Ohio State Football: Buckeyes Ready to Utilize Tight Ends in Passing Game

The need for a tight end in Ohio State's passing game has not been necessary lately.

It is now.

Jake Stoneburner and backup Reid Fragel combined for 30 receptions, 343 yards and three touchdowns in 2010. Both are now back this season with high expectations.

“We like to think we’re one of the best in the country,” Stoneburner said, according to the Columbus Dispatch. “Me and Reid, we’ve been on the field and made some plays. And both the freshmen coming in are unbelievable athletes.”

Those freshmen consist of Jeff Heuerman and Nick Vannett, who stand tall at 6'5" and 6'6" each. Both are consistent with the air-game and have the potential to make an immediate impact on the Buckeyes' offense.

With last year's leading receiver Dane Sanzenbacher having left for the NFL and DeVier Posey suspended for the first five regular-season games, implementing the tight end into the passing game may be required.

It doesn't help that the quarterback situation still isn't resolved, as fifth-year senior Joe Bauserman and true freshman Braxton Miller continue to battle for the starting spot. Neither have started a college football game before.

Prominence of the ground game is inevitable, meaning two tight-end sets and short-game passing is sure to follow. This provides a possible forecast for Stoneburner and Fragel to have an effective season.

The Dispatch reports that offensive coordinator Jim Bollman has been impressed with all tight ends so far in 2011.

“Those guys are really talented,” he said. “Reid and Jake will be a good tandem of guys to use, and the young guys are very good also.”

Ohio State is undoubtedly heading into the season with a different vibe. However, the aspirations of a Big Ten championship are still in place.

And Luke Fickell still plans on achieving that goal.