Tag: Ohio

  • Big Ten men’s basketball power rankings after Ohio State stuns Purdue


    The Big Ten had a strong representation in the 2024 NCAA Tournament and appears on track to do so again this season. Six teams from the conference went dancing, with Purdue reaching the national championship, though the Boilermakers fell short against a buzzsaw UConn squad.

    It wouldn’t be shocking to see more than a half-dozen Big Ten programs this March, given what we’ve seen thus far during the 2024-25 campaign. However, the No. 11 Boilermakers didn’t do themselves any favors by disastrously squandering a 16-point first-half lead to Ohio State.

    A 15-0 run in crunch time propelled the Buckeyes to secure the comeback upset victory over the Boilermakers. The meltdown will conceivably be a blemish on Purdue’s resume, but they’re still a basketball powerhouse. If anything, it speaks to the competitive nature and talent within the Big Ten.

    Following Purdue’s 73-70 loss, let’s assess the state of the Big Ten.

    No. 8 Michigan State is the last unbeaten Big Ten school in conference play. As long as Tom Izzo is on the sidelines, they will always be incredibly well-coached and prepared.

    The Spartans aren’t necessarily an offensive or defensive juggernaut. Nonetheless, they’re balanced and do all the little things right, and that’s a testament to Izzo’s impact. Michigan State is seventh in the country in nightly free throw attempts (19.1) while converting from the charity stripe at the third-highest rate (81.3 percent). They also rank ninth in assists per game (18.3).

    Led by senior guard Jaden Akins and ascending freshman Jace Richardson, Michigan State is dangerous.

    No. 15 Oregon is the inverse of Michigan State. All the Ducks’ losses this season have come in conference play, and they’re undefeated against outsiders.

    Perhaps the Ducks are still getting used to their new surroundings after leaving the Pac-12 and joining the Big Ten. Regardless, Oregon’s No. 7 Strength of Record (SOR) rank indicates they’re a force to be reckoned with.

    Yet, the Ducks are a jack-of-all-trades, master of none, demonstrated by their 108th- and 103rd-ranked defensive and offensive ratings. So, depending on the day and opponent, Oregon can be vulnerable.

    Standout freshman guard Kasparas Jakucionis makes No. 17 Illinois a threat to beat anyone in the nation. He’s a consensus top-five NBA draft pick for a reason, and his shoulders are big enough to carry the Fighting Illini to greatness.

    Illinois is a high-powered scoring machine that can beat you in multiple ways. They take and make threes at a high clip, ranking 25th and eighth in the country in the respective categories. The Fighting Illini also do an excellent job limiting second-chance opportunities by attacking the glass, leading the nation in rebounds per game (31.8).

    Despite their record, the Fighting Illini boast the Big Ten’s highest Basketball Power Index (BPI) rating (18.3).

    Purdue’s defeat at the hands of the Buckeyes stings, but Matt Painter’s crew has several contributors from last year’s national championship team. Their combination of experience, personnel and ability to get hot from beyond the arc in a hurry makes them a viable threat.

    No. 18 Wisconsin has turned a new leaf under head coach Greg Gard. While they’re typically regarded for their defensive efforts, the Badgers are getting it done on the offensive end of the court this season.

    Wisconsin’s 82.5 points per game are their third-highest average output in school history. It’s also the first time they’re pacing to clear the 80-point mark since the 1971-72 season.

    No. 21 Michigan thrived despite having the 10th-hardest schedule in the nation thus far. They’ve done so with incredible offensive efficiency and ball movement, and fifth-year seven-footer Vladislav Goldin has been the driving force of it all. The Russian big man’s decision to follow Dusty May to Ann Arbor has paid dividends for him and the Wolverines.

    Ja’Kobi Gillespie and Derik Queen have formed an intriguing inside-out tandem. Maryland impressively has a higher BPI than Wisconsin and Oregon. Nevertheless, the Ducks beat them when they met on Jan. 5, making it difficult to put the Terrapins above them. But if they beat the Badgers on Jan. 29, we may need to revisit this discussion.

    Arizona transfer Oumar Ballo has been a beast for Indiana in the paint, leading the Big Ten in rebounds per game (10.3) and field goal percentage (.669). Malik Reneau has also been a factor on the wings. But the Hoosiers’ unwillingness to fire away from long distance is their Achilles heel.

    Indiana ranks 303rd and 319th out of 364 Division I programs in three-point percentage and per-game attempts. Their shortcomings from beyond the arc in today’s basketball era put them at a significant disadvantage.

    Mick Cronin has been vocal this season, comfortably airing his grievances publicly. Following UCLA’s loss to Michigan, he called them a “soft” and “delusional” bunch. Frankly, it’s an accurate assessment. But it seems like the message has been delivered to the Bruins lately, who have won their past two games, including a statement victory over Wisconsin.

    UCLA’s remarkable defense has saved them and Cronin from total embarrassment. The Bruins have allowed the 19th-fewest points per game in the nation (63.7).

    Fifth-year senior guard Brice Williams has been a one-man wrecking crew for Nebraska. However, he lacks a reliable running mate and can only do so much himself in a strong Big Ten conference. Fred Hoiberg’s Corn Huskers will need someone else to step up if they want to make some legitimate noise.

    11. Iowa Hawkeyes
    12. Penn State Nittany Lions
    13. Ohio State Buckeyes
    14. Northwestern Wildcats
    15. USC Trojans
    16. Rutgers Scarlet Knights
    17. Minnesota Golden Gophers
    18. Washington Huskies


    1. Ohio State Buckeyes
      After their stunning upset victory over Purdue, the Ohio State Buckeyes have undoubtedly earned the top spot in the Big Ten men’s basketball power rankings. They are now the team to beat in the conference and have proven that they can compete with the best.

    2. Purdue Boilermakers
      Despite their recent loss to Ohio State, the Purdue Boilermakers are still a force to be reckoned with in the Big Ten. They have a talented roster and are capable of making a deep run in the NCAA tournament.

    3. Michigan Wolverines
      The Michigan Wolverines have been consistently strong this season and are currently sitting at the top of the Big Ten standings. They have a balanced scoring attack and are a tough team to beat on both ends of the court.

    4. Wisconsin Badgers
      The Wisconsin Badgers have been one of the surprise teams in the Big Ten this season. They have a strong defense and are capable of pulling off upsets against some of the top teams in the conference.

    5. Illinois Fighting Illini
      The Illinois Fighting Illini have had their ups and downs this season, but they have the talent to compete with the best teams in the Big Ten. They will be a tough out in the conference tournament.

    6. Iowa Hawkeyes
      The Iowa Hawkeyes have been inconsistent at times this season, but they have the potential to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament. They have a high-powered offense led by standout player Luka Garza.

    7. Maryland Terrapins
      The Maryland Terrapins have shown flashes of brilliance this season, but they have struggled against some of the top teams in the Big Ten. They will need to find more consistency if they want to make a run in the conference tournament.

    8. Michigan State Spartans
      The Michigan State Spartans have had a down year by their standards, but they are still a dangerous team in the Big Ten. They have a strong defense and are capable of pulling off upsets against some of the top teams in the conference.

    9. Rutgers Scarlet Knights
      The Rutgers Scarlet Knights have been a pleasant surprise in the Big Ten this season. They have a tough defense and are capable of competing with the best teams in the conference.

    10. Indiana Hoosiers
      The Indiana Hoosiers have struggled at times this season, but they have the talent to compete with the top teams in the Big Ten. They will need to find more consistency if they want to make a run in the conference tournament.

    Tags:

    1. Big Ten basketball power rankings
    2. Ohio State basketball
    3. Purdue basketball upset
    4. Big Ten standings
    5. College basketball rankings
    6. NCAA basketball updates
    7. Top teams in Big Ten
    8. Ohio State vs Purdue recap
    9. March Madness contenders
    10. Big Ten tournament predictions

    #Big #Ten #mens #basketball #power #rankings #Ohio #State #stuns #Purdue

  • Live Updates: Iowa Wrestling vs Ohio State


    #2 Iowa will welcome #4 Ohio State to Carver-Hawkeye arena on Saturday, January 25 in what has the potential to be one of the best duals of the weekend. This match will go down at 2:00 pm (ET) and will be streamed live on the Big Ten Network. We’ll be providing real-time updates for this incredible dual for you to follow along in the article below.

    Iowa vs Ohio State Probable Starting Lineups

    125: #29 Joey Cruz, Iowa vs #12 Brendan McCrone, Ohio State

    133: #2 Drake Ayala, Iowa vs #10 Nic Bouzakis/Ben Davino, Ohio State

    141: #20 Ryder Block/Jace Rhodes, Iowa vs #1 Jesse Mendez, Ohio State

    149: #4 Kyle Parco, Iowa vs #10 Dylan D’Emilio, Ohio State

    157: #1 Jacori Teemer/Miguel Estrada, Iowa vs #19 Sammy Sasso/Brandon Cannon, Ohio State

    165: #2 Mikey Caliendo, Iowa vs #13 Paddy Gallagher, Ohio State

    174: #5 Patrick Kennedy, Iowa vs #6 Carson Kharchla, Ohio State

    184: #5 Gabe Arnold/Angelo Ferrari, Iowa vs #20 Ryder Rogotzke, Ohio State

    197: #1 Stephen Buchanan, Iowa vs #18 Seth Shumate, Ohio State

    285: #11 Ben Kueter, Iowa vs #5 Nick Feldman, Ohio State


    125: #29 Joey Cruz, Iowa vs #12 Brendan McCrone, Ohio State





    Live Updates: Iowa Wrestling vs Ohio State

    Stay tuned for live updates from the highly anticipated wrestling match between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Ohio State Buckeyes. Follow along as we provide real-time updates on the matches, scores, and highlights throughout the dual meet. Don’t miss out on any of the action as these two powerhouse programs go head-to-head on the mat. #IowaWrestling #OhioStateWrestling #DualMeet #LiveUpdates

    Tags:

    • Iowa Wrestling
    • Ohio State
    • Live Updates
    • College Wrestling
    • Big Ten Conference
    • Iowa vs Ohio State
    • Wrestling Match
    • Sports Updates
    • NCAA Wrestling
    • Hawkeyes vs Buckeyes

    #Live #Updates #Iowa #Wrestling #Ohio #State

  • PREVIEW: No. 2 Iowa wrestling vs. No. 4 Ohio State


    PREVIEW: No. 2 Iowa wrestling vs. No. 4 Ohio State

    WHO: #4 Ohio State Buckeyes (11-0, 3-0 Big Ten)

    WHEN: 1:00 PM CT (Saturday, January 25, 2025)

    WHERE: Carver-Hawkeye Arena (Iowa City, IA)

    TV: BTN (Shane Sparks and Jim Gibbons)

    RADIO: Hawkeye Radio Network (Gary Dolphin, Bobby Hansen)

    MOBILE: foxsports.com/mobile

    ONLINE: foxsports.com/live

    FOLLOW: @HawkeyeBeacon | @Hawks_Wrestling | @IowaonBTN

    It’s been a fairly quiet start to the season for #2 Iowa wrestling — outside of duals against then-#12 Iowa State in November and then-#9 Illinois last week, the Hawkeyes haven’t faced many notable opponents. That’s about to change. Starting with Saturday afternoon’s dual against #4 Ohio State, Iowa is set to face teams ranked in the top-8 in four of its next five duals: #4 Ohio State, #1 Penn State, #7 Nebraska, and #8 Minnesota.

    As they say, business is about to pick up.

    Saturday’s dual could feature matches between ranked wrestlers at nine weights and four top-10 throwdowns. Give the Hawkeyes the slight advantage — they have the higher-ranked wrestler in all four of those potential top-10 showdowns, as well as two other ranked matchups.

    But any advantage Iowa has could be very narrow — Ohio State is likely to be favored at the other four weights (pending the potential return of top-ranked Jacori Teemer at 157 lbs for the Hawkeyes) and many of those top-10 matchups look tight enough that it would hardly be a shock if they went in favor of the Buckeyes. That, plus potential bonus points, could make for a very close dual meet.

    #2 Iowa vs #4 Ohio State

    all rankings via Intermat

    Ohio State looks to be a solid favorite at two of the first three weights, 125 and 141, and is also likely to be favored at 157 (if Teemer does not wrestle for Iowa) and possibly at 285 as well. At 125, #28 Joey Cruz has looked solid in recent weeks and is likely to make #16 Brendan McCrone work hard. If Cruz can get the Carver crowd into the match and earn a win, that could tilt the meet in Iowa’s favor early.

    133 should be the first of the spotlight matches of the night, featuring #3 Drake Ayala potentially taking on #10 Nic Bouzakis. While Bouzakis is listed with an “or,” he hasn’t missed any matches in the last few weeks. Ayala and Bouzakis have never wrestled before, though they do share a recent common opponent — Bouzakis lost to Illinois’ Lucas Byrd 8-5 in sudden victory, while Ayala beat Byrd last weekend, 4-2.

    At 141, Iowa’s task figures to be damage limitation. That weight has been one of Iowa’s most uncertain all season, as evidenced by the three potential starters listed in the match notes. Meanwhile, Ohio State will be countering with #1 Jesse Mendez, the defending NCAA champion at 141 and someone who’s 19-0 on the season with bonus points in 79% of his wins this year.

    149 is the second of the top-10 showdowns on the night, featuring #2 Kyle Parco putting his 12-0 record on the line against #9 Dylan D’Emilio‘s 14-1 mark this year. D’Emilio’s only loss this season came against #5 Lachlan McNeil, an 8-2 loss back in December. Parco is also 1-0 lifetime against D’Emilio, having beaten him 11-1 last season. If Parco can get some early points on the board, he could take control of the match; if not, this could be another nerve-racking finish for Parco.

    The big question at 157 is who wrestles for Iowa. Freshman Miguel Estrada has filled in admirably, posting a 14-2 record overall, including a 3-0 mark in dual meets. But top-ranked Jacori Teemer may be ready to make his return for Iowa after sustaining a leg injury in the Iowa State dual two months ago.

    Iowa head coach Tom Brands his progress has been “really good” and that Teemer is “at that point where he can probably go,” although he also emphasized that the Hawkeyes would not “sacrifice [Teemer’s] health,” if there were any doubts about his condition. If Teemer is healthy can can go, he should have the edge on #17 Sammy Sasso, who’s already suffered five losses this year after moving up to 157. Remarkably, Teemer and Sasso first wrestled in college over six years ago; Teemer earned an 8-6 win over Sasso back then.

    165 is yet another high-profile clash, with #2 Michael Caliendo taking on #9 Paddy Gallagher, a one-time Hawkeye recruiting target. Gallagher has been solid this year, but he’s also dropped four matches on the year; Caliendo is a perfect 12-0 on the season with bonus points in 75% of those wins. He’s wrestling with a lot of confidence right now and should be a handful for Gallagher.

    The fourth and final top-10 meeting of the dual is at 174, with #5 Patrick Kennedy facing #6 Carson Kharchla. This is the closest matchup of the night, rankings-wise, and the only one that features two undefeated wrestlers (8-0 Kennedy vs 7-0 Kharchla). This bout looks pretty close to a toss-up on paper and could come down to which wrestler is able to finish his attacks first in the match.

    At 184 and 197, Iowa has wrestlers ranked in the top-5 set to face opponents ranked in the top-20. Taking care of business and winning these bouts will be paramount to Iowa having a shot to win the dual meet. #5 Gabe Arnold faces #19 Ryder Rogotze at 184; Rogotze suffered a pair of losses two weeks ago and is just 4-3 overall this season, though he’s still a capable opponent.

    At 197, new #1 Stephen Buchanan faces #17 Seth Shumate, who’s 9-7 on the season and just 2-4 in dual meets this season. Shumate has some ability, but he hasn’t faced many wrestlers on Buchanan’s level this year (though there aren’t many guys at 197 on Buchanan’s level, period) and if the Buchanan that’s been a black-and-gold buzzsaw so often this year finds an advantage, this could be a bonus point opportunity for Iowa.

    Finally, 285 features a matchup just outside a top-10 clash, with #11 Ben Kueter taking on #6 Nick Feldman. For Kueter, it’s another opportunity to prove himself against one of the top heavyweights in the country — and the exact sort of opponent he’s going to have to beat in March if he hopes to contend for a Big Ten title or make the podium at the NCAA Tournament. Feldman’s only loss this year was an injury default against #3 Wyatt Hendrickson last month. To win, Kueter will need to be able to get to Feldman’s legs and finish his attacks cleanly, which he’s struggled to do at times against top opponents.



    This Wednesday, the No. 2 Iowa Hawkeyes will face off against the No. 4 Ohio State Buckeyes in a highly anticipated wrestling match-up. Both teams have been dominant so far this season, with Iowa boasting a perfect 9-0 record and Ohio State sitting at 7-1.

    Iowa comes into the match with a strong lineup, including several top-ranked wrestlers such as Spencer Lee, Alex Marinelli, and Michael Kemerer. The Hawkeyes will look to continue their winning streak and solidify their spot as one of the top teams in the country.

    On the other hand, Ohio State will be looking to pull off the upset and hand Iowa their first loss of the season. The Buckeyes have a talented roster led by wrestlers like Sammy Sasso, Kollin Moore, and Ethan Smith, who will be looking to make a statement against the Hawkeyes.

    This match promises to be a thrilling showdown between two powerhouse programs, and fans can expect to see some intense and high-level wrestling action. Be sure to tune in and catch all the excitement as No. 2 Iowa takes on No. 4 Ohio State in a battle for supremacy on the mat.

    Tags:

    • Iowa wrestling
    • Ohio State wrestling
    • College wrestling
    • NCAA wrestling
    • Iowa vs Ohio State
    • Top ranked wrestling teams
    • Big Ten wrestling
    • Preview of Iowa vs Ohio State
    • Wrestling match preview
    • Wrestling rivalry matchup

    #PREVIEW #Iowa #wrestling #Ohio #State

  • Iowa Wrestling Notebook — Ohio State – Iowa Hawkeyes Athletics


    ON THE MAT

    The second-ranked University of Iowa wrestling team faces fourth ranked Ohio State on Jan. 25 at Carver-Hawkeye Arena  at 1 p.m.

     

    FOLLOW ALONG LIVE

      Saturday’s dual will be televised live on BTN. Shane Sparks (Play-by-Play) and Jim Gibbons (Color Analyst) will have the call.

    • The radio broadcast for Saturday’s dual will be available at AM 800 KXIC and audio streamed online at hawkeyesports.com (via YouTube). Steven Grace and Mark Ironside will call the action for Hawkeye Sports Properties, a property of Learfield.

    • Follow Iowa wrestling on social media via X (@Hawks_Wrestling), Facebook/iowahawkeyewrestling and Instagram (@iowahawkeyewrestling).

    No. 2 Iowa Hawkeyes Probable Lineup

    Wt Rank^ Name Year Hometown/High School Record
    125 –/28/28/– Joey Cruz So. Fresno, California/Bullard 10-6
    133 1/3/2/2 Drake Ayala Jr. Fort Dodge, Iowa/Fort Dodge 11-1
    141 –/31/20/– Ryder Block R-Fr. Waverly, Iowa/Waverly-Shell Rock 2-3
    -or-   Jace Rhodes So. Mason City, Iowa/Mason City 5-2
    -or-   Cullan Schriever Sr. Mason City, Iowa/Mason City 3-5
    149 3/2/4/3 Kyle Parco Sr. Danville, California 12-0
    157   Miguel Estrada Fr.

    Bakersfield, California/Frontier

    13-0/1-2*
    -or- –/1/1/– Jacori Teemer Grad.

    Long Beach, New York/Long Beach

    2-1
    165 2/2/2/2 Michael Caliendo Jr. Geneva, Illinois/Batavia 12-0
    174 5/5/5/5 Patrick Kennedy Senior Kasson-Mantorville, Minnesota/Kasson-Mantorville 8-0
    184 9/5/5/8 Gabe Arnold R-Fr. Albany, Georgia/Iowa City 10-1
    -or-   Angelo Ferrari Fr. Melissa, Texas/Melissa 10-0
    197 1/1/1/1 Stephen Buchanan Grad. Loyal, Wisconsin/Loyal 12-0
    285 15/11/11/18 Ben Kueter R-Fr. Iowa City, Iowa 9-2

    ^ WIN/Intermat/Flo/AWN (Rankings based on weight class listed at)

    *Unattached

    THE SERIES — OHIO STATE

    Iowa leads the all-time series against Ohio State, 42-4. The schools split the first four meetings, 2-2, before Iowa rattled off 34 consecutive victories from 1967-2011. Ohio State ended the streak with a 21-9 win in 2012 at Columbus.

    • Iowa is 15-1 all-time in Iowa City. Ohio State’s only win was a 17-13 victory in 1929, the first ever meeting in the series.

    • The Hawkeyes won the last meeting, 21-12, on Jan. 24, 2022 in Columbus.

    • Iowa head coach Tom Brands is 10-2 all-time against Ohio State.

     

    PREVIOUS INDIVIDUAL MEETINGS — OHIO STATE

    Kyle Parco is 1-0 all-time against Dylan D’Emilio winning a 11-0 major decision at the 2023 Cliff Keen Invitational when he was at ASU.
    Jacori Teemer is 1-0 all-time against Sammy Sasso. Teemer defeated a sixth ranked Sasso, 8-6, at the 2018 Midlands Championship in his first ever collegiate match. Teemer was unattached and at ASU.

     

    THE LAST TIME OUT

    The second ranked University of Iowa wrestling team won eight of 10 matches to put together a 28-6 victory over ninth ranked Illinois.

    • The Hawkeyes outscored the Illini in total match points 69-21 and had 15 takedowns to Illinois’ one.

     

    TOP 10 MATCHUP — 133 POUNDS

    Third-ranked Drake Ayala faces Ohio State’s 10th-ranked Nic Bouzakis. The two have never met collegiately.

    Ayala is 29-14 in his career against ranked opponents, including a 4-1 mark this season. Ayala has won four straight against ranked foes including defeating No. 2 Lucas Byrd Jan. 17 against Illinois.

     

    TOP 10 MATCHUP — 149 POUNDS

    Second-ranked Kyle Parco faces Ohio State’s ninth-ranked Dylan D’Emillio. Parco is 1-0 all-time against D’Emillio (a 11-0 major decision at the 2023 Cliff Keen Invitational).

    Parco is 43-17 all-time against ranked opponents and is a perfect 6-0 this season.

     

     

    TOP 10 MATCHUP — 165 POUNDS

    Second-ranked Michael Caliendo faces No. 9 Paddy Gallagher. It is the first meeting between the two.

    Caliendo is 4-0 this year against ranked opponents, with bonus points in two of those matches. He is 27-11 all-time against ranked opponents. He has scored 15 or more points in eight of his 12 matches this season and is 12-0 overall.

     

    TOP 10 MATCHUP — 174 POUNDS

    Fifth-ranked Patrick Kennedy faces No. 6 Carson Kharchla. It is the first meeting between the two.

    Kennedy is 5-0 this year against ranked opponents. He is 18-14 all-time against ranked opponents. He has outscored his ranked opponents this season, 62-13.

     

    UNBEATEN HAWKS

     

    FRESHMAN TRACKER

    Eight Hawkeye freshman have competed as attached competitors during the 2024-25 season.  Under new NCAA guidelines, freshmen can compete in five dates of competition during the student-athlete’s initial year of collegiate enrollment without using a season of competition.

     

    ALL-AMERICANS

    • The Hawkeyes have crowned at least one All-American in 53 consecutive tournaments, a stretch dating back to 1972. Iowa has totaled 327 All-America honors during that stretch.

     

    TV TIME

    Seven University of Iowa men’s wrestling duals will be televised on BTN during the 2024-25 season.

    • Iowa’s BTN appearances include home duals against Stanford, Illinois, Ohio State, Nebraska and Oklahoma State and road duals at Penn State and Minnesota.

    • The duration of the Big Ten Championships, which will be held March 8-9 in Evanston, Illinois, will also be televised on BTN.

    • Iowa’s duals against Iowa State, Wisconsin, Maryland and Northwestern will be streamed on B1G+ (subscription required). The Journeymen Wrestling “Uncivil War” against Princeton and Army will be streamed on UFC Fight Pass (subscription required).

     

    BROTHERHOOD

    • There have been 48 sets of brothers to come through the Iowa wrestling program, including head coach Tom Brands and associate head coach Terry Brands.
    • Terry and Nelson Brands are the ninth father son duo and Tom and Nelson are the fifth uncle nephew duo to wrestle for Iowa. 

     

    CAMBUS SHUTTLE

    Free parking is available in the Hancher Auditorium Parking Lot on dates where no performances are scheduled. When the Hancher Auditorium Lot is available, complimentary Cambus shuttles to Carver-Hawkeye Arena will begin 90 minutes prior to the start of the meet and run until one (1) hour following the conclusion of the meet.

     

    KUETER EARNS SILVER AT U20 WORLDS

    Ben Kueter earned a second-place finish on Sunday evening at the U20 World Championships.

    • The Iowa City, Iowa, native is now a two-time U20 World medalist having won gold at 97kg in 2022.

    • Kueter faced Iranian Amirreza Fardin Masoumi Valadi – a now five-time age-level World champion – in his finals matchup and lost via a 4-2 decision.

    • En route to the finals Kueter outscored his opponents, 24-3. He won his opening match against Alikhan Kussainov of Kazakhstan, 7-0. In his quarterfinal matchup with Individual Neutral Athlete Stsiapan Mandryk he needed only 27 seconds to win via fall.

     

    HAWKEYES AT AGE GROUP NATIONALS

    University of Iowa wrestlers Patrick Kennedy and Ben Kueter won age-group National Titles and seven Hawkeyes placed at U23 Nationals and U20 World Team Trials at the Spire Institute in Geneva, Ohio.
    • In the U20 division, Kueter brought home the title at 125 kg, and Gabe Arnold was runner-up at 79 kg for the second straight year.

    • Kueter won the 125 kg division winning five straight matches to make the world team. Kueter defeated Jimmy Mullen of the South East Regional Training Center and Virginia Tech in the best-of-three finals. Kueter won 5-4 and 5-3 against Mullen.

    • In the U23 division, Kennedy won the 79 kg title, Drake Ayala (61 KG) finished in third, Caleb Rathjen (70 kg finished in fifth and Joey Cruz finished in seventh at 57 kg.

    • In the best-of-three finals Kennedy defeated Julian Ramirez of the Spartan Combat RTC via a 10-0 technical superiority in both matches. In seven matches in the tournament Kennedy outscored his opponents, 75-4.

     

    A NEW HOME FOR IOWA WRESTLING

    Construction on the $31 million Goschke Family Wrestling Training Center finished in May 2024. The 38,000-square-foot facility is the new training home of the Iowa men’s and women’s wrestling programs. The wrestling room on the south end of the building is connected by underground tunnel to Carver-Hawkeye Arena.

    • The two-level building features a Hall of Champions that pays homage to the history of Iowa wrestling. The main entrance welcomes visitors with trophy displays celebrating Iowa’s All-Americans and national champions. The lower-level includes locker rooms for the men’s and women’s teams, while the upper-level houses student-athlete lounges and coaches’ offices that overlook the wrestling room.

    • The facility’s largest space, the Bob and Kathy Nicolls Wrestling Room, features 30-foot-high ceilings with nearly twice as much practice space as the former wrestling room. An adjacent strength and conditioning room on the lower level flows seamlessly into the wrestling room.

     

    WRESTLETOWN, USA

    Iowa City, Iowa, was dubbed Wrestletown, USA by NBC Sports when hosting the 2016 Olympic Team Trials.

    • The University of Iowa men’s wrestling program led the nation in attendance for the 17th straight year last year.

      The Hawkeyes drew an average of 14,847 fans per home date during the 2023-24 season with 89,082 fans entering the doors of Carver-Hawkeye Arena. Iowa drew capacity crowds of 14,847 in all six of its home duals.

    • Iowa has led the nation in attendance in each season of head coach Tom Brands’ tenure (attendance totals weren’t tracked during the 2020-21 season due to most venues having no-spectators due to the COVID-19 pandemic). This was the 15th straight year the Hawkeyes have averaged more than 8,000 fans.

     

    NEWCOMERS

    The Hawkeyes have 12 newcomers on the 2024-25 roster, including three transfers. 

    • Stephen Buchanan is a three-time All-American at Wyoming (2021-22) and Oklahoma (2024).  He finished third at both the 2022 and 2024 NCAA Championships.

    Kyle Parco is a four-time All-American at Fresno State (2021) and Arizona State (22-24). He is a three-time PAC-12 Champion. Parco finished fifth at the 2024 NCAA Championships.
    Jacori Teemer is a four-time All-American at Arizona State (2020-22, 2024) and was the NCAA runner-up in 2024. 

     

    SOLD OUT X 4

    Iowa wrestling season ticket allotment at Carver-Hawkeye Arena is sold out for a fourth straight season.  The Hawkeyes have led the nation in attendance every year since 2006-07.  Iowa set an NCAA record, averaging 14,905 fans in 2021-22.

     

    NCAA EXPERIENCE

    The Hawkeyes have nine wrestlers on the roster with NCAA Championships experience. Drake Ayala was the 2024 runner up at 125 pounds. Caleb Rathjen (2024) and Victor Voinovich III (2023) have both qualified once at 149 pounds.  Kyle Parco (149) and Jacori Teemer (157) are both four-time All-Americans. Parco’s highest finish came in 2023 when he finished fourth and Teemer was the runner up in 2024. Michael Caliendo (165) is a two-time All-American and finished fourth in 2024. Patrick Kennedy is a two-time national qualifier at 165 and 174 pounds. Nelson Brands (174/184) is a two-time All-American and finished fifth in 2023 at 174. Stephen Buchanan (197) is a three-time All-American finishing 3rd in both 2022 and 2024.

     

    A LOOK BACK

    The University of Iowa wrestling team finished the 2023-24 season with a 12-2 overall and a 6-2 Big Ten mark.

    • The Hawkeyes placed fourth at the Big Ten Championships and fifth at the NCAA Championships. Iowa had four All-Americans. The program had 20 Academic All-Big Ten selections — the highest total in school history.

     

    SPENCER LEE THE OLYMPIAN

    Former University of Iowa All-American and three-time National Champion Spencer Lee won a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, becoming the 11th Hawkeye wrestler in school history to medal at the Olympic Games

     

    HAWKEYES IN THE FINALS

    Drake Ayala advanced to the 125-pound finals of the 2024 NCAA Championships to extend Iowa’s streak of NCAA finals appearances to 34 consecutive tournaments.

    • Iowa has had at least one wrestler in the NCAA finals every year since 1990, and in 48 of the last 49 tournaments dating back to 1975.

     

    HAWKEYE WRESTLING HISTORY

    The Hawkeyes have won 24 national titles and 37 Big Ten titles.

    • Iowa’s 55 NCAA Champions have won a total of 85 NCAA individual titles, crowning seven three-time and 16 two-time champions.

    • The Hawkeyes’ 118 Big Ten champions have combined for 210 conference titles. There have been eight four-time, 20 three-time and 31 two-time Big Ten champions from Iowa.

    • Iowa’s 166 All-Americans have earned All-America status 367 times, including two five-time, 25 four-time, 38 three-time and 40 two-time honorees.

     

    ACADEMIC ALL-BIG TEN

    20 Hawkeye wrestlers were among the 59 University of Iowa student-athletes named to the 2023-24 Big Ten Winter Academic All-Conference Team. The 20 honorees are the most in program history.

      To be eligible for Academic All-Big Ten status, students must be on a varsity team, as verified by being on the official squad list as of March 1 for winter sports, who have been enrolled fulltime at the institution for a minimum of 12 months and carry a cumulative grade-point average of 3.0 or higher.

      The list of honorees includes Drake Ayala, Nelson Brands, Tony Cassioppi, Easton Fleshman, Kolby Franklin, Zach Glazier, Joel Jesuroga, Patrick Kennedy, Carter Martinson, Gage Marty, Charles Matthews, Aidan McCain, Drake Rhodes, Jace Rhodes, Aiden Riggins, Cullan Schriever, Leif Schroeder, Cade Siebrecht, Cobe Siebrecht, and Brennan Swafford.

     

    NCAA TROPHIES

    The Hawkeyes have earned a team trophy at the NCAA Championships 14 times in the last 16 championships.  Iowa has won 14 team trophies in head coach Tom Brands’ 17 seasons. (The 2020 season, in which Iowa was favored, was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic).

    • Iowa has won 48 team NCAA trophies in program history and have 69 top 10 finishes.  The Hawkeyes have been the NCAA runner-up seven times.

     

    HAWKEYES AND CARVER-HAWKEYE ARENA

    Iowa is 136-14 (.907) at Carver-Hawkeye Arena since Tom Brands took over the program prior to 2006-07. The Hawkeyes are 286-27 (.914) all-time at Carver-Hawkeye Arena since moving from the UI Field House in 1983. Iowa went 5-1 in Carver in 2023-24.

      Carver-Hawkeye Arena has hosted two United States Olympic Team Trials, four Big Ten Championships (1983, 1994, 2005, 2016) and four NCAA Championships (1986, 1991, 1995, 2001). The Hawkeyes have won five tournament titles on their home mat, including the 1983 and 1994 Big Ten Championships, and the 1986, 1991 and 1995 NCAA Championships.

     

    CHASING THE HAWKEYES

    Gary Kurdelmeier led Iowa to its first NCAA Championship in 1975, and in the 49 years since, the Hawkeyes have accumulated 24 team titles, more than any other school — Penn State (11), Oklahoma State (7), Minnesota (3), Iowa State (2), Ohio State (1) and Arizona State (1).

     

    UP NEXT

    The Hawkeyes head on the road to face Penn State on Jan. 31 and Maryland on Feb. 2.



    Iowa Wrestling Notebook: Hawkeyes Dominate Ohio State in Big Ten Showdown

    In a highly-anticipated matchup between two powerhouse programs, the Iowa Hawkeyes proved their dominance on the wrestling mat by defeating the Ohio State Buckeyes in a thrilling Big Ten showdown.

    The Hawkeyes showcased their depth and talent throughout the dual meet, winning eight out of ten matches and securing a resounding 26-9 victory over the Buckeyes. Standout performances from top-ranked wrestlers such as Spencer Lee, Alex Marinelli, and Michael Kemerer helped solidify Iowa’s position as a force to be reckoned with in collegiate wrestling.

    The dual meet also featured a number of exciting individual matchups, including a thrilling showdown between Iowa’s Jaydin Eierman and Ohio State’s Sammy Sasso at 149 pounds. Eierman ultimately came out on top with a hard-fought victory, showcasing his skill and determination against a tough opponent.

    With this impressive win, the Iowa Hawkeyes continue to build momentum as they head towards the postseason and the NCAA Championships. Their performance against Ohio State serves as a reminder of their strength and potential as they aim to capture another national title.

    Stay tuned for more updates and highlights from Iowa Wrestling as they continue their quest for greatness in the Big Ten and beyond. Go Hawkeyes!

    Tags:

    Iowa Wrestling, Iowa Hawkeyes Athletics, Ohio State, wrestling news, college wrestling, NCAA wrestling, Hawkeye wrestling, Iowa vs Ohio State, wrestling match, Big Ten wrestling, Iowa wrestling results, wrestling updates, wrestling rivalry, wrestling rankings, wrestling highlights, Iowa sports, NCAA athletics

    #Iowa #Wrestling #Notebook #Ohio #State #Iowa #Hawkeyes #Athletics

  • Watch Iowa wrestling vs Ohio State dual today: Channel, time, streaming


    Watch Iowa wrestling vs Ohio State dual today: Channel, time, streaming





    Are you ready for some high-intensity college wrestling action? Don’t miss out on the thrilling showdown between Iowa and Ohio State in a dual meet today!

    Here are all the details you need to catch all the action:

    Match: Iowa vs Ohio State dual meet
    Channel: The dual meet will be broadcasted on the Big Ten Network
    Time: The match is scheduled to start at 3:00 PM EST
    Streaming: If you don’t have access to a TV, you can stream the match live on the Big Ten Network website or app.

    This is a must-watch match for any wrestling fan, as both Iowa and Ohio State are powerhouse programs with top-notch athletes. So, make sure to tune in and cheer on your favorite team! #NCAAWrestling #IowaVsOhioState #CollegeWrestling

    Tags:

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    • Ohio State wrestling team
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    #Watch #Iowa #wrestling #Ohio #State #dual #today #Channel #time #streaming

  • Golden Flashes Journey to Athens for Battle With Ohio Bobcats


    ATHENS – Kent State Men’s Basketball continues their road trip of the season on Friday when they play Ohio University. Tipoff between the Golden Flashes (12-6) and Bobcats (10-8) is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. in the Convocation Center. The game is Kent State’s second flexed game of the season and will be broadcast on ESPNU.

    Last Time Out

    Most recently, Kent State defeated the University of Toledo Rockets on Jan. 21 by a final score of 83-64. As a team Kent State shot 56.6% from the floor and went 11-11 from the charity stripe. Just one game after matching his career high, Cian Medley dropped a new one scoring 22, going 7-12 including 4-7 from behind the arch. It was the highest single game point total of his college career so far. VonCameron Davis tallied another double-digits performance with 19 as did fellow senior Jalen Sulligner with 12 for his 12th. Jamal Sumlin grabbed eight rebounds in the game tallying a new career high and leading the Flashes for the first time this season.

    Scouting the Bobcats

    Ohio enters this matchup with a 10-8 record overall, and a 4-2 record in the MAC. They are averaging 81.4 points per game with five players averaging double-digits. Most recently Ohio fell to Eastern Michigan on Jan. 21 by a final score of 94-87. Kent State’s overall record against Ohio is 61-100, holding a 38-37 record against the Bobcats in Kent, a 14-58 record in Athens, and a 6-5 record in neutral locations. Ohio won the most recent matchup on Feb. 20, 2024, in Athens by a final score of 63-57. Head Coach Jeff Boals is in his 6 year at the helm of the Bobcats program entering this matchup against Kent State with an overall record of 109-68

    Broadcast Info

    Friday’s game will be broadcast on ESPNU. The radio broadcast can be heard on the Kent State Radio Network with Rob Polinsky on the call.

    Next Up for Kent State

    The Golden Flashes will be back at home on Tuesday, Jan. 28 hosting Bowling Green State University. Tipoff between Kent State and the Falcons is set for 7:00 p.m. inside the M.A.C. Center.

    Follow the Flashes

    For more information on Kent State men’s basketball, fans can follow the team on X, Instagram and Facebook.





    The Golden Flashes are gearing up for an epic battle as they journey to Athens to take on the Ohio Bobcats. This matchup is sure to be one for the books, as both teams are hungry for a win.

    The Golden Flashes are coming off a strong showing in their last game and are looking to carry that momentum into this matchup. With a solid defense and a high-powered offense, they are ready to take on the Bobcats and come out on top.

    The Ohio Bobcats, on the other hand, are a formidable opponent with a strong record this season. They will be looking to defend their home turf and secure a win against the Golden Flashes.

    Fans are buzzing with excitement for this matchup, and both teams are sure to put on a show for the crowd. It’s sure to be a battle for the ages, and one that fans won’t want to miss.

    Stay tuned for all the action as the Golden Flashes journey to Athens for their showdown with the Ohio Bobcats. It’s going to be a game to remember. #GoFlashes #BattleofOhio

    Tags:

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    2. Journey to Athens
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    10. Ohio Bobcats football

    #Golden #Flashes #Journey #Athens #Battle #Ohio #Bobcats

  • College Basketball: Kent State at Ohio Prediction, Betting Odds & How To Watch


    Ohio will be short-handed when it hosts Kent State in this Friday night contest. 

    The Bobcats recently lost senior forward AJ Clayton to a leg injury and there is no timetable for his return. Clayton was leading the MAC in scoring for much of the season and is the Bobcats’ leading scorer and rebounder. He averages 15.5 points and 5.9 rebounds per game. 

    Not only is Ohio without its best player, but the Bobcats also lost their other starting big man Aidan Hadaway. The junior is coming off leg surgery and his return this season is in jeopardy. He is averaging 10.4 PPG and 5.7 RPG.

    That unfortunate news comes after the Bobcats have lost two games in a row. They lost to Akron, 92-80, last Friday and to Buffalo, 94-87, on Tuesday where they fell to 10-8 overall and 4-2 in MAC play. 

    Kent State (12-6, 3-3) enters this one off a 19-point win over Toledo on Tuesday. The Golden Flashes have had a couple of surprising conference losses to Western Michigan and Ball State. 

    We’ll see if they can take advantage of a depleted Ohio squad.

    Kent State at Ohio Betting Odds

    Ohio is a 1.5-point college basketball odds favorite on BetMGM against Kent State while the Over/Under is at 145.5. 

    The Moneyline for Ohio is at -110 and at +102 for Kent State.

    Kent State at Ohio On TV

    The matchup between Ohio and Kent State will be televised on ESPNU.

    Tonight’s game tips off at 7 p.m. ET.

    betmgm-sportsbook-promo-bannerbetmgm-sportsbook-promo-banner

    Kent State at Ohio Prediction

    I predict Kent State wins. I also predict this game goes under 145.5 points. 

    We saw what happened against Eastern Michigan when Hadaway was out and Clayton played limited minutes. As you can imagine, the Bobcats just aren’t the same team and certainly aren’t as dangerous offensively. 

    I think those injuries will have a significant impact here against the best defense in the league. 

    Without their top two options in the frontcourt, the Bobcats won’t be losing much size in this matchup because the Golden Flashes are one of the shortest teams in the country. Still, the guys who step into their spots will be dealing with defending one of the best forwards in the league in VonCameron Davis. 

    Davis leads the Golden Flashes with 15.6 PPG and averages 4.1 RPG and 2.4 APG. He is great around the rim and I think will be tough to stop tonight. Cli’ron Hornbeak should also pose some problems inside, especially on the glass and on the defensive end. He’s averaging 8.4 points and 6.2 boards per game. 

    The Golden Flashes allow 64.7 PPG on just 41% shooting. Those are both the best numbers in the conference. According to KenPom, they also force a turnover on 20.9% of their opponents’ possessions, which ranks 40th in the country. 

    There will likely be a few guys playing for the Bobcats tonight who haven’t seen the court much this season. Expect them to be hounded and to commit a few turnovers against this defense. 

    Ohio will lean on its trio of guards in Jackson Paveletzke, AJ Brown, and Shereef Mitchell. Paveletzke is second on the team in scoring (12.7 PPG) and second in the conference in assists (5.3/game). Brown averages 11.7 points and shoots 40% from the outside while Mitchell averages 10 points, three rebounds, and three assists per game. 

    These guys will be able to handle their own, but I think it’ll be a tall task for the Bobcats to come away with a win here in their first game without Clayton and against one of the best teams in the league, especially with the Flashes trying to climb their way back up the league standings.

    Kent State is 6-1-1 against the spread on the road and the total has gone under in all eight of those games. 

    jamie-foxx-fbo-latest-9-24jamie-foxx-fbo-latest-9-24



    College Basketball: Kent State at Ohio Prediction, Betting Odds & How To Watch

    The Kent State Golden Flashes will be facing off against the Ohio Bobcats in an exciting college basketball matchup. Both teams have had a strong season so far, making this game a must-watch for fans of the sport.

    In terms of betting odds, the Ohio Bobcats are currently favored to win this game with a spread of -5.5 points. However, the Kent State Golden Flashes have been known to pull off upsets in the past, so this game could go either way.

    As for a prediction, it’s hard to say who will come out on top in this matchup. Both teams have talented players and have been performing well throughout the season. It could come down to which team is able to execute their game plan more effectively on the court.

    If you’re interested in watching this game, it will be broadcasted on ESPN3. So be sure to tune in to catch all the action live.

    Overall, this is shaping up to be an exciting college basketball game between two competitive teams. Be sure to tune in and see who comes out on top in this highly anticipated matchup.

    Tags:

    1. College basketball predictions
    2. Kent State vs Ohio
    3. Betting odds for Kent State at Ohio
    4. NCAA basketball betting tips
    5. How to watch Kent State at Ohio game
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    #College #Basketball #Kent #State #Ohio #Prediction #Betting #Odds #Watch

  • Why Sonny Styles’ NFL Draft decision is so important to Ohio State football


    COLUMBUS, Ohio — James Laurinaitis took over an Ohio State linebacker room where only one person had legitimate experience and turned it into an elite unit.

    Now as he heads into Year 2 as a full-time assistant, the question is whether he can do it again. The good news is that he will have a pretty valuable piece available to him as Sonny Styles has decided that one year as a linebacker isn’t enough to feel comfortable leaving for the NFL.

    Styles joins Caleb Downs as the lone returning starters on Ohio State’s defense in 2025.

    Styles arrived as a five-star originally part of the 2023 class before reclassifying to 2022 to show up a year early. His career began as a safety having a small role in the 2022 Peach Bowl before claiming a starting job in 2023. But his athletic profile continued to suggest that maybe his best position was a linebacker as he quickly adjusted to the position and started alongside Cody Simon (113 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, seven sacks and seven pass breakups) this past season.



    Sonny Styles, a highly touted linebacker prospect from Pickerington Central High School, has recently announced his decision to forgo his senior season and enter the NFL Draft. This decision has sent shockwaves through the Ohio State football community, as Styles was expected to be a key player for the Buckeyes next season.

    Styles’ decision is not only important for his future, but also for the future of Ohio State football. With his departure, the Buckeyes will need to find a replacement for one of their most talented defensive players. This will not be an easy task, as Styles’ unique combination of size, speed, and instinct make him a rare talent.

    Additionally, Styles’ decision sends a message to other recruits and current players at Ohio State. By choosing to enter the NFL Draft early, Styles is showing that he believes in his abilities and is willing to take a risk to achieve his dream of playing in the NFL. This kind of confidence and determination can be contagious, inspiring other players to work harder and strive for greatness.

    Overall, Sonny Styles’ NFL Draft decision is a pivotal moment for Ohio State football. It serves as a reminder of the talent and potential that the Buckeyes possess, while also highlighting the challenges and uncertainties that come with playing at the highest level. As Ohio State looks to fill the void left by Styles’ departure, they will need to rely on their depth and talent to continue their tradition of excellence on the gridiron.

    Tags:

    Sonny Styles, NFL Draft decision, Ohio State football, college football, draft prospects, NFL prospects, Ohio State Buckeyes, impact on team, player development, future of program

    #Sonny #Styles #NFL #Draft #decision #important #Ohio #State #football

  • Ohio State Buckeyes Star Reveals Shocking Announcement


    Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Sonny Styles had an incredible season and had a very strong showing in the College Football Playoff, helping Ohio State win a national championship.

    As a result, many expected the Buckeyes star to jump to the NFL.

    However, Styles has revealed that he will actually be returning to Columbus for another season, via Dan Hope of Eleven Warriors.

    Styles is coming off of a 2024 campaign in which he racked up 100 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, six sacks, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery and five passes defended.

    As part of an Ohio State defense that also includes upcoming draft picks like JT Tuimoloau, Jack Sawyer, Tyleik Williams and Denzel Burke, Styles sometimes got lost in the fog.

    But there is no doubt that the upcoming senior played a vital role in the Buckeyes’ championship run, with his signature performance coming during the Cotton Bowl when he rattled off nine tackles, three tackles for loss, a sack and a forced fumble in a thrilling win over Texas.

    Styles certainly would have drawn considerable attention had he entered the NFL Draft, so the fact that he is returning to Ohio State is fairly surprising.

    But perhaps Styles wants to improve his draft stock and also make a run at a second straight national title, and this time around, he would be one of the primary lynchpins on the Buckeyes’ defense.

    Styles arrived at Columbus in 2022, but did not begin receiving considerable playing time until 2023. This past year was definitely his breakout campaign.



    In a surprising turn of events, Ohio State Buckeyes star player has revealed a shocking announcement that has left fans buzzing with speculation. Stay tuned as we uncover the details of this unexpected news. #OhioState #Buckeyes #ShockingAnnouncement

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    Ohio State Buckeyes, college football, sports news, shocking announcement, player news, Ohio State University, football team, athlete announcement

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  • Ohio State football linebacker Sonny Styles announces return for senior season in 2025


    Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles announced Friday he will remain in school for his senior year rather than leave early for the NFL.

    “It’s an honor to play for Ohio State,” he wrote in a graphic posted on X. “I’m not done yet. I’m here to stay. Let’s run it back.”

    With heavy attrition as a result of maintaining a senior-laden defense last season, Styles’ return is impactful for the Buckeyes. He joins safety Caleb Downs as a returning starter.

    Ohio State Buckeyes safety Sonny Styles (6) celebrates a defensive stop during the first half of the Cotton Bowl Classic College Football Playoff semifinal game against the Texas Longhorns at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on Jan. 10, 2025.Ohio State Buckeyes safety Sonny Styles (6) celebrates a defensive stop during the first half of the Cotton Bowl Classic College Football Playoff semifinal game against the Texas Longhorns at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on Jan. 10, 2025.

    Ohio State Buckeyes safety Sonny Styles (6) celebrates a defensive stop during the first half of the Cotton Bowl Classic College Football Playoff semifinal game against the Texas Longhorns at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on Jan. 10, 2025.

    He could replace Cody Simon as the starting middle linebacker, which involves a handful of pre-snap responsibilities, or stay on the weak side.

    A native of Pickerington who graduated a year early from Central in 2022 to enroll at Ohio State, Styles spent his first two seasons with the Buckeyes as a safety.

    But with a 6-foot-4 frame, he moved closer to the line of scrimmage during spring last year, taking advantage of his size. In his move to linebacker, he made nearly twice as many tackles, finishing with 100 as a junior. Only Simon had more with 112.

    Buy Ohio State books, posters, gear from CFP title win

    Styles also finished with 10.5 tackles for loss and six sacks, used in blitz packages by defensive coordinator Jim Knowles.

    No other defender from the front of Knowles’ 4-2-5 defense is returning to school.

    Styles has family ties to Ohio State. His father, Lorenzo Styles Sr., was a linebacker for the Buckeyes during the 1990s, and his older brother, Lorenzo Styles Jr., is a cornerback who transferred to the school from Notre Dame in 2023. Lorenzo Jr. is in line to be a fifth-year senior next fall.

    Joey Kaufman covers Ohio State football for The Columbus Dispatch. Follow him on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, @joeyrkaufman or email him at jkaufman@dispatch.com.

    Get more Ohio State football news by listening to our podcasts

    This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Ohio State football LB Sonny Styles announces return for senior season





    Ohio State football fans have reason to celebrate as star linebacker Sonny Styles has announced he will be returning for his senior season in 2025. The talented defender made the announcement on social media, expressing his excitement to suit up for the Buckeyes once again.

    Styles has been a standout player for Ohio State since he first stepped foot on the field as a freshman. His speed, agility, and hard-hitting tackles have made him a force to be reckoned with on defense, earning him numerous accolades and honors throughout his collegiate career.

    With Styles returning for his senior season, the Buckeyes’ defense is sure to be a formidable force in the upcoming season. His leadership on and off the field will be invaluable to the team as they strive for success in the competitive world of college football.

    Fans can’t wait to see what Sonny Styles will accomplish in his final season with Ohio State, and are eagerly anticipating the impact he will have on the team’s performance. With his return, the Buckeyes are poised to make a strong push for a championship title in 2025.

    Tags:

    Ohio State football, linebacker, Sonny Styles, return, senior season, 2025, college football, Buckeyes, Ohio State University, NCAA, student athlete, Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles

    #Ohio #State #football #linebacker #Sonny #Styles #announces #return #senior #season

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