The Sporting News college football preview is out and with it, its preseason All-American squads. As you’d expect, Ohio State is well represented with three total players appearing. Remember, this isn’t a mock draft or player ranking, but a look at the best players in college football for 2020 at their respective positions.
So who made it from the Buckeyes? It’s really a repeat of what we’ve seen from other publications and websites during the preseason prediction circuit. Bill Bender picked a First Team, Second Team, and Third Team like most other All-American teams.
You could argue there’s a couple of OSU players missing from this list, but having three is still a pretty good showing.
Here’s how it all played out for those wearing scarlet and gray.
Next … An anchor on the offensive line
Wyatt Davis, First Team – Offensive Line
What Bill Bender says
“Davis emerged as a force on Ohio State’s offensive line last season and led the way for a dominating rushing attack. The 6-4, 315-pound guard started in all 14 games and will be the same reliable fixture for the Buckeyes this season.”
Next … Another First Team cornerback
Shaun Wade, First Team – Defensive Back
What Bill Bender says
“Wade is next in line off the first-round cornerback assembly line in Columbus. He bypassed the NFL Draft and has a chance to improve on a stellar redshirt sophomore season. Wade is a consistent tackler in run support and will ensure that first-round status with a few more picks.”
Next … A Second Team playmaker at quarterback
Justin Fields, Second Team – Quarterback
It’s interesting to me that most predictions and opinions have Trevor Lawrence as the clear No. 1 QB for 2020 when Fields had a much better year statistically in just the first year in the system under Ryan Day. I get that his size and measurable make him an enticing pick at the next level, but I wouldn’t be surprised at all if Fields outduels him again this fall.
We’ll just have to wait and see what happens. It’s one thing to be picked as a preseason All-American, but nobody awards anything for that. What matters is what happens during the season.
