Ryan Day’s 3 Major Questions to Answer About Ohio State’s Offense

A quarterback decision ahead

Luke Fahey has taken over as Ohio State’s main quarterback since Julian Sayin was injured, but his recent performances have been difficult. His outings against USC and Oregon have raised the question of whether Ryan Day should give Tavien St. Clair a chance to start.

Fahey beat St. Clair for the role before the season. But the offense depends heavily on quarterback play, and Fahey’s struggles have left Day with a decision to make as Ohio State enters its final three games.

Getting Jeremiah Smith involved

Jeremiah Smith had been considered a leading Heisman Trophy contender earlier this season, but that standing has faded. After Sayin began struggling and then was hurt, Fahey has not built the same connection with Smith, who has seemed less prominent in the offense.

The story argues Ohio State could use more short routes, including slants, screens and curls, rather than relying so heavily on deep targets. Easier catches could help Smith stay involved and develop a stronger connection with his quarterback.

Sorting out the running backs

Ohio State’s running back group has remained unsettled. Bo Jackson was expected to take over as the lead back, but he has not made the jump Day hoped for after his freshman season.

Ja’Kobi Jackson has missed much of the season with an injury. Ohio State hopes he could return for the final game against Michigan, though that remains uncertain. Legend Bey has potential but, according to the story, needs more development before taking on a larger role.

Day’s choices shape the finish

The article identifies the quarterback position, Smith’s role and the running back rotation as the offense’s three main challenges. Finding solutions could help Ohio State close the season strongly. Day now needs to make adjustments that show the Buckeyes remain a threat, the story says.