Scarlet Sunrise: Buckeyes expect Zach Harrison back in action for Akron game

Good morning, Ohio State fans, and welcome to the Scarlet Sunrise. Football will always be our focus, but every day we’ll cover news, notes and analysis from across Buckeyes sports. Join us each morning to get caught up on everything you missed in the world of Ohio State football, recruiting, basketball and more in Scarlet Sunrise.

Buckeyes expect Zach Harrison back in action for Akron game

Zach Harrison is one of the best pass-rush options Ohio State has. The former five-star prospect already has a game-changing play this fall, coming in the season-opening win over Minnesota.

He might have a chance to get back on the field and make more of those plays Saturday after missing last week against Tulsa.

Ohio State is hoping to have Harrison back on the field to help a struggling defensive line find a way to get to the quarterback.

“We hope Zach is going to be fine for this week,” Ohio State defensive line coach Larry Johnson said.

The Buckeyes should be able to handle Akron either way, with or without Harrison. But they would love to have him in action against the Zips to make sure their pass-rush is where it should be before re-entering Big Ten play.

ICYMI: C.J. Stroud will rest, only available in emergency for Buckeyes against Akron

C.J. Stroud is getting a week off at Ohio State.

After working through a shoulder injury for the first three games of his starting career, Buckeyes coach Ryan Day confirmed on his radio show that Stroud will not play on Saturday against Akron in an attempt to get him healthy for Big Ten action.

Stroud has shown flashes of why he was the pick to lead the four-time defending conference champions with big throws, some eye-popping statistics and unquestionable toughness. But Stroud also been a bit inconsistent, has had limited practice reps dating back to training camp and has visibly struggled with the pain in his throwing shoulder.

Ohio State had been hesitant to make a move considering the need to get a first-time starting quarterback like Stroud as many reps as possible. But as massive favorites against Akron and with backups Kyle McCord and Jack Miller also lacking game experience, the Buckeyes have adjusted the plan ahead of Saturday night in the Horseshoe.

READ: What C.J. Stroud getting rested means for Ohio State quarterback situation

Talented freshman defensive back loses black stripe

Jakailin Johnson, a former No. 50 overall prospect and top-ranked cornerback in the Buckeyes loaded 2021 recruiting class, has always had superstar potential on the outside. Now he can begin to show it.

Johnson shed his black stripe after practice Wednesday, a ceremonious way for the Buckeyes to announce Johnson is ready to help contribute in a secondary full of young, talented Silver Bullets.

Ohio State has struggled on defense early in the season, especially with its veteran players who were expected to carry the load and correct the issues from last year.

Except the experienced Buckeyes have given way to the young, energetic athletes — now including Jakailin Johnson — hungry to show they deserve to be on the field.

With his black stripe removed, Johnson can make a push to be a part of the ongoing defensive youth movement.

Download Lettermen Row’s free app

Want an easier way to get free premium content from Lettermen Row?

The Lettermen Row app is here! Get all of the Ohio State news, analysis, videos and everything else you’ve come to expect from us in one free, convenient spot. It’s now available in both the App Store and Google Play. Check it out!

The Lettermen Row app can be found for free here:

• Apple app store
• Google Play

Sign up for the Scarlet Sunrise newsletter

If you enjoy the Scarlet Sunrise posts, please consider having our newsletter delivered to your inbox every weekday morning.