Ohio State's Spring Injury Problem Isn't as Bad as It Seems

Ohio State has had a tough stretch of injuries this spring, dating back to their Orange Bowl loss to Clemson. Injuries are an unfortunate part of the game and it happens to just about every team at one point or another. 

This time, the football gods' roulette wheel just happened to land on Columbus, Ohio. 

Via Bill Rabinowitz of The Columbus Disptach, Buckeyes coach Urban Meyer confirmed Tuesday that tight end Jeff Heuerman will miss the rest of spring practice after having foot surgery for a sprain on Monday. 

"It’s six weeks in a cast (and then) boot, and we should have him ready to go full-speed in June," Meyer said (via The Dispatch). 

Jay LaPrete

In a text message to The Dispatch, Heuerman—who finished third on the team last year with 26 receptions and 466 receiving yards—said the procedure was "just minor surgery" and that he would be "back in no time."

In addition to Heuerman, Ohio State is without quarterback Braxton Miller (shoulder), receiver Evan Spencer (leg) and defensive back Vonn Bell (knee). There are other injuries, of course, but those are the biggest losses. 

So how big of a deal is this really? It's not ideal, that's for sure. It's also not as bad as it could be. 

Bell, Heuerman, Miller and Spencer should all be back in time for fall practice. Bell could really have used the reps during spring considering the youth in the secondary, but Heuerman, Miller and Spencer are all veteran players. This isn't their first go-around in spring drills. While every practice is an opportunity to get better—an opportunity these players are missing—no one is doubting Miller's or Heuerman's ability. 

Jay LaPrete

It's not like these jobs are largely up for grabs. 

In other words, the Buckeyes' offense shouldn't miss too much of a beat in 2014 because some parts were missing in the spring. As B/R's Michael Felder previously pointed out, Miller can still grow in the mental aspect of the game, even if he's not physically taking part in drills. 

According to Meyer, Heuerman will still play a prominent role in developing other players.  “He’ll be a captain of our team and a guy who leads our team,” Meyer said, courtesy of Kyle Rowland of ElevenWarriors.com. 

You have to feel a little for Ohio State. Injuries are the worst. However, Meyer doesn't seem too concerned about them since the numbers are about the same as in previous years. 

Until Meyer expresses more anxiousness, there's not much for Buckeye fans to worry about. 

Ben Kercheval is a lead writer for college football at Bleacher Report. All quotes cited unless obtained firsthand.