Ohio State spring game: Ryan Day's offense needs improvement

Ohio State's spring game showcased depth, talent, and high expectations, with standout performances from both offense and defense.

The anticipation and excitement surrounding Ohio State's first nationally televised spring game at Ohio Stadium were palpable long before kickoff on Saturday afternoon. The atmosphere was electric, with an on-field DJ spinning carefully curated tunes, recruits mingling with coaches, and high-profile alumni lining the sidelines. More than 80,000 fans packed The Horseshoe to catch a glimpse of a highly anticipated team in a crucial season for head coach Ryan Day, who is determined to break the three-year losing streak against Michigan and win a national championship.

The spring game showcased Ohio State's impressive depth at the skill positions and overall talent on defense. Despite the offense's inability to be tackled, the excitement in Columbus was undeniable. The game ended with a 34-33 victory for the offense over the defense, but the final score did not accurately reflect the dominance of the defense throughout the game. The offense still has work to do, especially in settling the quarterback competition.

The quarterback battle between high-profile transfer Howard and experienced returner Devin Brown added an extra layer of intrigue to the game. Howard got the nod to start and showcased his maturity and experience, while Brown made several impressive plays, including a touchdown pass to wide receiver Brennen Schramm. The offense struggled at times, but moments like Howard's deep throw to wide receiver Emeka Egbuka highlighted the potential of the team.

One of the most significant storylines of the offseason was the impressive player retention on the defensive side of the ball. Key players like JT Tuimoloau, Jack Sawyer, and Denzel Burke returning for another year gave coordinator Jim Knowles a talented nucleus to work with. The defense outperformed the offense throughout spring practices, with disruptive blitz packages and strong performances from edge rushers like Tuimoloau and Sawyer.

The defense shined during the spring game, forcing turnovers and disrupting drives with interceptions and pass breakups. Safety Jaylen McClain's interception return for a touchdown was a highlight of the game. While the offense struggled early on, impact freshman Jeremiah Smith showed flashes of his potential, earning reps with the first-string offense and showcasing his speed, agility, and aerial ability.

Overall, the spring game provided a glimpse into the potential of the Ohio State team for the upcoming season. With a talented roster, a determined coaching staff, and a hunger for success, the Buckeyes are poised to make a strong run for the national championship. The hype surrounding the team, especially with impact players like Smith in the mix, is well-founded, and fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead.