Is Ohio State football’s Jaxon Smith-Njigba working to return for the playoff?

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio State soccer’s week that handed with out a recreation, and the three-plus weeks that may go earlier than the Peach Bowl semifinal in opposition to Georgia, will permit some banged-up gamers to recuperate.

Does that additionally apply to star receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba? The preseason All-American has performed solely three video games — none since Oct. 22 — because of a hamstring harm first suffered within the season opener in opposition to Notre Dame.

Ohio State coach Ryan Day was requested straight whether or not Smith-Njigba was nonetheless working to attempt to return for the playoff. His response is not going to immediate a lot optimism amongst Buckeye followers.

“We’ll in all probability have extra of an replace over the subsequent couple days as to precisely the place that’s at,” Day said on ESPN’s broadcast of the rankings reveal.

Requested later within the afternoon at his press convention if the choice got here all the way down to Smith-Njigba’s well being standing or whether or not he was opting out of making an attempt to play, Day stated “each.” Requested if there was a timetable for a choice, Day repeated his prior reply about presumably having a solution this week.

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Smith-Njigba twice tried to return from the harm and play in video games, solely to irritate the issue. He didn’t play within the Buckeyes’ remaining 5 video games. Whereas Day at one level spoke of anticipating Smith-Njigba to return, he modified to as a substitute saying he hoped the junior might play once more this season.

Smith-Njigba’s 1,606 receiving yards set the Large Ten single-season file in 2021. He was anticipated to be quarterback C.J. Stroud’s prime goal and the centerpiece of a nationwide championship-aspirant offense.

As an alternative, he was injured within the first half in opposition to Notre Dame. For the season he has 43 yards on 5 receptions.

Marvin Harrison Jr. stepped up in Smith-Njigba’s absence to grow to be the Large Ten Receiver of the 12 months, a Biletnikoff Award finalist and a possible first workforce All-American. Emeka Egbuka, like Harrison a 1,000-yard receiver this season, and Julian Fleming additionally accepted greater roles.

Smith-Njigba’s presence within the slot could be vital in opposition to defending nationwide champion Georgia’s lauded protection. Georgia ranks No. 11 nationally in opposing quarterback score and No. 13 in passing yards allowed per try.

In case you or a cherished one has questions and wishes to speak to knowledgeable about playing, name the Ohio Downside Playing Helpline at 1-800-589-9966 or the Nationwide Council on Program Playing Helpline (NCPG) at 1-800-522-4700.