Fallball in lacrosse is very similar to the dog days of NFL training camp. Lots of practice time to learn schemes, developing skills, and finally, FINALLY, seeing how things work in practice against a strange opponent. This fall, Ohio State is going to be testing its mettle against the toughest opposition in the game.
Only a trifecta of games, but OSU starts the slate with a trip to new look Syracuse, in its first year under a new regime. Sidenote, Syracuse is only on its 5th-ever coach, despite existing as a program since 1916. Talk about stability.
The Orange have been the gold standard in lacrosse since the late 80s, even with their recent struggles. With a lineup boasting Tucker Dordevic, Owen Hiltz, and Brendan Curry, the coaches will get a big test for the new defense that is almost entirely new faces. Hopefully Inside Lacrosse or local media will cover it, because October 24th will be a good barometer for how 2022 is going to go.
Next up, on November 5th, the Buckeyes host what's listed as the US National Team, but I believe that's supposed to be the U21s, who are set to compete next summer in the World Championships. With a ton of a good college players on the roster, this will also be a huge test, as the Bucks will be facing one of the toughest opponents you could ask for in a fall season. Big, big test.
Finally, rounding out the fall will be the Michael Breschi scholarship game, which honors former Coach Breschi's son who passed away as a young boy. It's an annual fall tradition, this time in Ohio Stadium.
As far as the game goes, OSU has the chance to measure itself against a national title favorite. Chris Gray is going to be spoiling for a spectacular senior season, and the defense will have to be ready. Guaranteed to see highlights of this game from STX, which will be illuminating.
All in all, you couldn't ask for a better fall to get the players battle-hardened. Lots of tough matchups, a road trip to a lacrosse cathedral, and some of the greatest lacrosse teams around. It's going to be a good fall. There's also 2023 recruiting going on in earnest, and the big fish have yet to be landed. Lacrosse never sleeps, so buckle up!
Link: https://www.insidelacrosse.com/article/fallball-2021-calendar-of-college...
