As the Ohio State Buckeyes ramp up intensity at their fall camp, things are taking shape regarding who might be under center come game day. The quarterback competition is heating up, with transfer Will Howard showing notable progress. According to 247Sports, head coach Ryan Day noted Howard's growing confidence, saying, "He's much more confident out there. No decisions have been made."
While Howard is emerging as a serious contender for the starting position, the Buckeyes face challenges. Day mentioned, per ABC6 that a virus has been passing through the offensive line room, albeit without major disruptions. However, the coach acknowledges that if the situation persists, it could present problems, "It wasn't perfect, but they were tough and gritty and really gutted it out", Day said.
On the defensive side, the Buckeyes appear to be in fine form. The team's defense was a standout during the latest practice, contributing multiple sacks and interceptions, which could spell trouble for opponents this upcoming season. Coach Day expressed his pleasure with the defense's performance, noting, "There’s a swagger and a strut with that defense right now," in a conversation with ABC6.
It's not just the quarterback and defense making waves during the Buckeyes' fall camp. Tight end Jelani Thurman is also on the radar after notable plays in recent practices. But, according to Day in an interview with 247Sports, consistency is key for the freshman tight end: "His issues aren't talent-related. It's the focus." Day emphasized that one lapse in playmaking can derail a drive, a luxury the team can ill afford.
This increasingly clear pecking order in the quarterback room is not an illusion, as Howard seems to have nudged ahead in the race. According to a report from Cleveland.com, Day admitted the quarterback reps are being pared down as the team heads towards a crucial scrimmage on Saturday. If Howard's strides turn into leaps, he could cement his starting role soon.
