Ohio State Football: 3 Players Who Have Surprised Us in 2014

Jamie Sabau/Getty Images Ohio State is replacing loads of talent from last year’s team, including leading rusher Carlos Hyde, top receiver Corey Brown and first-team All-American linebacker Ryan Shazier. Three new players have helped Urban Meyer replace those lost stars. Coming off an open week, the No. 22 Buckeyes are preparing for their last nonconference matchup of the season—a home game against Cincinnati under the lights. But through three games, these players have been a pleasant surprise for Buckeyes fans. Michael Thomas Ohio State needed its receivers to step up in the wake of Braxton Miller’s season-ending shoulder injury. With players such as Devin Smith and Dontre Wilson on the perimeter, new quarterback J.T. Barrett had plenty of playmakers to ease his transition into the offense. Michael Thomas, though, has been Barrett’s top pass-catcher through three games. Jay LaPrete/Associated Press Michael Thomas has thrived in Ohio State’s offense this year. Thomas—the nephew of legendary receiver Keyshawn Johnson—leads the Buckeyes in receptions (11), receiving yards (214) and touchdown receptions (four). He has recorded a touchdown in each of the Buckeyes’ three games, and two of his scores have gone for more than 50 yards. With the bevy of playmakers in Columbus, Meyer likes to rotate his receivers frequently. That’s why Thomas knows he needs to make the most of his time on the field…

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