Ohio State Football: Clock ticking for new Buckeyes to lose black stripe
During the Urban Meyer years, incoming Ohio State freshmen had to prove themselves before their black stripe was removed and they were officially a Buckeye.
The 2019 recruiting cycle is finished and the 2019 Ohio State recruiting class is officially signed. Despite the lower than normal overall ranking, 247Sports has it at No. 14, the class average is No. 3, meaning the group is stellar.
Head coach Ryan Day did an amazing job locking in these players under extraordinary circumstances. He proved his chops on the recruiting front. I am sure his old boss is proud.
Speaking of Urban Meyer, I am hoping one tradition that he instilled in 2012 remains. Black stripes for freshmen.
The black stripe is a symbol of acceptance and achievement. The removal of it is a rite of passage for all Ohio State freshman.
It proves they are accountable to the team, worthy full inclusion in the program and officially a Buckeye. The accomplishment is rightfully celebrated.
Some freshmen earn the removal in the spring, some in fall camp and others during the season. Should Day keep the tradition, here are my predictions for the first three in the class to have it removed.
Zach Harrison
This is a no brainer. The 6-foot-5, 253-pound 5-star defensive end from Olentangy is the crown jewel of this class. He is the No. 12 ranked player in the country.
There are high expectations for Harrison, but it appears he is all in on Larry Johnson’s vision.
Depth on the line may prevent a lot of playing time this fall. That’s okay, he’ll lose the stripe early in spring and become the leader of his class.
Garrett Wilson
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Another cornerstone piece of this year’s class. The 5-foot-11, 175-pound 5-star receiver out of Lake Austin, Texas has wowed everyone which is why he is the No. 20 player in the nation.
Wilson played with quarterback Matthew Baldwin in high school so he will have a familiar face throwing to him in the spring. Receiver is becoming an elite position under Day and Wilson will thrive under it.
Given the depth at receiver, he’ll have to make the most of his opportunities. I expect he will.
Marcus Crowley
With Mike Weber’s departure to the NFL and Brian Snead leaving the program, there is suddenly more room to make an impact at running back.
I think Crowley will turn some heads.
Next. Incoming group of Buckeyes like 2011, only better. dark
The 6-foot-1, 200-pound 4-star back out of Jacksonville has the size and speed to contribute early. His carries will be limited, but that stripe will come off in the spring.