Ohio State Head Coach Ryan Day Previews Nebraska

Ohio State head coach Ryan Day met with the media on Thursday afternoon to discuss his team’s final preparations ahead of Saturday’s game at Nebraska (7:30 p.m. on ABC).

Here’s a brief recap of what he had to say:

• Day said Nebraska quarterback Adrian Martinez has a similar skillset to Justin Fields, so the Buckeyes haven’t changed much in terms of their preparation on defense.
• Day said quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator Mike Yurcich has “a lot of juice.” Was particularly impressed with his pregame speech at Skull Session last Saturday.
• Day on quarterback transfer Gunnar Hoak, who has not lost has black stripe. “He’s had the challenge of coming in this summer and trying to pick this thing up.” He’s practicing at a high level, however, and needs to “keep learning the offense and practice at a high level and bring the meetings to the field.”
• Day said Ohio State’s offensive line did not grade out as champions against Miami (Ohio), partly because the did not play as many snaps as the previous three games.
• Day said Garrett Wilson and Jameson Williams have been given opportunities early because of the schedule. “They’re building depth for us.” Added Chris Olave showed up on the back end of last season after initially dealing with some homesickness, etc.
• Day said he appreciates the program’s culture and standing before he took over but understands that his job comes with even greater expectations because of it. Added Ohio State’s margin for error is “this,” holding his fingers about a half inch apart.
• Day said he wants the team to have a gradual ramp up toward kick off on Saturday. Doesn’t want anyone sitting in their beds all day, but also not to get too excited too early.
• Day said it’s important for the Buckeyes to get off to a fast start on Saturday, but they’ll have to play a full 60 minutes for the first time all year. Added they’ve been ahead of schedule in most of their games this season.
• Day’s message to the team involved how they handle adversity, a packed house, the crowd and potentially bad weather.
• Day said freshman wide receiver Garrett Wilson “made a statement” with his long punt return against Miami.
• On linebacker Baron Browning, Day said he’s matured and grown in his understanding of how he fits into the offense. “His effort so far has been excellent.”