Ryan Day is sticking to a bye week script that his Ohio State Buckeyes didn't deviate from last year when the team lost to the Oregon Ducks in a 32-31 thriller at Autzen Stadium. Bucknuts' Patrick Murphy revealed as much while answering a question from The Front Row message board.
Ohio State is 3-0 following a 37-9 win over the Ohio Bobcats, a 70-0 win over the Grambling State Tigers, and a 14-7 win over the No. 1-ranked Texas Longhorns, all at the "Shoe."
"Ohio State's off weeks tend to vary somewhat depending on the season and head coach. Some coaches choose to handle things differently, while certain seasons have two off weeks," Murphy wrote.
"In those years with two off weeks, including last year and this season, Ryan Day has chosen to treat the earlier of the two as an 'improvement week,' while the second, later in the year, offers more time for recovery while still focusing on getting better.
"The loss to the Ducks in mid-October probably influenced how Day and his staff managed the second off week, but it was still crucial for players to rest after six games and a difficult trip to the West Coast.
"My understanding is that this first off week will be handled similarly to last season. Ohio State will follow the team's regular practice schedule throughout the week but then give players the weekend off to do as they wish, within reason, of course."
Day's squad is far from perfect thus far, despite the undefeated record and top overall ranking. The run game is beyond suspect, meaning redshirt freshman quarterback Julian Sayin will need to carry the offense until further notice. With the talent level he has in the room, that's not the biggest problem, but it may be enough of one to prevent a repeat.
The bye week comes at a good time, after the Buckeyes were disturbed just enough by the Bobcats to realize their issues require immediate attention.