Ohio State Special Teams Need Improvement, Day Says

After Ohio State’s 35-14 win over Iowa, coach Ryan Day praised the more effective running game and improved run defense, while saying the offense still needs more explosive runs. He highlighted a 16-play, nine-and-a-half-minute closing drive as evidence that the Buckeyes can control the game on the ground. Day’s sharper concern is special teams: he said the unit has not improved enough and needs better results in kicking, punting, and kickoff and punt returns. Placekicker Connor Hawkins has missed field goals against both Texas and Iowa, while Ohio State has also struggled with punt distance and return yardage. Other areas identified for improvement included pass protection and discipline in coverage, even as the team showed progress in defensive communication and its run defense.