Ohio State goes for a program record-tying 22nd win in a row on Saturday. One would think it’d be a big deal for the Buckeyes, but from the top down the word “streak” isn’t even uttered.
Head coach Urban Meyer said he doesn’t want to devalue the significance of winning 22 consecutive games. However, the sole focus is on improving week-by-week and concentrating on the current opponent.
That means Illinois this week, a team Meyer said is a few play away from having a better record. The Fighting Illini are riding a 19-game Big Ten losing streak. But Meyer sees talent and improved play.
Notes:
- The week of practice has been very good, according to Meyer. Taking part is Jordan Hall and the other Buckeye who were banged up at Purdue. Ohio State will be fully healthy on Saturday.
- Meyer said the temperature doesn’t factor into the level of play. The only weather-related things that can have an impact are wind and precipitation.
- The offensive playbook has been opened up way more than last season. Meyer estimates that they use 50 percent more plays compared to 2012.
- Braxton Miller said he’s grown a tremendous amount under Meyer and Tom Herman. He pointed to the 2011 Illinois game when he completed one pass. Miller said he was thrown into the starting lineup too soon and may have done better if he hadn’t played as much.
- Miller said he didn’t prepare as well last year. It’s been different in Year 2 under Meyer because Miller understands the system better.
- The win streak is a blessing and humbling at the same time, according to Miller. That said, it never comes up in the locker room, Miller said.
- The team’s motivation during the streak ahs been simple, Miller said – just get better each week.
- Miller said he and Kenny Guiton have been close friends since Miller was being recruited.
- Ryan Shazier called it an honor to be a semifinalist for three national awards. He said his goal has always been to be one of the best players in the country.
- Nine games into the season, Shazier said the defense is yet to reach its full potential. The past few games have been better, but he said they can still improve in different areas.
- Nathan Scheelhaase will be the biggest impediment for the Buckeyes, Shazier said. Called him a solid four-year starter and good passer.
- Road games are a favorite of Shazier and Miller. Both commented on how great it is to see so much scarlet and gray and that they enjoy quieting the home fans.
- Tommy Schutt, an Illinois native, said he’ll have between 20 and 30 family members at the game. He said he was recruited by Illinois and visited but never seriously considered going there.
