Ryan Day Discusses Ohio State’s Win Over Rutgers, Upcoming Game At Maryland

Ohio State head coach Ryan Day met remotely with the media on Tuesday afternoon to discuss the Buckeyes’ 49-27 win over Rutgers, the upcoming tilt with Maryland and more.

Here’s a bullet-point recap of what Day had to say:

On battle at the line of scrimmage, Day said “it was kind of a mixed bag.” Noted they saw some movement along the defensive line that forced them into penalties, but otherwise felt they controlled the line well.
When asked about being balanced on offense, Day said that 200+ yards rushing is a “pretty good day” despite the perception that they’re pass heavy.
Day credited the play of tight ends Luke Farrell and Jeremy Ruckert, particularly in blocking and in the red zone. “12 Personnel has given us some things that we think we can attack some teams with.”
Day said they wanted to get younger players in against Rutgers and he’s worried about the lack of reps for depth purposes. “I was worried about it without a spring, without a preseason and without a non-conference season. There are a lot of reps that just haven’t been had by our younger players.”
Day said they considered pulling quarterback Justin Fields out of the game at halftime to get his backups some reps, but acknowledged “you just never know what’s going to happen.”
On running back Trey Sermon: “He’s getting better with each opportunity.” Added they plan to have him at practice this week after suffering a late injury.
Day mentioned Fields playing multiple sports growing up help his anticipation under pressure, timing and sequencing. “I was impressed with his poise and play in the pocket (against Rutgers).”
On injured kicker Blake Haubeil (groin): “He’s still taking it day-by-day.” Said he was impressed with Jake Seibert’s effort on PATs. “He looked confident out there.” Added they’re anxious to get him into a game to see his range.
Day praised wide receiver Garrett Wilson. “His ball skills and change of direction are excellent.” Said is ceiling is as high as he wants it to be.
Day said right tackle Nicholas Petit-Frere would be in the conversation to be the most improved player on the team.
On safety Marcus Hooker: “He has to be the ultimate eraser.”
On younger cornerbacks like Ryan Watts playing due to the injury to Cameron Brown and lack of depth: “I think they’re going to have to (play). There’s going to be good plays and there’s going to be bad plays, but they’re going to have to learn.”
Any concern about potentially signing a five-star quarterback in back-to-back cycles. “When you come to Ohio State, you come to compete. If you don’t want to compete, this isn’t the place for you.”
On Maryland: “They’re playing really well and with a lot of confidence. They’re definitely better than they’ve been.”
“I’m really not disappointed in anything, to be honest with you. We just want perfection, and we’re not there yet.”
On Terrapins quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa: “I think he does a good job getting the ball out of his hands. I think he has the ‘it factor’ his brother (Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua) has.”
Day said he’s uncertain how quickly freshman cornerback Lejond Cavazos will get up to speed when he returns from injury.

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