Ohio State coach Urban Meyer held his latest and final press conference of the week on Wednesday before the Buckeyes play UNLV on Saturday.
Meyer says the Buckeyes will be looking for improved rhythm and tempo from their offense and improved play from their passing defense, and the need to improve in those areas has been considered in the coaches' game plan for Saturday.
Ohio State's coach also provided updates on a number of players who are dealing with injuries.
Starting middle linebacker Chris Worley and backup guard Matthew Burrell are both questionable for Saturday's game against UNLV with foot injuries. Starting strongside linebacker Dante Booker, who had a sore shoulder last week, is full-go this week. Backup quarterback Joe Burrow's health is at about "90 percent," but has been cleared to play.
Here's what else you need to know from Meyer's comments on Wednesday:
- The biggest difference in Erick Smith this year from previous years has been his maturity.
- Smith and Jordan Fuller will continue to rotate at safety.
- Ohio State needs better performance from not only its kickoff specialists, but also its defenders on kickoff coverage.
- Meyer highlighted Jordan Fuller and Baron Browning as players who have the potential to follow in J.T. Barrett's footsteps as energetic leaders. Some of his previous players who stood out for their energy and leadership have included Tim Tebow and Brandon Spikes at Florida and Zach Boren, Evan Spencer and Josh Perry at Ohio State.
- J.K. Dobbins is "what you see on film and a little bit more," in that he is not only a great player and a great person.
- Meyer would like to eventually implement a two-back offensive package with Dobbins and Mike Weber. Antonio Williams has also impressed Meyer and is a candidate for increased playing time.
- UNLV has two defensive tackles with NFL potential.
- Weber "hasn't been released to go play like he needs to go play."
Check back with Eleven Warriors this evening for further coverage from the Woody Hayes Athletic Center, as defensive coordinator Greg Schiano and seven Ohio State players, including Dobbins and linebacker Jerome Baker, are scheduled to meet with the media after Meyer's press conference.
