Datish gets first start for OSU



The former Howland standout opened at leftguard against Cincinnati.
By JOE SCALZO
VINDICATOR SPORTS STAFF
COLUMBUS -- It's been two years since Doug Datish last started a football game, but if you ask him, it was worth the wait.
"This was awesome," the Ohio State redshirt sophomore said following Saturday's 27-6 win over Cincinnati. "It's fun to be redshirted because you get the feel of everything and last year I was able to play a little bit. But it's fun to play.
"It's been a long process, but it's been great."
Datish, who graduated from Howland High in 2002, got his first college start at left guard and also had two plays at center, helping the Buckeyes roll up 462 yards of offense against the Bearcats.
"I've been watching these guys play my whole life, so it was great to have an opportunity to get out there," Datish said. "You're always a little nervous, but after you hit once, it's all over."
Datish was one of five new starters on Ohio State's offensive line, although two of them -- Rob Sims and Nick Mangold -- saw time last year.
"Rob and Nick have really done a great job helping all of us along," Datish said.
Zwick praises line play
The line played well as starting quarterback Justin Zwick was sacked just once and had time to throw most of the game.
"I thought they did a great job," Zwick, who was also making his first college start, said. "They stepped up and opened up some holes for the running game and I felt very comfortable in the pocket all game."
After a shaky start, Ohio State's running game got going as the Buckeyes rolled up 220 yards on the ground. Senior tailback Lydell Ross led the way with 17 carries for 142 yards.
"I have to give a lot of credit to the offensive line," Ross said. "They played very well and opened up some big holes for all three running backs."
Datish, a former all-state lineman for the Tigers, has gotten stronger and quicker in his two years in Columbus and has earned the respect of Ohio State's coaching staff.
Tressel lauds Datish
"I thought Doug did a good job for a first start," said OSU coach Jim Tressel. "He was a young guy who practiced the whole spring and preseason at left guard and then got thrown into center a little bit.
"Doug knows what we're doing, he studies it hard, he's a good athlete, he's got excellent movement. He's going to do nothing but get better and better."
Datish joins freshman DB Shaun Lane as the only two area players on Ohio State's roster. The last two Valley standouts at Ohio State -- running back Maurice Clarett and tight end Louis Irizarry -- are no longer with the team.
"I guess I'll just have to try and hold it down for the Mahoning Valley right now," Datish said, laughing.
He spent the week taking calls of encouragement from his friends and family back in Howland and also talked briefly after the game with Cincinnati freshman Cody Chappell, who graduated from Howland last year.
"I just need to keep working hard," Datish said. "If I do, I'll be as good as I can be."
scalzo@vindy.com

By using this site, you agree to our privacy policy and terms of use.

» Accept
» Learn More