INDIANAPOLIS – Ohio State has had quite the interesting week.
On Sunday, just one day after defeating Michigan 31-20, J.T. Barrett underwent arthroscopic surgery and Greg Schiano was nearly named the head coach at Tennessee before negotiations fell through amid fan disdain.
Both situations are still unresolved as of Friday afternoon, as Urban Meyer would not commit one way or another as to whether Barrett would start against Wisconsin in the Big Ten Championship Game.
This situation is similar to one Ohio State faced the last time it was in Indianapolis in 2014. The Buckeyes were dealing with multiple distractions three years ago, including a quarterback change and the death of a player.
While possible coaching and quarterback changes pale in comparison to that of the death of a teammate, the distractions surrounding Ohio State have been the storylines heading into the game against Wisconsin.
Despite all of that, Meyer said Friday that he has been pleased with the way his team has handled distractions in the week leading up to the game.
"Laser focus, man. They've been fantastic. A lot of credit to those players and our group of coaches. I mean, we've had a good week," Meyer said. "Now we have to play like it. But we've had a good week."
Even though Meyer wants his team to be locked in for the big game, he also wants the Buckeyes to enjoy their experience.
Ohio State's seniors were freshmen the last time the Buckeyes invaded Lucas Oil Stadium for the Big Ten Championship Game, and center Billy Price is the lone returning starter on the Buckeye roster, not including kicker Sean Nuernberger.
With that in mind, Meyer said he wants his team to enjoy the moment before taking the field in Indianapolis on Saturday night.
"I even told our players today, for those that were with me before when we came, and there's a handful, the stadium takes your breath away a little bit, the way you're treated," Meyer said. "So enjoy it. But best way to enjoy is prepare the best you can and go play well.
"Everybody's strives to get to Indianapolis. We're here. We love it here. Have great memories coming back here."
Ohio State is attempting to get its second win in three attempts in the Big Ten title game. The Buckeyes won their last appearance against Wisconsin in the title game, 59-0, in 2014. Meyer's first Ohio State team to play in the conference finale lost to Michigan State in 2013, 34-24.
Saturday's kickoff against Wisconsin is set for 8:17 p.m. on FOX.
