Ryan Day's State of the Buckeyes / Ohio State Primetime LIVE 82 Podcast By cover art

Ryan Day's State of the Buckeyes / Ohio State Primetime LIVE 82

Ryan Day's State of the Buckeyes / Ohio State Primetime LIVE 82

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Opening & Overall Tone Intro: Standard VOCFB promo — visit vocfb.com for writers/schedule and vocfb.shop for Buckeye gear (koozies, mugs, sweaters, hats, etc.). Presented by FanDuel.Context: Three weeks into spring practice (one of Gaddy's favorite times of year). Emphasis on the program's operation, direction, and NFL influence (e.g., Arthur Smith and Matt Patricia talking on the sideline — "would love to be a fly on the wall").Big Picture Takeaway: Ohio State is building an attractive environment beyond NIL/money — veteran NFL minds in the building help recruit portal and high school talent whose goal is the NFL. Ryan Day is impressively structuring the program around that. Quarterback: Julian Sayin (Year 2 Starter) Key Ryan Day Comments (via Gaddy's breakdown): More command of the operation; everything was a "first" last year (incompletions, TDs, INTs, road games, playoffs, Big Ten title, New York, etc.).Now in his third offensive coordinator in three years (but grasping Arthur Smith's scheme quickly due to high football IQ).Focus areas: Standing strong in the pocket, using his legs opportunistically (especially when 5+ yards open in front — "keep the chains moving"), red zone, and two-minute drill execution.With more new faces around him this year, Sayin must elevate everyone and "know the why" of the offense (no more slow-walking a redshirt freshman). Gaddy's Analysis: Expected but positive comments. Sayin was consistent and low-turnover last year but needs to be more assertive in high-leverage spots (red zone, two-minute, tough environments).Examples: Kyle McCord's command in the 2023 Notre Dame game (two-minute) vs. struggles elsewhere.Sky's the limit in Year 2 — not expecting full CJ Stroud leap, but consistent playmaking and leadership. Confidence is high among fans and coaches. Offensive Line Injuries: Austin Siereveld (LT) and Phillip Daniels (RT) out for the rest of spring with minor procedures/surgeries; expected back in summer.Opportunities: Ian Moore (3rd year) and Carter Lowe (2nd year, true freshman last season) getting first-team reps at tackle. Everything "on the board" for starting spots.Ryan Day Comments: Competition at tackle if Moore/Lowe perform well — could slide Siereveld back inside to guard. Goal: Find the best five. Players are cross-trained across positions.Gaddy's Analysis: Fan base chatter validated (e.g., moving Siereveld inside, giving young tackles shots).Luke Montgomery likely locked at guard; Carson Hinzman at center (with Joshua Padilla's injury history).Depth at right guard (Gabe VanSickle, others) looks strong.Year 2 under OL coach Tyler Bowen should show growth in scheme familiarity and player development. If young tackles hold up vs. pass rushers (Kenyatta Jackson Jr., etc.), the line could reach another level. Flexibility (Siereveld) is a huge asset. Wide Receivers Ryan Day Comments: Lots of depth and versatility. Big emphasis on YAC/running after the catch more than ever. Impressed by Arthur Smith's creative formations (not a total scheme overhaul — still aligns with Ryan Day's pass-oriented philosophy of getting the ball to the boundaries).Standouts Mentioned: Brock Boyd (freshman, former TCU commit): Mature, confident, smart route-runner, plays fast. First in 2026 class to shed black stripe. Gaddy highlights his speed (track background: low 21-second 200m) and "dog" mentality (plays a hype video clip of Boyd in practice). Compares favorably to Brian Hartline athletically but different player profile (not just a possession guy). Potential impact player.Others: Jeremiah Smith (YAC potential in slot too), Brandon Inniss, Kyle Parker (SEC experience at LSU), Devin McCuin. Room built for future with returning QB talent. Gaddy's Analysis: One of Day's more versatile groups. Stress on YAC addresses a known area (shoutout to Chris Drew). Excitement high; Boyd's early stripe removal and hype stand out. Defensive Line / Edge (Replacing Caden Curry Production) Ryan Day Comments: Lots of bodies competing (Zion Grady, Epi, Quay, Christian Alliegro — now practicing at edge after off-ball LB discussions, Bo Atkinson, Joshua Mickens, etc.). Building healthy competition behind Kenyatta Jackson Jr.Gaddy's Analysis: Critical for depth. Spring injuries create evaluation opportunities (similar to OL). Defensive tackles feel more set; edge is the battleground. Positive for front-seven development. Secondary / Defense Ryan Day Comments: Praise for Earl Little Jr. (bright spot/transfer addition) and others like Terry Moore. Jalen McClain highlighted as a vocal leader/tenured player who can fill the communication role (like Caleb Downs did last year).Gaddy's Analysis: Secondary questions center on replacing Downs' on-field leadership. McClain (strong 2025 as starter next to Downs, All-Big Ten level) fits as the talker/thumper who knows the defense. Young room last year; experience from transfers helps. Other Notes / Standouts Tight Ends: Hunter Welching (...
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