Ohio State met with the media for roughly 15 minutes on Monday morning following the Buckeyes’ ninth practice of the spring, at which time he answered questions about the quarterback battle and other pressing issues surround him team.
Here’s a quick recap of what he said:
- Day said transfer quarterback Justin Fields has “made plays (this spring). Came out with a good attitude in terms of what it takes to be a quarterback preparation-wise.” Led to removal of his black stripe last week.
- Day said Fields makes plays with his arm and feet, and he has impressive ability to run the offense despite just nine practices into spring camp.
- Day said he doesn’t want to put expectations on when redshirt freshman wide receiver Kamryn Babb (knee) and fifth-year senior linebacker Justin Hilliard (Achilles) will return from their respective injuries. He’s focused solely on full recoveries under physical therapist Adam Stewart.
- Day mentioned Rutgers transfer Jonah Jackson as someone who will add versatility to the offensive line, especially in a unit that lacks depth. Can play both guard and center.
- Day does not plan to name a starter or leader in the quarterback competition between Fields and redshirt freshman Matthew Baldwin by the end of the spring. “We’ll see how it shakes out.” Wants to dive into the completion percentage comparison and other numbers soon, though.
- Josh Myers has carried over his strong close to last season into this spring. “He’s done a good job as he’s been in there so far.”
- Despite recent offensive line struggles, Day said Greg Studrawa remains on the staff because of his ability to develop linemen and recruit. Mentions incoming freshman center Harry Miller, specifically.
- Day said the installation of new defensive schemes has been solid and the unit is “about where we thought we’d be” under new co-coordinators Greg Mattison and Jeff Hafley. Adds the offensive has been “explosive” despite key departures, but needs to develop consistency.
- “I think they’re finding their rhythm,” Day said of the new defensive staff. Adds they’re becoming better and more confident each day.
- Day on fifth-year senior offensive lineman Branden Bowen: “His (left) leg is much further along now than it was in the fall and during the (December) bowl practice.” Bowen has been playing right and left tackle this spring, and has been solid in both spots.
- Though he’s letting coordinators call the plays this spring, Day plans to take over play-calling duties in the fall. Likes what he’s seen from the new staff and how they’ve meshed together.
- Day believes incoming freshman Harry Miller can compete at the center position right away. “He’s very intelligent.” Miller has been FaceTiming offensive line coach Greg Studrawa several times a week, including while on a mission trip in Nicaragua.
- Day said accuracy; ability to stand in the pocket and deliver the ball on time; and making good decisions in the run game are among hte traits they’re looking for in quarterbacks, both on the roster and in recruiting. Getting the team into the end zone is ultimately most important.
