Last week was a rocky outing for me on this front. I am currently a banjo hitter sitting at a .200 average for the year, so let’s have a big week!
#1 Kye Stokes will record an interception
Much has been made of the safety room since the beginning of training camp. It’s an embarrassment of riches at this position for Ohio State, and Kye Stokes May, in fact, be the most physically gifted of the bunch (I am not counting Sonny Styles). He showed off a skillset in the spring that was reminiscent of Malik Hooker and he will be a ball-hawking safety when his time comes. He will almost certainly get some opportunities in this week’s game against Arkansas State, particularly in the second half. I think Stokes will give us a quick preview of things to come and I think he will come up with an interception.
#2 Xavier Johnson will score another touchdown
For those who do not know, I am a huge walk-on fan. I grew up reading Mark Titus’ book and one of my all time favorite college players, even though he torched us, is Jared Abbrederis from Wisconsin. So, I am all aboard the Xavier Johnson hype train and I was stoked to see him get his big moment. So, I am calling that he will build on that performance and start putting together a string of quality performances with another one this Saturday.
#3 Steele Chambers will have two sacks
The linebacker room’s two-sack parade will continue this Saturday. Tommy Eichenberg had two this past week against Notre Dame, and I think Chambers will be the next one to record two sacks. Chambers showed off some pretty impressive sideline to sideline speed and explosion against the Irish, and I think he will come ready to do some damage.
#4 Emeka Egbuka will house a kickoff
We have been waiting since 2010 for a Buckeye kick return to reach the end zone. Rejoice Buckeye fans, my crystal ball with a 20% hit rate says it is happening this Saturday! Emeka Egbuka has shown explosion and loose hips during his time as a kick returner, and it is time for him to finally break one.
#5 Dallan Hayden will have more rushing touchdowns than Miyan Williams and Trey Henderson combined
Granted, this prediction is contingent upon Ohio State handling their business so the young guys can play, but I think that is a pretty safe bet. Hayden, by all accounts, had an excellent fall camp for a true freshman and he showed that he has the talent to play at a school like Ohio State. I think we will see him the second half and I think he will get opportunities to shine and give Buckeye fans a taste of what he can bring to the table.
As always, be sure to share your predictions in the comments below and let’s see how we all do!