After perfect season, Ohio State and coach Urban Meyer have holes to fill, leaders to find

COLUMBUS, Ohio – New year, new look, some regrets but high hopes.

That's what the Ohio State Buckeyes face as they open spring practices on Tuesday.

Many of the team's best-known and most talented players return from last year's 12-0, turnaround season, including Sports Illustrated cover boy Braxton Miller, along with running back Carlos Hyde, linebacker Ryan Shazier and defensive back Bradley Roby.

But there are also holes to fill — and they're not necessarily easily patched with just any player. Defensive lineman John Simon and fullback/linebacker Zach Boren not only played well, but were the heart of a team that bounced back from seven losses in 2011.

Second-year coach Urban Meyer may be more concerned with finding leaders than personnel after the standard set by last year's seniors.