Former Buckeyes HC Urban Meyer makes a case for Ryan Day’s Ohio State in 2024 CFB season
Urban Meyer, former coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes, spilled the beans on how Ryan Day’s team will stand out in the 2024 college football season. Ranked No. 2 in the Associated Press preseason top 25 polls, Ohio State is poised for a strong showing. Meyer believes a key factor in this will be the addition of Chip Kelly as the offensive coordinator.
Kelly, who previously had a successful stint as UCLA's head coach, made a name for himself at Oregon from 2009 to 2012. During his time there, Kelly led the Ducks to three straight Pac-12 championships and recorded three 12-win seasons. This feat is something no other coach in Oregon’s history has achieved. His offenses were electric, averaging nearly 45 points per game.
On a recent episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd (Apple Podcasts), Meyer highlighted how Kelly’s approach at Ohio State will differ from his days at Oregon.
“This Chip Kelly offense is completely different than the so-called radical offense that he ran when he was the head coach at Oregon,” Meyer said [H/t Athlon Sports]. “It’s completely different. And I do believe it’s going to help Ohio State. They’ve got the quarterback that fits this scheme.”
Meyer went on to explain that Kelly’s current strategy involves more calculated plays, taking time to ensure the best possible outcome. It is in stark contrast to the fast-paced, high-scoring offense he once led at Oregon.
“He is now the perfect play guy,” Meyer added. “He is the guy that is going to huddle, take your time and get the perfect play on. That is drastically different than what he was as a head coach at Oregon. I’m anxious to see it.”
With Kelly's experience and fresh approach, combined with Ohio State's existing talent, the Buckeyes looks set to bring a new level of game to the field this season.
Ryan Day has officially named Will Howard as the Buckeyes' starting QB
Ryan Day has officially named Will Howard as the Ohio State Buckeyes' starting quarterback for the 2024 season opener against Akron. Coach Day shared the decision on Thursday with reporters.
"We're excited about Will being the starter," Day said [H/t Fox Sports]. "Will has taken a command of the offense, I believe. You can feel it in the huddle. You can feel his experience. He did a really good job of changing his body in the offseason. He's become a threat with his legs and his arm."
Day continued, praising fifth-year QB Howard's offseason dedication:
“The more he understands what he's doing out there and what he does, he's really executing very well,” Day said. “I think the guys are excited when he gets in the huddle. Not to say that they aren't excited when the other quarterbacks are in there, but they do feel Will and I know he's excited about leading the team."
Howard joined Ohio State in January and has quickly adapted to the team’s system.
“I feel like Will took control of the team, and I don’t think anybody is surprised in that locker room,” Day concluded.
Given Will Howard’s strong performance and leadership since arriving, it’s no shock that he was chosen as Ryan Day's Buckeyes' starting quarterback.
Also Read: Who are the 5-star recruits for Ohio State? A look at top talent powerhouses joining Ryan Day's team