This Hall of Fame luncheon was particularly special and not simply because the scheduled guest speaker. Sure, Urban Meyer was the big draw and for good reason, but after another fantastic meal and pre-speech camaraderie that only Tozzi’s on 12th can offer, the packed house was introduced to Derrick Brooks by new HOF President David Baker. Derrick Brooks, the FSU alum and newly announced Hall of Famer, was gracious and extremely appreciative upon hearing that nearly 5,000 Canton area residents volunteer during the Hall of Fame induction ceremony. Brooks took the time to say that “I look forward to joining your team now.” He ended his quick, but enjoyable visit by saying “Although I can’t say go Ohio State, I will say good luck to you.” To which the crowd gave a very hearty laugh! Moments later, Coach Meyer was excitedly introduced and the history lesson began.
Coach Meyer, and his unique charisma immediately captivated the room. He immediately opened his talk by saying “ Not only is the coach from Ohio and very proud of that fact, but he now has a son that is coming up on high school football himself. As Coach Meyer said, it has become personal now and his son “will be coached” in Ohio. Coach Meyer stated several times that his frustration with Ohio high school football is the restrictions that coaches have in this state. Compared to coaches in the South, (Meyer directly noted Texas) Ohio has rules that are too restrictive. Ohio doesn’t allow coaches the time with the athletes that’s needed. He believes that there are now people in the Ohio football landscape that will see that the proper changes happen very soon. After being asked by a luncheon member what would happen if the younger Meyer had interest in going to the school up North, Urban was quick to point out that there are 3 truths in life. Death, taxes, and his son will NOT attend the school up North.
Getting back to the history lesson, Coach Meyer was adamant during his speech that Ohio is where football started and recited specific dates in which the now NFL was founded and even when what became the Super Bowl was initially discussed. He delivered resounding words that drove home that our community should continue to embrace that WE ARE FOOTBALL. In going out into our communities, local and afar, we should really be proud of our football heritage and strive to build upon the roots of what Coach Meyer described as “America’s real national pastime.”
Coach Meyer is taking on a new mantra, in regards to his future team’s plans. He is striving to build Unit Leaders and not coaches. He wants to see OSU become 9 units strong. “A team with 6 solid units will be good but if all 9 units are strong, there is no stopping us.” Coach Meyer was quick to credit Tom Kite, a person Meyer describes as “the most interesting man I’ve ever met,” with assisting in this addition. Mr. Kite has helped facilitate the 9 units strong concept in conjunction with Coach Meyer’s already well known “team before self” philosophy. Before ending his question and answer portion of the talk, Coach Meyer gave thanks to the largest luncheon club in America but insisted we show our appreciation for the school up North by not attending next week when Michigan Head Coach Brady Hoke is scheduled to speak. In hearing that, the crowd gave a mighty roar of “Go Bucs.” Upon stating his request he quickly proceeded to leave to an inspired crowd that certainly bleeds Scarlet and Gray!
Urban Meyer Notes on Ohio State Football:
- Braxton Miller’s injury is healing well and he should be back to full health soon. He expects by June, Braxton should be good to go.
- Keeping on Braxton, the coach felt that his growth has been impressive and he now simply needs to focus his eyes on a team’s secondary and not the pass rush. “Young QB’s tend to notice the pass rush too much.”
- OSU has 2 NFL prospects at TE this season so the expectation is more passing. Coach Meyer feels the TE position will be utilized a lot more this season compared to season’s past.
- OSU’s Australian punter will/should be an All-American soon, however, OSU is “all about going for it and scoring touchdowns.”
- Upon getting reminded of Penn State’s head coach’s statement on dominating recruitment battles in Big Ten territory, Coach Meyer replied that “we are in street fights with Penn State over recruitment” and that the OSU family should feel confident that we will win plenty.
- OSU is taking on a complete defensive overhaul, terminology included. Coach Meyer said he is an expert in getting his players “to go hard.” They are young but the effort will be there.
- OSU has the best receiving corps that Meyer has had at Ohio State. He is excited to see the capabilities with a more seasoned Miller and more balanced offense that isn’t carried by the running back.