Ohio State still starting slow, finishing strong: Ryan Day quick hits after the win over Maryland

COLUMBUS, Ohio — For arguably every game this season for Ohio State, there’s been a trending theme.

The Buckeyes fell behind by double digits against the Terrapins in what ended up as a 20-point win, as their troubles with how they start games continued.

In three games against Power Five teams, they have totaled seven points and 10 first downs in the first quarter. Meaning, in 45 minutes of football against Indiana, Notre Dame and Maryland, the Buckeyes have done essentially nothing.

That, coach Ryan Day knows, has got to change. Even if the second-half play looks much better each week.

“The No. 1 goal on Saturday is to be 1-0, so check that box,” Day said. “The next is play well in the second half, so check that box.”

BET $5, GET $200 BONUS BETS

DRAFTKINGS SPORTSBOOK

Advertisement

BET $50, GET $250 BONUS BETS

CAESARS SPORTSBOOK

BET $5, GET $200 BONUS BETS & $100 OFF NFL SUNDAY TICKET

FANDUEL SPORTSBOOK

Advertisement

$1,000 FIRST BET OFFER

BETMGM

BET $1, GET $200 BONUS BETS

BET365

Advertisement

FanDuel Ohio is live and accepting wagers. There are also other OH Sportsbook offers like the bet365 Ohio promo, DraftKings Ohio promo, and the BetMGM Ohio bonus code.

---

Some more from Day’s postgame press conference:

• On the first-half struggles, Day doesn’t know what the issues are that has plagued the offense. He cracked that maybe he’ll have the team run some laps before each game to get them started a bit earlier. But still, those are problems that have to be rectified for when the schedule toughens.
• Running back TreVeyon Henderson was out for the game, and Day said he was held out because of a risk of re-injury. Henderson is expected to play next week against Purdue.
• Day praised safety Josh Proctor, who had a pick-six, and said that, “He’s the best version of himself right now.” He referred to the touchdown return he had, then the tackle he made on the ensuing kickoff.
• Day, who was penalized for sideline interference in the fourth quarter, joked that he’ll have to run with the team tomorrow for his penalty.
• In terms of fixing the run game, Day said he wants to check the film and see what the issues are that have been hampering the offensive line. He listed a bevy of potential obstacles: Scheme, personnel, and/or execution.
• Emeka Egbuka was being evaluated as Day spoke to reporters. He said it doesn’t seem like something major, but didn’t have any further answers.
• On Kyle McCord, Day said that he and the offense struggled getting into rhythm early, and that the coaching staff will help them get into one earlier on down the line.