often than not. The point is this, ESPN will always be biased towards the SEC because it's good for business. Just because the Big Ten network is a flop doesn't mean that's ESPN's fault.

The fact of the matter is simple, the SEC will never fall per say because there will always be a reputation to point to. The Big Ten is in the process of repairing their image, the PAC 12 is seemingly strong throughout the year, but tend to fall at the end, and the Big 12 is screwed until they get a Championship game. The ACC's only hope for now is Florida State, but that could change when Winston leaves, otherwise Miami may have to carry the torch.

O-H!

What is Talent?

During all of this hoopla, the topic that has been driving me nuts is the word talent. Why? Every sports writer I have read or listened to has made it their mission to talk about how much more talent Alabama has over Ohio State. It is mentally annoying to think that Alabama will win this game based upon talent. Do not get me wrong, talent is needed, but what is more important is the coaching that develops whether the player is rated at 2 or 5 stars. And another thing, if recruiting classes really mattered, Alabama would have been the 7 time National Champion, but they are not. Respectfully, Auburn and Oklahoma have had lesser ranking of recruiting classes, yet they handed Alabama their two losses last year. This year, Ole Miss's recruiting class was not even mentioned in the top 10, yet they handed them a loss this year. So, talent does play a role in the likelihood a team will be successful, but more importantly it is the coaching staff. Another issue I am having, amongst others, is the defensive mastermind of Nick Saban and Kirby Smart. These two are among the best in the business at stopping teams, scoring points, and getting the Win. However, among the other best coaches out there, you may find Pat Narduzzi, Greg Mattison and Mark Dantonio.Go figure three Big Ten coaches that have mastered their craft of stopping an offense. What these three coaches have in common though, Urban Meyer beat all of them!

The media would like for you to think that the best of the best reside in the South, which may be true to an extent. Case in point, Nick Saban started his coaching career in Ohio, Les Miles played for Michigan. Two of the most prominent SEC coaches have their roots in Ohio, even though their mind has been melted by the powers that be. Lets get back to what I was saying earlier about talent. The Tide have their talent in Cooper, Henry, Yeldon, White, and Sims. The Buckeyes have their talent in Wilson, Marshall, D. Smith, Michael Thomas, Ezekiel Elliot, Curtis Samuel, Cardale Jones, Nick Vannett, and Jeff Heuerman. Just by this alone, Ohio State has more talent. Talent will not be an issue for this game, considering both sides have an abundance. What will win this game is the coaching. The biggest downside for Saban is that his coaching style has no changed immensly, there are 12 games for the Buckeyes to watch, and Blake Sims is just as green as Cardale Jones. Sure, Cardale has played in one major game in his career, but Blake is still a first year starter, just like Jones. The biggest advantage for Urban Meyer is that the quarterback as so many weapons and he has a great coaching staff.

Before the Michigan State game, the hype was whether or not Ohio State could move the ball against the tough Spartan defense. Well we saw how that went. Make no mistake about it, Lane Kiffin is no match for Urban Meyer, where the match will be is between Larry Johnson, Luke Fickell, and Chris Ash against Nick Saban and Kirby Smart. If I was Urban, I would show Saban something he did not think would happen. Turn Cardale into a dual threat. During the Big Ten Championship he showed the awareness of pressure, in which he simply stepped back and ran the opposite way. If Cardale shows he can run and the passing game comes about, then Elliot will have the chance to do something very few have done and that is run. I see our defense stepping up again and stopping the run, forcing Sims to run and the passing game to become more. However, I think Grant and McMillan will spy on Sims enough to where his running abilities will be few and far between. Cooper won't be taken out of the game, but his productivity won't be what everyone thinks it will.

This game is simple, let it all hang out. Why not? What is there to lose? This team and coaching staff have all the talent and brains in the world to overcome a team that hasn't really been tested. You could say that LSU and Arkansas tested them, but they came out victorious, which is true. Troy Smtih was a 2 star recuit, that became a Heisman Trophy winner and he was recuited and coached by Jim Tressel. What do you think a team coached and recruited by Urban Meyer and his staff can do? So I must ask again, what is talent? The stars beside a players name or the development of a young player and his coaches?

Bob Stoops and Gus Malzahn beat the all mighty Nick Saban last year in back to back fashion in two championship bowl games. Their recruiting classes did not seem to matter, but they still won. One cannot say that Ohio State will not be prepared to win this game. One cannot say that Nick Saban will destroy our Buckeyes, but what one can say is that, these teams are evenly matched for the moment.

As I have faith in my time, I will always exepect them to win the game. This game is no different!
 O-H!

A Mountain Became A Mole Hill

The weeks leading up to the Sugar Bowl are going to be brutal. The media is being relentless in their pursuit of advertising the "greatness" of the SEC. After watching interviews, players were pounded with questions about SEC speed, SEC talent, and basically anything else that made the SEC look like more than a conference, but a factory of which turns college men into NFL stars. I was not mad, per say, but annoyed with the assumption that the SEC is somehow the end all, be all of college football. Before Urban Meyer, Ohio State was not as prominent in the South under Jim Tressel, nor John Cooper. However, with Urban, more an more recruits are not only coming from the South, but everywhere else. Can it really be assumed that players from the South are faster, than players from up North? Absolutely not! There is no such thing as SEC speed, talent, nor anything else. A player who runs a 4 at 40 yards in Alabama, would do the same in Ohio or anywhere else. The reality of the matter is simple. Players are in the south because of where their parents are. For example, last year my family and I contemplated moving to Florida or Texas because of job opportunities. If you do not think other families have or are not doing the same, you are kidding youself. The fact of the matter is simple, if families from the South found better career opportunities in the North, and this was happening to hundreds of thousands of people, the South would have to spend much of its time in the North.

During the early 90's, the Big Ten was the dominant conference because the majority of jobs that were paying well and attracting people were in Big Ten country. If you think about it, the SEC was not really known much until Urban Meyer destroyed us in 2006. At that time, it was all about Michigan, Ohio State, Penn State, and a few teams from the West. You cannot deny though, that recently, as in the last 10 years, the SEC has dominated the National Championship bowls. If Tressel was still the coach, and Urban was still the announcer, Ohio State would be bigger underdogs to Alabama.

Anyways, back to my post. Since the beginning of the year, the Crimson Tide have been stepping on each step the media has given them, until they are so high in the sky, they look down upon everyone else. All I hear is how Ohio State is inferior to Alabama in every fashion, that the Tide are going to Roll. Urban Meyer is going to need more anti depressants, blah, blah, blah. It is inconveiable to think Ohio State has a fighting chance. Do these idiots understand that what they are doing is feeding a caged animal? The attitude of the players is starting to show with each interview. And while, they are being polite and respectful, the fact still remains the same, Ohio State has  great chance of upsetting the Giant that is Alabama. All I hear about is how Blake Sims, Amari Cooper, TJ Yeldon, Ed Henry, and Deandre White are going to torch our offense. The Tides defense is going to have their way with us. I say, BRING IT ON!!!!!!! First and foremost, Ohio State has the advantage. Saban and company have one film to watch featuring Cardale. Secondly, if our defense plays lights out again, TJ Yeldon and Ed Henry will be stopped, no doubt. Third, Blake Sims has an entire year of football underneath his belt, which is great because that gives us an entire year to see all his strengths and weaknesses. Only Ohio State knows his weaknesses and strengths, Alabama will only see his strengths. Fourth, ESPN and the media like to say how Amari Cooper is the second Heisman finalist we will face. That is hilarious, considering we held the 2nd place finalist to under 100 yards! And we have two Heisman quarterbacks on our roster. So take that and shove it!

When these teams walk onto the field Jan. 1, all the hype will be gone. The mountain will disapper underneath the Tide and the two will battle. At this point, the media will not be able to help. At this point, the victor will be who wants it more. Lets not forget that we are only human. Lets not forget that Alabama has lost before and barely won to those of lesser perceived talent. Lets not forget, that everything is settled on the field.

O-H

Expectations vs. House of Cards

 

If you're like me, and something says that you are, you watch and listen to sports shows. Out of everyone interviewed in the past week, there's been maybe 4 or 5 people predict Ohio State wins the Sugar Bowl out of probably a hundred people. It's so bad that entire conferences and those within are picking Alabama to win. The expectation in this game is simple, Alabama wins. However, what is even more dangerous than expectations is knowing you have nothing to lose. If Alabama wins, Ohio State lost to the #1 team in the nation, that's no surprise. If Ohio State wins, it's because Alabama was looking ahead to the title game. Credit will never be given, nor will it be said that Ohio State was the better team that night. On the other hand, if Alabama wins there house of cards becomes a little less vulnerable to the other conferences. Alabama is a great team, there's no question, but they are beatable even during times of extended practices (Oklahoma). One might say, well Stoops is a better coach than Urban Meyer, which is arrogantly stupid. Stoops is a good coach, but Urban is much better. Every game Bama wins, another card is added to their house, every game they lose, one falls off, after all it is very difficult to successfully build a house of cards. If Ohio State wins, a massive amount of cards will fall down, but not the whole house.

 

I read an article that said Alabama just got their scout squad uniforms that had Ohio State's player numbers on them so that the starting team could practice against the real numbers. Here's my question, what good does that do? If you stop the run in practice, but can't in the game, those magical jerseys do you no good. It's laughable the amount of media attention everything Alabama does gets. This game is all about who wants it more, that's it. Nothing else.

 

I listened to the last press conference Urban Meyer had before Christmas and practice started. I got the feeling that the Christmas holiday is doing something, other than letting the players go home. That something is very powerful. Our players left their homes because of something three parties decided, Ohio State is the right place to play college football. Their families have undoubtly watched and attended games. Their families would greatly benefit from being drafted in a couple years and have benefited from scholarships from Ohio State. Our players will be amongst friends, family, and those that look up to them. Our players have set a standard for themselves and their loved ones to imulate. Before our players return home they will be reminded of who they are playing for; not only each other but those at homes as well. For a mother, father, or any other idol to tell these players they are proud of them will pay its weight in gold during the Sugar Bowl. For anyone that is younger than them or looks up to them, that persona will pay its weight in gold, and a chance to go home for the holidays will humble these players in a manner that will become threatening to Alabama.

Silent Confidence

 

I have come to a couple conclusions before writing this post. First and foremost, I think we will win the Sugar Bowl, and Title Game. Secondly, this team is vastly underrated. First and foremost, I think this team has a silent confidence about them. All the interviews I have seen with players, has shown me that this team has grown together, that there is no mountain they cannot climb, nor any team they cannot beat. I think that this team will shock the entire country. One must not forget that, as much as national media outlets talk about Nick Saban, Kirby Smart, and Lane Kiffin with time on their hands being deadly. Ohio State has offensive coaches of the year, Ed Warriner and Tom Herman, and a defense that has come together during a very short season. In a weeks time, Tom Herman took a third string quarterback and transformed him into the Big Ten Championship MVP. So with three weeks to prepare, who knows what Cardale will become. Alabama loves to boast that their play makers will be too much for Ohio State, but what is more important is that underestimation of this team. Urban Meyer, Tom Herman, and Ed Warinner will not be denied. Alabama's defense will be tested, if not proven to be unsuccessful.

 

This team is vastly underrated. Watching ESPN, with all the experts, lol, they have all said that JT Barrett was much more of a threat than Cardale, because JT Barrett can run and Cardale cannot. The irony of Cardale and the offensive line is that Cardale can run, and he has the instinct to get away from the pressure. Just watch the Big Ten Champ game, where Cardale ran away from the defense all day. Our offensive line is meshing at the perfect moment, which means that defensive line could be pushed around enough for Elliot, Samuel, and Marshall to penetrate. Once more, if our offensive line is penetrating their defense, than Alabama will have to commit more people to stopping the run, making one on one coverage in a weak secondary for our speedy wide receivers.

The SEC West will never be seen as weak, because the rest of the country outside of that division will always be ranked lower than anyone of theres. However, as the season progresses and teams begin to fall, anaylsts and the nation have to come to terms with the simple notion that other conferences are just as good, if not better than the loved SEC West.

 

In conclusion, the type of confidence I see in this team is one of pride and honor in knowing what you are capable of. Take for instance, in my case, I served in the Marine Infantry, in which, one is taught how to defend themselves and take a life if necessary. That type of training, a very small portion of people experience. But those who do experience it, do not flaunt it, they let their actions speak for itself.

 

Go Bucks!

Great Teams Are Not Dynasties

This debate should end quickly. The success of this Buckeyes team has brought some to look at Ohio State in a different light. That light is starting to shift from successful and sustainable to dynasty, which is a totally different subject. Successful and sustainable was Ohio State under Jim Tressel, where Ohio State was always in the BCS Bowl games, Sugar Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, and Rose Bowl. These Bowl games brought joy and sorrow to the hearts of Buckeye Nation. Tressel was never a prominent figure in the recruiting game enough to satisfy a top 3 ranking. However, Tressel enjoyed success with the players he found, which is an undervalued asset to any program.

Under Tressel, the Buckeyes could count on BCS Bowl games nearly every year, with the notion of letting the game slip away. We beat Miami in 2002 and took home the title. The next few years saw Sugar Bowl and Fiesta Bowl appearances with losses to Florida, LSU, and Texas. It was not until the Rose Bowl against Oregon that we won, then a year later against Arkansas in the Sugar Bowl. Even with this success, Tressel was considered to be a great coach in charge of a great team, but not a dynasty. The scandal takes place and all of the sudden Tressel resigns and in steps Urban Meyer. With Urban Meyer, the Buckeyes have had top 5, if not top 3, recruiting classes, and immediate success. Three loses in 3 years is an amazing goal to accomplish. However, this team is not yet a dynasty. Unfortunately, there are not many dynasties in college football. For me, a dynasty is very difficult to accomplish considering there are multiple areas that have to be top notch if not perfect.

Perfection will never be accomplished, but near perfection can be obtainable. For Ohio State to become a dynasty they will need to unseat Alabama or become a bona fide #2 recruiting class year in and year out. They will need to go undefeated and repeat Big Ten Champs every year, then consistently win the Playoffs or their bowl games, if for some reason they do not get in. These are my requirements, but not necessarily THE requirements. I am sure we have our own, but if you take a look at Alabama's dynasty, it is not much different. Once a team has become a dynasty a different kind of excuse becomes the only needed for losing a game or bowl. For example, last year Alabama lost the Iron Bowl and Sugar Bowl. The reasoning was that Alabama lost the Iron Bowl because they were looking ahead to Florida State for the Title. Once that was no longer the case, the reasoning for losing the Sugar Bowl was that Alabama did not want to be there. It was beneath them to play for a lesser bowl than the Title. At the beginning of this season, Alabama was thought to be out of contention because of the quarterback situation. That reasoning was, the Tide was in their transition phase. I find it funny that Alabama loses and it's not because the other team was better, it was because Alabama's head was not in the game. That is the excuse that I am talking about. Analysts and announcers automatically assume that The Tide will be at the top where they should be year in and year out.

Will Ohio State ever be a Dynasty? I think our opportunity has arrived. Meyer has said that he did not think they would be where they are considering the circumstances. However, we are here and we have nothing to lose. If Ohio State does take it all, I think this year could be the beginning considering our coaching staff is in pursuit of something that is impossible, perfection. Our recruiting classes have been getting better each year, and Meyer will always find the best assistant coaches to fill vacancies. Ohio State did more then they could have imagined by signing Meyer and Buckeye Nation will see those dividends.

The Debate will End at the End of Every Year and Start at the Beginning Once More

The Nokia Sugar Bowl is more than just a semi final on the road to the Title, it is the defining moment for Ohio State and The Big Ten. As of now, the SEC West is considered to be one of the most dominant conferences in college football. Most college football analysts and radio announcers acknowledge the East only in terms of who plays the West during the Championship. The same cannot be said about the rest of the conferences though. For instance, the Big Ten and PAC 12 will become the most dominant conferences if Michigan can land a head coach that is miracle worker. Some may say this is quite bias and based upon no evidence, however, examine the SEC, PAC 12, and Big Ten as a whole. Like I stated earlier, the SEC East is mentioned for a moment, while the Big Ten and PAC 12 have more balanced divisions. Once Wisconsin and Nebraska figure out how to become dominant with their new head coaches, the Big Ten Championship will rise in importance on a National stage. The PAC 12 will continue their dominance if, and only if Oregon can make it to Dallas. If they lose to the Seminoles, then they will be nothing more than a program with a Heisman Trophy winner, that is it.

As I was saying though, the Sugar Bowl is more then just a bowl between two great teams, it is a statement. Starting in 2006, the Big Ten has been seen as a good conference, but one that could not beat the South. Jim Tressel always seemed to make it to the Title game or big bowl game, but against Florida, LSU, or Texas could not finish the season strong. The victories against Oregon was dismissed and Arkansas did not count because of the scandal and Arkansas was not seen as a formidable opponent in their own conference. Therefore, Ohio State could do no right. That is why this game means so much. If Ohio State beats Alabama, the stigma of losing to a Big Ten Champ will hang over the head of the West and ESPN until the next match up between the two. This is about the pride of two coaches and their teams. Alabama is said to be the best team in the country, and what better way to unseat that theory? Although this game is not about Urban and Saban, that is how it will be perceived because the two will finally meet again. This game is about two teams, one that was given the rosy path and one that was given the rocky path. The only difference being Alabama's strengths are put on display, without regard for their weaknesses and Ohio State's weaknesses are put on display more than their strengths. If Ohio State plays as they did this game should be more than a game, it should be a two or three score game.

It is no secret that Ohio State is perceived to be the crown jewel of the Big 10. This benchmark is a good and bad thing. It is good because Ohio State will always be considered to be a top team until the prove otherwise. However, it is also bad because the rest of the Big Ten, with the exception of a few, is looked upon as being less than formidable. The difference between the two conferences being reputation. At the beginning of every year and throughout til near the end, we hear about how stacked the SEC is in regards to ranked opponents, however, the last 4 weeks of the season refute that claim. Auburn, Texas A&M, LSU, and Arkansas are automatically seen as top contenders year in and year out, whereas the Big Ten is seen as an overall weak conference with a couple big fish. This is why this game is so important. For Ohio State to win this game, the conversation begins on whether or not the SEC is as stacked as it seems because this discussion will always be cemented in the fact that Ohio State won. There will be no announcer able to say either, Ohio State and Alabama have not met to settle the debate nor Alabama won ending the debate because Ohio State ended the discussion by winning.

In closing, the SEC will never be seen as weak because of Alabama's success. It does not matter who wins at the end of the year, as long as the team is from the SEC. The Big Ten will be seen as weak and not up to par as long as the Big Ten only has two teams to show for. Urban Meyer cannot and should not be expected to hold this conference on his shoulders, nor should Michigan State. That is Nebraska, Wisconsin, Penn State, and Michigan have to rise and rise quickly. Otherwise, this battle will rage on.

The Scare and Not The Kind You Think

 

It seems that the standards for journalism has decreased quite a bit. This is never more evident than in multiple news websites siting that, Tom Herman's last game as a coach at Ohio State would be finished after the Sugar Bowl. Hours later, Herman's wife tweeted that she knew nothing about the topic, leaving the faithful to breathe a sigh of relief. As Buckeye fans we must face the fact that there is a real possibility that our coaching staff may not be together forever. Last year, offensive line coach Ed Warinner interviewed for the Army Head Coach vacancy. This year, the University of Houston interviewed Herman, but all indication point to Herman staying at Ohio State until Herman says otherwise. Which brings me to my next point.

Urban Meyer assembled his coaching staff knowing that two things would happen: National Championships would be won and other Universities would be looking at his staff for head coach vacancies. I cannot say that I blame other programs for wanting our coaches, however, if I were Meyer I would be telling Gene Smith to give out raises or lose great coaches. I get that it is not fair to not want great assistant coaches to leave, but they do deserve a promotion if they chose to pursue one. On the opposite side though, Ohio State is and will always be a top tier program with the ability to compete on a yearly basis, leaving Buckeye Nation with the assumption that Ohio State should be able to pay coaches enough to not look anywhere else. We have seen coaching changes take place that offered reasoning behind the assumption that Athletic Directors were not willing to spend to keep. Take for instance Gary Andersen, whom received a raise after taking the vacancy at Oregon State from Wisconsin. One would assume that Wisconsin would be more enticing, considering Oregon State is not on the same level as Oregon, but still a good program. However, sometimes upper management can make a great program seem unbearable.

The battle of coaching styles and programs that were built based upon a philosophy will always rage on. Wisconsin was built upon the premise of a dominant running game established by a huge offensive line and huge running back. Under Coach Andersen, the Badgers produced multiple thousand yards backs, and a version of a spread throwing scheme. Therefore, the Badgers veered slightly away from the notion of running the ball down the opponents throat for 6o minutes. Another example, under Tressel the Buckeyes were anything but a spread offense scheme, like we are now. Under Tressel, the Buckeyes were a traditional under center, power running game, traditional throwing scheme that paid its dividend only partial time. However, under Meyer the team is totally different, with a modified running game, and shotgun formation only. This type of offense has paid its dividends for Buckeye Nation.

In the end, money and the lure of a top tier program is not always enough to satisfy a coach that is still seeking something more. As Buckeye Fans we have greatness to look forward too, but also coaching changes as other programs look at the most successful teams, than go after assistants. Tis the season to be thankful for what we have, so we should as such.

The Buckeyes and The Tide

It is easy to say Alabama is favored, it is easy to reiterate Nick Sabans record with time to prepare, and it is very easy to say Ohio State won't win. It's not easy to say Alabama has met its match. It's just not popular to say. However, a couple YouTube searches of past Alabama and Ohio State games and it's not hard to see why the winner of this game will be the winner because of one thing, who wants it more.

For example, if one were to watch video of Auburn, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, Arkansas or any other close game Alabama has had, it is easy to see what's going on. The Tide, as dominant as they are, are filled with humans and not robots, meaning, if a team can use a running and passing game to get first downs consistently, The Tide get tired. A defense can only grind for so long before they give up a TD. The Tide are no different. Those videos also show a stout defense (as they have been called) being run through and ran around by running quarterbacks and running backs. Second, those videos show a secondary that can be exploited with an efficient receiver core and QB with a cannon for an arm. Third, Alabama is no different from any other team that is pinned deep in their own territory. Finally, their offensive line can be collapsed with a fast defense, meaning the tackles and interior line create a need for a running QB. As good as Saban is, his team is not perfect and has shown that time and time again

Now for Ohio State. As much as Saban is successful with time to prepare, it still has to be a nightmare considering the options Ohio State possesses. For example, Alabama has a stout running defense. Ohio State has 5 players who can run from the line of scrimmage. Have fun stopping all of them. Saban has a great defense in general. Ohio State has 5 wide receivers and 2 tight ends that are dangerous. No matter what blitz package is dialed up, the Buckeyes, regardless of their play can simply run away from the pressure.

One of the major advantages for the Buckeyes is there no huddle and offensive scheme. The offense gets into position quickly, then looks to the side line in case of an audible. Getting to the line quickly means the defense has to be set quicker. Therefore, if Alabama shows a linebacker blitz up the middle, our backs can simply run to the side or for a cornerback blitz, a run up the middle will suffice as well. The same could be said about our throwing game, in which Cardale will have receivers, tide ends, hybrid backs, and running backs to throw too. There is no reason Cardale should be sacked considering we have a full loaded arsenal of young and proven talent. An added bonus, Dontre Wilson, which brings a whole other problem. Not only is Dontre fast, but he can explode into the open field seconds are reaching the second level of defenders or catching a ball. Jalin and Cardale are the final piece of our offensive onslaught. Both can throw the football accurately, both have the ability to get into space and pick up yards, and both can make defenders miss.

The biggest enemy of the Buckeyes are themselves. Fickell, Johnson, and Ash proved that they can provide a shutout with their play calling. Their biggest test will be Kirby Smart, Lane Kiffin, and Nick Saban.

Bama Can Be Beat

 

The reputation of Alabama is almost as unbeatable as the team itself. While Saban has been one of the most consistent coaches in the country at winning and winning big, the Crimson Tide have not been perfect the last couples years. During last years Iron Bowl and Sugar Bowl, the Crimson Tide's weaknesses were exposed enough for them to lose. In this post, my strategy for beating Alabama will be put forth. Saban's defense has shown it's dominance versus teams that depend upon their running game to establish other parts of their offense. In which case, no running game, their opponent has a difficult time sustaining drives and winning the game. When Manziel was at Texas A&M, he beat the Crimson Tide with his feet and a weak, but experienced secondary. The same can be said for Auburn, Oklahoma, and Ole Miss, which have all dealt the Crimson Tide an "L."

With three weeks to prepare for a showdown, both Urban and Nick have ample time to realize and exploit each others weakness. The key for the Buckeyes is penetration and disciplined football. Many examples of this rest in the Big Ten Championship game, where Melvin Gordon was held to 74 yards the WHOLE GAME. Our defense will have to be very disciplined and physical. Bosa, Bennett, Washington, and Frazier (granted the front four were subbed in and out) did a great job of collapsing the pocket. Larry Johnson will have a fun time (yes I am being sarcastic) creating defensive line strategies that will confuse the Alabama offensive line enough to get pressure on a mobile quarterback. Luke Fickell will have to rotate and create different schemes, in which line backers are sent for blitzes, as well as keep them in coverage to guard against the passing game and running. Chris Ash and Kerry Combs have the task of guarding Amari Cooper and the rest of the wide receiving core. On the flip side, Urban and Tom have the task of creating match ups with the advantages going to Ohio State. First and foremost, I would have Jalin, Jones, Elliot, and a couple wide receivers on the field at all times. During the Big Ten Championship, Jalin did something Buckeye Nation has been waiting for, throw the ball. Now Alabama has to guard against Jones and Jalin having the ability to do the same thing accurately during any play they are on the field together. It is said that Alabama's defensive line will stop our running game. Well, that is a simple fix. At that time, we will have Samuel, Elliot, Jalin, and Wilson as players that can run from the back field, either as running backs or as hybrid backs. These four will have to run around the front 4 or however many players are on the line. Is it really that difficult to understand? Spreading out Bama's defense will allow running attacks up the middle, until their defense and Kirby Smart have to commit to stopping one before the other. Jones has already proved he has an arm, why not throw some deep balls to Devin Smith? Recently, Elliot has proven to be smaller version of Carlos Hyde with his ability to bounce off hits, run though tackles, and sprint down the field.

In the end, I think the Buckeyes stun College Football with a victory and send Nick back to Tuscaloosa with another "L." I come to this conclusion with this simple acknowledgement. At this point, what do we have to lose? If we lose, (granted I don't want to think like that) we were in the inaugural playoffs with the Nation's top, although it won't count for anything besides luck in the eyes of naysayers and those that believe the Big Ten is weak. However, with a win we move onto the "King" of them all against the winner of Oregon and Florida State (I am thinking the Seminoles.....unfortunately). In other words, we have nothing to lose. I keep hearing analysts and announcers say, Ohio State wishes they were put at #3 so they go up against Oregon, but than again, what better way to prove you're the best and the SEC is overrated, than to beat the King of the SEC?

In closing, this game should not be as lopsided as everyone thinks, and the only that happens is if Ohio State plays defense and offense as they have most of the year. However, we come away with a win if we play like we did at Michigan State and the Big Ten Championship.

GO BUCKS!

Ohio State and Alabama

Basically as soon as the Playoff Committee released their rankings there has been a constantly shackling of Ohio State, both by those who thought they should not have gotten in and those who are previewing the Sugar Bowl. Let me just say this to those who do not think we should have gotten in, "Get Over IT!" Now onto those who are saying the Sugar will be a shackling because of the dominate nature of Alabama and SEC, against the weak and laughable Ohio State and Big Ten. Every media clip I have seen has talked about the physical nature of Alabama and the preparation of Nick Saban. While Nick Saban is dominate, the same can be said about Urban Meyer. I have heard nothing but, with Nick Saban having more than a week to prepare, he is 42-7, which is fine. However, cannot the same thing be said about Urban Meyer? Look at how Cardale performed with a week of preparation. He was flawless!

Alabama's reputation stems from the fact that their National Championship runs are not few and far between, as in other conferences, but every year. Every year, the preseason polls have Alabama in the top 3, if not #1. And every year, they finish in the top 3 regardless of wins and losses. Ohio State on the other hand has a history of dominating or being stronger in more areas then they are weaker in, just to not finish the season strong. Is this season any different? One thing we can all agree on is this, Ohio State can play with any team in America. If you look at Alabama's schedule and Ohio State's play during the Championship, there is no doubt, that if the same effort is given, this will be a game. Alabama, as strong as they are, are weak as well. All someone has to do is watch Ole Miss, LSU, Mississippi State, and Auburn. These games show that Alabama, as good as they are, can be beaten.

To say Ohio State has the chance because the essence of Nick Saban alone, will destroy our team is ludicrous. Ohio State has just as much of a chance of beating Alabama, as any other team that did beat Alabama. Think about the last couple years, the last two games of last year, Alabama lost. They lost against Auburn and Oklahoma, then this year, Ole Miss. Both Auburn and Oklahoma have spread offenses and defenses that are difficult to defend against. Nick Saban is a man of habit. Urban Meyer is a man that is constantly molding his offense to stout and aggressive defenses. I cannot say that Ohio State will win this game because one game of dominance does not mean this is what we have to look forward to, however; I believe we have a chance. If Ohio State wins this game, the essence Nick Saban and the SEC will begin to fall. Ohio State, itself, will not prove Alabama is a paper tiger, but it will prove something everyone outside the Big 10 thinks, that Ohio State is the only dominate team in the conference. However, if the Big Ten in general does well during the Bowl season, than the reputation of the Big Ten will increase. The nail in the coffin of the SEC will be the next coach of Michigan. When push comes to shove, I would never underestimate the Ohio State Buckeyes.

I cannot say that Win or Lose, this team will have proved something against Alabama, because a loss means Alabama and the SEC are as dominate as they are perceived to be, and that the Big Ten is as weak as perceived to be. Lets face, the Big Ten will be judged by Ohio State, not the other bowl games. We are the face of the Big Ten. I do not see a reason why we would not win this game, however; a win speaks volumes about both conferences. The Big Ten will be back someday, hopefully it is this year.

O-H!!!

Why Ohio State Won And Became #4

 

I think we can all admit that we didn't see the Championship ending the way it did. However, I'm not at all surprised. Ohio State entered the game underdogs by 4 points. The elusive Melvin Gordon was supposed to run all over our dilapidated defense. Stave was supposed to throw against our young and inexperienced secondary as he chose. Ohio State was supposed to shrink inside itself with a third string quarterback and have our defense be handled by an experienced Wisconsin Offensive line. I don't think I saw or heard one person, that was unbiased, pick Ohio State, which is quite typical. Even during the Michigan State game, we were underdogs and still won by a couple touchdowns. If there is one thing Ohio State has shown Buckeye Nation and college football itself, do not underestimate us!

Well let's just say Wow! Absolute domination in all areas of the game. Ohio State did exactly what they needed to, score early, score often, and stop the Badgers. Cardale silenced the critics on the first drive of the game. Elliot proved his worth by running for over 200 yards, against a defensive that was supposed to overpower us.This team played with emotion that Wisconsin could never match. Wisconsin could not match our intensity, nor anything we threw at them. The war was over before it started. Wisconsin believed in the narrative the nation was spewing out and Ohio State never did. Our coaching staff showed the country, Bring It On! Ohio State became the team Buckeye Nation knew existed all along. 

Last year, this team had a chip on it's shoulder. That chip was this, we will run all over you because we can. We will run all over you to cover up our weaknesses at wide receiver, and the defense in general. We thought, we were going to take it all. Obviously the Spartans took that all away and gave us the greatest weapon of all, the feeling of not finishing because we thought we had it. We entered this season underdogs as soon as we took the field. No one gave us credit, just a ranking in the top 5. We treated every team as if they were better than us, as if they were champions and we had something to prove. Like Florida State, a win is a win and that's all that mattered. Through all the turmoil the Seminoles have been through, they are still undefeated after 29 games. Quite amazing when you think about. Out of all the game film an opponent can watch on Florida State, no one has yet to beat them. In Ohio State's instance, the Buckeyes are young, very young, are operating under a new defensive scheme, considering Larry Johnson and Chris Ash are first year coaches here. The majority of our offense is new and has very little experience. Our first Heisman Candidate Braxton Miller went down before the year started. Second Heisman Candidate, JT Barrett learned the offense as quickly as he could, then went down during the last game of the year. Our third and final quarterback, Cardale Jones, put the offense on his arm during his first start and took it to the Badgers defense. Needless to say no one saw this season happening like this, except for the faithful.

The Playoff Committee made it clear that each week the teams in the top 5 and 10 would be evaluated as if the last week did not happen, that conference championships would be honored, and wins and losses mattered. The first point, each week would be evaluated based upon a premise that the previous week did not exist explains the TCU and Baylor dilemma. The final week of the season ended a week early for TCU, but that is not the reason for their drop in the polls. TCU dropped three spots because of their final opponent, and had nothing to do with their brand name. TCU played Iowa State, and demolished them, like they should have. However, Baylor played a ranked Kansas State and Ohio State played a ranked Wisconsin. Baylor won, but did not blow out Kansas State, but also beat TCU at the beginning of the year. Ohio State destroyed Wisconsin with a blowout, which made a much stronger statement towards the coveted fourth spot. The final nail in the coffin for TCU and Baylor was no championship game and the manner, in which the Big 12 Commissioner handled the final week. First and foremost, to present Baylor and TCU as Champs is a slap in the face of Baylor, who beat them. If anything, Baylor should be the Champs of the Big 12, not TCU. Secondly, there is no championship game. Without a decisive winner and championship game, what is there to grade one conference on, that the others that do have a championship can not outright blow out of the water. I would recommend the Big 12 invite a couple teams from surrounding areas into their conference, in order to create a championship game. 

I would like to talk a little about what Kosta Karageorge ment to this team. Michael Bennett wore his number during the Championship. Elliot wrote something on his uniform, the entire team wore his number on their helmets, and twitter entry after entry paid homage to this young man. This young man felt like a failure even though he was anything but. His contribution to this team will never end because the memory of this young man will last forever. As a Buckeye Fan, his family has my condolences. 

Do Brand Names matter? Does playing for The Ohio State Buckeyes, The Alabama Crimson Tide, The Oregon Ducks, The Florida State Seminoles, or any other The ...... matter? To say Ohio State is #4 because they are Ohio State is stupid and ignorant. Ohio State is #4 because they are conference champions!Alabama is #1 because they beat the #1 team at the time and conference champions. Oregon is #2 because they are conference champions, so on and so forth. Having a title does not matter, it is up to the commissioners of each conference to put their teams in the best possible situation to play for it all, or fail and start again next year. TCU and Baylor should not be blaming Ohio State nor the Committee for their choices, but their commissioner for not having a championship game. Pundits and analysts should not be blaming Ohio State for being #4, nor the Committee, but instead the Commissioner of the Big 12. It is that simple! How is it a bad thing, to take on another team in a lower conference, and put them into a Power 5 Conference? Not only does your revenue increase because of all the profit one school brings to the mix, but also the television audience watching that team. Just look at the Big 10 taking on Maryland and Rutgers.

Leave a comment below answering the above?

The Battle Comes From Within, Not So Much On The Field

During my first deployment in the Marines, my unit, 2nd Battalion 4th Marines, was deployed to Ramadi, Iraq. My unit was facing an enemy that had nothing to lose and were willing to die for their cause. My Battalion SgtMaj. SgtMaj. Ellis gathered the entire battalion before traveling out to the city, and gave his Marines a speech I will never forget.

"We left Camp Pendleton, Ca 3 months ago, and ended up here. Does anyone know why Marines are kept on ship for so long? Sure it's nice to stop at Ports all over the world, but Marines don't want to stop at Ports, we want to watch each others backs in combat, like we are trained to do. Back to what I was saying, Marines are kept on ship and away from the combat zone so that when we do arrive to the fight we are angry and ready to rumble. We are angry that our brothers and sisters in arms have been hurt or are taken from us without us to have a say. Marines are born to fight, We are born to fight. Once we get to the fight, we take the fight to the enemy! We don't wait to get attacked, we attack! We train for war everyday we are in the Corp., and when we get to use that training we are perfect in our craft. That is why the United States is free and The United States Marine Corp. exists! So as we unleash hell upon the cities we go to, keep in mind who you are fighting for, your fellow Marines, your family, and the millions of people who make up our great nation! Ooorah!"

Near the end of my first deployment, SgtMaj. Ellis was killed by a suicide bomber in Iraq, weeks before we were scheduled to return home. RIP.

I speak of this memory because the idea applies to this team Saturday night. The enemy we are encountering is a team that wants another Championship. We want our first. It is easy to make excuses for why we will lose: no JT Barrett, no Dontre Wilson, no Noah Spence, ect. At Ohio State, we do not make excuses, we make Champions. Urban Meyer and our coaching staff is my SgtMaj., and there speech is much the same. The game of football is nothing but a war zone on a football field. This team has been stopping at Ports every Saturday since September, on their way to the war zone. Lucas Oil Field is that battle field. This team is angry because they have every right to be. All year long we have been downplayed, disrespected, and tossed to the side. This game, we will unleash Hell upon the Badgers. Our defense has had instances of dominance and laziness, but all of that comes to an end starting this Saturday. Our players and this coaching staff understand what is at stake, and it is much more than a Playoff bid, it's pride! Last year we came up short, this year we had a hiccup, but we have come back roaring. Saturday night will be our Finale.

The stage is set and we are underdogs. I don't mind, considering we play at our best when we are expected to lose. I am nervous about this game, but that won't end until the ball is kicked. As long as this team believes in itself and relies on their instincts, rather than over thinking where they should be, we will be Big Ten Champions. It does not matter who our quarterback is, Urban Meyer has built this team to spread the load around. We simply need to play smart football and play at our level.

Have faith Buckeye Nation, even if no one else does!

Ohio State Will Win If........

Since the end of the Michigan and Wisconsin all I have heard is.....how Ohio State will lose a close one because of how unstoppable Gordon is. In fact, we (Ohio State) are underdogs. These are my keys to the game.

Ohio State:
- Keep Wisconsin confined to the middle of the field. The majority of Melvin's runs start from him redirecting an inside run to the perimeter, than simply outrunning the defense once he gets outside.
- The front 4, and Lee have to get into the backfield quickly. The last time we stopped the run, Wisconsin threw the ball all over us. Stave is improving, but has not faced a defensive line with the speed we have.
- Raekwon and Curtis Grant will have to "spy" on Gordon and Stave. If Gordon has the ball, beat him to the edge or fill a gap. If Stave keeps the ball, either drop into coverage or follow his eyes for option plays to either side.
- Corner backs have to be put on notice. Ohio State will put an emphasis on stopping the run, so fakes may cause the defense to run away from the ball instead of to it leaving room for wide receivers to get open.
- Aggressive defenses can be taken advantage of. Quick throws to the outside to Jalin, Samuel, or Elliot will make blitzes useless, and one on one tackling situations.
- Do not try running right at their defense, take advantage of the speed advantage we have and get to the outside.
- Do not try too many Wildcat formation, quarterback draws, or jet sweeps. All the defense has to do is watch every game this year and they will see the same offensive setup every time. If Jalin is in the Wildcat, actually let him pass the ball, a bootleg maybe. That'll throw the defense for a loop.
- Short intermediate throws to speedy receivers that can accelerate in space (like Thomas against Michigan State, and Spencer against Minnesota)
-  Devin Smith has to be utilized. Shots down the field will cause Wisconsin to not pack as much in the box, but instead defend the pass, leaving space for runs up the middle.
- Ohio State cannot win grinding offense to defense time and time again. We must use our speed advantage and weaponry. Cardale will not win this game alone, but instead getting the ball quickly to the play makers. We must do this or we will be talking about next year's expectations instead of a college playoff birth.

O - H!!!!

Hello Committee, Is Anyone Home?

I am perplexed to say the least by the newest rankings. I understand your job is to put the best teams in the top 4, but we are down to the finish line and your latest rankings have me scratching my head. Why is TCU #3? I understand that Ohio State will be judged after the Big Ten Championship, as will the rest of the Conference Championships. However, why put TCU at #3 for one week? What sense does that make considering their loss is to Baylor? At what point does a head to head match up mean something? It's like the Committee is playing with the emotions of the Big 12 by doing this. It is safe to say Florida State should not be where they are, but then again they have not lost a game in nearly two years.

Here is what I think......the committee put TCU at #3 to show Florida State they are willing to drop them if they do not act as a defending national championship. Therefore, the way they are playing is deserving of the #4 spot. That way, if they lose to Georgia Tech then they rightfully drop from the #4 and the ACC is shown to be the weak conference they are. If Ohio State wins the Big Ten Championship, they will be in the playoff at #3 or #4. If Florida State wins, TCU will be jumped by both teams. The way I see it, the final rankings will be #1 Alabama, #2 Oregon, #3 Florida State, and #4 Ohio State (Florida and Ohio State are interchangeable). What better way to start the Semi Finals then two have two national powerhouses go at each other. The only thing better, would be the same match up in the Final.  As much as TCU is a good team, their conference is screwing them by not having a conference championship naming one champion. The Commissioner of the Big 12 released a statement saying, if at the end of season, both teams, Baylor and TCU, have identical records, they will be named co-champions, which directly contradicts the mission of the Committee and the Playoffs. The threat of having two SEC teams in the Playoffs has been put to rest, considering there will be an outright Champion.

TCU will not stay in the Playoffs unless Florida State loses, otherwise they will receive one week of glory. There is simply no way that, an ACC Champion (granted it is Florida State), a Big Ten Champion (granted its Ohio State), a PAC 12 Champion (granted its Oregon), and the SEC Champion (granted its Alabama) will not be granted a spot. TCU is simply out of its league simply because of their lack of Championship game. If these championship games go as they are stated above, there is no room for a co or non championship game.  TCU should not take this to mean they are for sure in, if they win their next game. Consider this, each week the Committee judges teams based upon the game they just played, then decides their rankings among the nation. In this aspect alone, TCU and Iowa State have no weight against Conference Championships of the Power 5.

If TCU wins and Florida State wins, then the fans of the Big 12 will be as disappointed in the Committee as Florida State fans are after dropping to the bottom of the todempole. Next Tuesday will be the final rankings, which will decide everything.

The Beginning of the End for the SEC

Brady Hoke has been officially fired at Michigan. I think we can all agree this a little later then what we, Big Ten fans wanted. The beginning of this title, The Beginning of The End for the SEC is reflective of this decision. Michigan and Ohio State built the Big Ten and made all the other conferences nullen void. During Lloyd Carrs time and before that, Michigan was in it's prime. Ohio State fired John Cooper, and hired Jim Tressel, the answer to our losing to Michigan ways. Fast forward ten years, and now we have Urban Meyer, the king of overcoming adversity, and the next coach of Michigan, which will become the king of bringing Michigan back.

It is fitting though, that this year, prior to all the talk about how dominant the SEC is that the most dominant skill positions are not in the SEC. So how are they dominant? The running back is dominated by the Big Ten, the quarterback is dominated by the Big Ten and PAC 12, and the only reason why a receiver is put into the Heisman talk is because people feel the need to put Alabama in every discussion they have pertaining to an award. Otherwise, the majority of the conferences are doing things the SEC is not.  The most wins the SEC will have is the same if Ohio State wins the Big Ten and Oregon wins the PAC 12. How fitting. The ACC is relevant because of Florida State and its lack of ACC strength, but still undefeated season. As much as I would love to see Florida State finally fall at the Championship game, I am more interested in Missouri upsetting Alabama, and Ohio State beating Wisconsin.

The Big Ten Championship, granted Ohio State wins, will decide the #4 spot in the playoffs. However, with more attention of Michigan, it is imperative that the hire is made immediately, after all the entire off season has begun. While Ohio State and remaining Big Ten teams are practicing for Bowl games, Michigan could be turning their program around. First and foremost, the hiring of a new coach and coaching staff, which could hit the road recruiting now. I would say, depending on the coach, give Michigan two seasons before they are ranked and relevant. Secondly, hire an AD that understands the rivalry and Big Ten. The Ohio State-Michigan Rivalry used to decide the National Championship. Since Hoke took over, it has been second two anything the SEC has. No More! I forsee a rivalry game starting at 330 or maybe even 8 pm. I know that it is tradition for the game to be at noon, but times are changing, and everybody watches football at night, but works during the day.
There are traditions to keep alive, and some that change. It does not matter what time the game starts, what matters is the two teams. With a New Michigan and Ohio State, Auburn and Alabama and whomever else in college football will become second best.

It may be wrong to revel in the misery of another, but in the interest of a dying super power, we have no other option. Why feel bad for Hoke, when the next coach could take the program in the opposite direction and quickly? I am sure he will find another job, I just don't care where.

Here is some food for thought. For years, Ohio State fans have been wondering about the stability of our linebacker core. A complete overhaul of our defense may not be done. What if . . . . . .  the new head coach at Michigan fires most of his coaches or the other coaches put their faces on the block for going else where? What if . . . . Luke Fickell takes a head coaching job at a MAC team or elsewhere? What if . . . . . . Greg Mattison sees Luke leave and calls Urban for that spot? I'm not saying this will happen, but much weirder things have happened. Think about, how many coaches from Tressel are left over? Not many. The only player left from Tressel is Taylor Decker, otherwise this team is 99% his recruits.

Is there too much wishful thinking, to think that the all mighty SEC may be on its way down? It is too far fetched to believe, that the Big Ten is inching towards the powerhouse it once was? We all believed that Ohio State was done after Braxton Miller, but JT Barrett took college football by storm. JT Barrett goes down, and now we have a third string quarterback starting in the Big Ten Championship and beyond. I do not think these ideas are too far fetched, as much as I believe that Ohio State will still win the Championship, Semi Final, and Final. One thing that I will always do is keep the faith in this team.

O - H!!!!

Barrett's Gone - That's Okay, We Have Cardale!

Is there any reason to think what happened with Barrett cannot happen with Cardale? Braxton goes down, and so did our hopes for a great season right? Wrong! Barrett took his new command and ran with it. He trusted in his team and coaches and broke records on his way to a one loss season, but undefeated conference schedule. This is Ohio State's third time doing so since Urban Meyer became head coach. Here is my train of thought. Ohio State has suffered through multiple losses through the year and yet we are still 11-1. Before the end of the Michigan State game, everyone had Michigan State beating us and easily at that. However, we beat them and everyone else on our schedule (except VT). So I say now, what is the use in dooming this team? Barrett stepped in front of a Two Time Big Ten Player of the Year Recipient and Heisman Trophy Candidate to become one himself. Why suspect Cardale cannot step in and finish the job?

Reoccurring thoughts of strategy, none of which I know about keep running through my head. Conservative or Go Big? We don't yet know what Cardale can do, more than what he has currently done, but what we do know is that this coaching staff will not go down without a fight. Does anyone really believe Urban and Tom cannot formulate a plan to win this game and the rest of the year? We will persevere! A conservative approach might entail finding different ways to run the ball, do some wildcat formation, maybe try a few quarterback draws? Elliot can power through anyone, but going toe to toe with Gordon may be a bit misguided. Wisconsin knows that once they see Cardale at a Wide Receiver position, and Marshall at the quarterback, it'll be a draw. They also know that an empty back field, with 5 wide is a quarterback draw.

Go Big or Go Home. I would favor this approach just because I have confidence in our team. Why not take shots down field? Why not try a few trick plays? Everyone knows Ohio State will run to the edge because we have speed. Wisconsin will put their best tacklers on the edges, call for corner blitzes, and bring the pressure. The Indiana game brought to light a very creative, but effective formation. Barrett was in the backfield, Elliot was offset to the left or right and Curtis Samuel was flanked to the opposite side. The purpose of this play is to confuse the defense. Barrett looks at the defense, then decides based upon what is being shown, which runner will play to the defenses weakness. It was absolutely magic! The Michigan State saw a game plan that included short passes being used to open up the running game, which worked very well. Knowing that Wisconsin will get creative with their defense, why not have Cardale, with a double set backfield, that way he can hand off to one, or if pressure comes throw to the other? The most aggressive team can be beaten without question. Ohio State's defense will have to dedicate one person to watch Gordon, while another line backer watches the quarterback. Our defensive line will have to get pressure with four or maybe 5 people. Otherwise if we commit to many to the line, Gordon could run around the formation with his speed.

Wisconsin has not played a team that can play the entire game. Michigan State gave up in the fourth, Michigan gave up after half time, and everyone else we have played, we have pulled away in the second half. Is there any reason to think we cannot again? While I do think this will be a game, I do not think Ohio State will pull away more then 10 points. These teams are simply too good and Urban does not lose the same game twice. As many weapons as Gary Andersen has, the most important weapon is the one that Urban has the advantage of, his mind. Urban Meyer is a mastermind in planning for games and motivating his team. The odds have already came out and Ohio State is projected to loss by 4 points. Not that I am bothered by this, because I like being underdogs. We seem to play better when we are expected to lose. Take for instance the 2002 National Championship. The Miami Hurricanes were supposed to beat us and they lost in double overtime. We are a team that loves adversity.

The Selection Committee will most likely put TCU in the 4th Spot, while Ohio State will be in the 5th. The last week of the season is upon us and sure to created headaches and plenty of yelling at the television screen. If Ohio State wins the Big Ten Championship, even with the hand we have been dealt, the 4th spot is ours. I can hear the Big 12 crying now, especially about a 6 or 8 team playoff. My biggest laughing moment will be when Baylor and TCU switch spots because Baylor won the head to head, then Ohio State jumps them both into the 4th.

As Buckeye Fans we have to have confidence in our Team!

O H!!!!!!