Ohio State Football: 4 Buckeyes Set to Break Out in 2012

The Ohio State Buckeyes are banned from postseason play in 2012, but that does not negate their absurd amount of talent on both sides of the ball.

The Buckeyes return a plethora of starters on both sides of the ball. These players will flex their muscle throughout the season, making teams tremble for their pending eligibility. 

Many Buckeye players will have great seasons in 2012, but these players will take their game to new levels. 

Devin Smith, WR

Smith will be Braxton Miller's top option in 2012. Last season he snagged 14 balls for nearly 300 yards and four touchdowns. 

The Buckeyes desperately needed a vertical threat last season, and their pass offense suffered because of it. Smith will provide that in his sophomore season.

Smith's lanky 6'3'' frame allows him to grab the ball over smaller defenders. He is a raw athlete who excels at snatching the ball at its apex. His leaping ability is a luxury on passes down the field. 

Smith is stronger and more experienced entering 2012. He will enjoy a massive year in Urban Meyer's offense because of Braxton Miller's continued development. 

Buckeye fans enjoyed Smith last season despite their meager passing statistics. They will enjoy him even more next season as he racks up nearly 1,000 yards receiving.

Curtis Grant, LB

Grant only played in two games last season. Grant's skill-level is too high for the Buckeyes to keep him off the field any longer.

Grant was extremely touted coming into Ohio State but sat behind more experienced players last season. Now, he has a year of college under his belt and is ready to contribute. 

Grant's ability to drop into coverage or wreak havoc in the backfield will catch the attention of Buckeye fans immediately. They have anticipated his contributions and are eager to see what he will add to a stout defense. 

The Buckeyes have a ton of speed on defense. Grant is no different. He flies from sideline to sideline and chases down ball-carriers in the open field. 

Grant will have a breakout year in 2012 as he makes himself more familiar with Big Ten competition. By the time the Buckeyes are bowl eligible, he will be a star.

Braxton Miller, QB

Miller had a solid freshman season in 2011, but will really hit his stride in 2012. Urban Meyer's offense is tailor-made for Miller's abilities.

Ohio State's passing offense sputtered for the majority of last season. Miller never seemed too comfortable and his passing efficiency suffered. Meyer's offense will make Miller feel more comfortable and his production will increase exponentially.

Miller is not ready to lead the Buckeyes to a championship. He will be by the time the Buckeyes are eligible. 

Miller's dual-threat presence allows Meyer to call the extent of his playbook without worry. Miller has exceptionally quick feet and loves to create plays outside of the pocket. 

Expect Miller's accuracy and pocket presence to take huge steps forward next season. He will be more polished, efficient and exciting in 2012.

Michael Bennett, DE

Bennett will see a lot of time opposite John Simon on Ohio State's defensive line. Bennett will be a sophomore in 2012 and ready to turn some heads. 

Bennett is a powerful defensive end with an impressive frame. He weighs 280 pounds and uses his strength to own the point of attack. 

Ohio State's run defense is known for its unforgiving approach. No yards come easy. Players like Bennett are a big reason for that. 

Do not let Bennett's frame fool you. He is strong, but also quick enough to punish opposing players in the backfield. He has a developing punch which will only get better as he gains more experience.

Bennett appeared in 13 games last season, racking up 17 tackles and three sacks. He has had an excellent spring and will earn more playing time as the 2012 season rolls along.