Only one guy in the country has recruited better than Ohio State’s Urban Meyer. That would be Alabama’s Nick Saban.
And, in the 2017 class, even that might not be true.
But let’s live in the moment, and in this moment, the No. 3 Buckeyes are benefitting from Meyer’s previous recruiting bounties, as reloaded Ohio State prepares to play Saturday at No. 14 Oklahoma in what is one of the most anticipated games of the season.
“Our defense is playing so well right now,” Meyer said after a 48-3 victory over fast-paced Tulsa, which, like last season, figures to have a top 25 scoring offense. “Obviously the challenges come next week against a very good team.”
The Buckeyes suffered an historic talent drain — 12 players selected in the 2016 NFL Draft, five in the first round and all dozen in the first four rounds — but talented backups and newcomers were at the ready.
Get to know some of the new wave:
–Sophomore cornerback Marshon Lattimore. He is the Walter Camp Defensive Player of the Week after intercepting two passes against Tulsa, returning one 40 yards for a touchdown.
–Redshirt freshman running back Mike Weber, who originally committed to Michigan. He has rushed for 228 yards and 6.3 per carry as Ezekiel Elliott’s replacement. Meyer also gives Weber high grades for his blocking.
–Sophomore safety Malik Hooker. A big spring game whetted fans’ appetite, and Hooker has delivered with three interceptions in two games. He also had a pick-six vs. Tulsa. “Great ball skills,” Meyer said.
–True freshman defensive lineman Nick Bosa. Joey’s little brother is a five-star recruit who has recovered from a senior-year ACL tear to make one sack in his first two games. He might be better than Joey at the same stage of their careers.
–True freshman left guard Michael Jordan. Yes, Michael Jordan. This version is starting on the offensive line for a national championship contender, so, yeah, impressive.
That’s just some of the next generation joining a pocket of stars such as quarterback J.T. Barrett, linebacker Raekwon McMillan and center Pat Elflein.
Ohio State lists 10 freshmen or sophomore starters. At most programs, such wholesale personnel changes would bring lower expectations and calls for patience. Not in Columbus. Meyer is 52-4 at Ohio State.
More of the same this season with a 77-10 win over Bowling Green and the victory against Tulsa. Of course, Oklahoma is a different beast. And a desperate one after losing its opener to Houston. Should be a fascinating game.
But get to know these new Ohio State stars now. The beat goes on.