The MVP of the team thus far.At time of writing, it is clear this week's depth chart will have some switching going on. Word came down late yesterday afternoon that Coleman is suspended for Indiana, after his hit on the Illini QB this past weekend and it is still unclear how Ross Homan is doing.
I think it's safe to assume Anderson Russell will step in and occupy Coleman's spot, playing opposite of Hines, but Russell was benched for a reason earlier this year and this defense is made up of guys that have been waiting their turn, so don't be surprised to see Orhian Johnson get his chance.
There is no doubt the Coleman suspension is weak, but it couldn't have come against a better opponent. Indiana ranks in the middle of the B10 pack in most statistical categories, after taking on a cupcake OOC schedule. They gave Michigan all they could handle last week and could have won if the refs didn't have stake in RichRod's Virginia Tech condo development, but the Hoosiers haven't scored an offensive TD against the Buckeyes in their last 2 meetings, losing by a combined score of 85-13.
Tressel has been very careful when it comes to head injuries, so don't expect Homan to get that much time, if any, this weekend, even if it was a mild concussion. Andrew Sweat, who came in relief last week, made his presence felt by recording a career high in tackles (5) and his first sack. The Hoosiers run a lot of funky formations out of the so-called Wildcat offense, meaning the Silver Bullets may go with just 2 backers for most of the night, limiting Sweat's playing time.
The O-Line steered clear of injuries and Cordle is still out, meaning JB Shugarts will continue to get his chance at RT. Shugarts has settled down with each play and is starting to show the ability that got him so highly ranked out of HS. The great depth chart trick of adding the word "OR" in between 2 players keeps the mystery alive at LT. Adams got his first career start last week and is the first player listed in the 2-deep, but Miller will continue to see plenty of time backing up the left side of the line. The three freshmen OL were left off the depth chart once again, so barring injury, they will all be redshirted.
Some of the recent discussions have been focused on the starting RB spot, as Zoom's camp is starting to swell. Herron is listed as the starter once again and for me, it doesn't matter who gets the start, they both need to get touches. Saine has shown more explosiveness this year, but I like his effectiveness coming in after a couple of series. Throw in my freshman crush, Jordan Hall and this running attack is about to take off.
The entire roster should be released as the depth chart this week, because I don't see the Hoosiers giving Ohio State much trouble. I have been to 3 games in Bloomington and every one has had a Buckeye dominance on the field and in the stands. If the skies are dry on Saturday night, it's sure to happen again.
