"We may have lost the BCS title game (last year)," Gholston explained, "but it's been a great experience for me playing the game at the highest level. The community, university and alumni really love football. There cannot be a better situation for college football in the country."

"For his size, he has excellent explosion and movement," Tressel said. "He's a humble, respectful man and he's bright. He's a special guy."

"I knew I would be playing the 'Leo' when I came here," said Gholston, who runs a 4.56 in the 40. "Sometimes I stand up and other (times) I'm down. I feel I can cover in the field or rush the passer."

In the process, the Buckeyes earned a Rose Bowl bid (although the BCS national championship game still is a possibility). Whether OSU plays in the Rose Bowl or a BCS bowl game, Gholston will have a chance to break the Buckeyes' single-season record for sacks.

College football -- Ohio State University