Rose Bowl Thoughts- One Week to Go

It has been several weeks since anything of note has been written on here, however that will all change with the Rose Bowl approaching in just about six days. It is time to start discussing the game and getting a feel for how both teams are preparing for this monumental contest.

What has Ohio State been up to since it was officially announced that they would be playing in Pasadena? Oh, not much I suppose. Aside from suspending two of their top four receivers, including senior never-do-well Ray Small, everything in Buckeye nation seems to be going swell. Please do not get me started on Mr. Raymond Small being suspended for his final game as a Buckeye. No one knows why he has been revoked of his team privileges (Duron Carter was suspended due to grades), however it doesn't really come as any surprise that this is how his career at OSU will end. No matter how non-suspenseful this suspension appears, it doesn't take away how disappointing it also is. #82 - formally #4 - has always had a huge impact in the return game with both punts and kickoffs, while working his way back onto the field this season as the teams number three wideout. His career has been filled with stories of how unmotivated Ray has always been, and it is too bad that he couldn't turn it around after four years of falling short of very lofty expectations.

The fact of the matter is that the Buckeyes are going to probably just run the football... a lot. Losing two receivers really doesn't kill OSU's chances like ESPN is making it out to be. DeVier Posey, Dane Sanzenbacher, Jake Stoneburner (who has taken increased #3 receiver reps in practice), Taurian Washington and Lamaar Thomas are all capable of stepping up in the aforementioned suspendees absence. You can bank on Posey having a nice day in Pasadena in my opinion regardless of the situation. I think that the players and coaches are disappointed and, quite frankly, pissed off at what has transpired, but it should have little affect on how the team performs against Oregon.

What will be the only affected position on the field? Punt returner. I am concerned that plays in which Ray would be able to take up field for a big gain could turn into just getting five yards or less by Dance Sanzenbacher. We will see...

I will be back to preview the game this coming week.