The Buckeyes spent the first 12 weeks of last fall in the No. 1 spot in the polls and twice defeated No. 2 teams (Michigan and Texas). They averaged 34.6 points and 384.5 yards per game on offense and allowed 12.8 points and 280.5 yards on defense.
Few teams in the history of Ohio State football have generated as much excitement. But graduation and the early departure of three juniors for the National Football League have left six holes on each side of the ball - 12 vacancies if you will.
The list of players who will not be returning includes All-Americans Troy Smith at quarterback and Quinn Pitcock at defensive tackle. Smith, last year's Heisman Trophy recipient and one of the most celebrated players in Ohio State annals, was 25-3 as a starter under Tressel. Smith's many accomplishments include a 3-0 record against Michigan.
Also gone are Smith's two leading receivers, Ted Ginn Jr. and Anthony Gonzalez, who combined for 110 receptions and 17 touchdown catches; and leading rusher Antonio Pittman, who finished the year with 1233 yards and 14 of the Buckeyes' 25 rushing touchdowns. All three were juniors. From now on they will be playing their games on Sundays.
2007 Ohio State Spring Outlook
04-06-2007, 02:40 PM
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