Joe Burger and Craig Fada, two of the most respected names in the Ohio State locker room, woke up on Friday as walk-ons. They'll go to bed as scholarship members of the Buckeye football team.
Urban Meyer rewarded the two fifth-year walk-on linebackers (and stars of OSU Cribs) with scholarships Friday morning in front of the entire team.
“There is nothing better than to be able to reward two guys who have become among the heart and souls of this program,” Meyer said in a university release. “They are leaders and they are among the most respected players on the team.”
Burger, from Cincinnati LaSalle High School, played in 34 games the past three seasons, including every game the last two years. He will graduate in December with a degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering.
“I am blessed because of every one of you in this room and the coaching staff,” Burger said. “Thank you. I work hard for you all and I have fun doing it.”
Fada, a Columbus Bishop Watterson graduate, also played in every game the past two seasons and is a three-year letterman like Burger. He is on pace to graduate in December with a biology degree.
“Playing here at Ohio State has always been a dream and I can’t thank the coaching staff enough for allowing me this opportunity,” Fada said. “I’m ready to have one more really good year with this team.”
As of now it's unclear how this will affect Ohio State's recruiting going forward. An Ohio State spokesman did not clarify the length of the scholarships. Ohio State is looking to shore up its 2016 class ahead of National Signing Day, but this could mean exits from players currently on the roster.
Burger, Fada, and the Ohio State Buckeyes begin winter conditioning on Tuesday. May Woody Hayes have mercy on their souls, because Mickey Marotti won't.
