Eric Boggs
Columbus, OH – Ohio State head coach Ryan Day met with the media this week to discuss the Buckeyes’ upcoming spring game, a notable fundraising event, and the team’s progress eight practices into spring ball. With the current date being April 1, 2025, Day outlined a packed schedule for April 12, which includes the annual spring game and the third iteration of the “Saddle Up” country concert fundraiser for Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) initiatives.
Spring Game and Saddle Up Event Set for April 12
Day confirmed that Ohio State plans to proceed with its spring game on April 12, barring any health concerns that could arise over the next week. “The plan is to have a game format on the 12th, which will be great,” Day said. “We’ll continue to look at the health throughout this week and into next week, but that’s the plan.” The spring game will offer fans their first glimpse of the 2025 Buckeyes in action, showcasing both returning players and new faces vying for roles.
Following the game, the Woody Hayes Athletic Center will host the “Saddle Up” event, a country concert that has grown into a significant NIL fundraiser in its third year. “This year, Russell Dickerson and North of Nashville will both be playing,” Day announced. The event originated from a family auction win on the Buckeye Cruise for Cancer, where Day and his family bid on North of Nashville and decided to bring the concept to Columbus. Now an annual tradition, the concert will feature appearances from current stars like Jack Sawyer and Will Howard, alongside former players such as Donovan Jackson and Seth McLaughlin. “It’s a great night to not only celebrate the championship but also raise money for NIL,” Day added.
Quarterback Development: Julian Sayin Finding His Voice
With the departure of veteran Will Howard, Ohio State’s quarterback room is notably younger this spring, led by Julian Sayin and a group of emerging talents. Day emphasized that leadership at the position varies by individual, and Sayin is steadily carving out his role. “He’s finding his way,” Day said. “He has credibility he’s building in the locker room. It’s your character, who you are as a person—Julian’s a good man, he does things the right way. Connection—he’s spent time with the guys. And then competency—when you step on that field, you’ve got to be in command.”
Day acknowledged the balancing act for young quarterbacks, noting that focusing on execution can sometimes detract from leadership responsibilities. However, he sees growth across the room. “The more consistent you get, the more confidence you have leading,” he said. “All the quarterbacks are getting more comfortable out there, and every day you do that, you’re able to let your personality and leadership show.”
Team Updates: Standouts and Areas of Focus
Eight practices into spring, Day highlighted several players making strides. Linebacker Arvell Reese has impressed with his physical development and growing football IQ, while CJ Hicks is thriving in a new role. “It’s been good to watch CJ work in sort of a new role—he’s embraced it,” Day said. At safety, Jalen McCullough and Malik Hartford have made moves, and the tight end room remains a strength with its depth.
The offensive line, a point of concern last season, is benefiting from increased flexibility and depth. “We talked about having a primary position and a secondary position,” Day explained. “Your best five are out there, and then your sixth or seventh best player is the next one in the game. That flexibility is important.” Veterans like Donovan Jackson and younger players like Luke Montgomery and Carson Hinzman are part of a group building cohesion.
However, Day noted areas needing improvement, particularly at wide receiver depth beyond the top options and consistency along the defensive line. Freshman edge rusher Zion Grady has flashed potential, and Day hopes he can contribute as a rookie if his development continues.
Spring Practice Intensity and Philosophy
With a 16-game season looming, Day has adjusted his approach to spring ball, balancing intensity with player health. “It got ramped up last week—it was very intense,” he said. “These guys are fighting for positions, which is what you want as a coach.” The team’s youth requires patience, but Day stressed the importance of learning from mistakes. “When you’ve done it for the first time and make a mistake, you take a deep breath,” he said. “But if that mistake happens again, we’ve got to do a better job.”
Day also dismissed the idea of a joint spring game or practice with another team, citing health concerns and unclear “rules of engagement.” “For us, I’d be concerned about the health,” he said. “We feel like we need to do a better job making sure the health is one of the most important things in the preseason.”
Looking Ahead
As Ohio State approaches the midway point of spring practice, Day’s focus remains on reps, corrections, and growth. The April 12 spring game and “Saddle Up” event promise a celebratory day for Buckeye fans, while the team’s on-field development will set the tone for a highly anticipated 2025 season. With a talented roster and a competitive quarterback battle, Ohio State continues to build toward week one, driven by an “iron sharpens iron” mentality that Day sees as a cornerstone of the program.
