Top 5 Seniors Entering 2017

1. QB J.T. Barrett, Ohio State

2016 was a rough season for Ohio State quarterback J.T. Barrett, but not in the way most would think. Some questioned his accuracy, his ability to pass the ball in big games, I mean, after a 31-0 shutout, wouldn’t you? He threw two interceptions and threw for just 127 passing yards on 19-for-33 passing.

But many forget about 2014, when Barrett was the starter. He threw for 2,834 passing yards and 34 touchdowns to the likes of receivers Devin Smith and Michael Thomas.

This season, the Buckeyes lacked a big time target at receiver on offense and still made the College Football Playoff. Barrett had to do a majority of the work with his legs to make a play. On top of throwing for 2,555 passing yards and 24 passing touchdowns, he also ran for 845 rushing yards and nine touchdowns.

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In the Buckeyes’ two losses in 2016, Barrett’s pass completion percentage is 61.8 percent. In all their victories, it is 61.4 percent. What it comes down to is the Buckeyes’ offensive line, which regressed in 2016. The offensive line allowed 28 sacks last season. They allowed 19 total sacks in 2015.

With his return in 2017, improved protection in the passing game is certainly on Barrett’s wishlist. He also returns an experienced wide receiver in Noah Brown, who made some spectacular catches at the beginning of 2016. They’ll face Oklahoma again in 2017 along with their usual Big Ten foes so it should be another interesting ride. Look for Barrett to have an explosive season after their 31-0 drubbing against Clemson.