Ohio State at The Voice of College Football

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  Episode #377

  Should the Buckeyes Be #1? / Ohio State Primetime LIVE 98 Presented By FanDuel

  Aug 19, 202655 min

  Ohio State Primetime LIVE 98: Should the Buckeyes Be #1? Hosts: Garrison Gaddy & Riley Burnett | Presented by FanDuel | OhioStateVOCFB Intro (0:31) Welcome to Ohio State Primetime Live. Garrison and Riley recap the usual asks: like/share/subscribe and check vocfb.com/shop for hats, koozies, and tees. Ohio State No. 1 in the Preseason AP Poll (1:03) Ohio State opens the 2026 season ranked No. 1 for the first time since 2015. The Buckeyes received 41 first-place votes. Oregon got 14, Indiana 8, Notre Dame 6, and Miami 1. Georgia received zero. No SEC team earned a first-place vote. Both hosts were surprised. Garrison expected Ohio State at No. 2 or 3 at best. Riley attributed the ranking to overall roster talent, returning production, and the incoming freshman class. They agreed any of the top seven teams could reasonably be argued as No. 1, but winning last year’s championship should not automatically confer the preseason top spot. Other Ranking Thoughts (4:07) Texas A&M at No. 8 is too high. Garrison called himself a “full-blown Texas A&M hater,” citing a soft conference schedule last year and Marcel Reed’s turnover issues. LSU at 11 is boom-or-bust with Lincoln Riley. USC at 14 and Michigan at 16 felt reasonable; Alabama’s drop outside the top 10 (ending a seven-year streak) was understandable given what they have to prove. Back half of the poll: SMU 19, Tennessee 20, Iowa 22, Louisville 24. They’ll be cheering for Louisville. Ohio State’s Daunting Schedule (8:36) The official slate starts with No. 1 Ohio State at No. 5 Texas in Week 2 (night game, 6:30 p.m. local). Both teams get a Week 1 tune-up first (Ohio State vs. Ball State at home). Texas camp reports (via Boog and others) described Arch Manning still missing throws, two interceptions in a scrimmage, and a Ryan Wingo drop. Garrison still likes Ohio State by at least a touchdown. Later notable games: Illinois (Illibuck rivalry) At No. 22 Iowa (tough venue, possible night game; they recalled Oregon’s struggles there last year) Maryland (homecoming) At No. 6 Indiana At USC (starting center lost for the season; backup has never taken a snap at the position) Ohio State is currently a 1.5-point underdog at Texas (total 47.5). Hosts like the number and expect to know the over/under fate by the end of the first quarter. Ranking the Six Ranked Matchups by Importance (16:16) Garrison (most to least important): Oregon Michigan Indiana Texas USC Iowa He called the Oregon game the biggest for the Big Ten and the national landscape. Riley: Iowa 6th (talent gap at skill positions), Texas next (non-conference road night game), then USC, Indiana (revenge for last year’s Big Ten title game), Michigan (heart over head), Oregon as the biggest conference/national game. Four of the six are on the road. They agreed the Michigan game remains “the game” inside the programs but Oregon carries more weight on a larger scale. Chris Canty’s Miami Triplets Take (22:29) Canty argued Miami’s QB-RB-WR trio (Darian Mensah, Mark Fletcher, Malachi Toney) is better than Ohio State’s (Julian Sayin, Bo Jackson, Jeremiah Smith). Hosts rejected it strongly: Jeremiah Smith is not comparable to Toney (X vs. slot; significant talent gap). Sayin is a far better decision-maker than Mensah. Bo Jackson outproduced Fletcher on fewer carries (6.1 ypc vs. 5.5) and is a better receiving back. Jackson also had a 22-carry game vs. Michigan, something neither Quinshon Judkins nor TreVeyon Henderson did the year before. Volume stats favor Miami because Duke/Miami played from behind more often. They called the comparison unfair and said Canty was “dead wrong.” Senior Day Moved Off Michigan Week (33:13) Ryan Day shifted Senior Day so the team can focus more on the Michigan game. Garrison (former player) said he doesn’t care about the 45-minute pregame hugs when players should be locked in. Both believe every senior would rather beat Michigan than take the photo. Riley noted this follows last year’s decision to move the band/CJ Stroud video out of Michigan week. AP Preseason All-America Teams (39:38) They walked through the first team: QB: Dante Moore (no issue) RBs: Kwion Lacy and Ahmad Hardy (Hardy the best back in the country) OL: Carter Smith (Indiana) as the top lineman; no Ohio State players TE: Trey’Dez Green (LSU) — they preferred Oregon’s Jefferson WRs: Jeremiah Smith (lock), Malachi Toney, Cam Coleman Edges: Colin Simmons and Dylan Stewart (both still have to prove it) LBs: Rasheem Biles, Xavier Atkins, Elijah Hardy (Indiana — best LB in the country) CBs: Leonard Moore and Ellis Robinson IV (hosts prefer Brandon Finney) Safeties: K.J. Bolden and Corey Persh (Jalen McClain close) Overall grade: B+/A-. Athletic Coaching Tiers (48:11) Chris Benigni’s 2026 coaching tiers placed Ryan Day in Tier 2. Hosts were furious. They argued Day belongs in Tier 1 given his win percentage and recent championship. They ripped the placements of Sarkisian, James Franklin, Kalen DeBoer, Dabo Swinney, and others, saying no consistent logic (trophy case or recency) holds the list together. Outro (54:48) Thanks for watching. Shows typically air Tuesdays at 7 p.m. ET plus the Thursday call-in with Denzel. O-H… I-O. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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  Episode #376

  Ohio State Football AP Poll OSU 1/ QB Battle/ Bo Jackson Back On Top Horseshoe Hangover Live 10

  Aug 18, 202644 min

  Horseshoe Hangover Live 10 – Ohio State AP Poll, QB Battle & Bo Jackson Hosts: Brad Thomas & Denzel Jones | OhioStateVOCFB Ohio State sits at No. 1 in the preseason AP Poll for the first time since 2015. The guys break down the ranking, camp standouts who lost their black stripes, the QB room, Bo Jackson reclaiming the backfield, and the decision to move Senior Day to the Ball State opener. Intro & Weekend (0:00–1:05) Brad notes the show started without a countdown. Both recap a work-heavy weekend. Denzel did chores and hit the pool; Brad worked through the weekend. They are in full college football prep mode with the season one week away. AP Poll: Buckeyes No. 1 (1:06–4:42) Ohio State is No. 1, Oregon No. 2. First time the Buckeyes have been preseason No. 1 since Urban Meyer in 2015. Brad likes the talent recognition but hates when Ohio State is No. 1. They credit Ohio State, Oregon, and Georgia for consistent year-in, year-out success. Ohio State is replacing 11 NFL players but reloads every year. Texas at No. 5 feels both overrated and underrated — expensive roster that often underwhelms. Indiana at No. 6 is fair (Denzel would have them at 4). They lost a lot, including the QB, and the new portal additions aren’t as cohesive as the James Madison group. Question is whether Curt Cignetti can do it year after year. Next Big Ten teams: USC, Michigan, Washington, Penn State clustered 14–18. Denzel would drop Penn State and swap them with Iowa. Iowa has a track record; Penn State has an unknown new coach and lost pieces. Washington also feels a bit overrated. Freshmen Losing Black Stripes (4:43–9:00) Five true freshmen have already lost their black stripes. Kari Wilder is Denzel’s most exciting. Rose from lower-ranked recruit to rave reviews. Looks like a second- or third-year player and belongs next to Kenyatta Jackson. Projected as a 100-snap guy by next year. Jay Timmons is Brad’s pick. Has a real chance at meaningful snaps, possibly starting at nickel. NFL pedigree and physical. Secondary logjam: If Dom Kelly starts and Timmons plays nickel, where does Jermaine Matthews go? Matthews is getting the least hype but came back for a reason and should play/start early. Younger guys will push. Luke Fahey (QB) lost his stripe early. Ryan Day has praised how quickly he’s picking up the offense and pushing Tavian St. Clair. Both hosts are skeptical he’ll actually take the job because of the size difference (Fahey ~5-10/5-11 vs. St. Clair 6-5). They view Day’s comments as a motivational “wake-up call.” If Fahey actually jumped St. Clair, St. Clair would likely transfer. Comparison to Stetson Bennett (undersized gamer). Tate Martell mention as a cautionary tale. Legend Bay & Running Back Room (9:01–14:07) Legend Bay has been running with the 1s and 2s and getting rave reviews as a contributor behind Bo Jackson. Explosive, taking things to the house. Day said he’s still learning the position but is clearly a weapon. Hosts expect him to go off against Ball State (Bo and Isaiah West likely sitting by halftime). Turbo (Jeremiah Smith? wait, they said Turbo/Faber) and another back (Faber?) have gone quiet — good problem with four backs making plays. Offensive Line (14:08–16:50) Denzel’s preferred starting five: Ian Moore LT, Luke Montgomery LG, Hensman C, Cervo RG, Daniels RT. Most experience and best transition. Arthur Smith wants a core five for chemistry plus rotation. Ian Moore is the likely plug-in. Padilla mentioned as a possible swing/RG option if Daniels struggles. Smith was high on Moore. Bo Jackson Back on Top (16:51–19:20) Early camp concern that Bo Jackson might lose the job has evaporated. Multiple beat writers say it’s clearly Bo’s backfield. He looks quicker laterally and is getting to the second level. Stat drop: third in the country in 10-yard runs last year (first downs). Hosts think the “no breakaway speed” knock is overblown. Big year expected; he has to earn his NIL money. Caden Russo Transfer Fit (19:21–23:52) Russo leaving Alabama for Ohio State now looks like a great career move. At Alabama he was moved to off-ball LB and rarely rushed. Patricia is using him as a stand-up edge from the LB position. Undersized (6-2) but explosive. Hosts like the role. Depth at DE (Bo Atkinson leap, Kenyatta, Quinn, Allegro) will limit snaps (maybe 10–12 this year). Comparison to Micah Parsons size/role. Good decision because they had a plan before he arrived. Impact Freshmen (23:53–31:40) Chris Henry Jr. : Report that he won’t play as much as hoped. Both hosts reject it. They expect him to start by the Texas game or at least rotate heavily with JJ and McEwen. Room isn’t deep with proven veterans. NIL/portal risk if he sits. Jay Timmons again: Biggest potential impact if he starts at nickel Week 1. Sincere Johnson (247 mention as contributor): Both don’t buy it. Too much depth (Riley Pettijohn, Alford, Stover). Pettijohn looking better and could start by Texas. Legend Bay recap: Expect a 50-yard TD vs. Ball State as a “welcome to the league” moment. Compared to Tyreek Hill in the offseason — they have to give him touches. Senior Day Moved to Ball State Opener (31:41–36:00) Ohio State moved Senior Day to the season opener vs. Ball State to remove distractions from a bigger later game (implied Michigan). Denzel actually likes it — gives walk-on/unheralded seniors playing time in a blowout and lets them enjoy the Michigan game later without extra emotion. Brad doesn’t care about Senior Day in general (overhyped) but understands the reasoning. Whittingham comments about the Michigan game added extra heat. Closing AP Notes & Texas Talk (36:01–end) First year no SEC team received a first-place vote (not even Georgia). Big Ten getting more respect. Happy Texas got none. Extended Texas rant: Overrated, expensive roster that underachieves. If they lose to Ohio State again (especially at home), it could be a Penn State 2.0 situation — one make-or-break game that breaks the season. Arch Manning has every advantage (line, WRs, run game, two years sitting) so a bad year would have no excuses. Hosts don’t want him to have a good year because the Heisman is political and he’d win it with a B+ season. Brad’s Heisman pick: Julian Sayin (“San”). Accurate, has Jeremiah Smith, and the defense may force more scoring. Hard to bet Ohio State QBs because votes get split. Next week : Ball State preview. Brad may come up for the Nov. 14 Northwestern game. Sign-off : Smash like, subscribe, drop predicted Ball State score in comments. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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  Episode #375

  FALL CAMP UPDATE / Ohio State Buckeyes LIVE 382

  Aug 14, 202654 min

  Ohio State Buckeyes LIVE 382 – Fall Camp Update Voice of College Football | Hosted by Mark Rogers Guests: Steve Helwagen (Bucknuts / 247Sports) & Tony Gerdeman (Buckeye Insiders / Buckeye Weekly) Presented by FanDuel Show Open & Practice Access 0:01–1:00 : Weekly Buckeyes discussion. Guests introduced. Presented by FanDuel. Note on Ball State spread (around 6.5 earlier in show; later confirmed 50.5). 1:00–1:18 : Steve and Tony attended portions of practice Thursday–Saturday (helmets/jerseys Thu/Fri; full pads Saturday with hitting and scrimmaging). Overall Team Assessment 1:18–2:40 (Steve) : Overriding takeaway — very talented and deep roster with few deficiencies. Explains preseason No. 1 ranking. Strong blend of veterans + an inordinate number of first- and second-year players ready to contribute. Team looks the part and has high potential. 2:40–3:35 : Emphasis on young talent making immediate impact. Wide Receivers – Standouts & Depth Questions 2:40–4:12 : Brock Boyd (freshman WR from Texas) looks like a junior/senior — catches third-down balls, moves chains. Tony notes rankings (ESPN ~99, 247 ~123, Rivals ~53) and that he lost black stripe in spring (third-fastest Buckeye ever). Made impressive contested catches (e.g., corner route over Devin Sanchez). 4:12–4:51 : Devin Mchan most impressive Friday — contested catches, touchdowns, chain-movers, blocking. Answered questions about stepping up to OSU level and contested-catch ability (Carnell Tate-like). 23:31–28:39 : Brandon Inniss discussion. Secure in rotation of primary receivers? Kyle Parker still limited (banged up). Top four veterans expected; movement between X/Z/slot (Jeremiah Smith, Chris Henry Jr., Boyd, Mchan, Ja’Quon Gilford all seeing slot work) to avoid pigeonholing. Inniss averaged ~7.5 YPC last year in thin group; focus on YAC and earlier targets in progression. Historical context: current group has most questions in years but still likely top-tier nationally thanks to Jeremiah Smith. Chris Henry Jr. highlighted (seam TD ~40 yards from Sayin). 30:37–31:41 : More on Henry Jr. and Smith big-play ability in practice (Smith square-in/skinny post for ~40-yard TD). Group will be fine; Cortez Hankton expected to get playmakers on field. 34:31–36:02 : Side discussion on ranking all-time OSU WRs (formula vs. opinion; one-year stars like JSN, Terry Glenn hard to place; Carnell Tate highest-drafted but no 1,000-yard season). Secondary / Freshmen Making Noise 4:51–5:24 : Jaylen Timmons (freshman DB) running with the ones at nickel all weekend; lost black stripe after ~5–6 fall camp practices. Strong indication he could be the primary nickel unless Germaine Matthews is preferred. Offensive Line Rotation Notes 5:24–6:00 : First-day ones: Ian Moore LT, Austin Siereveld RG. Next day: Siereveld back at LT, Josh Padilla RG. Constant movement; hard to track. Tony’s detailed notes on Buckeye Insiders message board. 49:33–50:52 : Day wants OL settled by end of this week. Consensus lean: Ian Moore LT, Sierevelt RG, Philip Daniels RT, Carson Hinzman C, Josh Montgomery LG. Rare to move a successful LT (Siereveld was excellent last year) but may create best five. Defensive Front & Pressure Concerns 8:18–11:55 : Questions exist at nearly every position (except maybe QB). OSU replaced 7–8 defensive starters. First-team offense vs. first-team defense: Julian Sayin not under much duress. Edge rotation: Kenyatta Jackson & Beau Atkinson (ex-UNC) with ones; Caden “Quay” Rousaw with twos (most dynamic?). Zion Grady and Ephesians “Epi” Satan also in mix. Best pressure often via blitzes (Riley Pettijohn, Devin Sanchez, Jaylen Timmons nickel blitzes). Matt Patricia wrinkle possible, but blitzes thin coverage. Running Back Competition 14:20–16:52 : Isaiah West running No. 1 at times; Bo Jackson right behind. Neither practiced in spring (shoulder). West may have returned earlier and impressed more in summer. Both getting first-team work; Carlos Lockhart will sort carries/packages over coming weeks. Legend Bay also in mix. 17:02–22:38 : Legend Bay (freshman) missed first two days (team-rules violation — possibly social media; never detailed). Returned Day 3 and immediately repped with 1s/2s. Electric with ball in hands — vision, lateral shiftiness, gets very low (5-10 frame) so tacklers fly over. One spin move against veteran DB drew coaching point from Lockhart (“plant your foot and get upfield”). Reminds program people of Jahmyr Gibbs. Goal of 6–8 touches per game discussed. Still learning not to dance vs. Big Ten talent. Quarterback Depth 36:52–47:56 : Tavian St. Clair has NFL body/arm and threw well in spring game, but consistency (chain-moving) has been hit-or-miss behind second-team OL and receivers. Luke Fahy (listed 5-11, probably 5-10) highly impressive with 3s — completes passes, moves chains, understands offense, rolls out and runs. Height not an issue on the throws seen. Comparison to Troy Smith early-career traits raised. St. Clair still the clear backup; Fahy has upside but OSU historically prefers prototypical size (portal option always exists). 2027 Brady Edmunds and 2028 five-star Christopher Vargas already committed — program stockpiling. Transfer portal realities discussed; OSU experience valuable even if player later leaves. Recruiting Tidbits 36:15–37:01 : Four-star LB Brandon Feister (Massillon, WA — note: transcript says Massyn/Masslin Washington) announces Aug. 14; reported lean to Oregon despite OSU interest. Also recent commit Quinton Cipher (LB) and five-star 2028 QB Christopher Vargas. Ball State Preview / Betting Context 13:01–14:11 : FanDuel has Ball State +50.5. Expect vanilla game plans (protect Texas week-2 info). Second-/third-stringers may play hungry and run up score. Closing Notes & Upcoming 12:10–13:01 : Practice count ~6 of ~27 before Sept. 5 opener. More player interviews Thursday; Ryan Day media availability after ~10 practices Saturday (possible scrimmage feedback). 48:19–49:33 : Captains/black-stripe ceremony still a couple weeks out (typically ~2 weeks before opener). OL decisions expected soon. 50:52–53:39 : Content plugs — Tony’s Arthur Smith interview, Earl Little feature, Buckeye Weekly episodes on unanswered defensive questions + upcoming WR-trio discussion. Steve continuing daily Bucknuts coverage. Show wraps; next Buckeyes Live next Wednesday. Key Themes : Extreme talent + depth across roster, especially young players (Boyd, Mchan, Timmons, Bay, Henry Jr., Fahy). Legitimate questions remain on defensive front-seven production, WR production beyond Jeremiah Smith, and OL settling. Coaches still evaluating packages and order; more clarity expected after 10 practices and Day’s Saturday update. Team looks the part of a true national-title contender. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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  Episode #374

  TTUN Downplaying 'The Game' & Camp Talk! / Ohio State Primetime 97 Presented By FanDuel

  Aug 12, 202653 min

  Ohio State Primetime 97 – Presented by FanDuel Host: Garrison Gaddy Episode Focus: TTUN (Michigan) downplaying “The Game,” Julian Sayin camp updates, depth chart talk, and Garrison’s projected starters for 2026 Opening / Housekeeping (00:00–02:10) Welcome to Ohio State Primetime Live. Riley not present (possible weather issues). Safety message for Ohio/upper Midwest/Chicago-area listeners dealing with severe weather and power outages. Promos: like/share/subscribe, vocfb.com (writers + schedule), shop (koozies, sweatshirts, hats, hoodies). TTUN Downplaying “The Game” (02:10–16:10) Garrison opens by noting he usually avoids talking Michigan, but comments that directly involve the Buckeyes force the conversation. Kyle Whittingham (Big Ten Media Days) Said he doesn’t hate Ohio State. Walked it back with (paraphrased) “Is hate going to help us win the game?” Garrison’s take: Doesn’t expect Whittingham to hate OSU and doesn’t fault the honesty. Still, first-year Michigan coaches need to “say the right things.” The rivalry has expectations. Hate can be fuel in certain games. Bryce Underwood quote “It’s just another game… just with guys in different color. That’s how I see it.” Direct contrast to Underwood’s previous year’s banter (including with LeBron) and the blowout loss. Michigan fans defending it “like clockwork.” Some claim “no room for hate in college football.” Garrison strongly disagrees—rivalries are built on it. Julian Sayin contrast (clip played) Asked if he ever accidentally said the “M-word.” “You learn very quickly… You learn the history of that game… It becomes your livelihood.” Not “just another game.” Garrison personal story: 2024 Ohio State–Michigan game day. Family set Thanksgiving table in scarlet and gray early, expecting a win. After the loss the table went silent. Dad (OSU grad) dropped his utensils and asked how they lost. Garrison left to the basement pissed. Also references Kyle McCord’s “just another game” comment → portal shortly after. Fan base roasted McCord; Michigan fans cape for Underwood. Bottom line: OSU will give Whittingham and Underwood reasons to hate them (103k+ yelling, getting tossed around). Other rivalries (Alabama–Auburn, Texas–Oklahoma) never diminish their game no matter the records. Camp Talk – Julian Sayin (16:10–19:30) Up to 215 lbs (was ~200–205 last year). Visible gains in neck, thighs, arms. Mind/body/soul approach. Physicality of the sport requires preparation for runs and hits. Emphasis from Ryan Day and Sayin himself on running the ball more. Actions match words. Proud of the work. Fans have asked for this; he’s answering. Chat comment (Daniel): Biggest issue is missing open receivers. Garrison agrees—needs cleaner accuracy on open targets, better timing over the middle and on deep balls (example: Indiana throw that was late). Arm strength less of an issue than late throws. Jacoby Jackson (Florida transfer RB) (19:30–24:20) Seventh-year player. 2024: 95 carries, 509 yards, 5.4 YPC, 7 TDs. 2025: limited by injury (27 carries, 98 yards). Spring game showed jump cuts and physicality at 220 lbs. Room is full of ~220-lb backs (Isaiah West 218, Bo Jackson 217). Projection: Not RB1 or RB2, but valuable short-yardage/goal-line/change-of-pace piece and “next man up.” Staff believes in him. Jay Timmons (True Freshman CB) (24:20–28:40) Blue-chip corner turning heads with players and coaches. Secondary versatility and depth highlighted: Jermaine Matthews (can play outside or nickel) Terry Moore (safety/nickel, former All-American type) Earl Little Jr., Jalen McClain (free safety), etc. McClain said the staff expects Timmons to make plays. Comparison to McClain’s own true-freshman trajectory. Chat: “I’d be shocked if Timmons isn’t a starter.” Garrison not fully there yet but sees a strong chance he contributes heavily or starts. Depth remains excellent either way. Projected Starters – Offense (29:20–42:00) QB Julian Sayin (locked) WR X: Jeremiah Smith Boundary: Devin McCuin (UTSA transfer) – 4.3 speed, route runner, YAC, can play inside/out. High expectations with Smith drawing attention. Slot: Hedge between Brandon Inniss (two-time captain, leader, program guy, room to grow after first-year starter role) and Kyle Parker (LSU transfer, explosive YAC/tackle-breaker). Also in mix: Brock Boyd (inside/out), McCuin and Smith can slide inside. OL LT: Austin Siereveld LG: Luke Montgomery C: Carson Hinzman RG: Josh Padilla (or ideally Siereveld if Moore slides) RT: Phillip Daniels (Minnesota transfer) Ideal best-five preference (shared by many): Move Siereveld to RG and put Ian Moore at LT if Moore is equal or better. That unit would be elite. Currently Daniels vs. Moore competition at RT. Art Smith + Tyler Bowen coaching expected to develop the group. RB RB1: Bo Jackson (proven, highest-paid RB, second-team All-Big Ten as true freshman). Isaiah West getting heavy first-team reps (good for development; doesn’t automatically mean he’s the clear #1). Jacoby Jackson will see situational work. Room navigated by committee similar to 2025 under Carlos Lockett. TE Nate Roberts (most valuable right now – size + hands). Strong veteran room: Hunter Welcing (Northwestern grad transfer, top-100 portal), Mason Williams (Ohio U), Christian Bennett. Heavy rotation expected; all big blockers. Projected Starters – Defense (42:00–53:00) DL DE: Kenyatta Jackson Jr. (star potential; first-year starter last year who was excellent vs. run and saw more pass-rush late). DE: Beau Atkinson (North Carolina transfer) currently taking first-team reps. Body composition improved (legs especially). Larry Johnson development expected. Rotation likely includes Epi, Zion, Quay Russo (edge/LB hybrid). DT: Edric Houston (healthy, finally over 300 lbs) and James Smith (UCF/Alabama transfer). John Walker III heavy short-yardage/goal-line. LB Peyton Pierce Christian Alliegro (the one-armed destroyer vs. OSU tape still holds; now with two hands under James Laurinaitis) Riley Pettijohn and T.J. Alford expected to rotate heavily. Secondary Boundary CB: Davison Igbinosun Other CB: Dominic Kelly (Georgia transfer, 6-2) Nickel: Jermaine Matthews Safeties: Jalen McClain + Earl Little Jr. Jay Timmons and Terry Moore will play a lot; true-freshman starter possible for Timmons. McClain called best returning defensive player by some. Close (53:00–end) Recap of projected defense. Promo for Friday call-in show (7 p.m. ET). Membership tiers mentioned. Sign-off: O-H-I-O. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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  Episode #379

  Ohio State Football Fall Camp Position Updates/ Chris Vargas Horseshoe Hangover Live 9

  Aug 11, 202646 min

  Horseshoe Hangover Live 9 – Ohio State Fall Camp Position Updates + Chris Vargas Hosts: Brad Thomas & Denzel Jones OhioStateVOCFB / Horseshoe Hangover presented by FanDuel Sportsbook Date referenced: August 10 (weeks before the season) Episode Overview Brad and Denzel break down early fall camp observations (Denzel attended in person), key position battles, standout performers, proven vs. unproven groups, breakout candidates/sleepers, the Chris Vargas commitment, early 2028 recruiting notes, and returner discussion. Strong emphasis on defensive line and secondary questions, wide receiver depth, and running back competition. Key Timestamps & Notes 0:00–1:30 | Intro & Weekend Recaps Brad opens the show. Denzel attended fall camp (ticket ~$50) and watched Buckeyes practice; highly recommends it. Brad spent the weekend doing team breakdowns to prepare for the season (including his Monday show). Both in strong football mode heading into the final weeks before kickoff. 1:30–4:00 | Biggest Camp Takeaways – Defensive Line Bo Atkinson is the biggest positive surprise. Denzel had “given up” on him and expected Zion Grady to take the second edge spot. Atkinson looked fast, physical, twitchy, with good bend and stronger legs. Taking first-team snaps. Kenyatta Jackson Jr. looks ready to be “the man” — walking around with star swagger while still working. Defensive tackle: Walker looked like the starter at nose. Edgar Houston expected to take the other spot with a rotation involving Will Smith Jr. and others. Top three projected: Edrick Houston, Will Smith Jr., Walker. Smith (jumped from ~295 to ~315) needs time to get used to the added size; looked more proportionate in person than some photos suggested. 4:00–6:30 | Linebacker Notes + Running Back Competition C.J. Pettyjohn (high Texas recruit) looks good but is not yet with the first team after missing spring. Still high on him long-term; expected to force his way in. Bo Jackson still expected to lead the backfield (~60/40 split favored), but Isaiah West looked “amazing.” Put on size (rumored ~15 lbs) while keeping quickness and elusiveness. Looks like a true starting-caliber back. Top three backs all around 220. No new intel on Legend Bay’s earlier team-rules absence (sat two practices, then returned to first-team work). Kept close to the vest. 6:30–9:00 | QB & Tight End Tame / St. Clair (likely referring to the QB room / Julian Sayin context in later discussion): Big frame (6-5/6-6), added some weight, nice throws. Still projected to hand the ball off a lot. Tight end room quiet in the practices observed — mostly blocking. Nate Roberts expected to start. 9:00–13:30 | Wide Receiver Battle – Biggest Buzz Devin McEwen (UTSA transfer) is the clear standout / dark horse. Looked electric in practice (Brad attended the day he was popping off). Explosive after the catch, great in the flats/bubble screens. Projected for 800+ yards and packages designed for him. Brad plans to bet overs early. Not giving up on Brandon Ennis (still sees ~6 TDs and solid first-down work), but McEwen currently has more “juice.” Brock Boyd getting a lot of coaching attention (positive reviews from others at camp as well — “guy of the future”). Room feels deeper than last year. Beyond Jeremiah Smith, multiple viable options (McEwen, Ennis, Chris Henry Jr., Boyd, Guilford, etc.). Defenses won’t know who’s getting the ball. 13:30–16:30 | Secondary Devin Sanchez has clear alpha/star energy and presence — not cocky, just knows who he is. Expected to elevate the group. Dom Kelly getting heavy first-team looks opposite him. Young (reclassified) and on the verge of becoming a star. Safety: Earl Little looks locked in and unlikely to come off the field. Terry Moore solid but may be squeezed. Nickel battle between Jermaine Matthews and Jay Timmons. Overall DB room has talent; more “unproven” than bad. Sanchez is the needed alpha. 16:30–20:00 | More DL Rotation + Jeremiah Smith / Julian Sayin Further affirmation of the DT rotation and need for players to get back into true football shape after adding mass. Jeremiah Smith looks awesome — more cut up, crisp route running. Ran a nasty route against Sanchez. Ready to “rock and roll” and silence any nitpicking. Julian Sayin gained 10–15 lbs, looks thicker and more confident. Brad excited for the short-yardage/first-down production. 20:00–22:00 | Chris Vargas Commitment 5-star / No. 1 overall QB (class of 2028 discussion context) commits to Ohio State. Excellent size (6-4/6-5), great mechanics and ball placement for a sophomore, serious zip. Reminds both of C.J. Stroud (with potentially more velocity at this stage). Currently ~190 lbs; room to add 10–25 lbs and grow into a prototype frame. Strong early win. 22:00–25:30 | Proven vs. Unproven Positions Most proven: Quarterback (returning production/efficiency). Wide receiver also discussed (Jeremiah Smith locked in; McEwen film rewatch highly encouraging), though some caution that McEwen is still a G5-to-Big Ten jump. Most unproven: Defensive line (talent everywhere, competition for snaps opposite Kenyatta, DT spots still settling) and linebacker (talent-rich room — Peyton Pierce, Allegretti, Pettyjohn, Alford, Stover, Sincere Johnson, etc. — but limited proven high-snap production as Buckeyes). Stover gets positive notes (size + top-end speed). 25:30–30:00 | Breakouts / Sleepers Offense breakout: Devin McEwen (clear consensus). Sleeper: Isaiah West (could push toward closer to 50/50 or at least heavy 1A/1B usage). Kyle Parker also floated as a deeper sleeper. Chris Henry Jr. quieter than expected so far but had some nice catches. Discussion on how Ryan Day might split carries late in games when leading (West vs. getting Legend Bay/Jacoby Jackson looks). 30:00–33:00 | Defensive Sleepers Earl Little — trajectory from Alabama/Florida State path; flashes were there, consistency expected now in a better system. Potential late first/early second-round type if he stays consistent. Jermaine Matthews — still believed in for a strong year (outside or nickel). Had big moments last year (Texas) mixed with inconsistency; motivated by outside noise. 33:00–37:30 | Kick Returner Discussion Preference for upside over pure “safety-first.” McEwen too valuable as WR2 to risk. Expectation that Ryan Day will lean safe (likely Brandon Ennis). Would like to see Legend Bay or Kyle Parker get chances for explosiveness. Frustration with the long-standing Day preference for sure-handed, low-risk returners. 37:30–43:00 | 2028 Recruiting Class Notes Looking strong / potential No. 1 class territory if current leads hold. Newman Hall (IMG running back, near Denzel) — physical stud, currently four-star but viewed as future five-star. Big, physical sophomore; hope he stays in the 220 range. Jet Harrison (QB) — fluid, big; top-two QB talent. Jameer Weiss and Larry Johnson’s recent defensive line haul praised (multiple five-stars). Braylon Clark (big WR out of North Carolina) — strong lead. Kavon Blackman (6-6, 270, four-star OL/DL from Springfield area) — high percentage lean. Heavy blue-chip class expected. Success on the field this fall (deep playoff run) would further boost it. Wide receiver room already deep and will continue reloading. 43:00–end | Brandon Ennis Future + Close Discussion on Ennis’s long-term fit. McEwen’s emergence is not ideal for his target share. Fifth year or transfer (possibly following Brian Hartline) both on the table depending on 2026 production. Path to being “the guy” at Ohio State is difficult with the talent ahead/behind him. Strong episode interaction noted. Tease for future week-one expectation talks. Standard close: rate, like, subscribe. Quick Position Battle Snapshot (Camp Observation Consensus) Edge: Kenyatta Jackson Jr. locked; Bo Atkinson rising fast for the other spot. DT: Walker + Edrick Houston / Will Smith Jr. rotation. RB: Bo Jackson still the lead, Isaiah West closing the gap impressively. WR: Jeremiah Smith + Devin McEwen as the clear early 1-2; Ennis, Boyd, Henry in the mix. Secondary: Sanchez + Dom Kelly outside; Earl Little + McClain at safety; Matthews/Timmons at nickel. Overall vibe: Talent everywhere. A few “step-up” spots remain, but the room is competitive and physical. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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