Coming off a National Championship, most collegiate teams have to replace the talented depth that’ surrounds the team. At Ohio State, it goes without much question to fans that football is the schools preferred sport. And coming off the first ever College Football Playoff National Championship, the team is expected to make big strides during the 2015-16 season. Despite only losing eight players to the NFL, the Buckeyes have much promise looking forward. With two-time Heisman Trophy candidate Braxton Miller out all of last season, back-up’s J.T. Barrett and Cardale Jones all head into the season with a chance to be the starting quarterback. Heisman Trophy candidate running back Ezikel Elliot and defensive end Joey Bosa, considered one of the best defensive players all return for the Buckeyes. But while coach Urban Meyer has developed a Buckeye team that prides itself in being athletic and skillful, who needs to step up this upcoming season? DT Tommy Schutt: The first senior that committed to Ohio State under the Urban Meyer era has been troubled by injury since his arrival. While he contributed as a true freshman, Schutt headed into his sophomore season with foot surgery that delayed his season beginning until midway through the 2013-14 season. His injury has since caused a setback in his career as various players were able to take over playing time in his absence. With former defensive tackle Michael Bennett now gone, Schutt is the favorite to start next to fellow senior tackle Adolphus Washington. But after only playing sparingly during the 2014-15 season, it will be interesting to see how he performs in a starters role, if given one. WR Michael Thomas The nephew of former NFL wide receiver Keshawn Johnson made strides in his redshirt sophomore season at OSU. But with the departure of Devin Smith and Evan Spencer to the NFL, Thomas will be the wide receiver who has to step into the No. 1 wide receiver. Despite his 799 receiving yards and nine touchdowns, OSU will need more out of Thomas…
Continue Reading: Ohio State Football: four players that need to step up in 2015
