OHIO STATE BUCKEYES
1. What we like: The defending champs are so darn stacked that their biggest question is whether to start a Heisman Top 5 vote-getter (J.T. Barrett) or national title game winner (Cardale Jones) at quarterback. With 2014 postseason hero Ezekiel Elliott back to run behind four accomplished offensive linemen — plus the addition of former star quarterback Braxton Miller at H-back — the Buckeyes are likely to put up 50-plus points on quite a few foes this season.
Defensively, there’s proven talent at nearly every position, starting with All-American defensive end Joey Bosa (though he’s suspended for the season opener). Between pressure created by Bosa and tackle Adolphus Washington as well as dependable DBs like cornerback Eli Apple and safeties Tyvis Powell and Vonn Bell, coordinator Chris Ash will be able to make aggressive calls and stack the box on obvious running downs.
2. What concerns us: Departed receivers Devin Smith and Evan Spencer as well as run-stuffing defensive tackle Michael Bennett were key contributors in last year’s playoff wins with no obvious heir apparent. One of several unproven youngsters like Noah Brown or Johnnie Dixon must emerge as a viable deep threat, while career backup tackle Tommy Schutt, a once-heralded recruit, will be expected to fill the void left by Bennett.
Continue Reading: Why Ohio State will win the playoff: Too stacked on both ends
