Opening and Show Format (00:00 – ~00:15)
- Rogers welcomes listeners and emphasizes the “standard to uphold” in Columbus. The Buckeyes must improve throughout spring, as they do every year.
- Notes the changing roster dynamics: several players heading to the NFL with Pro Day scheduled for Wednesday, March 25, 2026.
- Show brought to you by FanDuel. Listeners are encouraged to leave comments/questions in the chat.
- Guests: Steve Helwagen (Bucknuts247) and Tony Gerdeman (BuckeyeHuddle.com / Buckeye Weekly). Thanks for adjusting schedules for the 363rd episode.
Iron Buckeye Honors and Leadership (Early Segment)
- Tony discusses the four Iron Buckeyes from winter workouts: Brandon Inniss (WR), Jeremiah Smith (WR), Jalen McClain, and Garrett Stover (OL).
- Brandon Inniss made being an Iron Buckeye his #1 offseason goal. It means never missing a day/rep in the weight room, leading by example, and bringing others along—no complaining, maximum effort.
- Inniss skipped the Buckeye Cruise for Cancer to stay back and lead, especially the young WR room (four true freshmen + two transfers). He aims to set the tone as a likely Block O award candidate.
- Inniss is energetic, vocal, and working on explosiveness with Cortez Hank. The WR room historically sets a high standard in the weight room (nod to David Boston-era intensity).
Spring Practice Update and Schedule
- Practices paused for spring break; back for 3–4 days this week.
- Spring game set for Saturday, April 18, 2026 (tickets on sale).
- Basketball season over (both teams exited NCAA Tournament early); full focus on football.
- Guests attended recent interviews/media sessions.
Arthur Smith as Offensive Coordinator (~Mid-Episode Focus)
- Ryan Day (offense-minded HC) has handed play-calling to Smith, following previous coordinators Chip Kelly and Brian Hartline.
- Smith’s background: NFL experience (Titans OC, Falcons HC, Steelers OC). He adapts schemes to personnel—has run heavy sets and lighter ones.
- Expect more 3-WR sets this year, less 13-personnel than 2025. Not as “plotting” due to experienced QB (Julian Sayin), backfield, and receivers.
- Smith emphasizes a growth mindset for players and coaches. He reviewed last season’s tape, including the Indiana and Miami games.
- On the offensive line struggles in those key games: Smith and OL coach Tyler Bowen are focused on technique, depth, and constant improvement. Optimistic about returning to elite play.
- Smith noted even successful units evolve; OSU has returning talent, so they’re evaluating what to keep/enhance while installing new ideas.
Offensive Line Discussion (Deep Dive)
- Four starters returning (experienced veterans—the most experienced OL unit in college football?).
- 2025 issues: technique breakdowns, especially in big games (Indiana, Miami). Not “good enough” despite talent.
- Key returners: Austin Siereveld (LT), Luke Montgomery (LG), Carson Hinzman (C), Phillip Daniels (RT). Rotational pieces like Joshua Padilla and Gabe VanSickle also back.
- Ian Moore seen internally as a potential first-round talent (could play tackle or guard).
- Depth options: Carter Lowe, Sam Greer. Competition across the line.
- Goal: instill “violence” mentality under Smith/Bowen. Not necessarily Joe Moore Award level, but “good enough” to win a title. Fans/coaches want big improvement after late-2025 letdowns.
- Historical note: National champs rarely have the absolute best OL (Joe Moore winners); you just need one that executes when it matters. 2024 stretch showed potential despite injuries.
Michigan Rivalry / Debate Tease
- Tony appeared in a debate-style segment with Isaiah Hole (on Crane & Co.) discussing OSU vs. Michigan expectations, Bryce Underwood vs. Julian Sayin, and Michigan “having an adult in the room” under new leadership.
- Broader historical talk: OSU has the stronger modern legacy; Michigan dominated pre-WWII, but OSU leads in recent decades (outright Big Ten titles, win % post-1940s, etc.). Playful banter about “cherry picking,” early-series records, and the 2010 “victory” debate.
- Tony’s Michigan knowledge stems from growing up in northwest Ohio.
Gold Pants and Other Notes
- Players received 2025 gold pants (for beating Michigan). Emotional for veterans who played with guys who never got them (e.g., Donovan Jackson, Zen Mahalski).
- First time some received them since ~2019 due to COVID disruptions.
National Championship Odds (FanDuel)
- Ohio State vaulted to the top favorite at around +550 (overtook Notre Dame’s long-held pole position).
- Discussion: Returning Heisman finalist QB, experienced OL, Jeremiah Smith (All-American WR), 1,000-yard freshman RB (Bo Jackson?), strong returning pieces.
- Defense: Matt Patricia turned over the unit last year; must do so again after losing several high draft picks (potentially 4 first-rounders + Curry, etc.).
- Skepticism on the heavy favorite status given a tough schedule and no guaranteed first-round bye. Win total around 9.5 at some books. Betting action from OSU fans may influence lines.
Pro Day Preview (March 25, 2026)
- Top prospects: Caleb Downs (S), Sonny Styles (LB), Arvell Reese (edge), Carnell Tate (WR), Kayden McDonald, etc.
- For projected first-rounders: Advice is often “don’t risk it”—talk to teams instead of testing if already slotted high. Running could only hurt (e.g., Downs doesn’t need to prove speed at his size).
- Others (like Caden McDonald) may push for first-round visibility.
- Info often comes from players/scouts (messy if someone has a bad day—no official handout expected).
Player Spotlights / Upcoming Content
- Brandon Inniss: Tony plans to write about his leadership and production goals.
- Jet Harrison (Marvin Harrison Jr.’s younger brother): #1 WR in 2028 class per Rivals top 300—projected as a Garrett Wilson/Marvin Harrison hybrid in a 6'1" frame.
- Luke Montgomery (OL): Steve plans a story. Charming personality, big year expected before NFL; versatile (snaps at center).
- Other notes: Offensive tackle depth (Daniels, Moore, Lowe, Greer) looks solid per coaches—no major portal additions needed.
Closing and Listener Engagement
- Basketball tangent: Reaction to OSU’s early NCAA exit (frustration from 13 years of mediocrity post-2012–13 peak). Mark Titus comments called out.
- Final football Q&A: Offensive tackle depth is “okay” with returning pieces and internal competition.
- Promo: Subscribe, hit notifications. Regular shows (Wednesdays ~4pm ET, plus others). Track Tony at BuckeyeHuddle/Buckeye Weekly; Steve at Bucknuts247.
- Thanks to guests and chat. Next episode likely the following week (or whenever spring news warrants).
Overall Tone: Optimistic but realistic. Strong emphasis on fixing 2025 OL issues, new leadership under Arthur Smith, and capitalizing on returning talent/schedule challenges for a title run. Classic Buckeyes insider talk—history, standards, and player personalities mixed in.
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