No way to tell. If Ciron comes back, I think we're at least good, if not solid. If Ciron leaves, then you've got talent but lots of inexperience. I'd say you've hit on the biggest unknown of next year's team. Not necessarily a weakness, but much like this year's secondary - won't know until SEC play...
If Ciron Black comes back, I am much more confident we will be solid at the OL. Only replacing 2 of the lineman, of which one is the center is not a concern for me. The all-important LT will need to be replaced. We shall see if they move Barksdale over to that side. If so and he can succeed, then we will be more than fine. Hebert should be solid at center. One stat in our favor is that very few O-linemen who ever go pro after their junior season. It's a rarity. I think Black will be projected 2nd round and that will prompt him to not consider the NFL. His stock will rise as a senior and vault him into the middle of the first round, meaning more millions for him. Greg Shaw, Ernest McCoy or Josh Dworaczyk could end up at that RT spot. So much talent. So few spots. No worries.
couple of things about Penn St. they have absolutely demolished everyone on their schedule so far, which hasn't been great to be sure, but did include the Oregon State team they blasted 45-12. This is without a couple of defensive starters who were suspended, and will make this team even better. I'm definitely concerned with Joe Pa's team come Oct. 25th, and if they beat Wisky and (gasp), my Buckeyes, along with Illinois, they have as good a shot as anyone. However, I think that a 1 loss SEC team and an undefeated B12 team would be the pics to get in. If the B12 champ loses one, it definitely makes room for an undefeated B10 team (don't think the buckeyes have much of a chance here, which is actually ok by me, and yes I know they can't finish undefeated). I thought last year's craziness was a fluke, but perhaps we're starting to see the beginning of what will be another crazy year. should be fun to watch, and is the reason that college football is the best sport on the planet.
Buckeye, you saying a 1 loss SEC gets in over an undefeated Penn State? I can't see that happening at all.
I'm really not sold on Penn State just yet. They've demolished all of their cupcakes but haven't played anybody just yet. And no, Oregon State is not a good team. They rise up for USC just like Ole Miss rises up for us. IMO, Illinois did more in their loss to Mizzou than Penn has done in their victories. Then there is Michigan who is struggling to find an identity. They will get better as the season goes and subsequently reach up and slap somebody. OSU will come back strong with Pryor and Wells in the starting lineup. And you can't forget Wisky. The way I see it, the Big Ten will not have an undefeated team this year any more than the SEC will. But that's me. I may be proven wrong through the rest of the season.
no need. we'll just carry it over and have some more fun on another game. Or give it to brett for someone's membership.
