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College Football Rankings: Top 25 after spring practice

By Cody Williams

Nov 26, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jalen Hurts (2) scrambles out of the pocket against the Auburn Tigers during the second quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 26, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jalen Hurts (2) scrambles out of the pocket against the Auburn Tigers during the second quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 15, 2017; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback J.T. Barrett (16) hands off to Buckeyes running back Mike Weber (25) during the first quarter of the annual spring game at Ohio Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 15, 2017; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback J.T. Barrett (16) hands off to Buckeyes running back Mike Weber (25) during the first quarter of the annual spring game at Ohio Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports /
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Ohio State

2016: 11-2, 

There’s a lot of buzz about the Ohio State Buckeyes coming out of their spring game. Well, there’s always buzz about the football team in Columbus, but more so than usual. With new offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson in tow, the offense showed new dynamics that they expect from J.T. Barrett in the 2017 season. When given the reins of the offense, it’s impossible to ignore the overall production that the dual-threat quarterback offers.

However, it’s also impossible to deny that the bulk of Barrett’s effectiveness or danger is derived from what he’s capable of when taking off. He’s an exceptional athlete with elite speed that opposing defenses truly aren’t capable of defending when it’s coming from the quarterback. What Wilson’s offense showed, though, is the desire to put more faith in the veteran signal-caller’s arm in the 2017 season.

Call it skepticism, but that doesn’t seem conducive to Barrett’s style of play. Throughout his many reps at Ohio State, his arm has been erratic and shaky for the most part. He possesses strength and poise as a thrower, but the mechanics and accuracy are wonky. Thus, relying on him to throw the ball downfield more seems like a curious hill to die on if that’s indeed what happens.

With that said, the Buckeyes still have talent on offense and can always fall back on what they’ve done with Barrett. What’s more, the likes of Tyquan Lewis will make sure that the defense doesn’t miss a beat after losing three key secondary pieces to the NFL Draft. However, putting them any higher than No. 4 with the offensive change for Barrett feels like jumping the gun.

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