2009 Ohio State Captains Announced

The Ohio State football team announced on Friday that seniors Kurt Coleman, Austin Spitler and Doug Worthington were named captains for the 2009 season, as elected by teammates. An offensive captain will be selected on a weekly basis.

By Mark Silverman

It is the first time that the Buckeyes have had all defensive players as elected captains since Mike Doss and Donnie Nickey captained the 2002 Buckeyes to the national championship.

Spitler has been thrusted into a leadership role even with minimal playing experience. The fifth-year senior was dealt a tough hand when he came to Ohio State, playing behind both A.J. Hawk and James Laurinaitis, for the majority of his career. Spitler has paid his dues and will finally receive the opportunity to start at middle linebacker.

A little more than a year ago, Worthington was arrested for driving under the influence. Now, he’s a captain. It is a testament to Worthington’s character and proves that he has the respect of his teammates. A returning starter with plenty of experience, Worthington should make his leadership felt on and off the field. Safety is not a concern with this group of Buckeyes and Coleman will not only lead in the locker room, but also with his big play ability. It’s just a matter of time, if not already, before Coleman is the face of the silver bullets.

The trio lead will lead the Buckeyes into battle this Saturday for the season-opener against Navy.