JR’s top 25 - #4 Ohio State

By J.R. Hopwood  |   Tuesday, August 23, 2005  |  Comments( 0 )

College Football
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2004 wasn't a stellar year by Ohio State Buckeyes' standards and off the field issues plagued this program all off-season. Maurice Clarett is now a distant memory and this Buckeye team will look to return to Big Ten glory.

If there was a bright spot last year, other than beating Michigan, it was the discovery of Ted Ginn Jr. This guy is just an all around athlete and makes plays no matter where he is. Both Troy Smith and Justin Zwick return at QB but will need to step up their numbers from last season. Smith will miss the first game against Miami (OH), but Zwick is as capable. 2nd Team Big Ten WR Santonio Holmes will be the go-to-guy again this season and along with Ginn will provide some good offensive stats. The rushing attack takes a blow losing Lydell Ross but the benefit of a strong O-Line will help the new backs.

Defense wins championships. The Ohio State Buckeyes proved that in 2002 when the defense had to hold some close leads but ended up defeating Miami (FL) in the Fiesta Bowl. This year's unit is among the tops and should improve over last year's 30th ranked squad. 1st Team All American LB A.J. Hawk leads what is one of the nation's best LB units. He was second in the Big Ten in tackles and has great vision on the field. The DB's benefit from returning 2nd Team Big Ten FS Nate Salley and really have some solid speed.

This Buckeye team is capable of going all the way however they have to travel to the Big House to face a tough Michigan team. I will call for a close win against the Wolverines and another Big Ten title in 2005.
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