Rebuild or Reload? 5 Keys for Ohio State Success in 2016

Jan 1, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback J.T. Barrett (16) looks to throw during the second half against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the 2016 Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports /

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For the first time under Meyer, no one can argue that the regular season schedule is weak. The 2016 slate is filled with difficult games. The road schedule includes two College Football Playoff teams in Oklahoma and Michigan State to go along with the usually tough places to play, Wisconsin and Penn State. The home schedule brings in Nebraska, Northwestern and Michigan.

Mickey Marotti’s strength and conditioning program has helped keep major injuries to a minimum under Meyer, but navigating through another potential 15-game season while facing considerably better opponents requires building a roster where the drop off is minimal between starters and back-up players.

The good news is Meyer has another Top 10 recruiting class coming in so there is potential to have at least three elite-level players competing at every position. That’s an incredible advantage, providing the players live up to their potential.

Next: Back-up Quarterback

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