Class of 2007 - Freshman Impact?

We spent a long week waiting for our Michigan man to fire back after this shot across the bow. But alas, it appears the daily grind and other ventures like NASCAR have preoccupied our fearless hero. I guess having a top 5 team is less fun with the prospects of Mike "the Mouth" Hart and his buddies going into another late season tailspin. With all of the big offensive players back, what will Lloyd say if there's another O-for Buckeye and Bowl game?

Anyway, there's been a lot of press lately about the potential impact of Ohio State's 2007 class. It was generally panned by analysts or met with shrugs by others. The smallish size and the lack of marquee names led many to overlook the incoming Buckeyes. But the class had one of the highest average star ratings in the country, and many of the youngsters are making a strong push for early playing time.

Typically you don't see that sort of thing at a major program, especially in the Big Ten where players usually need some time in the strength and conditioning program. Not to mention some time on the field, learning the system, and adjusting to college. But a few factors might make it possible this fall. First, Ohio State has lost a lot of talent in the last few drafts, and that includes some early entries. So slots are open that could have been taken by a talented upperclassman.

Second, you've got more and more big time recruits enrolling early. All but one of Ohio State's freshmen were in Columbus well before camp. The lone exception was Devon Torrence, who was busy playing in the Houston Astros minor league organization. The head start on school has helped many of the kids accelerate their learning curve.

Finally, it doesn't hurt that some of the experienced sophomores and juniors have yet to live up to their billing. There are a handful of very talented three and four star recruits that haven't yet made their mark as Buckeyes. The window isn't closed, but the opportunities are dwindling.

With all that in mind, let's take a look at the 15 freshmen and what to expect from them this season:

Gene Clifford, CB/S: Clifford was probably the most decorated of the incoming class, but landed himself in the doghouse for his summer guest appearance on Weeds. Much like for OSU star Donte Whitner, Clifford will likely see time at both safety and cornerback before setting on a spot. Though he will see the field this season, it seems unlikely at this point that he could challenge for serious playing time. He will be a star at Ohio State, but give him a little time.

Brandon Saine, RB: Because of his understated personality and early commitment, Saine didn't get the attention a player of caliber usually receives. But by the end of his senior campaign, he was a Rivals top 50 player and top 5 RB. He's got sprinter's speed - think Robert Smith - and has been impressive this fall. He won't redshirt and it's even money that he could be the primary backup by mid-season. Look for the coaches to get him some touches in the early games.

Cameron Heyward, DL: Heyward was beloved by Buckeye fans before he ever reached the campus, as his commitment delivered a much-needed round of good news last year after a series of high-profile misses. Ironhead's son definitely passes the look test for a defensive lineman, though at 260 lbs, he'll still be able to add weight to his 6'5" frame. He's shown some great flashes in practice, and given the OSU system of rotating linemen, expect him to get a few snaps. Heyward may start out at end before moving to tackle as he gets bigger and stronger.

Nate Oliver, S: The Buckeyes first commit from last year, Oliver is a Mike Doss-style playmaker that loves to hit. He'll need some time to learn the ropes, and a redshirt is possible.

James Scott & Donnie Evege, CB: This pair of four-star corners are probably vying for one spot. They both enrolled early in the hopes of seeing the field, possibly as the dime back. It's very rare for freshmen OSU corners - or any for that matter - to play a key role so early. Scott is more technically sound, but needs to get bigger. Evege might force his way onto a special teams unit. Either way, you're looking at two future starters in the defensive backfield.

Boom Herron, RB: Not to be outdone by Saine, Herron has also had some strong moments in camp. He'll need to improve his pass blocking, but it's not impossible that both he and Saine could play this year. I'm sure the coaches would love to redshirt one of them, but if Beanie has any injuries, they could be forced into action.

Jermale Hines & Brian Rolle, LB: Another pair of players that are pushing each other, as well as some veterans, for playing time. The glut of talent at LB will prevent either from seeing major time this season. But at least one, and possibly both, could become regulars on all special teams. Rolle is just a monster; he's a 5'10" missile that will be a star at OSU before it's all over. There were questions about what position Hines might play, but he's looked good on the weakside thus far. A hand injury has him slightly behind Rolle at this point.

Solomon Thomas, DE: Recruiting nerds are rooting awfully hard for Thomas to become a star - or at least as big a star as Ben Martin, who apparently was teed off that Thomas dared to come in at the same position as him. While Martin is off collecting paychecks from Tennessee (just kidding. really.) Thomas has shown he's up to the task of being the next great rush end at OSU. He's got great speed, but probably needs to put some weight on. A redshirt would do him good, but he will be expected to contribute next season once Gholston vacates Columbus.

Devon Torrence, ATH: From all reports, this is one of the nicest kids you'll ever meet. That said, I'm worried about Torrence settling in to a position at OSU. He's already been flopped to WR from CB, though not from any need standpoint. And with his Astros gig on the side, he'll have less time to learn in the offseason. If he was devoted, I'd say you're looking at a #2 CB who could team with Scott and Evege for a lights out trio. But right now, I see a warning flag for a great athlete that could slip between the cracks.

Taurian Washington & Dane Sanzenbacher, WR: These two have generated an immense amount of buzz and are really pushing to play early. Washington has been as advertised, a solid receiver that basically does everything well. But Sanzenbacher, a rather unheralded member of the class, has been even better. He's showing great route running and a knack for finding openings all over the field. Dane does look a little slight at this point, but I won't bet against seeing him in some 4-5 WR sets. Washington projects as a solid #2, while Sanzenbacher has everyone hoping for another Gonzo.

Evan Blankenship, OL: Players like Blankenship pop up at every major school. He came to Ohio State's camp two years and was the O-line MVP both times. The coaches love him, but his mediocre rating and offer list doesn't have fans excited. Thus far, the coaches appear to be in the right, as Blankenship has played well while Mitchum and Skinner have been injured. Given the incoming talent at offensive line, Blankenship may never be a dominant starter. But he looks like a more than adequate backup at both guard positions, and he may surprise fans yet. Redshirt barring catastrophic injuries.

Rocco Pentello, ATH: Every Jim Tressel has has an absolute howler, and Pentello is the 2007 edition. The Westerville quarterback/safety missed a good chunk of his senior season with a broken leg, and certainly didn't have any other offers comparable to OSU. But some insiders insist the kid is a real player and expect him to contribute as e gains experience. It's hard to argue with Tressel's success with lower ranked players, including Curtis Terry, Anderson Russell and Donald Washington. We're pulling for you, Rocco.