Ohio State Football Coach Ryan Day recently sat down with reporters to discuss the upcoming quarterback battle and the team’s overall strength as they head into the 2023 training camp. As Day enters his fifth season in charge of the program, he is determined to end their two-year Big Ten title drought. Here are the key takeaways from Day’s conversation:
1. Quarterback Battle: The quarterback position is up for grabs as Kyle McCord and Devin Brown will split reps with the No. 1 offense at the start of practice. The competition will continue until one player emerges as the clear choice for the starting role. If no one takes the lead, both quarterbacks could see playing time in the season opener against Indiana.
2. Day’s Experience: Day reflected on his own experience as a player at New Hampshire, where he went through a quarterback competition and started games without fully solidifying his position until a few weeks in. He emphasized the importance of gaining playing experience to allow instincts to take over. Additionally, Day acknowledged that he overloaded C.J. Stroud with responsibilities in his second start, leading to some critical mistakes. He learned the importance of relying on the defense and running game to support a young quarterback.
3. The Eye Test: While coaches rely on various metrics to evaluate players, Day highlighted the significance of the eye test when it comes to the quarterback battle. Decision-making and competitiveness on the field are crucial factors for determining the best candidate for the position. Day cited examples of Dwayne Haskins Jr., Justin Fields, and C.J. Stroud’s performances in specific games to emphasize the importance of these qualities.
4. Team’s Full Strength: After a spring with several players out or limited, the team is now at full strength. Day expressed satisfaction with the depth of talent on the roster, which allows for healthy competition across various positions. The emphasis is on fostering a competitive environment throughout the offseason and beyond.
5. Improved Secondary: Day commended the secondary’s progress, noting their competitiveness against the talented receiving corps during the summer. Their ability to disrupt passes and make plays is a significant improvement compared to the past three seasons. Day specifically singled out cornerbacks Denzel Burke and Jordan Hancock, as well as freshman safety Malik Hartford, for their strong offseason performances.
6. Brian Hartline’s Role: Day clarified that there won’t be a sudden transition in terms of Brian Hartline’s responsibility as the offensive coordinator. While Hartline has been elevated to the role, Day stressed that the play-calling aspect is the least important part of the job. The coordinator’s primary focus lies in organizing the offense during the week and preparing for different defensive looks from opponents.
7. Uncertainty Regarding Nigel Glover: Day refrained from commenting on Nigel Glover, indicating ongoing uncertainty related to the NCAA compliance process. Glover, a transfer from Northwestern, announced his decision to join Ohio State, but it seems there are still unresolved matters that prevent Day from discussing the situation openly.
Overall, Day’s outlook for the upcoming season is optimistic, and he is eager to see how the quarterback battle unfolds during training camp. He recognizes the importance of player development and competition within the team. With a renewed focus, especially on the quarterback position and secondary, Day aims to lead Ohio State to regain their position at the top of the Big Ten.
