The Ohio State Buckeyes' championship dreams didn't come true last year, as an upset loss to Michigan State cost OSU a Big Ten title and a College Football Playoff. The Buckeyes lost plenty of talent this offseason, but are in still great position to contend for another Big Ten crown. Here are three reasons why Ohio State will win the Big Ten once again in 2016.
3. Urban Meyer
I say this with all due respect to coaches like Mark Dantonio and Jim Harbaugh (two great coaches), but Urban Meyer is the best coach in the Big Ten. After all, he's the only one win a National Title (doing so multiple times). Meyer has recruited incredibly well at Ohio State (more on that below), and he's great at getting the most out of his players. That will be key this year, with a plethora of first-time starters. Meyer gets results (as does Ohio State). Don't expect that to change this season.
2. So. Much. Talent.
Make no mistake, OSU lost as much, if not more, than any other team in the country. But the Buckeyes also have as much talent waiting in the wings. Ezekiel Elliott is gone, but Mike Weber has a bright future. Joey Bosa went No. 3 overall, but Sam Hubbard might record even more sacks this year. The names might have changed, but the overall talent and potential level hasn't dropped as much as some might think. There will be a drop-off, especially early, but come conference play time, the Buckeyes will be a dangerous threat.
1. J.T. Barrett
He's the best QB in the Big Ten and that will be a big boost for Ohio State. Barrett took a back seat to both Cardale Jones and Elliott at times last year, but that won't be the case this season. Barrett will be the focal point of the offense and he should look more like the 2014 Heisman Trophy contender (when he finished fifth) once again. Barrett will be working with some new pieces, but they're talented pieces. Michigan and Michigan State, the two biggest Big Ten threats, don't have a QB of Barrett's talent or experience. That gives Ohio State a major boost and advantage over the other Big Ten East contenders.
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