Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer spoke for a bit on Tuesday’s Big Ten coaches teleconference. He provided some updates on his football team and also looked ahead to what the Buckeyes will face on Saturday when they host Illinois. Here are the highlights.
+ Asked what he was most happy with from this past game, Meyer said the offensive line play “without question.” Michigan State has a very good rush defense, and it is not easy to do what the OL did.
+ There has been no discussion about the playoffs. They have only been talking about the team, injuries, the opponent this week.
+ Dre’Mont Jones is a consistent and excellent player. He handles his business and does everything right on and off the field.
+ Jones’ targeting call was the third legitimate ejection they’ve had. Meyer has met with Greg Schiano to get this stuff fixed. It’s a good rule and good for the game, but they have to continue to educate and teach them that this is not acceptable.
+ Blake Haubeil has been doing a great job on kickoffs. He is kicking it right where it is supposed to be.
+ Tuf Borland staying on the field will be determined in practice and discussions in the next two days. He sees Borland playing a lot the rest of the season.
+ Jerome Baker has been cleared and Dante Booker is questionable.
+ Tuf Borland is consistent. He works every day. He does things right and is a very valuable guy for our program.
+ Senior Day is a unique experience in the Horseshoe. It’s an incredible tradition to salute the players. He doesn’t expect any kind of let down and that starts with the coaches.
+ Illinois has played some close games against ranked teams. You can see some talented youth with “brilliant futures.” “We just have to make sure that future isn’t this Saturday.” They have two defensive tackles who can play anywhere in the Big Ten.
+ Asked if OSU has developed its identity yet, Meyer said those are great questions for after the season.