Joe Thomas says the Steelers would've been really upset if the Browns hit Ben Roethlisberger late and knocked him out of the game.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Joe Thomas is pretty sure that Steelers linebacker Lawrence Timmons wouldn't have liked the Browns knocking Ben Roethlisberger out of the game with the kind of illegal hit he put on Cody Kessler.

Kessler left the game with his second concussion in eight starts and could be shut down for the season depending on how things go over the next few weeks.

"Obviously you don't want to have any concussions when you're the quarterback,'' Thomas said. "It's tough 'cause I think he's been doing a really good job. I just kind of caught the end of the play when I was looking up on the replay, and to me when you have a quarterback, scrambling, running out of the pocket and they get targeted with a shoulder or a forearm to the head, I know in college football they throw you out for something like that.

"Hopefully the legislation in the NFL is trying to eliminate that type of play because quarterbacks get hurt when they're getting hit like that, and that's something that you don't want to see in the game."

However, Timmons, who appeared on replay to strike Kessler in the head with his shoulder after he delivered a 16-yard pass to Corey Coleman at the end of the third quarter, claimed he didn't hit him. But he launched and sailed right into him, knocking him to the ground.

Kessler's head snapped back and struck the ground. Timmons was flagged 15 yards for unnecessary roughness. Kessler, who was in the grasp of linebacker Ryan Shazier when Timmons flew in, stayed down a long time and was wobbly as he was helped to the sidelines.

"I did miss him,'' Timmons told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "He saw me coming as Shay (Shazier) was pulling him down. I went right over top of him."

But Thomas didn't see it that way when he watched the replay.

"Shazier, it looked like had him by the horse collar and then Timmons it looked like came in and put the shoulder, forearm to his head. But I didn't see it in live action. I had my hands on a player and my back to the ball, so I don't really know exactly what happened except for when I looked up at the scoreboard to try to see what happened. That's just not the type of hit you like seeing in the game."

Joe Thomas on letting linemen go: 'You've got to lie in the bed you've made'

Asked if the hit was dirty, Thomas said, "No, I'm not going to say that. I think both teams respect each other and they play really hard. But certainly hitting a quarterback late after he's thrown the ball when he's going down with a shoulder or a forearm to the head is not something that you want to see in the game, because if we did that to Big Ben they'd be pretty upset."

Josh McCown was also hit in the head late in the fourth quarter by defensive tackle Daniel McCullers, who drew a 15-yard roughing call.

But Browns coach Hue Jackson also refused to say the Steelers crossed the line.

"No, this is football,'' he said. "It's a tough sport. There were some hits out there. I don't think they were borderline. They called the ones that they called. Some guys launched from their team and they called personal fouls because that is what they are. It is football. It is tough."

Rookie Cody Kessler suffered his second concussion of the season in Sunday's loss to the Steelers.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Hue Jackson can't stand watching his rookie quarterback Cody Kessler get drilled anymore.

In fact, he might advocate shutting him down for an extended period after Kessler suffered his second concussion in 29 days during Sunday's 24-9 loss to the Steelers. With five games left, that could mean the season. 

"It's a possibility,'' said Jackson. "We'll see. I'm definitely going to talk to our medical staff because this is about a young man's career and future so we have to do the right thing."

At the very least, Kessler will most likely sit out Sunday's game against the Giants, who have won five straight.

The concussion could foil the Browns' plans to determine if Kessler can be their quarterback of the future.

Jackson said Josh McCown will start against the Giants if Kessler can't go. The last time Kessler suffered a concussion, against the Bengals Oct. 23, he sat out the following week against the Jets.

"(McCown will) go out there and I expect Josh to play well, and he will,'' said Jackson. "We have to go back and fix some things quickly for these guys. The players here at the Cleveland Browns are trying. They are busting their tails. I don't think anybody can question that, but at the same time, we're just not playing as good enough or it is not happening for us right now to where we get a chance.''

Kessler, who held the ball too long and was sacked four times in three quarters, suffered the concussion when linebacker Lawrence Timmons hit him shoulder-to-helmet after a third-quarter throw and knocked him to the ground. Linebacker Ryan Shazier already had Kessler in his grasp when Timmons launched. The hit angered left tackle Joe Thomas, who said it has no place in the game.

Jackson said Robert Griffin III, who hasn't yet been cleared for contact, won't be ready for the Giants. Will he want to risk playing him again this season with the protection problems?

"It's probably a little soon to discuss that until I know that he's back and playing, but we can protect better, and we will,'' said Jackson. "We can do a lot of things better. It's not just protection. It's running the ball. It's stopping the run. It is a lot of things that I think we can do better, and that is our charge. We have to go back and do that."

Josh McCown, who also took a blow to the head in the fourth quarter, is worried about his protege.

"Hopefully, he comes out fine and he gets back healthy,'' he said. "You just never want that for anybody and a especially a young guy in his first year.''

Joe Thomas says Timmons' hit has no place in the game

 

The Steelers went for a touchdown at the end of the half, deciding against attempting a field goal on three plays that would traditionally call for one.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Steelers had three opportunities to kick a field goal at the end of the first half on Sunday at FirstEnergy Stadium. They weren't interested.

"They don't really respect us as a defense," cornerback Joe Haden said after the game. "Some teams, you just go for the field goal, go for the guaranteed points, but we've got to stand up. They felt like they could go down and get a touchdown on us."

Haden understands why.

"Respect is earned," he said. "We're 31st."

That's 31st as in 31st overall in the league defensively going into Sunday's game, giving up 409.5 yards per game going into the day. They actually improved on that number on Sunday, giving up 313 yards to Pittsburgh. The problem is, the Steelers had three drives in the first half all ending in scores, including two that lasted over nine minutes.

The shortest of the bunch was the one that ended with three plays run inside the Browns' 3-yard line with less than five seconds on the clock. Two of the plays were untimed downs.

"We're comfortable with being aggressive in that area of the field," Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said. "Whether it's going for the touchdown or what you might describe as two-point play attempts. We get a lot of work in that area of the field, we're confident in our play selection and our ability to execute, so we did."

Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger said that putting points on the board before halftime is demoralizing for a defense.

"That's the mentality that coach has and the confidence that he has in us," Roethlisberger said.

"To go for a touchdown when we are in the red zone, under ten seconds and no timeouts left, it is a credit to (Tomlin) to make the call," running back Le'Veon Bell said, "and for having the confidence in us to keep us on the field."

For the Browns, the frustration was only exacerbated by two penalties -- one for holding on rookie Briean Boddy-Calhoun and another pass interference on Haden -- that led to two untimed downs.

"Those are tough calls and one that was made that I thought that was kind of... It is what it is," Browns head coach Hue Jackson said. "We have to find a way to keep them out of there. That is what it comes down to."

"I didn't think it was pass interference but they called it," Haden said. "No need crying about it."

To top it all off, it appeared the Steelers were not called for a delay of game penalty on one of the plays, a non-call that Jackson acknowledged should have been called.

None of that changes the fact, though, that the Steelers were willing to risk coming up empty inside the 5-yard line heading into the locker room.

"Whenever you've got an offense that's trying to score on us like that, we've got to look ourself in the mirror and see what we're doing wrong," linebacker Christian Kirksey said. "It's a respect thing. We just gotta fix things. That's all I can say."

-----

Follow me: on Twitter | on Facebook

Terrelle Pryor said after Sunday's loss that the Browns offense needs to do its part and score more points to help the defense stay off the field. Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Terrelle Pryor can no longer tolerate the Browns quarterbacks getting pummeled without speaking up.

"I hate it," he said. "We have players that want to do great, but every time our quarterback drops back, Josh McCown, how much time he puts in it, and Cody Kessler), they can't keep getting hit like that. I don't care.

"They can't keep getting hit like that, and if I want to voice my opinion, I'm going to voice my opinion now, because it's going on too much. I don't care if you've got to hold these dudes. Hold them and take the damn penalty and stop getting our quarterbacks hit. I hate that. I don't like it.''

The Steelers, who were tied for last in the NFL with 13 sacks, registered eight against the Browns: four on Kessler and four on McCown. In addition, they had 14 quarterback hits and knocked Kessler out of the game on one of them, by linebacker Lawrence Timmons.

"I don't think somebody would take $10 million to sit back there and take those hits,'' said Pryor. "C'mon, some of those hits Josh took? After one of those, I came over and his chinstrap was like this over his neck. He has a cut right here. It's bullcrap. We can't keep doing this and we can't keep getting our guys hit. It's as simple as that.''

What can be done about it at that this point in the season, with only five games left?

"I don't know,'' he said. "We'll have to talk to our management and that's a question for them, but we can't keep getting these guys hit. I'm tired of our guys getting hit. I'm nobody to complain because I don't run it, but it's personal to me because I care for those guys and I don't like seeing them get hit like that. Point blank, period. Somebody's got to say it.''

A former NFL quarterback, Pryor said, "whoever's giving up the blocks, they need to stop that s--.''

He acknowledged, "it is dangerous. They're getting hit every play.''

He said Kessler was coherent after the Lawrence Timmons hit that knocked him out of the game late in the third quarter.

"I'm not really sure specifically what was wrong,'' he said. "I don't know. He was talking, though. He knew what was going on.''

After one third-quarter sack, Pryor was miffed on the sidelines. He was also frustrated about being open a few times in the end zone when the ball didn't come his way. Another time, he had the wind knocked out of him by safety Mike Mitchell, but refused to stay sidelined.

"I'm an ultimate competitor,'' he said. "A lot of people compete, but I (really) compete. I take it very seriously this game. It sometimes gets the best of me and I get talkative on the sideline. I just want to win at the end of the day. That's what it comes down to. We've got another opportunity next week here at home. I'm tired of letting our fans down for one. This thing's gotta change. I know coach Hue, he's putting us in the situation but like I said, we can't keep getting our quarterbacks hit.''

Cody Kessler might be shut down awhile with 2nd concussion

Despite the 0-11 record, Pryor still wants to extend his contract.

"Like I said, I love playing for Hue, I love playing for the Haslams,'' he said. "They're great owners. It's one of the best facilities and they want to win. I don't believe in taking easy roads and going to teams just because a team's great just because I want to win. I'd rather start, even if I have five, six years left to play this game, I'd rather start how we are and build an empire, a top-gun franchise.

"I believe in battling. I don't believe in taking the easy way out in anything, so whatever happens in free agency when that comes up, I'd love to be here as well. I enjoy it here. I respect the people that own it. I respect coaches. I respect Coach Hue and at the end of the day it's up to them.''

 

What can one say about a 0-11 team? Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Do we really need to say anything?

The Browns have fallen to 0-11, this time losing to the Pittsburgh Steelers, 24-9, in what once, during a time long ago, was a great rivalry.

The Steelers entered the game with a four-game losing streak. The Browns were the cure to what ailed Pittsburgh.

There are five games left in the season. Three of those last five are at home, including the New York Giants next week.

Probably fair to say that there will be some bargains available on tickets.

Check out the reaction to Sunday's game below:

Players have noticed. So, too, have coaches. That's why Tyronn Lue had a recent conversation with his assistants about redefining what should be deemed a good night for the Cleveland Cavaliers' defense.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- One glimpse at an NBA box score and it becomes clearer: the game has entered a new era, with offense dictating success.

Players have noticed. So, too, have coaches. That's why Tyronn Lue had a recent conversation with his assistants about redefining what should be deemed a good night for the Cleveland Cavaliers' defense.

"I know Longo (Mike Longabardi), he's always old school about 24 points a quarter, 96 points a game," Lue said recently. "In our game today, that's not even possible."

Entering Saturday night, there were just three teams (Utah, Miami and Los Angeles Clippers) holding opponents under the 96-point mark. The odds of that continuing are slim. Last season, just two teams (Utah and San Antonio) reached the old benchmark for defensive success after the 82-game grind.

"Some talented teams and talented players," LeBron James said when asked about the offensive rise. "The league is definitely high-powered right now."

But the NBA has always been littered with talent. There has to be a deeper explanation for the consistent scoring outbursts.

"The game has changed," Lue admitted. "There's not two low post guys dominating the paint and posting up the whole game. The game is more spread pick-and-roll, having stretch 4s or shooting 4s, sometimes a 3 playing the 4, two point guards playing together. The game is different. Nowadays there's 22 teams averaging 100 points where back in the day it was three or four."

The Cavs are one of those teams, averaging 108.6 points per night, which ranks tied for fifth in the NBA. Last year, their current mark would've put them third.

One the other end, the Cavs rank 12th, allowing 101.6 points per game. Despite defensive numbers that used to be considered unsatisfactory, the Cavs' potent offense has carried them to a 10-2 record, tops in the Eastern Conference. They are once again looked at as the clear-cut favorite to return to the NBA Finals.

One year after averaging a whopping 114.9 points during a 73-win regular season, the Warriors have upped their offensive output, averaging better than 116 points.

Their defense has slipped significantly, entering Saturday ranked 24th, allowing 107.6 points. And that was before surrendering 121 to the wildly inconstant Milwaukee Bucks.

But does it matter? Even with those putrid defensive numbers and the loss of rim protector Andrew Bogut, the Warriors are 11-2 and appear to be the top team in the West because of their nearly unstoppable offense, led by back-to-back MVP Stephen Curry and free agent prize Kevin Durant.

It's early in the season. The league wide numbers could certainly change. Some teams will regress. Scouting reports will be compiled. Shooting slumps will happen.

However, the pace-and-space style isn't going anywhere. Neither is the desire to score early in the shot clock. The reliance on 3-pointers -- using analytics to reformulate thoughts on quality shots -- won't change either.

As traditional centers begin to fade, a new breed has emerged, with big men being asked to expand their games beyond the arc, needing speed and quickness to defend on the perimeter.

"I think change is better for the fans and for basketball as far as moving freely, shooting the 3-point shot, scoring more points per game," Lue said. "I think the game is faster when you have stretch 4s and smaller guys playing the 4 position. That's always exciting. It's just a different game now and we've got to get accustomed to it."

Lue, who got his start as the defensive coordinator under mentor Doc Rivers, has his hands full trying to slow down opposing teams. He gets an up-close look in practice at how hard it can be to guard Kevin Love, a versatile power forward, or Channing Frye who possesses center size and a guard's shooting stroke.

Lue's lineups and rotations have reflected the advances as well. He's gone smaller this year, using Frye primarily as a space-the-floor center. He has benched starting center Tristan Thompson in fourth quarters, electing to use Frye or Love to close games at the 5, wanting more offense.

The results have been good. The Cavs have reached the 100-point mark 10 times. They are averaging the second most 3-pointers per game and have the fourth-best percentage from long range.

Many teams are using a similar philosophy.

Of the seven squads being held under the century mark on a nightly basis, only two (Memphis and Orlando) are currently in the playoff mix. There are even three players (DeMar DeRozan, Russell Westbrook and Anthony Davis) averaging better than 30 points per game.

"Some of those numbers will come down, but some of them may not," James said. "It's a byproduct of what our league has turned into and it's great for fans."

That old NBA adage -- "defense wins championships" -- might be a thing of the past. Or at the very least, it might be time to recalibrate the defensive mindset.

Holding an opponent under the century mark should be considered an achievement. Sacrificing defense for offense should be considered in certain stretches. It's no longer the first to 100. It takes more than that. Sometimes much more.

Teams that don't adapt will perish. 

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- It's Michigan week, so there's very little time for distraction.  And media is considered a distraction.  So Monday is the only day of the week Meyer and his players are meeting with reporters to discuss the upcoming game vs. Michigan. Then the team goes silence until after the two teams meet on the field.  Look above for...

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- It's Michigan week, so there's very little time for distraction. 

And media is considered a distraction. 

So Monday is the only day of the week Meyer and his players are meeting with reporters to discuss the upcoming game vs. Michigan. Then the team goes silence until after the two teams meet on the field. 

Look above for Meyer and below for videos from a collection of Ohio State players addressing all things Michigan related. 

Chris Worley: 

Pat Elflein: 

J.T. Barrett:

Terry McLaurin: 

Browns reporters Mary Kay Cabot and Dan Labbe talk about the biggest area that needs to be shored up. What are your thoughts? Share them in the comments at the bottom of this post. Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio - The Browns were beaten by the Steelers 24-9 on Sunday at FirstEnergy Stadium, but more disturbing to Browns fans was that they were beaten up, as well. Rookie quarterback Cody Kessler had to leave the game with a concussion; receiver Terrelle Pryor absorbed a hard shot to the chest; and the Steelers were taking physical runs at Josh McCown and other Cleveland players all afternoon.

Tweeter @ChrisDaMatto (below) was bothered by the physical abuse the Browns took, and asks how this team can be fixed. In the video below, cleveland.com Browns reporters Mary Kay Cabot and Dan Labbe talk about the biggest area that needs to be shored up.

What are your thoughts? Share them in the comments at the bottom of this post.

I feel bad for the players.
Pryor. Duke. McCown.
Steelers are using them for target practice. How do you fix this team? #PITvsCLE #DawgPound

-- Christopher Jay (@ChrisDaMatto) November 20, 2016

Tyronn Lue has a busy week of Thanksgiving turkey giving, which he says he does each year because he grew up poor in Mexico, Missouri.

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio -- Nevermind the lull in the Cavs' schedule, with no games for four consecutive days. Tyronn Lue is busy.

Lue is among the team's players and coaches slated to serve Thanksgiving dinner Monday night for children and their families from Cleveland schools who are homeless or otherwise facing significant economic distress.

On Tuesday, Lue will join J.R. Smith, Browns players Joe Haden, Joe Thomas, and John Greco, UFC champion Stipe Miocic, and others serving hot Thanksgiving meals for thousands at TownHall in Ohio City.

Meanwhile, some 670 miles west from where he currently lives in Bay Village, his native, small town of Mexico, Missouri, police officers are serving hot food Lue purchased to the less fortunate. They'll do the same thing at Christmas, except the officers will also be passing out toys to children.

Yes, it's the holidays, when this sort of charitable giving is commonplace. When Lue was asked if there was something from his past, his childhood that made him want to be involved like this every year, and he said "yeah, being broke and poor."

"I mean, you grow up in the environment I grew up in, grew up hard and grew up poor," Lue said after the Cavs' practice Monday. They don't play Wednesday at home against Portland at 7 p.m.

"Your mom doesn't have a car until you make it to the NBA," Lue said. "We had cable -- no telephone. So, I mean, if you grow up like that and you're able to make it to this level and be blessed the way I've been blessed, it's always great to give back."

Lue, 39, grossed at least $21.4 million in 11 seasons. He signed a five-year, $35 million deal to be the Cavs' coach over the summer, and tack on a few million dollars in earnings before that as an assistant in Cleveland, Boston, and Los Angeles.

So, he's made it. In the NBA, his story isn't all that unique, having grown up poor and been able to buy homes and cars for the single parent who raised him.

The Thanksgiving meal he's handing out Monday is a Cavs' sponsored event, held at The Q, and the meals are provided by Amarak, the Cavs' official food and beverage provider, and Nestle, which is baking cookies. Kyrie Irving and Iman Shumpert are among those slated to attend. LIBBY'S Pumpkin and Carnation Milk are also involved.

The event at TownHall is hosted by the Greater Cleveland Hunger Network, CMHA, Cleveland Food Bank, The City Mission, Salvation Army, Frontline Services, Catholic Charities, Westside Catholic Center, Paul Dunbar School, according to a news release.

The Mexico events, though, come out of Lue's pocket. He said he's involved the police in his charity the last few years to help build relations between the approximately 1,000 black people in the town and the police.

"I just thought it was better to bridge that gap," Lue said. "When young kids can grow up and see those police officers giving you free stuff and giving you toys on Christmas, I just think it's big for them to see that so it's not, 'oh here come the police' or they're scared of the police, or vice versa.

"He's been better every day," Harbaugh said. "That's from my eye. He's gotten better every day. Now, again, to clarify: I'm not a doctor. I don't have a medical degree. I never took medical classes."

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- There were multiple reports last week that Michigan quarterback Wilton Speight was out for the season with a broken collarbone. 

Jim Harbaugh has done nothing in the time since but deny it. 

When asked about Speight's status for Saturday's game at Ohio State, Harbaugh said the Wolverines quarterback is day-to-day. 

"I don't have an update today, haven't gotten the (evaluation) today," Harbaugh said Monday afternoon, according to Nick Baumgardner MLive.com. "It hasn't changed, it's a day-to-day process and evaluation." 

John O'Korn started in place of Speight in Michigan's win over Indiana on Saturday, but Speight dressed, which leaves the door open that he may still be available this year.

Maybe Harbaugh is playing a game. 

Regardless, Ohio State doesn't know which quarterback it's going to face. 

Harbaugh said Speight is getting better. 

"He's been better every day," Harbaugh said. "That's from my eye. He's gotten better every day. Now, again, to clarify: I'm not a doctor. I don't have a medical degree. I never took medical classes.

"But, to my eye, he's looked better."

The road outside Cleveland Clinic Courts in Independence is now called Cavaliers Way after city officials renamed the street this afternoon. Watch video

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio -- Starting today, when Cleveland Cavaliers players and coaches visit their practice and training facility at Cleveland Clinic Courts, they'll drive along "Cavaliers Way" in order to get there.

Earlier this year, city officials in Independence decided to rename a portion of Brecksville Road heading north from Rockside Road all the way to the team's practice facility to honor the 2016 NBA champions.

Independence Mayor Anthony Togliatti presented the key to the city to Cavaliers CEO Len Komoroski and General Manager David Griffin on Monday before unveiling street signs marking the change.

Togliatti said Independence has been "all in" with its support of the Cavs throughout the team's playoff runs in 2015 and 2016, and that having Cleveland Clinic Courts in its back yard is a source of civic pride.

"This culminates it and brings it all together," Togliatti said. "Our residents will pass this way and they'll realize how proud they are and what a great city Independence is and how lucky we are to have the Cavs call it home."

Griffin said the partnership between the Cavaliers and Independence has been a huge key to the team's success. He said the facility at Cleveland Clinic Courts is a powerful recruiting tool, and that the people of Independence have treated the franchise like family.

"We're trying to raise a family in the building, so it all works out really well," Griffin said. "This is beautiful it will be a really powerful statement for them."

Independence, however, is not the first community to dedicate a street name in honor of the Cavaliers 2016 title.

In July, the city of Akron renamed a portion of South Main Street between Market and Exchange streets as "King James Way" for native son and NBA Finals MVP LeBron James. 

In August, the city of Mexico, Missouri renamed Walnut Street to Tyronn Lue Boulevard to recognize the Cavaliers' coach.  

But James and Lue are not the only Cavaliers (or former Cavs) to have their names memorialized following the team's recent success.

In 2015, the town of Maryborough, Australia renamed its basketball stadium the "Dellavedova Dome" to honor former Cavaliers guard Matthew Dellavedova. 

And even local ex-NBA stars have gotten in on the act, with street dedications of their own. In September, a portion of Deering Avenue in Cleveland outside John Hay High School was renamed for former NBA All-Star and Hornets alum Charles Oakley. 

Charles Oakley says street dedication 'a special honor'

There are a handful of former Tribe players on the 2017 Baseball Hall of Fame ballot. The attention-grabbing names that carry debate-inspiring resumes join the list next year. Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- There are a handful of former Tribe players on the 2017 Baseball Hall of Fame ballot. The attention-grabbing names that carry debate-inspiring resumes join the list next year.

A year from now, the Hall of Fame campaigns for Jim Thome and Omar Vizquel will be in full swing. The two Indians icons will be eligible for entry for the first time on the 2018 ballot.

As for the 2017 ballot, there are a handful of former Tribe players, including newcomers Manny Ramirez and Casey Blake. Reliever Arthur Rhodes and second baseman Orlando Cabrera also spent a few seconds with the franchise. They're on the ballot for the first time as well. Jeff Kent, who played for the Indians for part of the 1996 season, is on the ballot for the third time.

Ramirez spent his first eight major-league seasons with the Indians as he developed into one of the league's most prolific right-handed hitters. He posted a .313/.407/.592 slash line with the Tribe from 1993-2000, with 236 of his 555 career home runs. He established a franchise record with 165 RBI in 1999. He made four All-Star teams (12 total) and won three Silver Slugger awards (nine total) during his tenure with the Indians. 

He proceeded to sign an eight-year contract with the Red Sox, with whom he won championships in 2004 and 2007 under manager Terry Francona. 

His career ended amid a fog of failed PED tests and suspensions, after he logged a .312/.411/.585 slash line across 19 seasons. The quirky outfielder was renowned for his bone-headed and bizarre plays and his smooth, lethal right-handed swing. In his second career big-league game, Ramirez notched his first hit: a ground-rule double to left that he thought was a home run. As Ramirez leisurely trotted around second and headed for third, his teammates, laughing, shooed him back to second. Ramirez tacked on a pair of home runs later in the game, before a large contingent of friends and family in New York, where he grew up.

Examining Ramirez's HOF case

Blake played all over the diamond for the Tribe from 2003-08. He never found stable ground at the major-league level until he joined the Indians. In 2004, he posted an .839 OPS, with 28 homers and 88 RBI. 

Casey Blake played for the Tribe from 2003-08.PD file photo 

During his six years with Cleveland, Blake batted .266 with a .787 OPS and 116 of his 167 homers. He spent time at both corner infield positions and in right field.

In July 2008, the club traded Blake to the Dodgers for catching prospect Carlos Santana.

Rhodes logged a 2.08 ERA for the Tribe in 2005, when the club won 93 games. He pitched in 900 games during his career and made his lone All-Star team in 2010, when he was 40 years old. His best years came with Seattle after the turn of the century. On a 116-win Seattle team in 2001, the southpaw posted a 1.72 ERA, with 83 strikeouts in 68 innings.

Cabrera batted .244 in 91 games with Cleveland in 2011, before the club dealt him to San Francisco to clear a spot at second base for Jason Kipnis. Cabrera tallied 2,055 hits during his 15-year career.

Ken Griffey Jr. and Mike Piazza were elected to the Hall of Fame this year. Jeff Bagwell (71.6 percent), Tim Raines (69.8 percent) and Trevor Hoffman (67.3 percent) fell just short of the 75 percent of the vote required for entry.

The results will be unveiled on Jan. 18, 2017.

Here is the full ballot: Jeff Bagwell, Casey Blake, Barry Bonds, Pat Burrell, Orlando Cabrera, Mike Cameron, Roger Clemens, J.D. Drew, Carlos Guillen, Vladimir Guerrero, Trevor Hoffman, Jeff Kent, Derrek Lee, Edgar Martinez, Fred McGriff, Melvin Mora, Mike Mussina, Magglio Ordonez, Jorge Posada, Tim Raines, Manny Ramirez, Edgar Renteria, Arthur Rhodes, Ivan Rodriguez, Freddy Sanchez, Curt Schilling, Gary Sheffield, Lee Smith, Sammy Sosa, Matt Stairs, Jason Varitek, Billy Wagner, Tim Wakefield, Larry Walker

The Buckeyes ban campus M's. What if Michigan did likewise?

RIVALRY HABITAT, THAT STATE UNDER MICHIGAN -- Dumping M's? Easy.

Every year, the red tape emerges and a certain letter in the alphabet vanishes by the Buckeyes campus.

Big deal. Vanquishing M's is simple. 

But what if Michigan turned the tables? Sure, the name describing the activity planned at high ... 12 ... this Saturday requires that Buckeye letter twice in its midst.

But there are ways past that.

The letter's frequent presence in the language in general is perhaps why eliminating it by Michigan's campus isn't a yearly activity, while in the Buckeye state, even the head guy gets in the act, J.R. Kasich issuing this edict in years past.

Take away M and Jim Harbaugh and Urban Meyer disappear. But are said leaders requiring this Buckeye letter? Nay. 

But take away the Buckeye letter, and Schembechler and Hayes get a bit less familiar.

The Game lives this way, but it is far harder if the winner eyes the final result and says, "Check the numbers regarding the winning team vs. the numbers regarding the defeated team."

Tim Biakabutuka? Fine.

Michigan killer and Buckeye quarterback Smith? Last name rather than first name.

See ya, game that happened in 1950 in wintry weather.

Greetings in this 113th rivalry week. Here, M's are displaced. In Michigan, the Buckeye letter is still present.

Since the Buckeyes are 13-2 in this game in the last 15 years, Michigan giving the Buckeye state first and last letter the blue tape treatment might be the right idea.

It's harder than with M's. But it can be realized Michigan. Grab that tape. 

The big guy that banned the M's

Jackson addressed local media on Monday to discuss Sunday's 24-9 loss to the Steelers and where the Browns go from here.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Here's everything Hue Jackson said Monday during his conference call recapping Sunday's 24-9 loss to the Steelers in Week 11:

Opening statement: "Yesterday was another tough blow for our football team. It is extremely challenging for us because it does get frustrating, but we all must remain positive together and determined. I know we will all do that. I understand where we are. I understand how people feel about us right now. This team is going to continue to work hard. We are going to continue to stick together because we know that is the only way success will come. We have to continue to work hard. We have to continue to have each other's backs. That will bring us the success. When that is going to happen, I don't have that crystal ball but I know it is going to happen. We did not play well yesterday. That is obvious. I know we can play better, and I am committed to us to play better. The Steelers played a great game and I commend their players and their coaching staff for the job they did, but we can do better and I know we can and I know we will do better. That will be our focus this week like it is every week. I know by Wednesday our players will be chomping at the bit to get back in the meeting and get back on the practice field and get ready to win a game coming up this weekend against New York.

"As far as injuries are concerned, Cody Kessler is in the concussion protocol, obviously. The doctors will take the lead on when Cody can return and play, and we will welcome him back whenever he is able to get back."

On Josh McCown starting Sunday: "Yeah, it is looking like that at this point that Josh will be the starter this week."

On Sunday's sacks due to the quarterbacks holding the ball too long: "I don't want to really get into... It is a unit issue obviously. It is not one guy's issue. It is a unit issue. We all have a part in it. The receivers have a part in it. The linemen have a part in it. The backs have a part in it. The tight ends have a part in it and obviously the quarterback. We all have a part in it. We just have to do it better."

On quarterbacks determining protections compared to what is built into the game plan: "There is a lot where that is already decided and there are some where the quarterback does has to have the proper ID based on how defenses move and align and do those certain things. We just had a unit issue. It was everywhere. We need to get better."

On positive takeaways from the Steelers game: "There were not many to be very honest with you. Obviously, I thought that the second half for our whole football team was a little bit better than what it had been thus far. The second half issue seems like it got a little bit better, not where we want it to be, but that part of the game was different for us."

On if the Browns line got manhandled up front: "I am not going to say we got totally manhandled. There are some things that we could do better. I know it could look that way, but I think there are some things from a technical standpoint and schematic standpoint that we could do a little bit better to put our players in better situations."

On if media can report that McCown will start against the New York Giants: "Yes, you can."

On if Cameron Erving is putting too much pressure on himself: "I don't think [the protection] was just one man's issue. It was a unit issue. Cam obviously has a part in that, as well as all of the other linemen, too. We have to continue to work and improve and get better. I know he will do that this week."

On if he had an issue with Terrelle Pryor's comments about the pass protection needing to improve: "Yes, I do because that is not Terrelle's job. I know he is frustrated and we all are. No doubt, we need to protect our quarterback, but that is not for him to say. Let's focus on ourselves and support each other. That is what good teams do, and that is what we are going to work to become."

On if he has spoken to Pryor: "Yes, I have. He was awesome, as always. Sometimes, like most people, after the game and after the heat of the moment, you are a little frustrated and maybe you say some things that you wish you hadn't. I understand it is coming from a good place. I know that no one wants to see our quarterback getting hit, but I think everybody has to let me be the judge of that."

On if Pryor's remarks could be a sign of concern about players having each other's backs: "Nope. We are going to continue to have each other's backs. I have to do that better, too. It is an everyday and every situation deal for me and this football team. We are going to work our way through it. We are going to stay together. We are going to stay committed. We are going to get better."

On if keeping the team together is one of the challenges of coaching a winless team: "Absolutely. Again, these guys work extremely hard. They come in this building every day and they are in here working their tails off with the expectation to go out and win and play well. When that doesn't happen, frustration does set in for everybody involved. I am going to be the calming voice and the calming leader that is going to get us through all of this, and we are going to understand that there is one way and it is kind of my way. We will all work together and we will figure it out from there."

On if he also needed to say something to Joe Thomas, given his postgame comments: "No, [I did not feel I needed to say something to Thomas]. I mean, I did talk to Joe about his comments. Me and Joe have a great relationship. Again, I just think all of our players are frustrated. Again, they want to win. It is all coming from a good place. There is not a guy in our locker room that does not want to win. When things do not go well, it is very easy to point back to some other things. In order for us to get to where we want to be as an organization and as a good football team, we all are going to learn from every decision that we make, but I think right here in the middle of the season and late in the season where things have not gone as well, it is easy to feel, think and wish that things were different. I understand those questions that are going to be asked, and I understand some of the answers that will come from our players, but at the same time, I think what we have to do is just stay positive through it all. It is not easy to do. It is hard to do, but that is how I want our team to handle it, and we are just going to continue to move forward."

On building a winning culture given the Browns struggles: "I will be the first to tell you that is tough, but that is something we have to do. We have to move beyond the past and we have to make a new future here. We do need to make that as fast as we can. I don't want anybody to think we are not trying. We are so there are some things and some T's we have to cross and some I's that we need to dot before we can get there, and I think we will. It is not happening as fast as I would like it to or our fans would like it to or even our players would like it to, but I promise you this: we are going to get there."

On how he personally is dealing with the Browns struggles and if he talks with anybody to help him through it: "Yeah, I have talked to several people I wish to keep anonymous. Trust me, this is tough. I am not going to sit here and tell you that it is not. I could not tell you that it is not. I have never encountered this, but at the same time, I know what I signed up for. I truly believe I am just the man for the job. That has not shown, and I respect that and I understand how our fans and all feel, but I am not running from this. I am going to run through it, and I am going to deal with it head on. We are going to fix this. That is what I came here to do. You said it, we are in the midst of a lot of past deeds and past things that have gone on, and I get that. We have to get it right, fix it and turn it over and get it to looking the way we want it to look. I have total confidence that we are going to do that as an organization."

On what makes him believe the Browns can beat the Giants this week: "I think we have a chance every week. What we have to do is go play Browns football. I don't know that we have done that yet all year. At some point in time, it is going to click where we play for four quarters and give ourselves the best opportunity to win. I know everyone is doubting us and counting us out and saying we have no chance, but I feel like we have a chance every week if we play football the way I think we are capable of playing."

On when Cody Kessler got hurt: "I don't know exactly when he got hurt, but it was in that period of time that you just mentioned when he hit his head on the ground and when (Steelers LB Lawrence) Timmons went over or whatever that is. We know Cody is in concussion protocol and our medical professionals will advise us on the best way to move forward with him. There is really nothing further really to talk about at this point. He won't be back out there until he is medically cleared to return."

On what he can say to McCown to help him keep from pressing and trying to make plays: "I think what he will do, just me knowing Josh a little bit, because he will go out if everything stays as it is, he will get all the reps in practice and he will totally be grooved in the gameplan - not that he was not this past week - but he will be ready to go. I think he will go out and he will play extremely well for us. Obviously, we don't want the turnovers. We have to take care of the ball. Turnovers are what get you beat. I think he understands that, and we just have to do a better job of protecting the ball."

On if it is still too soon to consider Robert Griffin III as an option: "It may be. We will find that out a little bit more as we go, but I think right now it might be a little early."

On why the Browns running backs only had 10 carries yesterday, given the bad weather conditions: "We were not running the ball as well. At the end of the day, we have to do what we have to do to try to win the game. We had some chances earlier to make some plays that we didn't make that we have to continue to execute better. We had some chances in the run game to make some plays, but this was a little different feel of an AFC North game. I have been in those games. I have been where Pittsburgh has stymied you doing one thing and you are forced to do another, and I have been in games when Pittsburgh does not stop you from doing certain things and you are able to do it. The most important thing we have to understand is that we have to do whatever it takes to win. Every game is not going to mean that we run it 40 times or throw it 40 times, but sometimes it comes out the other way."

On areas the Browns may have taken a step backward, given his comment yesterday: "I just think I thought some players who were just trying to do too much. As I said, I think I understand where it is coming from and it is coming from a good place, but I just think we have to be careful of just trying to do more than what we need to do. We just need to do our job. That is when you know a team is pressing, and that is what I mean by taking a step back. When you start pressing, you are looking for ways to make it happen, and the only thing you really have to do as a player is just do your job and do your job the best you can do it."

On examples of players pressing: "I don't want to get into all of that. I know I am answering your question without being very specific about who those players are because I don't think that matters."

On what happens when players are pressing, for example if it is when a player is out of position in a gap: "Absolutely, just when you are trying to cover up maybe for a teammate. You see an opportunity to make a play that because you are going to make the special play for your team and you kind of do something a little bit more than what you need to."

On if he is happy with the Browns rookie class' development: "It is growing. Some guys have totally improved. I watched (Derrick) Kindred play as well as he has played all year. I watched Emmanuel (Ogbah) battle yesterday. I watched Corey Coleman demonstrate toughness in a game that was tough game. Some of our rookies are growing and getting better, but I think the class will be judged at another time. It is too early to say where they are or what they will be or anything like that."

U.S. Soccer Federation President Sunil Gulati announced Monday that Jurgen Klinsmann has been "relieved of his duties" as coach and technical director for U.S. Soccer.

CHICAGO -- Jurgen Klinsmann is out as coach of the U.S. soccer team.

U.S. Soccer Federation President Sunil Gulati announced Monday that Klinsmann has been "relieved of his duties" as coach and technical director for U.S. Soccer. Gulati will conduct a media teleconference call Tuesday.

Klinsmann replaced Bob Bradley in July 2011 and led the team to the 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup title and the second round of the 2014 World Cup, where the Americans lost to Belgium in extra time.

But the U.S. was knocked out in last year's Gold Cup semifinals, lost to Mexico in a playoff for a Confederations Cup berth and started 0-2 this month in the final round of World Cup qualifying.

The Indians, in their preparation for 2017, are looking for a hitter, a left-handed reliever and an outfielder, preferably one who can play every day if Michael Brantley isn't 100 percent.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - The Indians reached the seventh game of the World Series this year, but they still have needs for 2017. Their shopping list includes a hitter, left-handed reliever and an outfielder.

As far as a hitter is concerned, how about Trevor Plouffe? The Twins outrighted him Friday and he quickly became a free agent. Plouffe dealt with injuries last year, but he has power and can play first and third base.

If the Indians signed Plouffe, they could move Jose Ramirez to the outfield or a super utility role. It would also mean they've moved on from re-signing Mike Napoli, who hit 34 homers with 101 RBI last season. The Indians are still talking to Napoli and negotiations have gone well, but reports have Seattle and Houston interested in the 35-year-old first baseman.

The Yankee might also be interested in Napoli.

The Indians didn't offer Napoli or Rajai Davis a $17.2 million qualifying offer. It's been written that Napoli could be in line for a two-year $28 million contract. He signed a one-year $7 million deal with the Indians before last season.

Plouffe, 30, played just 84 games last year. He batted .260 (83-for-39) with 12 homers and 47 RBI. In the previous two years, he drove in 80 and 86 runs, respectively, for the Twins.

The Tribe claimed lefties Tim Cooney and Edwin Escobar on waivers Friday and added them to their 40-man roster. Cooney and Escobar, however, will not necessarily be used in relief. Look for them to each get a shot at starting, especially Cooney, if he's recovered from midseason shoulder surgery.

Besides Andrew Miller, the Indians are thin on left-handed options in the pen. Kyle Crockett is the only other true lefty reliever on the 40-man roster. Ryan Merritt and Shawn Morimando have been used almost exclusively as starters.

Tribe claims lefties Escobar, Cooney

Last week the Cardinals reportedly reached a four-year $30.5 million deal with free agent lefty Brett Cecil. That is way out of the Indians price range, which means Travis Wood, who made 77 relief appearances last season for the Cubs, is probably out of the Tribe's reach as well.

The market will be distorted even more when lefty closer Aroldis Chapman signs, but the Indians aren't pursuing a closer with Miller and Cody Allen on the roster. Still, there are free agent lefties out there such as Boone Logan and former Indian Marc Rzepczynski, who made 66 and 70 appearances, respectively, last season. If the White Sox really do clean house and start over, Dan Jennings is another interesting lefty.

The Tribe's outfield situation hinges on the return to health of left fielder Michael Brantley. If Brantley's right shoulder is sound and he can regain the swing that made him one of the American League's top hitters, the outfield situation isn't that dire. If Brantley's shoulder continues to bother him - he played just 11 games last season - the Indians are going to need help.

Tribe's Brantley expected to be ready for spring training

Last season manager Terry Francona kept pulling a rabbit out of his hat when it came to the outfield. He had a platoon for left, center and right field and things worked well. To do it two years in a row - without one every day outfielder - is asking a lot. If Davis isn't re-signed to share center fielder with Tyler Naquin, the Indians would have Brantley (if healthy) in left, Naquin in center and Lonnie Chisenhall in right. Their platoon partners at the moment are switch-hitting Abraham Almonte and the right-handed hitting Brandon Guyer.

The Indians pushed hard for center fielder Austin Jackson last winter before he signed with the White Sox. Jackson, however, missed much of last season because of surgery on his left knee.

Yoenis Cespedes, Jose Bautista, Mark Trumbo, Dexter Fowler and Ian Desmond are the high-profile free agent outfielders available this winter. They received qualifying offers from their old clubs, which almost assuredly eliminates them from coming to the Indians.

Catcher's corner: Chris Gimenez, outrighted by the Indians to Class AAA Columbus on Friday to make room on the 40-man roster, has informed them that he will become a free agent. Gimenez did a nice job for the Indians after Roberto Perez needed surgery on his right thumb at the end of April.

Gimenez, who did a nice job with the pitching staff, hit .216 and appeared in 67 games.

The Tribe recently re-signed free agent catcher Guillermo Quiroz to a minor league deal and invited him to big league camp in February. Quiroz played 75 games for Class AAA Columbus last season and hit .264 (72-for-273) with 11 homers and 35 RBI.

Quiroz, 34, hasn't been in the big leagues since 2014. He's played in the big leagues with Toronto, Seattle, Texas, Baltimore, Seattle, Boston and San Francisco.

The Indians have three catchers on the 40-man roster: Roberto Perez, Yan Gomes and Francisco Mejia.

Free agent: When the Indians signed right-handed Craig Stammen in February, he was coming off right forearm surgery, but the feeling was he could eventually help them in the bullpen. Stammen made it back to Columbus, but never got to help the Tribe.

Earlier this month, he filed for free agency.

Stammen, who pitched at the University of Dayton, went 1-4 with a 3.95 ERA in 23 appearances in the minors last season. He struck out 28, walked five and allowed 11 earned runs in 27 1/3 innings.

AFL champs: Tribe prospects Greg Allen, Yu-Cheng Chang and Bradley Zimmer helped the Mesa Solar Sox win the Arizona Fall League championship on Saturday with a 6-1 win over Surprise.

Allen, who started in right field, went 1-for-4 with a run. Chang, who started at shortstop, went 2-for-4. He was picked off first, but defensively came over from short to cover third to complete a 5-3-6 double play. Zimmer, who started in center, went 0-for-3.

Zimmer finished the AFL season hitting .257 (19-for-74) with four homers, 16 RBI and eight steals in nine attempts. He struck out 26 times, drew 19 walks and posted at .935 OPS.

Allen hit .269 (21-for-78) with three homers, eight RBI and 12 steals in 14 attempts. He scored 12 runs, struck out 17 times, drew 10 walks and posted a .829 OPS.

Chang hit .304 (17-for-56) with seven RBI. He struck out 21 times, drew three walks and posted a .754 OPS.

Allen, Chang, Mejia and right-hander Shawn Armstrong were the four players that the Indians were going to trade to Milwaukee before catcher Jonathan Lucroy vetoed the deal in July.

Finally: Third basemen Gio Urshela, who had a so-so season at Class AAA Columbus, is hitting .354 (35-for-99) with three homers and 20 RBI for Zulia in Venezuela. Through 24 games he has yet to make an error . . .Infielder Ronny Rodriguez, who played at Columbus last season, is hitting .324 (22-for-68) with three homers and 10 RBI for Aguilas in the Dominican Republic.

Offensive line issues have been a major part of the problems for the Cleveland Browns this season. Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Several lousy decision led to all the problems the Cleveland Browns have had on the offensive line in this 0-11 season.

Two front offices had a hand in it.

It's hard to know what was the worst decision of several they made, but it could be taking Cameron Erving with the 19th overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft.

The plan was for Erving to learn the ropes last season, then be available to replace center Alex Mack, if he left in free agency. Mack left and Erving stepped in.

Erving is not the only factor. We discuss how the Browns have reached the point where they allowed eight sacks Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Elflein is one of three finalists for the award given to the nation's top interior lineman. Johnston is one of three finalists for the Ray Guy Award. Watch video

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Ohio State center Pat Elflein is one of the best offensive linemen in college football. We knew that would be the case as soon as he decided to come back for a fifth season.

Now Elflein could make it official with some hardware.

On Monday night, Elflein was named one of three finalists for the Outland Trophy, given to the nation's best interior lineman. The other finalists are Alabama offensive tackle Cam Robinson and Washington State guard Cody O'Connell.

He's got our vote.@elflein65 is an @outlandtrophy finalist!

[?] | https://t.co/SXVESrG9IY pic.twitter.com/vJJCtHnNf8

-- Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) November 21, 2016

And in a bit of sweet justice, Cameron Johnston was named one of three finalists for the Ray Guy Award, given to the nation's best punter. Utah's Mitch Wishnowsky and Texas' Michael Dickson are the other finalists.

Johnston has been a semifinalist for the Ray Guy the last three years, but you got the feeling he never punted enough to be really considered for the award. He's been one of the best punters in the country over the last three years, and is finally getting recognized for it.

The winners of the Outland Trophy and the Ray Guy Award will be announced on Dec. 8 during the Home Depot College Football Awards show on ESPN.

The field is home to Lou Groza Football, a youth program started in 2010.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Lou Groza Field, which is home to the Lou Groza Football youth league in Berea, now has a statue of its namesake at the facility. The statue of the Browns legend was unveiled on Saturday, with former Browns Dick Schafrath and Don Cockroft among those in attendance.

Lou Groza Football began in 2010, offering tackle and flag football and cheerleading for boys and girls in Berea, Middleburg Heights and Brook Park.

Groza's career spanned from the Browns' inaugural season in 1946 to 1967, and included eight championships and nine Pro Bowls. He was the NFL's career scoring leader upon his retirement and is one of 16 former Browns in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. 

The statue was created by sculptor Alan Cottrill.

Ohio State moved to 4-0 on the season with a win over Western Carolina on Monday night. Watch video

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- This should be a tune-up week for Ohio State basketball.

The Buckeyes beat Western Carolina, 66-38, in easy fashion on Monday night in Value City Arena. That was the first step in building toward next week's game at No. 7 Virginia in the Big Ten-ACC Challenge. 

"I thought defensively we were as sound as we've been in a long time," Thad Matta said.

Western Carolina shot 27 percent from the floor.

The Catamounts are the worst team Ohio State (4-0) will play the season, according to Ken Pomeroy's ratings. So there's not much to glean from beating them other than Ohio State simply taking care of business like it should.

For what it's worth, that didn't always happen last year.

JaQuan Lyle put up another strong effort, backing up his near triple-double last week against Providence with 17 points, five rebounds and four assists.

He showed some improved athleticism on a strong dunk in the first half that put the Buckeyes up 24-13. Lyle jumped from the lane line and put the dunk away with one hand.

Lyle called it the best dunk of his life.

"Yeah I got up a little bit right there," Lyle said. "I thought (the defender) was gonna jump, but he wasn't ready for it. He didn't jump. I guess he got the right read.

"Yesterday I didn't practice because I was sick, throwing up, so I lost a couple pounds. I think that's really what it was. I was feeling kind of light today."

Kam Williams rated the dunk a 6 on a 1-10 scale.

Lyle led four Ohio State players in double-figures. Jae'Sean Tate had 14 points and 11 rebounds. Williams, getting his first start of the season for the injured Keita Bates-Diop, finished with 13 points. Trevor Thompson finished with 10 points and eight rebounds.

Marc Loving, the lone senior on Ohio State's roster, continued with his early-season struggles. He made two field goals, had two turnovers and picked up his fourth foul before the halfway point of the second half.

In four games, Loving has made nine field goals and committed 12 fouls.

"We need Marc to play better basketball," Matta said. "Some of the fouls he's committed the past couple games, as a senior, you don't need to commit those fouls. I thought defensively he was so good the other night. We need to get him in a groove and hopefully he can turn that corner."

What it means

Not much. Ohio State should have an easy week that helps the Buckeyes figure things out before heading to Virginia. Last week's win over Providence was a sign that the team may be coming together a little earlier than it did last year, but it's hard to call it more than that until you see what happens from here.

Not everything was great on Monday night. The Buckeyes talent created a gap from the second the game began, but they struggled with turnovers, missed some open shots and still don't have everyone playing consistently.

"We played really good defense tonight," Williams said. "But we gotta take a deep breath on the offensive end and limit the turnovers. Just taking our time on offense, because our defense was really clicking tonight."

The Buckeyes play Marshall, a sneaky-good mid-major team on Friday night in Columbus. That's the final game before Virginia and that should be a better gauge of if this team is ready for what's waiting in Charlottesville.

KBD sits

Keita Bates-Diop suffered a sprained ankle in last week's over Providence. He missed Monday's game against Western Carolina, but Matta said the hope is to have him back for Wednesday night. Don't be surprised if the Buckeyes keep Bates-Diop out all week, though, to get him healthy for the Virginia game next week.

"He's out of the boot and he's walking a lot better," Matta said. "Honesly it's a day-by-day thing. We need him back. This is an important stretch for this team's growth. My hope is to have him back out there Wednesday night."

Extended run for Andre Wesson

Bates-Diop's absence meant more minutes for freshman forward Andre Wesson. He played a season-high 23 minutes, finishing with five points and six rebounds.

No Funderburk

Matta said last week that the hope is to redshirt freshman forward Derek Funderburk this season. That he didn't play on Monday night, in a blowout with the Buckeyes short-handed, means that's likely going to happen unless something forces Ohio State's hand.

What's next?

Ohio State plays Jackson State on Wednesday at 7 p.m. The game will not be televised, but streamed online by ESPN.