OSU Football: Restoring Buckeyes’ Standards at Linebacker Top Concern in Spring

With just a few days remaining before the team begins its spring practices on March 4, the Ohio State Buckeyes are entering a pivotal moment under coach Urban Meyer. The first two seasons were respectable, but the losses to Michigan State and Clemson revealed the work needed before the championships are won.

The next six weeks are about laying the foundation for stage two in Meyer’s tenure at Ohio State. He must develop a legitimate backup quarterback, find his workhorse running back, reload the offensive line and shape a defensive identity. If he pulls it off, this team will be ready to dominate.

From day one, Meyer outlined his formula for success—play hard, play relentless, recruit the best athletes and surround them with great coaches, all principles discussed in a 2011 interview with ASAP Sports.

With three outstanding recruiting classes under his belt, the roster is now stocked with elite-level talent. Coupled with the hiring of co-defensive coordinator Chris Ash and defensive line coach Larry Johnson, the pieces appear to be in place to complete the transformation he described in his first press conference.

With so much to fix in the spring, choosing which position needs the most work is difficult. Braxton Miller needs a great offensive line and a durable running back to be effective, a quality backup quarterback is a must considering Miller’s tendency to get injured and the secondary was a mess last year. Even with these needs, the most…

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