Since the p.r. machine for these things is well underway, we might as well jump on the bandwagon and take a look at at what could be. And while we’ve all heard the talk about Chris Wells as a top Heisman contender, there are a couple of other Buckeyes who in November, could find themselves in the running.

My top Ohio State Heisman candidates other than Wells:

1) James Laurinaitis

If Laurinaitis continues to improve at the rate he has the past few years, no question he could be in the hunt for the Heisman. Voters at the Big Ten Network have him as the top candidate other than Benie Wells in Big Ten. For Laurnaitis to be seriously considered though, the Buckeye defense is going to have to be incredible. One long drive like Illinois last year or a game like last year’s BCS and he’s out of the running.

However, if the Buckeyes can play Tressleball style defense like the did in 2002, if we can return to the days when a punt was an offensive play or an interception results in positive yardage, then you won’t be able to overlook Laurinaitis. Granted of course, he continues to be the defensive leader he has shaped up to be.

2) Todd Beockman

In order for Boeckman to have a shot he needs to come out of the gate hitting it and he needs to hit it hard. If Beockman can be on from day one and lead the Buckeyes to a BCS Championship, then yeah, I think he’s got a shot. A few less turnovers and an increase the yardage by a just a small percentage over last year and he’s in the hunt.

A warning to Beockman though — hesitate for a minute and there’s a young freshman waiting in the wings for his chance. Give it to him and you may not get it back.

USA today has Beockman as a sleeper.

3) Brian Robiskie

Yeah, it’s a long shot but I like the way Robiskie plays. He’s got speed up the middle and he sure can seem to pull them out from between a couple of defenders. The thing is, he’s going to need some impressive long balls to get a Heisman nod and if he’s getting the long balls, it’s probably because Beockman is throwing them. If Beockman is throwing them, Beockman will be the Heisman candidate getting the attention.

4) Malcom Jenkins

When Laurinaitis pressures the quarterback, Jenkins is there to pick up the bad pass that follows. He’ll need some impressive interceptions and forced turnovers to find his way into the Heisman hunt but that’s not to say it’s completely out of the question. An exceptional season on a BCS Championship taem, along with a few impressive gaffes among other more anticipated Heisman favorites and he Jenkins could get a look.

When it comes down to it, face it, all this speculation gives us something to do during the waining months of August. However, it does show us one thing — Ohio State is absolutely loaded with talent. It’s pretty safe to say that the Buckeyes have about the most talent in college football. Regardless of what may have happened the past two years, it’s going to be a good season for Ohio State football.