Spring Finals: Tight-End.

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 Tight-End.

The Tight-End position is adored by everyone. Except Ohio State. Since 2003, when Ben Hartsock (33) and Ryan Hamby (18) combined for 51 catches, OSU tight ends have averaged 18.5 receptions a season. How's that for a stat? I don't know if Tressel has run away from using the tight-end because of things like this (look for 2:28), or because they are just too good of blockers not to use every play. Either way, we have too much talent from this group not to get some balls thrown this way this year. It truthful all starts with Jake Stoneburner, the WR converted TE.



Depth Chart Prediction

1. Jake Stoneburner - This is the obvious choice, and really a no-brainer. Stoneburner is returning from last season with little balls thrown his way. With Jake Ballard gone, who did very well, Stoneburner has to step up and I think he can. When he did get a chance, he shone, and impressively. With Terrelle Pryor promising him more receptions this year than any other, we should see a dynamic player arise from the TE graveyard that belongs to OSU.
2. Reid Fragel - This is a really tough choice to make. With these two tight-ends it's hard to decide on something you can't really tell. We haven't had much word on either Reid or Nic, but we do know that Reid is the one with experience, so I gave the spot to him.
3. Nic DiLillio - Again, we haven't heard much on either of them, but they are both sophomores, so they still have time to make a factor this year. We will most likely see these 2 in blow-outs, even if then.

How They Did

Jake Stoneburner: Jake Stoneburner had an outstanding spring earning praise from all coaches, and some of the players, including Terrelle Pryor. With Jake's speed and versatility, I think he's a perfect weapon in this system. We hear time and time again that the Tight-End is going to be used in the fall this time, but I truly think it could happen this year. Stoneburner is not your typical Tight-End. Moving from receiver is a big step, but it helps him in the long run. Expect some serious action for Mr. Stoneburner this year.

Reid Fragel: Reid had a quiet spring along with his teammate Nic, but they do have to work, in case of running situations in which we bring 2 tight-ends. I think that formation will come a lot, so Reid will be ready. Mostly playing from the line anyway, Reid will have to make an impact for the running backs.

Nic DiLillo: Nic is going to be a back-up Tight-End for Reid and Stoneburner, but that's OK, simply because Tight-Ends are used for blocking most of the time, and that can always mean mixing and matching to find the right TE for the right line. Tressel will most likely be doing that all season during games, so Nic's not down and out quite yet.

Overall Depth: B

Ohio State has done good with Tight-Ends, but 1 starter, and another who has limited minutes, isn't going to get them an A. I do think this group as enough talent to make it through the season and help this team to victories. You may not always see them making a Jake Ballard catch in the Rose Bowl, but they play an important part in making that hole so that running backs can have the glory. The best part is when they do make big plays, of course.