We all know by now that spring has come and gone, football wise that is, so we will be taking a look into all the positions, tell you how they did, and where they might be this fall. Today's topic is Safety.
The Safeties have always been the second line of defense behind the corners in pass protection. Fortunately, they don't just stand there on runs either, so they get a buck load of tackles during the season. Safeties are generally big corners, that hit hard, and leave some memories. Ohio State last year had Kurt Coleman, an outstanding safety, but was picked in the 7th round. The only reason in my mind was that he was a tad too slow, and the size. Size is important, but when your good at everything you do, it shouldn't matter. This year we have some great talent and will be able to use more of it in the past. One more quick note that will send smiles everywhere across Buckeye Nation. Anderson Russell is not on the roster, nor is there anyone that plays like him. (Sorry, still haven't gotten that edgy feeling away whenever I think about him). We've got some people coming back, but for the most part, you will be seeing some new faces deep in the defensive backfield this year.
Depth Chart Prediction
- Strong Safety - Jermale Hines - Last year Jermale Hines played the STAR position, but with Tyler Moeller being back, I think the coaching staff should/will move Hines over to Coleman's spot. Taking over the spot is not an easy transition, but I think Hines is up to the task.
- Free Safety - Orhian Johnson - Orhian was being considered last season to take over for Anderson Russell when Russell was doing his thing and driving coaches and fans crazy. He worked hard, and eventually got to keep the spot, but Johnson was ready to play at a moments notice. This year, he will be able to hold down this spot on his own and be able to compete on the field.
- STAR - Tyler Moeller - If, and only if, he is 100% ready to start hitting on that field, will he start here. Moeller is in his senior season, and I fell in love with his play last year in the spring game. Then the whole bar incident happened in Florida, which caused him to be out the whole season. This season, he will look to do outstanding things on the football field.
Jermale Hines: Jermale Hines spent the spring working on his game at safety, and getting used to his new role. Last year, he played some games as a STAR, but also did a bit of safety. I'm looking forward to the things he can do at this position and I like the way he plays. He's a hard-hitter and goes after the ball.
Orhian Johnson: After playing catch up, it's time for Johnson to shine. Johnson is quietly doing the things he needs to do in practice and camps to earn and receive that starting role. His attitude has been good, and a lot is still unknown about his talents. I have faith he can be a decent player, and we will look to see what he can do on the field.
Tyler Moeller: Oh, boy, am I excited or what? Although we've only seen a little bit of him, I already like what I see. Moeller has a knack at being at the right place at the right time, and most of the time, he just knows where to go to make a play. He loves to hit, and hits hard. This spring he has been kept out of hitting drills to make sure he is 100 percent ready in the fall. He should be starting to hit in the fall camps, and I can't wait.
Overall Depth: B
With Orhian Johnson just getting his first starting job as a Buckeye, It will continue to be a bit green back there. Meanwhile Hines adds a star player into the mix. Finally, Tyler Moeller isn't a total starter yet, as the coaches haven't seen enough from him. Therefore, he may be afraid to hit people like he used to when the time comes. I doubt it. This group has some good depth, though, as they bring in some recruits such as Jamie Wood. Wood brought some much needed talent in this class, and I will look for him to be competing for a starting job next season.
Finally, as a side note, I would like to welcome our 2 new football writers, who I know will do a fantastic job. Clifford and Tom, glad to have you on board, and I hope you'll stay awhile.
