BONUS: Buckeye Huddle Primetime - Top 10 Players To Watch In The Spring Game
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This bonus episode of The Buckeye Weekly Podcast features Tony Gertelman and Juck discussing the top 10 players to watch in Ohio State's upcoming spring game. The hosts dive into key storylines, including the return of the traditional spring game after last year's 'spring showcase' experiment, attendance expectations based on weather and ticketing trends, and the importance of the event for evaluating young talent and depth. They highlight several players across positions—offensive line, defensive line, linebacker, defensive back, and quarterback—focusing on potential breakout performances, physical transformations, and competitive impact. Special attention is given to transfers like Terry Moore and Hunter Welsing, developmental players like Demari Simeon and Carter Lowe, and the high expectations for emerging stars such as Epi and Tavian St. Clair. The discussion also touches on recruiting updates, including the upcoming decision from offensive lineman Jimmy Kalis, and the broader implications of player development and roster construction under new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. The episode concludes with a recap of the top 10 players, with a focus on those who could make a significant impact in the spring game and beyond. Key takeaways include the importance of evaluating players in competitive settings rather than just highlights, the value of depth and development in the transfer portal, and the need for consistency and aggression across the defense. The hosts express cautious optimism about the team’s direction, especially with improved offensive line play and the emergence of new talent. They also emphasize the significance of the spring game as a barometer for the upcoming season, particularly for young players vying for starting roles.
The spring game is a critical evaluation tool for young players, especially transfers and true freshmen, providing a competitive setting beyond highlight reels.
Offensive line development is a top priority, with players like Carter Lowe showing physical and mental growth, and new recruits like Jimmy Kalis poised to impact the unit.
Defensive players like Epi and Demari Simeon are expected to make a statement, with Epi potentially leading in sacks and Simeon showing whether his spring game performance was a one-time standout.
Quarterback Tavian St. Clair must prove he can perform as a starter in high-pressure situations, especially with the offensive line and pass rush under scrutiny.
The depth and rotation at linebacker and defensive back are key areas to watch, with Dominic Kelly and Quay Russo emerging as potential contributors.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Introduction and Spring Game Context
Hosts Tony Gertelman and Juck introduce the bonus episode, setting the stage for their discussion on the upcoming spring game. They reflect on the shift from the 2025 'spring showcase' to a full spring game, citing Ryan Day's preference for competition and player development.
Recruiting Updates and Jimmy Kalis Decision
The hosts discuss Ohio State’s offensive line recruiting strategy under Tyler Bowen, highlighting the upcoming decision from 6'7" offensive tackle Jimmy Kalis. They express excitement about his physicality, football IQ, and family legacy, while analyzing the broader implications for the program’s depth.
Offensive Line Development and Challenges
The hosts analyze the offensive line’s struggles in 2025, particularly against stunts and movement, and discuss how Tyler Bowen and Arthur Smith are addressing these issues. They express confidence in the unit’s improvement, especially with the addition of Ian Moore and the experience of returning players.
Top 10 Players to Watch: Defensive Line and LBs
“If you wanted to pick, like if you were to set odds on who's the most likely player to come away with four sacks in this game, it's him.”
Top 10 Players to Watch: DBs and WRs
“I need a better vantage point to watch his acceleration and how well he moves. So this will be my first opportunity to get a really good look at him.”
“If he comes out and looks like he did last spring game, which was abysmal, I'm done. I'm throwing in the towel.”
“If you're the backup quarterback at Ohio State, you should be able to start at Ohio State.”
“If you wanted to pick, like if you were to set odds on who's the most likely player to come away with four sacks in this game, it's him.”
Hosts
tony gertelman
person
juck
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jimmy kalis
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tyler bowen
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arthur smith
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epi
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tavian st. clair
person
carter lowe
person
quay russo
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demari simeon
person
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