Ohio State stages a game-like rehearsal as it tunes up for a clash with Texas
Ohio State coach Ryan Day ran a full game simulation at Ohio Stadium on August 23 as he prepares a young Buckeyes squad for a season opener against No. 1 Texas on August 30—a rematch of last year’s CFP semifinal. With many starters from last season in the NFL, the 2024 national champions now feature a largely new lineup, and Day wanted his players to feel what a game day will be like from locker room routines to media timeouts and halftime procedures.
Julian Sayin has emerged as a quiet yet steady leader for Ohio State, taking over as the starting quarterback after winning the competition over Lincoln Kienholz. He has shown a strong arm, quick release, and increasing confidence as a vocal leader, Day noted. While Sayin isn’t as flamboyant as last year’s leader Will Howard, Day said Sayin has found his voice and is connecting well with teammates as the team moves through preseason preparations. The coach stressed that the most important thing is performance on the field and consistency in rhythm, not chasing external expectations.
The Buckeyes’ offensive line is close to being set, but a key position remains unsettled. Four of five starters appear ready: Austin Sierevald at left tackle, Luke Montgomery at guard, Carson Hinzman snapping the ball, and Tegra Tshabola returning at right guard. The right tackle spot has featured a competition between Rice transfer Ethan Onianwa and Minnesota transfer Phillip Daniels. Day kept the competition open, saying the week would determine whether there will be rotation or a single starter, and that Phil has stood out in preseason.
In a staffing update, Brian Hartline will call plays from the booth rather than from the sidelines, Day confirmed. The move aligns with the plan Day and defensive coordinator Matt Patricia have discussed, with mentors and veteran coordinators Jim Knowles and Chip Kelly also working from the press box.
Special teams also saw incumbents keeping their jobs. Kicker Jayden Fielding and punter Joe McGuire have fended off challenges from Jackson Courville and Nick McLarty, respectively. Day said both incumbents have performed well in camp, and the team expects them to handle kicking duties this season. Kickoff and punt returners remain to be announced as the week of practice continues.
What to watch as Week 1 nears
– Sayin’s growth as a leader versus the Texas defense and how quickly he builds chemistry with the supporting cast.
– The right tackle battle’s resolution and how the line adapts if there’s rotation.
– Hartline’s play-calling approach from the booth and how it complements the defense under Patricia.
– The balance between relying on experienced role players and enabling the many newcomers to step up.
Overall, Day is steering a relatively inexperienced roster through a meticulous preparation routine to establish rhythm, leadership, and cohesion for a high-stakes opener against a top-ranked opponent. The emphasis on daily improvement and clarity of expectations suggests Ohio State intends to lean on strong team fundamentals as it navigates early-season expectations.
Summary: Ohio State’s game-simulation exercise highlighted Julian Sayin’s growing leadership, a nearly settled offensive line with a competitive right-tackle race, Hartline’s planned booth play-calling, and incumbents holding steady at kicking duties as the Buckeyes prepare for a marquee showdown with Texas. The focus remains on establishing rhythm and maximizing the strengths of a young, talented group.