Ryan Day speaks to the media during training camp on Thursday. Photo credit: Sam Cipriani | Assistant Sports Editor
The only thing separating the Buckeyes from their first official game of the week is an intra-team practice game on Saturday.
After a productive fall training camp, head coach Ryan Day emphasized the importance of the team’s success in adding depth in August, but also noted that those skills need to translate to the field when it really matters.
Here are updates from Day’s press conference on Thursday.
New starting punter
Day announced that freshman Nick McLarty will be the Buckeyes’ starting punter in 2024.
“His ability to kick the ball has really improved,” Day said. “That was one thing, he’s a bigger guy so the ball has to get off his foot quicker. I think he’s done that. His hang time has been good and he’s been more consistent.”
“Bigger” is an understatement for McLeary.
The Melbourne-born Australian stands 6ft 7in and used to play Australian Rules Football, but Day admitted it wasn’t the easiest transition into college football.
“He settled in well in the country, but he also just played football,” said Day. “And not Australian Rules Football, which is very, very different.”
Expectations for the offensive line
After a disappointing season last year, Ohio State’s offensive line has something to prove in 2024.
The only question mark remaining on the O-line is right guard. Day has had high praise for junior offensive lineman Tegra Tshabola in recent weeks, but isn’t ready to name a starter at that position yet.
“I think he’ll definitely play guard – whether he’s in the starting lineup is something we’ll probably decide here on Saturday,” Day said.
Day expressed his clear goals for the offensive line in 2024.
“We just have to play full steam ahead, push people back and play physical,” Day said. “And that’s the beginning of the game and that’s the end of the game.”
Day said he is happy with the current situation, but acknowledged that they need to meet Ohio State’s expectations of having an elite offensive line.
“We’ll see what we get this year, but I think we have some really good young players in the system,” Day said. “I think we should have the best offensive line in the country. That’s been the standard here for a long time and we’re going to continue to strive for that this year.”
Lots of compliments for Will Howard
Quarterback Will Howard was named the team’s starter on August 16. The transfer from Kansas State has always stood out because of his size: 6’4″ and 235 lbs.
“That’s the first thing you notice about him. He stands in the pocket with composure. I think that’s another trait he has that’s outstanding,” Day said. “He feels the rush, but he stands right there.”
Day also highlighted Howard’s speed, which allows for a deadly combination that most athletes his size and weight do not possess.
“I think the next trait is just his top end speed,” Day said. “At that size, he can run 22 miles an hour, not many guys can do that. So I think that’s an exceptional trait.”
Day recently mentioned Howard’s leadership qualities as well as his potential to throw the ball far. He hopes his quarterback graduate can become a leader not only for the offense, but for the entire squad.
“His leadership and his command in the huddle is something he’s really developed over the last few months that he’s been here,” Day said. “And then his accuracy, he’s been very accurate since he’s been here. And when he knows what’s going on and he can anticipate what’s going to happen, it looks right. You just feel it.”
