Muse Machine rehearsal
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Run straight? Saine can do that and a whole lot more
Sunday, April 13, 2008
COLUMBUS — We didn't even bring up Brandon Saine. Jim Tressel did.
After the Ohio State football team went through a chilly scrimmage Saturday morning, April 12 — some joked the only reason the coach opened it to the media was because he knew we would shiver — Tressel discussed its highlights. First among his player comments was Saine, the former Ohio Mr. Football from Piqua High School.
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Some might be surprised to hear Tressel praise Saine because the burner who still holds the state's record in the 100 meters didn't have the jaw-dropping plays many expected after he used his considerable size and speed to whet imaginations with high school highlights.
Some felt coming out of high school that Saine lacked the natural running back instincts to star in the Big Ten. Indeed. He's much more useful than that.
That was Tressel's message Saturday when asked further about Saine, that he and the coaches have been impressed with his performance considering all they ask him to do. Block. Catch passes. Outrun defenders. Run over people.
This is a 6-foot-1, 217-pound player who should do much more than just take a handoff and find a hole. He's a decoy, a game-breaker, a selfless teammate, a natural athlete if there ever was one.
What he's not, yet, is a highlight reel. But, with three years to go.
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-7389 or
knagel@DaytonDailyNews.com.
