Baver Answers Beaver Week Questions: Part Two - Brent Baver

Colin: Our receivers work hard and have so much depth blah blah blah blah. Is anybody going to step up and be the man who puts fear in the opposing defense? 

Baver: I think the short answer is no. I mean, a defensive coordinator seeing Parris Campbell get in the open field is nightmare for him, but I know that’s not what you mean. Campbell really isn’t a true receiver. I must say that Zone-6 did finally grow on me last year and you saw OSU’s overall depth take its toll against several of its opponents, including Penn State and Michigan in huge comeback wins for the Buckeyes. 

But if the old fashion go-to WR is what you want, it’s very unlikely you are going to see that this season. The guy with the biggest upside of the bunch is Binjamen Victor, but he brings the biggest downside as well. A sleeper to watch would be CJ Saunders. 

The depth argument isn’t sexy, but Phil Steele and Athlon both ranked Ohio State’s WRs as the best WR group in the Big Ten.

Colin: Should I even ask about the tights ends? 

Baver: If you are into blocking schemes, sure…..

Colin: The defense should be stout again. How would you attack them if you were coaching Oregon State? 

Baver: Not that Oregon State has the talent or scheme to do it, but Oklahoma and Iowa exposed Ohio State big time with their short passing games in upset wins against Ohio State last season. These games were a low point for Buckeye LBs since Urban arrived in 2012. And I guess I’d use your “…so much depth blah blah blah..” comment when looking at this LB group. With the talent OSU brings in year in and year out, maybe one or even two guys explode like Darren Lee did in ’14, but I am taking a wait and see approach with this group. 

Colin: Meanwhile Michigan is taking on Notre Dame. Considering the Wolverines closed out 2017 with three straight losses, how big a game is this for Harbaugh and his non chicken eaters? 

Baver: Huge. Jimmy was surviving last year’s rebuilding year, but then his team blew a 14-0 lead losing to Ohio State once again. But at least UM followed that up with a 2ndhalf collapse against a hapless South Carolina team in the Outback bowl, earning the Big Ten its only bowl lost last season.

On paper, this Michigan team clearly looks like Harbaugh’s best. Their defense lost everybody after the 2016 season, and still had a top ranked D last season. They may have the best D in the nation this year. They finally have a QB, and they have a lot of very highly rated guys that got good work as true freshmen in ‘17. 

Still, this has been a Michigan team that couldn’t win a tight game against a decent opponent to save their lives. But I guess I will play the fool again and pick Jimmy to finally get the road win against a ranked team, in a 17-14 type game. But this is a game that can go either way.

Colin: Any other games and lines you will be keeping an eye on this weekend? 

Baver: Washington vs Auburn in Atlanta is the game of the week. Both are legit top-10 teams nationally on paper. Chris Peterson has done a phenomenal job so far at Auburn, but has lost most of his matchups against elite opponents. Auburn doesn’t get the pub like Bama does in this neck of the woods, but Gus and his assistants have been recruiting like gangbusters, and like Washington, the Tigers are stacked this year. I would have these teams probably about even on a neutral field, so I would have lean Auburn with the Huskies traveling across the country to play to play Gus’ boys.

Other gms…..I am really interested in seeing Joe Burrow in action against the Mark Richt’s Hurricanes, although I don’t have a good feel for how that one will turn out. I tend to think Joe won’t be ready yet, as he’s had little time to adjust in Baton Rouge. Still, I will be rooting for him.

I will pass on picking games against the spread this week and just enjoy the return of college football with the nightmare of an August we have had in Buckeye country….I’ll make one exception and pick the OSU vs OSU game ATS.

I’d say take the Beavers getting 38.5 against Ohio State with all the uncertainty with this Buckeye team. I also wonder if you will see OSU play true freshmen for much of the second half with the new redshirt rule. I’ve got Ohio State winning 48-14.

Baver Answers Beaver Week Questions: Part One - Brent Baver

Colin: Might as well get this out of the way, do you feel the Urban suspension was too long, too short or just right? 

Baver: My first thought after reading the report was that Urban was lucky to have a job. Knowing that Gene Smith provided Urban with an easy plan to address questions at Big Ten Media Days, and that Urban did the opposite of what Gene suggested, is pretty hard to swallow. Add to it the findings that indicate Meyer likely deleted text messages, knowing his phone would likely be looked at, and there was almost no way Urban could have gotten by without a suspension. Were it not for all that things Urban has done for Ohio State on and off the football field, he almost certainly would have been out of a job. 

Trying to reconcile his failure to drop the hammer on Zach Smith with all the things Urban has done for this program, aside from winning at a ridiculously high level, is tough to do. Meyer has completely raised the bar at Ohio State in every possible manner. 

Urban took a lot of heat when he was at Florida because of player arrests and other off-the-field players issues. He made this area of responsibility a personal project when he arrived at Ohio State, and the results are a night and day difference. These kind of player incidents are way, way down at OSU since Urban arrived in Columbus. Football graduation rates and Academic All-Big Ten selections? Meyer has knocked the ball out of the park here as well. And Urban and Shelley do more for women’s causes than just about any other current head coach/wife combo in college football. And the things they do are absolutely NOT “just for show”. If you missed OSU commit Harry Miller's mother's heartbreaking story, and her unequivocal support of Urban, you absolutely need to check it out HERE. Kristina Miller is a domestic abuse survivor.

It’s hard for me to have a beef with the 3-game suspension, but I think Ohio State definitely made the right move in keeping Meyer. Still, with perception and reality becoming so easily blurred in today’s society, Urban may not ultimately make it through this. If he doesn’t, I will be crushed.

Colin: Along those lines, Urban is notoriously wired pretty tight, how do you think this whole affair is impacting his ability to stay healthy and continue coaching? 

Baver: A definite big concern. Many questioned whether Urban would coach into his 60s before this ordeal got underway. This is a head coach that turned his back to the field, not being able to watch his kicker attempt a 4thquarter field goal in the Big Ten Title game last December. Tightly wired indeed. But Ohio St’s recruiting over that following 6-mth period was off-the-charts, and I had renewed hope for Urban’s longevity prior to things blowing up with Zach Smith.

I think back at first hearing him say “…coach like your hairs on fire.” That’s Urban - spot on. I really hope his health holds up and that Urban is here 5 years from now, but I have my doubts.

Colin: On to football... It all starts up front, the line is reshuffling and replacing a Center and Left Tackle. What should we expect from this unit?

Baver: A big question mark. And as you know….and it’s not just “a” center that has to be replaced; it’s the Remington Award winner. So we now know Mike Jordan will slide from LG to center, while Malcolm Pridgeon will fill Jordan’s vacated LG spot. Word on the street is that Pridgeon has made huge strides. Sophomore Thayer Munford will be at left tackle when healthy, but is dinged up right now, and would be replaced by Joshua Alibi if he can’t go in the opener. LT is a major concern, but I think Munford will eventually be a good one. In the short run, Munfort is going to have major problems dealing with TCU’s Ben Banogu in Wk 3. Banogu is the B12 pre-season Defensive Player of the Year selection.

Colin: It's no secret the offense became predictable and stagnant at times last year with JT under center. Will we see a different offense with the change to Dwayne Haskins?

Baver: You know me, I am almost always going to defend JT. So I have to start by saying, in ’17, JT led the Big Ten in passing efficiency, threw for 3,053 yds, 35 TDs, ran for 798 yds with another 12 TDs on the ground, and played the entire B10 title game 6 days after a knee operation. And JTs ability that was taken for granted, to pick up the needed 1st down on third or fourth and short, was unlike any college QB I can remember.

But I love Dwayne Haskins’ upside. He certainly has a bigger, more accurate arm than JT. There will be fewer read options with DH, and fewer designed runs, but still probably too many called keepers if/when Urban returns. If I were the head coach (and I thank God I am not), I would want to limit the hits Haskins takes. I don’t think OSU can win the rugged Big Ten East with Tate Martell at QB as the #1 guy behind center.

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What's Next for the Cavs? - by Ben Galli

There’s been some musings after LeBron officially left for L.A. that Cleveland would still try to field a contender.  But there’s two reasons why that’s not a good idea. The first one being the obvious: this Cavs team isn’t good enough to contend, even for the playoffs.  The second one is more practical. Back in January of 2017, the Cavs sent Mike Dunleavy Jr., Mo Williams, and a top 10 protected 1st round pick to Atlanta for the eternal Kyle Korver.  That pick is top 10 protected in 2019 and 2020 meaning if the Cavs don’t finish in the top 10 of the lottery this year, they’re in danger of losing it to the Hawks.

Is it tanking if the team's just not good enough?  The Cavs need relief quick in the form of young talent and lesser payroll. Ex Cavs GM David Griffin has said multiple times that they made sure to protect the first round picks they traded in the event LeBron left.  They’ve gotta cash in. Too risky in today’s NBA, especially for mid-tier destinations to sacrifice their first round pick to gain some honor with the fans, half of whom probably want them to tank.

Although the Cavs are trying to trade Kyle Korver, I think they’ll start the season with Kevin Love still on staff.  The player I thought was the least likely to stick around outlasted all the stars and he deserves to be the “Man” this year.  The Cavs will only trade if they get an offer too good to refuse, maybe near the trade deadline. A source in Portland over the weekend says the Blazers need to win now or risk losing Dame Lillard.  Perhaps some sort of deal that sends Love back to Portland where he grew up nearby for a package including Northeast Ohio native C.J. McCollum (Canton) is possible. 

I'm sure the Cavs would take calls on George Hill, I just don't think anyone's calling.  Hill is set to make 19 million this year and 18 the next.  And something tells me he may not be worth that.  He'll be perhaps the highest paid backup point guard/mentor in the league.  With Jeff Green leaving for the Wizards, it leaves Rodney Hood as a restricted free agent.  The Cavs would do well to bring Hood back at a low rate, maybe even a 1 year deal but the Kings may Divac that all up.

Which brings us to the Cavs big addition this year, first round pick Collin Sexton.  I wasn’t enamored of the pick because I saw higher upside elsewhere (Fort Knox). He’s not Kyrie Irving. He may not even be Terrell Brandon.  But a starting rookie point guard has probably the most difficult transition to the NBA. We’ll have to give this guy some time to see what he can become.  He’s going to show signs in the meantime.

What I would be excited about is more Cedi Osman.  The way that kid plays and his improving skill will be perfect for Cleveland.  Dude has more game than you think. Love is gonna be a best player on the team again for the first time in 5 years.  He was the classic big stats on a bad team star back then. Not much of a leader according to former teammate Ricky Rubio and he never made the playoffs in Minny.  I sense the same type of lottery finish with the Cavs.  And that's a good thing for the future.

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Brian and Greg Answer My Two World Cup Questions - by Colin Gawel

Gents,  How did your previous predictions turn out and what were the biggest surprises leading to the semi finals? How do you see it playing out from here? 

Greg - BriPhi looks a lot smarter than I do to this point...we were both on France, and he called the full-on EuroFinal. I'm amazed by the Year of the Underdog...not completely, but the teams that have gone home so far...wouldn't have guessed (as I've proven in this very space). I'm seeing a France-England final...France dominates theirs, and England in a close one. As far as the final, my heart says England, but my head says France. The Battle of the Channel!

The plus for England is that while Harry Kane had an off-night in the scoring column, his mates picked up for him. I do think the Golden Boot goes home with Kane.

Brian P. - I'll stick with France and agree with Greg that I like England to get through on the other end. France/Belgium will be wildly entertaining. For France's sake they need to be prepared for the Belgium counter attack way better than Brazil was. Brazil did a terrible job there.

My main surprise at this point was how well Russia did. They were at a serious talent disadvantage versus most of the field. It's been fun! Entertaining World Cup to be sure.

Greg - The X factor for France is Mbappe's speed. I don't think the Belgian defenders have anyone who has the wheels to stay with him.

Brian and Greg Answer Colin's World Cup Questions

Brian Phillips and Greg Bartram answer my simple minded World Cup questions entering the knockout stage of the tournament. - Colin G.

1) After group stage, whose stock is rising and who is falling?

Brian - To me the knock out stage (16 remaining teams, single elimination) is all about match-ups. We're seeing parity in this year's field. No one's stock is falling faster than host Russia. Uruguay exposed them 3-0 in the group finale. Spain will make quick work of them. I'm certainly more intrigued by Sweden after what they did to Mexico.

Greg - Agreed with Sweden, but I also thing El Tri still has a trick or two up their sleeve. This is a team that made the US look disinterested at home here in Columbus, so I think there's more here. Russia made out like bandits umping out to an 8-1 goal differential, but I think that was the adrenaline of being at home. I expect them to crater. Speaking of stock falling...Argentina? They barely made it, and out of a perennial powerhouse like that with a player the caliber of Messi to stink up the joint that badly...

What games are you most looking forward to in the first knockout round?

Brian - Brazil/Mexico for me. Can Mexico return to the form they showed against Germany? Can Brazil stand up to the physical game they'll see from El Tri? A not 100% Neymar should expect to be knocked around again. Will the center ref offer any protection or let them play? I am also very curious about England/Columbia. Heavy expectations again on the Brits. Does Harry Kane have another goal or two in him?

Greg - Brazil/Mexico, as Brian says, but also and especially France/Argentina. I think France dominates this. Uruguay/Portugal...Sorry, Suarez...you go home sad, methinks.

Do you feel the use of replay has been a success?

Brian - I have loved the replay. The ones I've seen they've gotten correct, and in important spots. And they've been efficient in the process.

Greg - I think VAR has been effective. I haven't seen one that they got wrong. The goal against Germany would've been a crime to let slip away. Not too much to break up the flow, but keeping the game legal...I'm all about it.

What teams would you put your money on at this point?

Brian- I'm liking France right now., but I'm glad I don't have money on this. Expect some surprises. The final four will be all Europeans.

Greg - I was all about the Sons and 'Ssons of Iceland, and sorry they didn't advance. Portugal's an interesting story, underdoggy because of the country's size, but turning out some of the word's best...Ronaldo has been a machine. And here's your Michigan debate...you have Michigan, but you root for the B1G, right? Same thing for El Tri. The US looks better the deeper Mexico moves...maybe their defense should Build a Wall?  I'm feeling Portugal

Cavs Draft On Tap - by Ben Galli

NBA Draft Night is almost here!  A rich pageantry of collegiate wunderkinds, characters, and conspiracy.  With free agency the dominion of old money teams, the draft is the easiest way to level the playing field.  It's the aspiration for a better future. And a reward for being losers.  The right pick can change fandoms and legacies.  The Warriors aren't the Warriors if they don't find a Draymond Green with the 35th pick.  Is Klay Thompson playing better than what you expected from the 11th pick in a weak draft?  

The Cavs pick 8th this year. Perhaps the only prized possession from the Kyrie "The World Is Flat Enough" Irving trade.  It's not the best pick and the Cavs are probably looking at the 2nd tier of talent available, but with the right development they could be picking up a star.  Here's a look at the Cavs' prospects heading into Thursday night.

Dream Scenario:  Maybe the only thing that can save this summer for Cavs fans is if Cleveland somehow found a way to trade this pick to San Antonio for Kawhi Leonard thus convincing LeBron James to stay.  It's a stretch.  Would Kevin Love, maybe Rodney Hood, and the 8th pick be the best offer on the table for the Spurs?  Doubtful.  

Realistic Best Case Scenario:  One of the players with superstar potential falls to the 8th pick.  It is a precarious position though where Cleveland remains on the outside looking in.  The best players in the draft seem to be the Aytons, Doncics, Bagleys, and Jacksons.  Deandre Ayton can be a monster, a sleeker Joel Embiid.  Doncic seems to be the real deal.  I'll predict he'll be the funnest player to watch from this draft. 

The Cavs won't have a chance at these guys.  But they can hope that a Michael Porter Jr. might fall to them.  Facing concerns with the back surgery that sidelined him for most of his freshman year, Porter's ceiling is the roof.  Porter has a really nice skill set for the NBA.  He's long and a pure scorer.  And if LeBron leaves, there will be no shortage of ego in the Cavs locker room.

Most Realistic Scenario:  The Cavs take a gamble on another player with high upside.  I see Trae Young and rising Kentucky Wildcat Kevin Knox as picks that make sense for a franchise that may need to take risks.  Mikal Bridges from national champion Villanova and Miles Bridges of Michigan State (no relation) should be really solid pick ups.  Less of a risk plus less boom and bust potential.

The Anthony Bennett Scenario:  It's a real shot in the dark to try and predict who's going to be a bust in this year's draft.  You can only guess.  The worst thing the Cavs could do is trade this pick for average talent disguised a la a Trojan horse; perhaps much like the Isaiah Thomas deadline deal was.  Getting talent on level with the likes of Avery Bradley and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope won't convince kings or peasants.  

My Gut Scenario:  I'd hope that somehow a Michael Porter Jr or Jaren Jackson Jr become available for Cleveland.  Not likely though.  I think the Cavs take a chance on Kevin Knox.  And hope he follows in the steps of Devin Booker.  Collin Sexton remains an outcome.  Trae Young would be the most polarizing.  For all the hype it brings, draft night can be a cruel night.  The wrong pick can set franchises back years.  But the right pick can keep a city and franchise buzzing for a decade.