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Second Season Stars - Offense

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buckeye phi's picture
February 23, 2017 at 1:51pm
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It recently came to my attention how critical many fans have been of Buckeyes who were only in their first year starters last year.  While Ohio State has had some remarkable performances from first year starters over the last few seasons - among coaches, it is widely believed players typically improve the most from their first year to their second year as a starter (or significant contributor). 

First season starters who suddenly explode on to the scene like JT Barrett and Darron Lee (in 2014) - and Malik Hooker last year are more the exception than the rule.  So, let's take a look at some of the Buckeyes who will be entering their second season as starters (or significant contributors) in 2017. 

Since Urban Meyer so often says:  "This is an offensive line-driven team", that's as good a place to start as any, I suppose.  Plus, there are three players who fit the category among the Slobs. 

To practically no one's surprise, Jamarco Jones had an excellent first season as OSU's starting left tackle.  Of course, it's a very difficult position to play - but Jones handled it as well (or better) than anyone could have reasonably expected.  The idea that he's likely to improve even more in his senior campaign, has to help his coaches sleep at night. 

Michael Jordan jumped right in to the left guard spot during Spring drills last year and never looked back.  It's highly unusual for a true freshman to start on an Ohio State offensive line - but especially considering his youth, he played quite well.  An improvement is practically a given from his freshman to sophomore season.  

That brings us to a more "controversial" figure.  Starting right tackle, Isaiah Prince, struggled rather famously in pass protection verses the better defensive fronts the Buckeyes faced last year.  But what gets lost in the shuffle far too often is how well the sophomore performed as a run blocker.  It's not as if the formerly highly-regarded recruit was a total bust in his first season as a starter.  There is every reason to think he'll work through his issues and be a fine all-around O-lineman in '17. 

While Marcus Baugh saw the field a lot in 2015 - particularly in two tight-end sets - 2016 was his first year as "the starter".  He was playing through an injury much of the season - so considering that - he played fairly well.  However, no one is suggesting there isn't room for improvement, particularly as a blocker, in '17. 

Parris Campbell was set to be a significant contributor in 2015 - but an injury got in the way.  Like most members of Zone 6 in 2016, he had his ups and downs as a receiver - but he had a nice first season as a featured kick returner.  Those who have followed the speedster's career closely may finally be rewarded with that seemingly long-awaited "break-out season" this year. 

There have already been some rumblings Campbell may be moved to H-back this year.  And that does seem like a more suitable use of his talents.  Especially, now that there's a vacancy there - due to Curtis Samuel's early departure to the NFL.  Because of his work ethic, blocking and elite speed - he seems to be a UFM favorite - so he'll get his chances. 

Another receiver, KJ Hill, contributed enough in '16 to make this list.  It'll be a little surprising if he does not play a major role in the offense this year.  It certainly looks like he has the potential to be a great one.

In spite of the fact Mike Weber was only the third running back in Ohio State history to surpass 1,000 yards in his freshman campaign, he has received quite a bit of criticism.  And yes.  I realize he did it in his redshirt freshman year - whereas Robert Smith and Maurice Clarett accomplished the feat as true freshmen.  It was still a remarkable first year as a starter, though.

Since Weber immediately followed the great Ezekiel Elliott, I suppose comparisons are inevitable.  But six foot, 230lb running backs with breakaway speed don't exactly grow on trees.  While Weber definitely has room for improvement, he had a fine first year.  Perfectly aligned for his second season as a starter to be outstanding. 

That's a lot of players I think we can reasonably expect to improve a fair amount from '16 to '17 - in their second years as starters (or significant contributors).  In spite of the embarrassing showing verses Clemson - 11-2 was not a "bad" season, by any means.  But it's one more reason to be very excited about the chances of an excellent season this year. 

Now, factor in the new offensive coaches - and how they may put this talent in more advantageous positions - and there is even further cause to be optimistic.

If this post is well-received, perhaps I'll do the same thing with the defense tomorrow.  There are just about as many defenders who fit the criteria -

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