Everyone wants to know about Carnell Tate and Jeremiah Smith's injuries, but Ryan Day hasn't shared a definitive answer.
When asked for an update on his star receivers on Wednesday, Day gave the same answer he gave on Tuesday: “They’re working hard to get back on the field.”
While Day declined to share any further updates about Tate and Smith, the Ohio State head coach said Julian Sayin has had "a full week of practice" after he landed awkwardly on his foot during the UCLA game and said CJ Donaldson looks "good" and "strong" after missing the UCLA game with an injury.
Here's a bullet-point recap of Day's brief press conference with the media:
- On Phillip Daniels' performance against UCLA after missing the Purdue game with an injury: "I thought it was a clean game. He knows he’s got to be playing at his best. Keep practicing well and continue to be locked in and focused. … It was good to see him back on the field.” Day said Daniels “makes a difference” when he’s on the field.
- Day said Ohio State is business-like, locked in and focused on its goals, which include becoming the first Ohio State team to win back-to-back titles. “They want to bring it every day. We’re chasing history.”
- When asked about Julian Sayin’s health status for Saturday’s game, Day said, “He’s had a full week of practice.”
- On Jaylen McClain: “His play, he’s physical. You can feel his presence when he’s out there. … I think he feeds off of Caleb; he’s watched Caleb. … He’s playing good football. … He’s a smart player, good ball skills, all of the above. He’s a major part of our defense.”
- On Carnell Tate and Jeremiah Smith’s injuries: “They’re working hard to get back on the field.” Day said he doesn’t have any further update than that.
- Day said CJ Donaldson is “good” and “strong” after missing the UCLA game with an injury. Day said Donaldson had a good day of practice on Wednesday.
- Day said he was encouraged by how hard Ohio State’s running backs ran during the UCLA game. He said the Buckeyes are always looking for balance on offense. “We’re always looking for balance, but the run game is something you got to pound on every day.”
