Spring Game Fever: The Spectacle We Love

April 13, 2017 by Leave a Comment

The spectacle of the Ohio State Spring Game is upon us.  This is one of the biggest offseason events that the Buckeyes host and this year will be no different.  With many blue-chip recruits of all ranks, the Buckeyes will look to rise up in the rankings with a great showing, that is looking like it won’t disappoint.

***  The storylines will feature a brand new Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach in Kevin Wilson and Ryan Day, it will return a good amount of starters from last season with J.T. Barrett on offense and the majority of the Defensive Lineman.  The inexperience and the lack of creativity and variety was a problem, but with a few old pieces in places and some new faces on the coaching staff, this makes for another intriguing storyline to follow.  Look for a more improved offense that will tire out the defense with their upgraded tempo.  Will they find their next version of Curtis Samuel?  Will they find their next Devin Smith, Braxton Miller or Mike Thomas?

***  Zach Smith and Tony Alford will be tasked with providing playmakers and balance for the Buckeyes offense with members of their respective units.  Will Coach Smith find the next stars for his unit?  He needs Zone 6 to produce another playmaker and establish his role in the offense.  The Buckeyes will have the talent, but can they find the playmakers to follow what Mike Thomas, Devin Smith, and Braxton Miller have built?  Will Coach Alford they find their next version of Curtis Samuel or the next Ezekiel Elliott?  He has Mike Weber, who acted as their workhorse, but will Antonio Williams and J.K Dobbins step up?  Or can walk-on Jerimiah Knight carve out a steady role for himself?

***  Look for new Linebackers Coach Bill Davis to find his niche from within the Schiano captained defense.  He took over for Luke Fickell and he looks to use his extensive NFL coaching experiences to bridge the gap left by Fickell.  He lost Raekwon McMillan, but he retained Chris Worley, who is now the starter at the Mike spot, Dante Booker, who is coming off of an injury-plagued season and Jerome Baker, who had a coming out party last season.  He also has a lot of talented personnel waiting for their chance to reload the Buckeyes.

***  Coach Schiano and Coach Coombs will have the task of rebuilding the Scarlet Curtain or B.I.A., the Best In America.  Three of their starters, Malik Hooker, Garon Conley and Marshon Lattimore left for the NFL, leaving only Damon Webb as the only returning starter.  The Buckeyes signed five talented DB’s during NSD and they will look to make an immediate impact or contribution to the lack of established starters.

***  Last, but not least, the recruiting aspect for this game will be one of great importance.  Many blue-chippers will come to see if their prospective unit succeeds or what improvements have been made.  The potential of someone pledging their allegiance to the Buckeyes are good, but only time will tell.  Both the offense and the defense need to put on a show, and with a few Buckeye commits present, you really never know what could occur.

***  P.S.  The BTN chose to air the Ohio State Spring Game over TTUN’s.  Lol!

 

Filed Under: B1G Football, College Football, College Football Recruiting, NFL, NFL Draft, Ohio State Football, Pro Football, Site News

Draft A Buckeye: Cameron Johnston

April 10, 2017 by Leave a Comment

 

Cameron Johnston took over punting duties for Ohio State and he was quite the weapon.  Johnston hails from Australia and he turned out the be a dependable weapon during special teams with his patented directional and rugby punts.  He has the ability to shift field position and put opposing teams in a bind, with little to no room.  Johnston averaged 46.7 yards per kick in 2016 and he was second in the nation as he averaged 43.9 net yards.  He also has wheels.  He ran a 4.92 on the 40-yard dash and that could be another weapon, if he is willing to stick his nose out during special teams opportunities.  Johnston is destined to go in either day 3 or go undrafted.  Maybe he will be the next undrafted special teams ace thta makes it in the big leagues.

Filed Under: B1G Football, College Football, NFL, NFL Draft, Ohio State Football, Pro Football, Site News

Draft A Buckeye: Noah Brown

April 10, 2017 by Leave a Comment

 

Noah Brown blew up against Oklahoma, showcasing his ability to out-muscle opposing DB’s.  He showed the ability to separate and high point the ball over unsuspecting defenders.  It was certainly a shock for him to leave, but he has the size and the speed to make it if a team takes a chance on him in this year’s draft.  Brown is 6’2″, 222 lbs. and he can be a monster, and has the ability to take over during games. Brown is susceptable to the injury bug and two seasons ago, he broke his leg, which caused him to redshirt that year.  Last season, he was the featured peice, but then the gameplans moved away from him as the season progressed.  He has some film, but he doesn’t, but he is an intriguing prospect due to his measurables.  He is projected to go as early as day 2 of the draft, but he is more likely going to be taken sometime in day 3.  He may follow Jailin Marshall and end up being an undrafted free agent, but who knows, the draft tends to be unpredictable.

Filed Under: B1G Football, College Football, NFL, NFL Draft, Ohio State Football, Pro Football, Site News

Draft A Buckeye: Pat Elflein

April 10, 2017 by Leave a Comment

 

Pat Elflein has been an anchor on the Buckeye Offensive Line for the past few seasons.  He has the talent to plug into either Offensive Guard spots and he can also be effective as a Center.  At 6’3″, 303 lbs. Elflein, last seasons Rimington winner will be a valuable commodity for a Offensive Line needy team in the NFL.  Although a tad bit inconsistent with his strentgh, his effort level and his dedication to his craft are traits that most teams covet.  He needs to improve his strength, but his experience as a wrestler would help him when placed in the game.  Versatility is the name of the game and Elflein is a proven asset at Guard and at Center.  He is projected to go in the 2nd Round.

Filed Under: B1G Football, College Football, NFL, NFL Draft, Ohio State Football, Pro Football, Site News

Draft A Buckeye: Raekwon McMillan

April 3, 2017 by Leave a Comment

 

Raekwon McMillan was one of Urban Meyers most prized recruits coming out of SEC territory and he has grown into a leader on defense for the Buckeyes.  At 6’2″, 240 lbs., McMillan is viewed as a speedy Middle Linebacker who can play sideline to sideline, stuff the run and diagnose plays.  The former Butkus Award recipient played Quarterback for the Buckeyes defense and directed his troops as he sees fit.  He was a leader and he should blossom and evolve after a team takes a chance on him.  He ran a 4.61 in the 40, 7.15 on the 3 cone, 4.39 in the 20-yard shuttle and an 11.84 in the 60-yard shuttle.  He is athletic and flat out fast for a linebacker, and he will be used sparingly until he finds a foothold or if injuries occur.  This is not detracting from his talent, but he had a decent season but was less productive than previous seasons.  McMillan will be an asset to a team as he is projected to be drafted in the 2nd to 3rd Round of this year’s draft.

Filed Under: B1G Football, College Football, College Football Recruiting, Ohio State Football, Pro Football, Site News

Day Two and Three: Buckeye Bonanza Continued

May 9, 2016 by Leave a Comment

The countdown until the 2016 NFL Draft was a long winding road filled with suspense and intrigue. There were a few stories that have left a mark and the only one that I can recall is the…  Actually, I can’t remember anything right now, but I digress.  The 2016 NFL Draft is now over and done with and my job right now is to go over the list of Buckeyes selected in this years draft and honorably mention the ones who weren’t as fortunate, but I trust that they’ll succeed even though their dreams are temporarily on hold for the moment.

Mike Thomas:

Thomas was the first Buckeye taken on Day 2 with Pick #47 in the 2nd Round by the New Orleans Saints.  After the Saints released Marques Colston, their longtime go-to Wide Receiver, they had to make a move to bolster their receiving corps to complement Willie Snead and company.  Thomas has the bloodlines and the sheer potential to add life into the potent Saint Passing onslaught.  He can run routes, he can catch it in traffic and he has the ability to separate from opposing Defensive Backs.  The only thing that he cannot do is return kicks and punts but his skillset will bolster their offensive attack.  Thomas fell into the perfect situation and he has the opportunity to work with a legend in the making in Drew Brees.  He will look to him early and often to learn the playbook and to get the timing and chemistry right for the upcoming season.

Vonn Bell:

Who Dat!?  The Saints strike while the iron was hot during the 2nd Round with the 61st Overall Pick and another Buckeye fell on their laps.  This time in the form of Vonn Bell.  Bell would provide a talented potential starter for the Saints and he would fit in perfectly with Kenny Vaccaro in the Defensive Backfield.  A playmaker to work alongside a thumper is more than Coach Rob Ryan could ask for.  Bell will look to patrol all over the field looking to make plays. Rookie Camp will also be interesting since it’ll be like being back at Ohio State.  He will defend Mike Thomas for the life of their rookie contracts and it looks to be interesting to say the least. Bell is a steal because prior to the NFL Combine, he had projections for the 1st Round.  He will continue to make plays like had always done throughout his Buckeye career and I don’t see any drop off in the NFL.

Adolphus Washington:

Diesel was picked up by the Buffalo Bills in the 3rd Round with the 80th Overall Pick and Rex Ryan is looking to stockpile Defensive Line depth to get a little younger.  After being suspended for the Fiesta Bowl against Notre Dame, he worked his tail off and got himself back on track.  Although he had been projected to go in the Late 1st Round to Mid 2nd Round, he finally heard his name in the 3rd and it continued the Buckeyes streak.  The biggest asset that Washington has is his quick first step and his ability to beat the initial blocker.  He blows past the slower interior lineman early and often and he has the ability to occupy two blocker to free up one of his fellow Silver Bullets so that they can finish the play.  Overall good fit for the Bills.

Braxton Miller:

X-Brax was taken in the 3rd Round with the 85th Overall Pick to add to a now potent offense.  The Texans took Fighting Irish Wideout Will Fuller in the 1st Round.  They added Lamar Miller to the fold and now all of a sudden the Offense oozes with potential.  Oh, and they still have Hopkins on the roster as well.  Although they had released longtime bruiser Arian Foster, I think that they will just fine.  The Human Highlight Reel will join newly acquired Quarterback and former Denver Bronco, Brock Osweiler in Houston and I am looking forward to seeing if they can light up the scoreboard early and often this season.  Miller will look to prove that the transformation into a new position is complete and that he can be the playmaker that all Buckeye fans know him to be.  He will most likely start in the slot and be Osweiler’s security blanket.

Nick Vannett:

The Seattle Seahawks took Vannett in the 3rd Round with the 90th Overall Pick and although they still have Jimmy Graham and Luke Willson on the roster another Tight End that is well-rounded cannot hurt what they are trying to accomplish.  Yes, the Buckeye Offense rarely used the Tight End, but he was utilized and is a proven blocker.  Don’t let the scarcity of his production fool you because he can catch too.  He can get open and he can beat slower Linebackers and smaller Defensive Backs if asked to.  A workout warrior and a locker room leader, Vannett will learn from Russell Wilson.  I am unsure if he’d see the field early but I feel that if he could contribute in any way possible, he would if given the opportunity.

Josh Perry:

Perry was taken in the 4th with the 102nd Overall Pick and he get’s to team up with former Buckeye and now San Diego Charger, Joey Bosa.  Bosa also had the privilege of announcing his teams pick.  Perry will be a handful for the AFC West.  Not only is he quick off the snap, he can diagnose plays quickly and he is not even close to being injury prone.  Perry is an athlete.  It will be great to see him earn some playing time and watching him grow.  With many other Linebackers on the roster, I think that he will become a Special Teams Ace until players either leave or suffer injuries.

Cardale Jones:

King Dolo Dale was drafted with the last pick in the 4th Round by the Buffalo Bills.  Although Tyrod Taylor is the current Starter at the position, Jones will look to learn and develop while waiting for the opportunity to play.  Jones has arm strength for days and I do not see that being the issue.  His main issue is locking onto a single receiver and his decision making and touch with his throws.  All minor things to work through.  Cardale pulled a Hulk Hogan after finding out that he had been drafted and when he finds his true potential, WHAT YOU GONNA DO BROTHER!?  It’ll be fun to see him succeed when given the shot to.

The Undrafted’s

Although you can debate on whether certain players should’ve stayed an extra year to develop, you really cannot fault them for chasing their dreams and betting on theirselves.  Being Undrafted isn’t necessarily a bad thing because diamonds are usually found in this field.  It is heartbreaking to not hear you name called but these players still have a shot to stick on a roster whether it is on a Practice Squad or a 53 man roster.

Tyvis Powell:

Powell was not drafted but he is a playmaker and a ballhawk.  He chose to sign with the Seattle Seahawks joining Nick Vannett.  He has a knack for making timely plays and what better environment to learn from that from the L.O.B?  The Legion of Boom will assist his progression throughout Training Camp.  Although a longshot to make the roster, he can still be placed on the Practice Squad to he can hone and develop into a contributor on the Active Roster.

Jalin Marshall:

Marshall should’ve stayed to develop into a star, but like I had mentioned, I cannot blame a player for betting on himself and believing in his ability.  Marshall signed with the New York Jets and he joins former Buckeye Devin Smith in a new look offense.  Smith played a key role in the recruitment of Marshall and together they could wreak havoc on opposing defenses if they can develop.

Chase Farris:

Farris signed on with the Detroit Lions and joined Taylor Decker on the Offensive Line.  Not many people know that Farris was originally a Defensive Lineman out of high school but due to the lack of able bodies on the offensive side, he was converted.  Farris was the final piece to the Offensive Line puzzle that won all the marbles for the Buckeyes two years ago.  An able blocker and strong as an ox, Farris will look to once again work alongside Decker.

 

Well it was fun covering this and I cannot wait to see the talent over the next few years develop and have a chance to break the Miami Hurricanes record of 6 players drafted in the 1st Round.  Although some players’ dreams weren’t realized, nothing is ever easy and they will all continue to fight to secure a spot on their respective teams.  Oh and before I forget GO BUCKS!

***FWIW:  A kicker was drafted in the 2nd Round…  And the first Wolverine to come off the board?  Graham Glassgow in the 3rd…  Yeah the talent overflows up north (sarcasm)…  Buckeyes over everything…  Especially over anything Maize and Blue.***

Filed Under: B1G Football, College Football, College Football Playoff, College Football Recruiting, NFL, NFL Draft, Ohio State Football, Pro Football

Men of the Scarlet and Gray Podcast Fiesta Champions

January 6, 2016 by Leave a Comment

I reminisce with Chip Minnich about the Desert showdown that was the Fiesta Bowl on New Years day. We give a little recap about the game versus Notre Dame, offensive and defensive players of the game, we even touched on the targeting call made against Joey Bosa.

Chip and I discuss some of the juniors leaving early for the NFL (at the time of the recording Vonn Bell had not declared but has since). Nine underclassmen are putting the Scarlet and Gray down to join the big boys in the NFL. We also talk about defensive coordinator change with Chris Ash going to Rutgers and Greg Schiano now the Buckeyes new co-defensive coordinator.

We also give our prediction of who might be the winner of the national championship game coming up between Alabama and Clemson.

Filed Under: College Football, College Football Playoff, NFL Draft, Ohio State Football, Podcast, Pro Football

All Things Buckeyes

November 23, 2015 by Leave a Comment

Buckeye Blues:

If you are as much of a die-hard Ohio State fan as I am, you are very much displeased with Saturday’s turnout.  With so much anticipation and with so much riding on this game, the Buckeyes just flat out played poorly and sloppily to the point to where minor mistakes derailed their title defense.  Now I am not saying that they are completely out of the Playoff picture, they will just need a lot of help…  A LOT!!!  They need to prepare for a Michigan team hell bent to make a statement in the first installment of Meyer VS Harbaugh.  This will be the most inopportune time to fall asleep or to go through the motions.  Needless to say this is a terrible way to send off their seniors, but it happens in College Football.  This isn’t the last brick in the foundation by any means.  If and I mean IF Penn State can upset Sparty at East Lansing, and IF the Buckeyes show up in Ann Arbor next week, they have a punchers chance.  But with me being the realist that I am, that isn’t the likeliest scenario.  But again, you never know.  Well played Sparty, well played.  Great win and FYI I hate you lol.

Offensive Offense Play Calling:

This is a tricky and touchy subject for me.  What I saw today was atrocious and a complete disaster.  There comes a time and place to call certain plays, but when you run the same QB Draw play expecting a different result?  You sir or ma’am are high.  Whoever is calling the plays on offense needs to be less predictable, less conspicuous.  WHY NOT FEED ZEKE?  But that’s none of my business though.  Something needs to give and Urban Meyer needs to address the lack of creativity when on offense.  Either help out more with the play calling or go out and find a coach who calls less predictable plays.  The QB Draw can only be effective for a short period of time.  Win or lose though, lose in this segment, I am still a proud Buckeye fan.  Hopefully they show some fight and show that they are indeed a great offense.

Recruiting Extravaganza Fail:

Of all the weekends to no-show, it had to be this weekend where all the blue-chip and top choice recruits flooded into the Shoe to watch a battle.  They got a battle on defense from both sides, but the offenses failed to provide a spark.  Especially Ohio State’s.  There is no word yet on what the visiting recruits had said or mentioned about the game, but you never know.  It was a hotly contested game throughout and I think the atmosphere and the fans helped it.  You never know until National Signing Day and we won’t know until an announcement happens, but in this day and age, that means nothing.

Bittersweet Endings:

So there are a ton of media outlets who are reporting that both Ezekiel Elliot and Cardale Jones are headed to the NFL Draft after the season.  That is a huge blow to the Buckeyes when it comes to our current Running Back corps, but with Antonio Williams from this current recruiting class and Mike Weber from last years class, along with Curtis Samuel still in the fold, I see no issues at all with Zeke’s decision.  We are well taken care of in that aspect.  It is also safe to say that the QB position is also covered.  Last year the Buckeyes snagged touted recruits Torrance Gibson and Joe Burrow and they have Tristan Wallace in this current recruiting cycle.  They also still have J.T. Barrett too.  So it is all good for the most part.  I hate to see them go but I think that it’s safe to say that I will trade for all of the former Buckeyes in Madden Next year and I am hoping EA Sports releases another NCAA Football game soon.

Filed Under: B1G Football, College Football, College Football Playoff, College Football Recruiting, NFL, NFL Draft, Pro Football

Michigan State Spartan Preview

November 20, 2015 by Leave a Comment

When and Where:

Saturday Novemeber 21,2015 3:30 PM EST
Ohio Stadium Columbus, Ohio msu

TV/Radio
ESPN College GameDay
ABC
Chris Fowler, Kirk Herbstreit
and Heather Cox
Sirius/XM Channel 84

Series History
Overall………………………….Ohio State leads, 29-14
In Columbus………………………Ohio State leads, 14-8
In East Lansing…………………..Ohio State leads, 15-5
Neutral …………………………MSU leads, 1-0
Last Ohio State Win……………… 49-37, 2014 in East Lansing
Last MSU Win……………………. 34-24, 2013 in Indianapolis
Biggest Margin of Victory for OSU ….42-0, 1979
Biggest Margin of Victory for MSU ….32-7, 1965
Longest Winning Steak for OSU ……..8, (1975-84)
Longest Winning Steak for MSU ……..3, (1912-53)
Current Win Streak ……………….Ohio State, 1

Streaks
Urban Meyer 1,000 yard rushers-3
Hyde, Elliott (2)
Ezekiel Elliott 15 straight games with 100+ yards rushing per game
Most consecutive conference victories – Ohio State 30
Most consecutive victories – 23 Ohio State
Consecutive games with a reception – 26 Michael Thomas
24 points a game – 25 Michigan State
Consecutive FBS Bowl appearances – 8

Michigan State Spartans Offense

Sparty is lead by Ohio (Hinkley Township) native Connor Cook. Cook will be coming into Columbus with a possible right shoulder strain, won’t know how or if any effect until Saturday (hopefully he is at full strength). Connor has 2,482 yards with 21 touchdowns and only 4 interceptions. He obviously is having a pretty good season averaging 248.2 yards a game passing, 2.1 touchdowns and .4 interceptions. He has a completion rate of 56.3 percent and a passing efficiency of 143.02 percent.

Looking at MSU pass catchers and Aaron Burbridge jumps out at you. Burbridge has 65 receptions for 1021 yards, with 6 touchdowns. His longest reception is 56 yards and averages 15.7 yards a catch for 102.1 yards per game. Following Aaron is RJ Shelton who currently has 34 catches, 376 yards and 3 touchdowns this season. RJ’s longest reception is 29 yards and averages 11.1 yards a reception for 37.6 yards per game. The only other receiver the Spartans have for over 200 yards is Marggarrett Kings with 32 catches, 450 yards and 5 touchdowns. King’s longest reception 42 yards and averages 14.1 yards per catch for 50 yards per game.

The Spartans rushing attack currently has 1524 yards on the ground, 3.9 yards per rush for an average 152.4 yards per game. They have crossed the goal line 19 times with their rushing game. The running back trio of LJ Scott, Madre Landon, and Gerald Holmes have at least 400 yards so far this season, Scott has the most at 531 so far.

Michigan State is averaging 32.9 points a game this season.

Michigan State Spartan Defense

This isn’t the same Sparty defense Buckeye fans have become accustomed to witnessing the past few years. The Spartan defense was probably at their peak in 2013 in my opinion with the best caliber of players. Last year it was a little easier to pass again them than the year before but the rushing defense was still stellar. This season they have some great players, but statically they are surrendering 121 rushing yards per game which is 18th in the nation currently. Their total defense is ranked 46 and to my memory seems a little off from years past. Some of it has to do with injuries and have to admit Pat Narduzzi leaving has hurt some too. The front line of Shilique Calhoun, Malik McDowell, Demetrius Cooper, Lawrence Thomas and Joel Heath will be creating problems for Ohio State’s offensive line. Michigan State has 29 sacks and 12 interceptions. They might not be on paper the scary shutdown defense we might be used to in recent memory but make no mistake about it, they will be creating many issues for the Buckeyes.

NFL Future

There will be quite a few NFL scouts in attendance for the game. There is a good possibility of being 20 draft picks for the 2016 NFL Draft, 8 being First Rounders.

Hard to Say Goodbye

This is going to be a real emotional game for many Buckeyes who are seniors and possible underclassmen declaring early for the draft. Really going to be hard to see Braxton Miller in his final game in Columbus. For everything he has done, been through you just know the fans will be still packed in the Stadium singing Carmen Ohio for the final time in the most majestic place in America.

Ohio State Policy Change

In case you haven’t heard or read yet, Ohio State announced this week after the situation that happened across the pond in Paris they will no longer be allowing you to bring in your backpack or any bag that isn’t see through. Remember the world we live in is forever changing and get to your seats earlier so when you go through and get checked out before entering your not frustrated or being rude to the wonderful folks responsible for helping keep over 100k fans safe.

Filed Under: B1G Football, College Football, NFL, NFL Draft, Ohio State Football, Pro Football Tagged With:

2015 NFL Draft Part 2

January 16, 2015 by Leave a Comment

Many Browns and Bengals fans will be reading this section seeing that both teams draft picks will be in this section. The third part of the series will unfortunately not appear until after the Super Bowl. I will post revised columns of Part 1 and 2 throughout that time.Please keep in mind that not all players have declared for the draft so things could get shaken up when certain players declare. Again I am putting who Todd McShay posted in his first Mock Draft below my choices.

 

11. Minnesota Vikings: Kevin White, WR, West Virginia

While an OT is the true need for the Vikings, I do not think that where they are and what OT are available are worth the reach here. If Winston declares then the door is opened for them because that will change a lot of things in the early part of the draft. I give the nod to White over DeVante Parker. I like White’s big play ability more than Parker and I think White has better hands. White would go much higher if his route running skills were a little bit better and a team had a bigger need at WR. I feel the Vikings need to upgrade their WR core. As I mentioned before in Part 1 you cannot evaluate a quarterback’s future or skill set unless you give him talent to work with.

McShay: Cedric Ogbuehi

12. Cleveland Browns: Danny Shelton, DT, Washington

Shelton is a force in the middle and with Phil Taylor having injury problems and the Browns ability to not stop the run. Shelton is a great fit for a future replacement for Phil Taylor and a great piece to stopping the run.

McShay: Danny Shelton

13. New Orleans Saints: Dante Fowler Jr, DE/OLB, Florida

Fowler could see himself rise into the Top 10, but it all has to do with if Winston declares. The Saints continue to ignore the defensive side of the ball and that has plagued them. They also need help on the offensive line and I could see them moving down to meet that need. However, at some point you cannot ignore the defensive side of the ball. Fowler played the DE/OLB role for the Gators this season. I expect him to transition into the NFL nicely at the same position. With the amount of playing time I think he should get with the Saints he could be a dark horse for defensive rookie of the year.

McShay (When the Mock Draft was posted Saints were picking 21): TJ Clemmings

14. Miami Dolphins: Shaq Thompson, OLB, Washington

I personally think that the Dolphins need to take a WR here like Parker or Jaelen Strong. However they only take a WR in the first round if they part ways with Mike Wallace. Currently Wallace is still on the roster so the Dolphins go OLB. Thompson is very good in coverage and is a terrific athlete, also played and started at running back for the Huskies. I think that speed will transition very well in the NFL and he could end up being a stud at this position.

McShay: Shaq Thompson

15. San Francisco 49ers: DeVante Parker, WR, Louisville

San Francisco needs to add help for Kaepernick. I could see them upgrading their D-Line because that unit seemed desperate for depth. I am not a fan of Crabtree and never really was in the NFL. I think Parker could actually be comparable to Anquan Boldin. I think both would compliment each other very well.

McShay: Devin Funchess

16. Houston Texans: Michael Bennett, DT, Ohio State

Houston could take a WR so Parker or White could be in play here if they drop this far. I think Bennett would be a great fit for Houston. He can play the DE in a 3-4 or could play as a smaller DT in a 4-3. His play down the stretch against Wisconsin and Alabama makes him the top DT prospect. I gave the Browns the nod to Shelton because of his size and what Cleveland needs. Bennett is the better player between the two and Houston’s front line on defense could get scary. If Houston makes a move or two in the secondary and Mallet stays healthy they could be dangerous in 2015-2016.

McShay (Houston was picking 13 when Mock Draft came out): Devante Parker

17.  San Diego Chargers: Eddie Goldman, DT, Florida State

I went back and watched some of the Oregon vs Florida State game to review this pick when I saw Goldman was still highly thought of. When I watched Goldman specifically he seemed to play pretty well in that game. He did seem very winded in that game, but when your over 300 pounds how do you not get winded by Oregon’s offense? I like Goldman a lot for the Chargers he plays the run well and can get after the quarterback a little bit from his position.

McShay: Eddie Goldman

18. Kansas City Chiefs: Jaelen Strong, WR, Arizona State

The Chiefs are so desperate for a WR you just know they will not pick one in the first round, but they should. The WR’s the Chiefs have are mediocre at best. Strong has size and some good speed and I think he could be a great stepping stone for the Chiefs to upgrade their WR position.

McShay: Kevin White

19. Cleveland Browns: La’el Collins, OT/G, LSU

When Collins was thinking about going pro last year many labeled him as a potential stud guard in the NFL. I am still going to label him there because I would not be surprised at all if he lands there. The Browns would love to land one of the four very talented WR’s in this draft. However, Schwartz is not the answer at RT and I think Collins could add much needed depth and talent to the OL. The Browns need to do something because once Mack went down so did the season and the OL.

McShay Jaelen Strong

20. Philadelphia Eagles: Trae Waynes, CB, Michigan State

His length to speed ratio is going to be something NFL teams love because that seems to be the trend, bigger corners. The Eagles were pretty bad at the corner back position and Waynes is a talented corner who has some pretty good hands.

McShay: Trae Waynes

21. Cincinnati Bengals: Shilique Calhoun, DE, Michigan State

Back to Back Spartans on the board. This pick is probably the hardest to project because the Bengals are talented and their true need, in my opinion, is a QB who could actually push Dalton. The Bengals could draft an OT if they cannot resign Whitworth. They could draft a WR to complement Green. While Sanu had a good year, he struggled when it was his time to shine and I think his ability would best be suited in the slot. With that said at the end of the day the Bengals had 1 sack in the playoff game against the Colts. If you want to help your struggling QB you need to be able to pressure the opposing Quarterback and get better field position. That is why the Bengals choose Calhoun.

McShay (Bengals picked 24th in the Mock Draft)L Andrus Peat

Filed Under: Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, College Football, NFL, NFL Draft, Ohio State Football, Pro Football
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