DaytonDailyNews.com

COLUMBUS — Kurt Coleman knows a black jersey on a quarterback means he's off-limits, but the Ohio State starting safety couldn't pass up a clean shot at Todd Boeckman during a preseason practice last year.

"I came on a blitz and tackled him," said the Northmont High School graduate, who was chewed out for his lapse in judgment. "I learned my lesson."

Coleman and other defenders will be playing two-handed touch again with Boeckman during his two quarters in the spring game today, April 19, but they won't have to hold back when the reserves are under center. Antonio Henton and Joe Bauserman will play three periods each in gamelike conditions, giving Buckeye fans a chance to size up the battle for the No. 2 QB spot.

Three other things fans can expect to see:

Plenty of tailback Brandon Saine. The sophomore-to-be from Piqua has been running boldly and is a threat as a receiver, and he's even seen action as a lead blocker in the team's "pony" formation. Coach Jim Tressel called Saine "a jack of all trades and master of a lot."

Intensity. They may be teammates, but OSU players will be going full bore until the whistle blows. The Buckeyes are looking for a third receiver, right tackle and strong-side linebacker, and competition is keen at several other spots, too.

A massive turnout. OK, the spring-game record of 75,301 may be safe, but the OSU faithful likely will show up again in droves even without ideal weather. The forecast calls for thundershowers and a high of 67 degrees.

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2125

or at dharris@DaytonDailyNews.com.

Spring game

What: Ohio State spring football game

When: 1 p.m. today (follows 11 a.m. lacrosse match)

Where: Ohio Stadium

Cost: $5 (no charge for fans 6 and younger)

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