Ryan Day updates health of multiple key Buckeyes defenders

As Ohio State gears up for the Rose Bowl, the Buckeyes are trying to get healthy. Ryan Day shared some insight on a few injured players ahead of the game.

A reporter asked Day about the statuses of Sevyn Banks, Antwuan Jackson, Marcus Williamson and Cody Simon, in particular. Day kept things vague prior to the game, which kicks off at 5 p.m. ET on New Year’s Day.

“There are a few guys in there that are game-time decisions,” Day said. “Instead of going through all those guys, we’ll handle with the availability report. Some of those guys will be game-time decisions as it comes through the end of the week and closer to the game.”

Ohio State hasn’t played since losing its regular-season finale to Michigan on Nov. 27. The Buckeyes went 10-2 this season and their only other loss was to Oregon.

Now, they’re gearing up to take on another Pac-12 team in Utah on Saturday night.

Ryan Day addresses four stars opting out of Rose Bowl vs. Utah

Ohio State head coach Ryan Day commented on the Buckeyes losing four of their star players for the Rose Bowl after they opted out to prepare for the 2022 NFL Draft. Ohio State will be without receivers Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson, defensive lineman Haskell Garrett and offensive lineman Nicholas Petit-Frere as all four players have opted out of the final game of the season.

“Certainly love those guys and appreciate everything they’ve done for the program,” said Day via On3’s Austin Ward. “The guys have had a good month of practice, and we’re going to move forward with what we have.”

On Monday, Olave’s announcement that he would miss the Rose Bowl put one more dent in the Buckeyes game plan against Utah. Losing two of their highest profile offensive weapons would be bad enough, but they are also going to be without the defensive leader of their team in Haskell Garrett. In addition, their offensive line will be without one of the most reliable pieces in Petit-Frere.

While Ryan Day may not have much to add about his team’s preparation without four key players, their teammates attested to the energy and talent they bring to the Buckeyes team.

“He creates energy,” defensive end and fellow captain Zach Harrison said of Haskell Garrett. “When Haskell made that play, I just felt it. The defensive energy just kind of took off. We’re celebrating on the field, having a good time. And that’s when I feel like we’re the best. We’re playing, having fun, celebrating, making plays — that’s what defense is about.

“Defense is about energy. And that’s what Haskell Garrett does a good job of bringing.”