Solich’s Guidance Has Turned Ohio Around

August 25, 2016

By RICK DeLUCA ATHENS — Prior to Frank Solich’s arrival in Athens to take charge, Ohio University would be happy with a .500 season. In the four years prior, 2001-2004, the Bobcats combined for a 11-35 record. In the 20 years before the Solich Era began, Ohio University had two winning seasons and another at 6-6. Ten of those 20 years produced seasons of two or fewer victories. When a football coach of Solich’s caliber arrived on campus, there was hope that finally the trail of losing would end. Set to begin his 12th season as the head coach of the Bobcats, the ...

Oklahoma Trying to Go Back-to-Back in Big 12

August 25, 2016

By JIM BUTTA MORGANTOWN — The 2016 Big 12 Media Days had its fair share of news breaking stories, but one wasn’t the program the vast majority of writers covering the 10-team league expect to hold up the championship trophy and hopefully earn a berth in the College Football Playoffs. Named as the team to beat by all but two of the 26 media members that vote, Oklahoma (258 points) was a 36-point favorite on TCU, which amassed 222 points and garnered the other two first-place votes. Third place went to Oklahoma State with 202 points, however only 30 points separate the next ...

Plenty of New Faces in Lineup for Ohio State

August 25, 2016

By RICK THORP COLUMBUS — These are uncertain times for Urban Meyer and his Ohio State coaching staff. One year removed from appearing in their fourth BCS/CFP bowl in as many seasons under the only head coach to win national titles in two different conferences, the Buckeyes enter the 2016 campaign with plenty of question marks. No, the cupboard isn’t bare for the defending Fiesta Bowl champs. Far from it. But with a roster filled with untested veterans, it will be up to Meyer and his revamped coaching staff to prepare the Buckeyes for another rugged ...

Offense Will Have to Carry Defense for WVU

August 25, 2016

By JIM BUTTA MORGANTOWN — Since joining the Big 12, West Virginia University has been an underdog when it comes to capturing the league’s championship. This season will be no different as the Mountaineers were picked to finish seventh in the 10-team conference by the media that covers the conference on a regular basis. An explosive offense that will be missing its largest piece from an 8-5 campaign a year ago as well as a defense depleted by graduation and early departures to the NFL, are the most often cited reasons for the Mountaineers’ low ranking following a fifth-place ...