Ohio State Buckeyes

DE JOHN SIMON SENIOR

A powerful and relentless pass rusher who has played tackle and end in Luke Fickell's defense, the 6' 2", 260-pound Simon was a third-team All-America last year when he finished fifth in the conference in sacks (7.0) and tied for seventh in tackles for loss (16.0).

FB ZACH BOREN SENIOR

Urban Meyer hasn't had much use for fullbacks in the past, but he's identified Boren as one of his best players and will use him as a blocker and a pass catcher. In three seasons—two as a starter—Boren has 20 receptions.

BREAKOUT PLAYER

LB CURTIS GRANT SOPHOMORE

A big bopper is ready to make a smashing impact

After being brought along slowly, playing primarily on special teams as a freshman, the nation's top linebacker recruit in the class of 2011 could emerge as one of the nation's premier defenders. A ferocious hitter with outstanding range, the 6' 3" 235-pounder impressed mightily during spring drills and earned the starting job at middle linebacker.