Ohio State Football: Will players from the ‘Lost Class’ lead Bucks to title?

The 2015 Ohio State recruiting class was maligned by many, including the coach who recruited them. Now the remaining players will be counted on big time in 2019.

The 2015 Ohio State recruiting class wasn’t highly thought of after the players had been on campus a couple of years. Sometimes it was referred to as the ‘Lost Class’.

For the most part it turned out to be a fine one and the remaining players from that class could be instrumental in leading the Buckeyes back to the College Football Playoff.

Let’s take a look at the guys on the defensive side of the ball first.

There are three players on the interior of the defensive line, Jashon Cornell, Robert Landers and DaVon Hamilton.

Cornell was moved to end last season to provide depth. He is back to playing the three technique and I expect him to have a big year.

The undersized Landers gives offensive lines fits with his quickness. Hamilton has performed well since getting over his health issues.

Justin Hilliard was a five-star linebacker who hasn’t been able to stay healthy. You know linebackers coach Al Washington and defensive coordinator Greg Mattison hopes he will during his senior season.

On the back-end of the defense, Damon Arnette will start at corner again. His experience will certainly be a plus and hopefully his game will pick up with coach Jeff Hafley coaching the defensive backs.

Now a look at players on the offensive side of the ball from the 2015 class who will be counted on. First I’ll start with the linemen.

Joshua Alabi has been an outstanding backup playing behind left tackles Jamarco Jones and Thayer Munford. Brandon Bowen played well during the 2017 season before he was injured. Expect Bowen to play at right tackle or at one of the guard spots.

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Rashod Berry is a solid tight end. He is an excellent blocker who also has good hands.

K.J. Hill has caught 144 passes for 1,696 yards and 10 touchdowns as a Buckeye. Barring injury, he will become Ohio State’s career reception leader after next season.

While the 2015 Ohio State recruiting class may have gotten off to a slow start it certainly has become a good one.

Look at the players who have already moved on to the NFL.

• Jerome Baker
• Mike Weber
• Isaiah Prince
• Dre’Mont Jones
• Denzel Ward

Who knows how many of the remaining players from that “Lost Class” will play on Sundays. One thing is for sure though, their play will help determine whether the Buckeyes make it back to the CFP or not. I for one am betting these seniors are up to the task.