In a not unexpected move Thursday afternoon, the Ohio State football sports information department sent out a release stating that Friday’s previously scheduled media availability with coordinators and players has been canceled. Also, the practice — which was supposed to be open — has now been closed.
Here is the release in full.
The university is committed to supporting our student-athletes as they prepare for the upcoming semester. Due to the ongoing investigation, football coaches and student-athletes will not be available for interviews until further notice and all practices will be closed. We anticipate providing an update on availability Monday.
While some may want to read into the Monday update, keep in mind that Tuesday was supposed to be the second media availability of fall camp. The Monday update could simply be to let the media know whether or not Tuesday’s session is canceled as well.
This is not an unusual move for Ohio State. When former receiver Noah Brown broke his leg in practice in 2015, OSU canceled that day’s availability rather than have their players deal with the questions of the day.
At some point, however, the gates will open and players and coaches will begin to talk.
Player check-in is also not expected to take place at all this week. That has always been the plan. As to when it will be, OSU isn’t yet confirming any rumors.