Published: Wednesday, 3/9/2016 COLLEGE FOOTBALL Departures have left many holes in squad BY DAVID BRIGGSBLADE SPORTS WRITER COLUMBUS — For a moment Tuesday morning, Urban Meyer felt like an empty nester. He looked out at Ohio State’s first spring practice and wondered where the time went. Gone were 16 starters from last year, most of whom he had recruited soon after arriving in Columbus in November, 2011. Together, they conceived the winningest four-year run in school history. “This is part of growing up, I guess,” the Ohio State coach said, “whether it’s when your daughter gets married and leaves home or players you really care about leave.” What’s harder: Giving away a daughter or a team? “Let me think,” Meyer said, smiling. “Daughter.” Indeed life goes on in Columbus, where a new era kicked off in earnest at the team’s indoor practice complex off Olentangy River Road. The transition presents the ultimate paradox. Faith in Meyer and the talent he has hoarded here is so high that one Las Vegas bookmaker has Ohio State as the early national championship favorites. Yet Meyer brands this the “Year of Development.” The Buckeyes have not had a more extreme roster makeover since the Super Sophs graduated in 1971. How the season plays out is anyone’s guess — including Meyer’s…
Continue Reading: OSU opens spring with uncertainty
