Ohio State's Ryan Day Discusses Spring Game, Team Development

The Buckeyes head coach previews the upcoming spring game and shares his thoughts on the team's progress this offseason.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:52pm

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A cubist, geometric painting in shades of scarlet and gray, breaking down an Ohio State football scene into fragmented, overlapping shapes and planes.Ohio State's spring game offers a glimpse into the Buckeyes' roster development and position battles ahead of the 2026 season.Columbus Today

Ohio State head coach Ryan Day spoke to the media ahead of the team's upcoming spring game, discussing his expectations for the exhibition, the development of the quarterback room, and the progress made by various position groups throughout spring practice.

Why it matters

The spring game provides an important evaluation point for Ohio State as they look to build on last season and prepare for the fall. Day's comments offer insight into the team's strengths, areas of focus, and the competition at key positions like quarterback and offensive line.

The details

Day said the spring game will feature some live tackling, though the quarterbacks' contact will be limited. He praised the progress of the quarterback room, led by Julian Sayin, and noted the importance of veteran Justyn Martin. The coach also highlighted the contributions of new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith and discussed the leadership growth of receiver Jeremiah Smith. Injuries to running backs Legend Bey and Anthony 'Turbo' Rogers will impact the backfield rotation for the spring game.

  • The spring game is scheduled for this Saturday.
  • Ohio State will continue offseason workouts after the spring game and won't return to the field together until fall camp begins.

The players

Ryan Day

The head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes football team.

Julian Sayin

The starting quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Justyn Martin

A veteran quarterback on the Ohio State roster.

Arthur Smith

The new offensive coordinator for the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Jeremiah Smith

A wide receiver for the Ohio State Buckeyes.

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What they’re saying

“As a quarterback coach, always want more. Always. That being said, you do feel a lot of progress being made in the huddle, in particular.”

— Ryan Day, Head Coach

“Where this leadership takes us is going to be what ultimately writes the story.”

— Ryan Day, Head Coach

What’s next

Ohio State will continue offseason workouts after the spring game and won't return to the field together in an official capacity until fall camp begins.

The takeaway

Ryan Day's comments highlight the progress Ohio State has made this spring, particularly at the quarterback position and in developing leadership across the roster. The spring game will provide an important evaluation point as the Buckeyes look to build momentum heading into the fall season.