NC State started two freshmen running backs ahead of all-everything (CDS PP) RB T.A. McLendon, and even though he looked terrific when he finally got into the game, it was too late for him to bring the Wolfpack back. All I can figure is there must have been disciplinary issues here. One of the announcers alluded vaguely to it.
Ohio State was not the better team overall, but today they played better. NC State beat themselves with numerous costly penalties. Ohio State kicker Mike Nugent (CDS PP) proved that he is the best kicker in the country, converting all 4 of his FGs from 50,30,33 and 46, and nailing all of his KOs either out of the endzone or very deep into it. This kid has 2nd round potential, IMO. 6'0" 225 RB Lydell Ross was powerfully efficient, grinding out steady yardage all day for the Buckeyes. On defense, DE (CDS PP) Simon Fraser looked good, as did Air Force transfer LB (CDS PP) who played just the second half but played very well in limited time. LB (CDS PP) A.J. Hawk was steady, but not special. He did not display outstanding explosiveness, but did pick off a pass and made about 9-10 tackles. FS (CDS PPP) Nate Salley stood out as a FS.
SS Andre Maddox (CDS PP) looked good on the Wolfpack defense, as did (CDS PP) DE Manny Lawson and (CDS PP) LB Pat Thomas. OT Chris Colmer (CDS PP) was very impressive, showing quick feet and power. Reminds me a little of the Pats Matt Light....
Summary:
Ohio State:
LB A.J. Hawk, PP: positive
K Mike Nugent, PP: VERY POSITIVE
DE Simon Fraser, PP: Very positive
LB Anthony Schlegel, PP: positive
RB Lydell Ross, PP: Positive
CB Dustin Fox, PP: DNP
FB Brandon Joe, PPP: neutral
FS Nate Salley, PPP: Positive
NC State:
SS Andre Maddox, PP: neutral
OT Chris Colmer, PP: very positive
RB T.A. McLendon, PP: positive (in limited action)
LB Pat Thomas, PP: positive
DE Manny Lawson, PP: positive
CB Marcus Hudson, PP: positive
FB Chance Moyer, PPP: no grade
WR Sterling Hicks, PPP: negative.
CB Lamont Reid, PPP: neutral
DE Mario Williams, PPP: neutral
TE T.J. Williams, PPP: no grade
recommendations: None