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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Meyer was unable to find a reliable receiver to replace the loss of Devin Smith’s 28.2 yards-per-catch average. The void in the vertical-passing game impacted the offensive consistency for much of the season.

No doubt the flip-flopping of quarterbacks hindered the progress made this year, but for Meyer’s offense to be lethal again in 2016, someone has to emerge as the go to receiver to stretch the field.

Unlike other positions, injuries have taken a toll on Zack Smith’s unit. Should Michael Thomas join the others and head to the NFL as expected, there will be no proven returning receiver next year. Dontre Wilson has not been healthy in two years, Parris Campbell missed time this year to various injuries and Noah Brown missed the entire 2015 season with a leg injury.

In the mix will be freshman K.J. Hill and Gibson. It will be interesting to see how Meyer utilizes all of these guys to find his quick-strike threat. Without one, it could be another grind it out type offense.

Next: Off the Field Discipline

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