Ohio State returns just six starters from a group that went 12-1 last season and provided the core for a team that won the national championship in 2014. But when you recruit at Urban Meyer’s level, you simply reload. Despite losing 16 starters, including five first-round draft picks (three in the top 10), the Buckeyes figure to be in the College Football Playoff conversation. 5 key issues Running back: Senior Bri’onte Dunn was dismissed from the team this summer, which thrusts redshirt freshman Mike Weber into the starting role. It will be difficult to re-create Ezekiel Elliott’s production, but with offensive lineman Pat Elflein and Billy Price returning, Ohio State’s ground game should continue to provide significant yardage. Defense: Where to begin? Last year’s unit was one of the best in school history. Even in the Buckeyes’ lone loss to Michigan State, it still gave up only 17 points. Gone are Joey Bosa, Joshua Perry, Darron Lee, Vonn Bell, Eli Apple and Tyvis Powell. Defensive coordinator Chris Ash took over as head coach at Rutgers, leaving another gaping hole. The hiring of Greg Schiano will provide a boost, and names such as Raekwon McMillan, Tyquan Lewis, Sam Hubbard, Nick Bosa and…
Continue Reading: No shortage of talent at Ohio State
