Ryan Day shares how Ohio State can get offense in gear in 2nd half vs. Minnesota

It was a disjointed, low-scoring first half in Columbus as Ohio State hosted Minnesota in the penultimate week of the regular season. And Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day had a few thoughts for what his team needs to do — or avoid — in the second half to score a bit more.

Ohio State led, 13-0, over the Gophers at the half, but could’ve had nearly 30 if opportunities hadn’t been missed. Day explained in a brief halftime interview with Big Ten Network sideline reporter Brooke Fletcher.

“Kyle [McCord]’s working hard. Missed a couple throws down here in the red zone. We’re moving the ball but now he’s gotta finish these drives off,” Day said.

He also noted starting field position has harmed the Ohio State offense. Repeatedly starting drives pinned deep in the Buckeyes own end has not been conducive to success for McCord and Co.

“And had a few drives, I don’t know, maybe three or four inside the 10 yard line. So we’ve gotta move that thing out towards midfield, get some first downs, and then get in a rhythm and finish drives in the red zone,” Day said.

The good news for Day? Ohio State came out and began the second half with a one-play, 75 yard touchdown drive that was a single carry by star tailback TreVeyon Henderson.

Day also briefly touched on the defensive effort to shutout Minnesota in the first half.

Day was impressed with the play of the unit, but felt even they left a few plays on the field — including a late missed opportunity for an interception by safety Josh Proctor in the second quarter.

“We’re playing well, getting our hands on some balls. Proc, hit him right in the chest. He makes that play, who knows what would’ve happened right there. I think we’re doing a decent job, we just gotta play a little better in the second half,” Day said.

A Heisman-caliber receiver certainly helps the Ohio State offense

Marvin Harrison Jr. took some time to reflect on his exquisite season prior to Ohio State’s Week 12 showdown with Minnesota.

The Buckeyes star is firmly in the Heisman race, with many believing he has a shot to win the prestigious award later in December. Harrison Jr.’s stats back up his candidacy, as he’s amassed 59 receptions for 1,063 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2023.

Still, that’s not the main thing on the wide receiver’s mind. He’s simply keeping Ohio State’s team goals at the forefront of his mind.

“That wasn’t in my head at all,” Harrison said regarding whether the Heisman has been on his mind. “I just want to beat the team up north, and go to the Big Ten Championship. I mean, I’ve kind of been saying it all year. Those are the two goals I’ve had, before the season even started. I’m thankful to even be in the conversation.

“But you know, there’s a lot of football left to be played, and I’m just trying to do my best to help the team win.”

Nevertheless, does it mean something to Harrison Jr. to be mentioned among the Heisman candidates? His sole focus on winning a national title won’t let it.

“Not meaningful too much,” Harrison said. “Obviously, I’m very thankful and blessed to be in the conversation, but we still have two games left in the regular season, and hopefully one in the Big Ten Championship. That’s kind of been my goal all year. Beat them team up north, and win the Big Ten Championship.

“Whatever happens in December, happens in December. Right now, I’m just focusing on the corrections that we need to make from this game, and Minnesota.”