Ohio State Wraps Up Spring Game With Mixed Results

Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day, QB Julian Sayin, and DE Kenyatta Jackson reflect on the team's performance.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 6:24pm

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A cubist-style painting featuring overlapping geometric shapes and planes in shades of scarlet and gray, capturing the energy and movement of a football game.Ohio State's spring game showcases the team's potential, with the offense shining but the defense still needing to improve its consistency and physicality.Columbus Today

Ohio State University wrapped up its annual spring football game on Saturday, with the Buckeyes' first-team offense defeating the defense in the scrimmage. Head coach Ryan Day, freshman quarterback Julian Sayin, and defensive end Kenyatta Jackson spoke to reporters after the game, providing their takeaways on the team's performance and the progress made during the spring practice period.

Why it matters

The spring game is an important event for Ohio State, as it allows the coaching staff to evaluate the team's talent and depth heading into the upcoming season. The Buckeyes are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 campaign and reclaim their spot as one of the top programs in the country.

The details

In the spring game, the Buckeyes' first-team offense, led by Sayin, was able to move the ball effectively and score points against the defense. Day was pleased with the offense's execution, but noted that the defense still has work to do to improve its tackling and communication. Jackson, a key defensive player, acknowledged that the unit needs to be more consistent and physical in order to be successful in the fall.

  • The Ohio State spring game took place on Saturday, April 18, 2026.

The players

Ryan Day

The head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes football team.

Julian Sayin

A freshman quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Kenyatta Jackson

A defensive end for the Ohio State Buckeyes.

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What they’re saying

“I was pleased with the way the offense executed today, but we still have some work to do on the defensive side of the ball.”

— Ryan Day, Head Coach

“It was great to get out there and compete against the defense. We still have room for improvement, but I'm excited about the progress we've made this spring.”

— Julian Sayin, Freshman Quarterback

“We need to be more consistent and physical on defense. That's something we're going to focus on as we head into the summer and prepare for the season.”

— Kenyatta Jackson, Defensive End

What’s next

The Buckeyes will continue their offseason training program and prepare for the start of the 2026 season, which begins on September 5th against the University of Toledo.

The takeaway

Ohio State's spring game provided a glimpse into the team's progress and areas for improvement. While the offense showed promise, the defense still has work to do to become a more consistent and physical unit. The Buckeyes will use the summer to further develop their players and strategies as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season.