Ohio State Football: Tyler Moeller Granted Sixth Year of Eligibility

Tyler Moeller isn't finished playing football for The Ohio State Buckeyes, and it's not because he's discovered a miracle healing agent for the torn pectoral muscle that ended his 2010 season.  Instead, the NCAA granted Moeller a second redshirt that will allow him a sixth year of eligibility.

Moeller's career as a Buckeye has been a long strange trip.  Moeller was the state of Ohio's Division I player of the year in 2005, before choosing to attend Ohio State.  In 2006, the Buckeyes chose to redshirt Moeller, so he could gain some size.  In 2007, Moeller was listed as a linebacker, but played mostly special teams.  His highlight was blocking a punt against Youngstown St. early in the year. 

In 2008, Moeller was again listed as a reserve linebacker, and was an absolute terror on special teams.  His rough and tumble play earned him his first start against Illinois where he made seven tackles and forced a fumble.  Again, Moeller made an impact, showcasing a nose for the ball, and a playing with a  wreckless abandon.

In 2009, Moeller was assaulted outside a restaurant prior to the season, suffering a head injury that would keep him out the entire season.  Initially, there were questions about whether or not he would ever play again.  Fortunately, those questions were answered in 2010, when Moeller became the most impactful player on the Ohio State defense.

This season, Moeller played safety for the Buckeyes, but really found his niche in the "star" position, as the fifth defensive back.  Ohio State had him rove a bit, and he became a nightmare for opposing defenses.  In four games, Moeller had 45 tackles, two forced fumbles, and an interception.  As a hybrid safety/linebacker, he was a game-changer, and the defense took a major hit when it lost him against Illinois.

Now, thanks to the NCAA, the heart of the defense will get a chance to beat for one more season.