COLUMBUS — Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer spoke with the media on Monday to follow up on OSU’s win over Michigan State and to also preview Saturday’s upcoming game against the Illinois Fighting Illini. Here are the highlights.
+ Meyer began the press conference for apologizing for not recognizing veterans following the Michigan State game. He said his wife reminded him after the game and he felt terrible about it.
+ Saturday was arguably Kendall Sheffield’s best game as a Buckeye.
+ Cornerback Damon Arnette is probable for this week.
+ So many receivers were recognized this week as Champions because of their run blocking.
+ This was the best game of the year for the running backs as a unit.
+ Billy Price’s record of 51 (and counting) starts at Ohio State is going to be tough to break.
+ Erick Smith was recognized for his special teams performance. He had two solo tackles on returns.
+ Meyer is fine with the targeting rule and was disappointed in Dre’Mont Jones’ late hit. He does feel like replay officials should no longer be replay officials if they get those reviews wrong, however.
+ Meyer agreed that Chris Worley looked better at outside linebacker than in the middle and they are having conversations about keeping him outside.
+ You have to sign a quarterback in a recruiting class every year. You’re setting yourself up for disaster if you do not. They always have Plans A, B, C, D, etc. It would be possible to have more than one QB in this class, but they have to at least have one. Early signing day is going to alter things as well. The guy you might have on the backburner could end up signing in December with another team.
+ There will be zero conversation about the college football playoff this week.
+ Malik Harrison will play more moving forward.
+ The offensive line has been much improved. The intensity is there, as is the work ethic.
+ Meyer has great respect for this group of redshirt seniors. A lot of them chose to stick around rather than leave early and they will be treated right. “J.T.’s a member of the Meyer family and Buckeye family for the rest of his life.”
+ Linebacker Zach Turnure has been one of the best players on special teams all year long. He has never been the problem on kick coverage. “He’s a stud. I love that kid.”
+ The Illinois defensive line is very good. They have some “big dudes” who can penetrate.
+ This is as strong a group of RBs as Meyer has had at Ohio State. “I liked the mix” of the carries last week. The running gameplan was done well last week leading up to the game.
+ The draw play that Mike Weber took for 82 yards can only work on certain looks, and Meyer believes the MSU defense being worried about crossing routes allowed that play to happen.