National Lampoon's Presents: Senior Class Reunion

After years of watching top flight talent leave early, Ohio State received some good news when 5 of their top eligible players decided to return for their senior seasons. After another disappointing finish, only redshirt junior Vernon Gholston decided to try his hand at the NFL.

The biggest surprise was LB Jim Laurinaitis, who some projected as a top 10 pick. But his decision may have been swayed by CB Malcolm Jenkins and OT Alex Boone, who announced they were staying in Columbus first. They were joined by LB Marcus Freeman and WR Brian Robiskie, giving the Buckeyes a solid core of leaders heading into 2008.

But there will be no excuses now, including the Buckeyes much anticipated trip to play USC in September. OSU will return starters at ever position but RT, FB, DE and SLB. The tackle position could be filled by any number of players, including redshirt sophomore-to-be Conner Smith and Josh Kerr. Newly minted top 5 player Mike Adams will also get a shot as a true freshman. The Buckeyes pride themselves on line versatility, so there's no telling who will slide into what spot. Only Jim Cordle at center and Boone at left tackle seem like sure things.

The fullback position is used regularly, and redshirt freshman Aram Olson is the only one currently on the roster. A converted linebacker could see time, or a freshman such as Jermil Martin might have a shot. The Buckeyes are more likely to be 2 TE (Rory Nicol and Jake Ballard) or 3 WR (Ray Small or Dane Sanzenbacher), so besides Barton the whole offense will be back.

On defense, Vernon Gholston's dominating presence off the edge will be missed. But because of the injury to Lawrence Wilson at the beginning of the 2007 season, the Buckeyes will have him back to fill the void. Also expected to play a major role will be then-junior Robert Rose, who was severely limited this season because of rotator cuff issues. He'll have to battle with Cameron Heyward, who emerged as a force in just his first year.

At linebacker, the Buckeyes have a number of options to deal with the loss of Larry Grant. Curtis Terry, who was expected to split time with Grant this season, was granted a medical redshirt. He's joined by passing rushing specialist Thaddeus Gibson, who certainly make a push this offseason. With Austin Spitler, Ross Homan, and Brian Rolle, the Buckeyes have a solid second team of linebackers chomping at the bit.

Though Laurinaitis is the star, Malcolm Jenkins' return might be the most important. He's a vocal leader and plays at a position where the Buckeyes lack experienced backups. Heading into the season with just Donald Washington, Chimdi Chekwa and Andre Amos would have been somewhat questionable. This will allow the younger players like James Scott to slowly adjust, rather than being thrust into the spotlight.