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

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.