Buckeye Observations: the first 15 minutes
I always kinda laugh about it, but then there I am doing the exact same thing I’m laughing at other guys for doing. I’m excited checking out 20-something year old football players. Sound creep? You bet.
Monday we, the assembled losers of the media, were invited over to OSU for quick look at the opening football practice. Here’s some nuggets to remember.
First of all, Terrelle Pryor looks the part. He was the side show Monday—-photographers ignored the rest of practice to capture their first glimpse of Pryor lightly tossing a football in OSU colors. He is bigger than I thought in person, and looks strong for his position. We know he has the physical tools—question is how quickly can he learn what it took Todd Boeckman nearly 4 years to learn and perfect?
A tip off the hat to strength and conditioning coach Eric Lichter. If you want to see how good a school’s summer training program, skip those skinny DB’s and buffed up LB’s. You go straight for the cattle—the offensive linemen. Maybe it was because the guys were just in shorts and helmets Monday, but many of the linemen look as athletic as ever. Steve Rehring’s definitely trimmed up and looks strong. Alex Boone’s really improved his conditoning, at least from outward appearances.
Doug Worthington and Donald Washington may not play the first game—or they may. Coach Tressel told us yesterday he didn’t know (or at least was not ready to say) what punishment either player faces for off-field issues over the past year. I’d bet neither plays the first game, and that’s all.
One quick take on Beanie Wells. He’s continuing to get his wrists heavily taped as a precaution—matter of fact, I’d wrap that dude in bubble wrap until the first game! As long as he’s in shape and knows the playbook, take it easy. Cause he know when he gets on the field full go, he’s not taking it easy on anyone. If he can keep his body healthy, I think we’re at least looking at a Heisman finalist.
Who’ll be OSU’s 3rd receiver? You can tell Jim Tressel really hopes it’s Ray Small. He’s experienced and obviously talented (see Purdue, Michigan last year) but has lacked the work ethic coaches had hoped for. Maybe his number change-punishment does the trick—he wears #82 now. But I like OSU’s depth there. Even with Devon Torrence moving to defensive back, the influx of receiver talent could make playing time there a real challenge. Dane Sanzenbacher played off and on last year—actually caught the 1st TD pass of the season. Tauian Washington caught passes. If Beanie’s in the game, Brandon Saine’s faster than any receiver on the team. Then there’s the new blood—DeVier Posey could be the next great OSU receiver if the experts are right (#8 at OSU, BTW—looks good in the jersey), and fellow freshman Lamaar Thomas was a favorite of scouts.
And finally… here’s how media coverage goes sometimes at a major school like OSU. So there’s a tent set up next to the football field this year—-and when we showed up for practice and to talk with coach Tressel we met under this tent, probably designed to cover 25 people. There were about 50 of us standing around… so let’s just say quarters were close. Thank goodness my buddies Anthony Rothman from Channel 6 and Beau Bishop from ONN wear lovely scents of cologne, Could’ve been a long day under there! These are the sacrifices we make to bring you the news. Yah, I know. Brave.
peace
jerod
