Running backs Daniel "Boom" Herron and Brandon "Zoom" Saine shook off the labels they were known for earlier in their careers at Ohio State and have each turned into solid players. Columbus Dispatch reporter Ken Gordon writes how Herron was known as the guy who could only get about three yards per carry, and how Saine was a sprinter trying to...
Buckeyes fans celebrate with Dane Sanzenbacher (12), and Dan "Boom" Herron (1).Running backs Daniel "Boom" Herron and Brandon "Zoom" Saine shook off the labels they were known for earlier in their careers at Ohio State and have each turned into solid players.
Columbus Dispatch reporter Ken Gordon writes how Herron was known as the guy who could only get about three yards per carry, and how Saine was a sprinter trying to play football.
The stereotype bothered Herron.
"I think I can break away and make big runs," he said. "You can't really listen to what people say; you just have to do your job and prove them wrong."
Saine, on the other hand, agreed that it took him some time to develop into a tougher, more physical back.
"Straight out of high school, you can see it every time - young tailbacks head straight outside, and you don't get anywhere because there's no getting around the edge (in college)," he said.
"It's a huge adjustment. The coaches tell you, 'As soon as you can, get your shoulders to the line,' because that's where it's at."
And the two running backs will share time in the backfield this season as they did in the past.
Saine is practically cheerful about the arrangement. Asked if he ever wanted more carries, he said: "No, not at all. I don't know if I could handle more."
Herron said, "Maybe when you first come out of high school, you're used to being 'the man' and getting all the carries."
Punt, pass and kick
Toledo Blade reporter Matt Markey writes a feature on the kickers and the punters for the Buckeyes, and how these are the unsung players.
But special teams really matter to coach Jim Tressel, despite the special teams not being so special last season.
"We're not where we need to be," Tressel said as he assessed his special teams at the start of practice. "We're not good enough."
The numbers back up the coach, who is preparing for his 10th season of setting the course for the program. Ohio State was well back in the pack in the Big Ten in its field goal percentage and punting average last season, but thrived behind a dominant defense and an efficient offense.
Former Buckeye returns to practice
New York Jets center Nick Mangold returned to the field after missing his team's preseason opener against the New York Giants on Monday night.
Mangold, a Dayton native who played for the Buckeyes, feels good about his return.
Mangold reported for camp on time despite being unhappy with his contract situation. He’s making $3.3 million entering the final year of his rookie deal, but is seeking a long-term contract extension. Despite sitting out Monday night, he insisted he didn’t think about whether he might have made a mistake by reporting without a new contract.
“It’s part of the game,” Mangold said. “I’ve been fortunate that I haven’t had any major injuries. I think that’s also a function of me trying to play at a high level at all times. If you play not to get hurt, you’re bound to get hurt.”
It looks like coach Rex Ryan is not the only one on the team with jokes. Mangold offered another zinger when he asked if he was experiencing any fogginess.
“Just when I talk to you guys,” he told reporters.