Checked in with the Fourth Wiseman and he chimed in with a very detailed report....
"Had the opportunity to spend some time with the staff this week and got a really solid idea of who's stock is rising with the Buckeyes and who may need to pick it up a bit....
Really tried to focus on where kids stood in the pecking order with everything considered---academics, attitude, performance---just the total package....in other words, who is held in the highest esteem and is poised for more/enhanced roles as spring football moves into the summer and fall....
the two names that I kept hearing the most about being team leaders may surprise you a bit....but Pete Werner and Justin Hilliard have really emerged as guys that "do it the right way". Both of them have been outstanding on the field--but their off the field leadership has really been exemplary. So excited to see them on the field this season, as they are absolutely leading the way this fall....
On the offensive line you have three guys that continue to be elite and a fourth that is knocking on the door. Wyatt Davis, Josh Myers, and Taylor Munford are spectacular role models for the younger guys. First in the weight room--the film room --and on the field. Harry Miller is not far behind, but not quite on their level, yet. The foundation is there for this offensive line to be very special.
Tommy Togiai has really jumped to a leadership spot on the defensive line. Consistently outstanding performance on the field as well as in the class room. Just such an impact guy that has been making plays all spring long. Going to have a big year.
Tuf Borland is not quite up there with Werner and Hilliard---but he's close. Having an outstanding spring and really displayed a lot of leadership in the fall. Under appreciated college player that has really come all the way back from a string of injuries. Hard to find a better kid than this one.
Tyler Friday has made a big move and is one of my picks for "breakout player of the year". Has excelled on and off the field and has emerged as a vocal leader on the team. Been overshadowed the last bit by flashier team mates--but he is going to be remembered by the fanbase before his time is up here. In fantastic shape and making plays all over the field.
Another linebacker that doesn't get a lot of run, but is held in high esteem by the staff is Dallas Gant. Has a nose for the football and has emerged as one of those guys that they just have to find a way to get on the field. Unbelievable work ethic and one of the most energetic guys in the weight room and in the film room. I look for big things from him this season.
Lastly, Jaylen Harris has been terrific catching the ball this spring. Love the way that he has emerged as a viable receiving threat. A lot of attention being paid to the incoming freshman, but this is a guy that you need to pay attention to. Doing all the little things that you'd like to see in a wide receiver---but on and off the field.
Now there are three guys, that are struggling right now---and don't want to kick at a kid---but they are worthy of mention.
Javontae Jean-Baptiste needs to pick up his game. Seems to be struggling on the field and in the class room--and that isn't going to get it done at Ohio State.
Jameson Williams needs to be a little more mature and responsible. Not having the kind of winter/spring that you would like to see.
Josh Proctor is one of my favorite kids but he is in the dog house right now. Not taking care of his business--and could end up costing him playing time. Love his game---but his attitude needs an adjustment right now.
More to come...enthusiasm high about this team....expecting big things "
"Had the opportunity to spend some time with the staff this week and got a really solid idea of who's stock is rising with the Buckeyes and who may need to pick it up a bit....
Really tried to focus on where kids stood in the pecking order with everything considered---academics, attitude, performance---just the total package....in other words, who is held in the highest esteem and is poised for more/enhanced roles as spring football moves into the summer and fall....
the two names that I kept hearing the most about being team leaders may surprise you a bit....but Pete Werner and Justin Hilliard have really emerged as guys that "do it the right way". Both of them have been outstanding on the field--but their off the field leadership has really been exemplary. So excited to see them on the field this season, as they are absolutely leading the way this fall....
On the offensive line you have three guys that continue to be elite and a fourth that is knocking on the door. Wyatt Davis, Josh Myers, and Taylor Munford are spectacular role models for the younger guys. First in the weight room--the film room --and on the field. Harry Miller is not far behind, but not quite on their level, yet. The foundation is there for this offensive line to be very special.
Tommy Togiai has really jumped to a leadership spot on the defensive line. Consistently outstanding performance on the field as well as in the class room. Just such an impact guy that has been making plays all spring long. Going to have a big year.
Tuf Borland is not quite up there with Werner and Hilliard---but he's close. Having an outstanding spring and really displayed a lot of leadership in the fall. Under appreciated college player that has really come all the way back from a string of injuries. Hard to find a better kid than this one.
Tyler Friday has made a big move and is one of my picks for "breakout player of the year". Has excelled on and off the field and has emerged as a vocal leader on the team. Been overshadowed the last bit by flashier team mates--but he is going to be remembered by the fanbase before his time is up here. In fantastic shape and making plays all over the field.
Another linebacker that doesn't get a lot of run, but is held in high esteem by the staff is Dallas Gant. Has a nose for the football and has emerged as one of those guys that they just have to find a way to get on the field. Unbelievable work ethic and one of the most energetic guys in the weight room and in the film room. I look for big things from him this season.
Lastly, Jaylen Harris has been terrific catching the ball this spring. Love the way that he has emerged as a viable receiving threat. A lot of attention being paid to the incoming freshman, but this is a guy that you need to pay attention to. Doing all the little things that you'd like to see in a wide receiver---but on and off the field.
Now there are three guys, that are struggling right now---and don't want to kick at a kid---but they are worthy of mention.
Javontae Jean-Baptiste needs to pick up his game. Seems to be struggling on the field and in the class room--and that isn't going to get it done at Ohio State.
Jameson Williams needs to be a little more mature and responsible. Not having the kind of winter/spring that you would like to see.
Josh Proctor is one of my favorite kids but he is in the dog house right now. Not taking care of his business--and could end up costing him playing time. Love his game---but his attitude needs an adjustment right now.
More to come...enthusiasm high about this team....expecting big things "
