Ohio State Football: Players Who Need to Have a Big Spring

With the coaching turnover and recently tumultuous atmosphere surrounding the program in anticipation of a bowl ban, Ohio State would clearly benefit from a strong spring before this 2012 season.

While some positions have been locked down by this point like the quarterback position with Braxton Miller, many key spots are left unfilled heading into Urban Meyer's first spring with the Buckeyes. 

With top talent in the Big Ten like always, Ohio State is loaded once again with NFL talent that is ready to reach its full potential. Having a big spring is always important to a football program, but this is especially so in the rebuilding (reloading) phase that they're in.

Let's take a look at the players from across the roster who need to have a productive spring in order to make a difference in 2012. 

 

Travis Howard, CB

Howard had his experience with trouble at times in 2011, but he maintained his starting position throughout the end of the season and looks to be a full-time starter this season.

His fellow corner Bradley Roby had a breakout year in 2011 and looks to be one of the most explosive players on the team, so Howard's work is cut out for him competition-wise. 

There's no doubting the talent is there with Howard, so the experience and a strong spring will make for a strong spot in what is supposed to be a weak position this year for Ohio State. 

 

Etienne Sabino, LB

Sabino has been a highly-regarded player ever since he committed to the Buckeyes, but he's never completely shown that talent. He returns as one of two returning linebackers and is poised for a breakout season that could send him to the NFL.

He would probably be best served to stay for 2013, but there's no doubting that a strong spring and claiming dominance in this Buckeye defense will help not only his stock with the team, it'll boost his draft stock as well. 

Sabino has stuck around this Ohio State program through the last two seasons, which alone is admirable. Now it's time for him to get it done on the field. 

 

Rod Smith, RB

Smith had a terrible 2011 season both on and off the field, as he lost his position in the backfield and eventually lost his good graces with the team. 

He'll undoubtedly benefit from his new head coach, who has mentioned his long-time want for a big back in his offensive system.

Smith, who had attitude issues with the team through the end of last season, will help himself by even showing up to play this spring. If he has gotten his act together, he could even become Ohio State's featured back.

It's no secret that Ohio State's running back position is up for grabs with no clear starter returning. There are many backs fighting for the position, so Smith could even find himself out of any productive role if he falters on the field this spring. 

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1135806-ohio-state-football-players-who-need-to-have-a-big-spring

A.J. Burnett Steve Garrison Phil Hughes Damaso Marte Mariano Rivera Kerry Wood