Ryan Day Explains Ohio State Playing Standards for Freshmen

Ohio State coach Ryan Day explained why talented freshmen such as running back Legend Bey and defensive end Khary Wilder have received limited opportunities, saying players must meet program expectations before earning game snaps. The Buckeyes are evaluating young players based on preparation, accountability and performance.

The discussion followed questions about Wilder and Bey, who have shown flashes this season but have not become regular contributors. Wilder has played 50 defensive snaps with eight pressures, while Bey has appeared on only 14 offensive snaps, according to 247Sports.

"Where was Khary Wilder?" wrote 247Sports in describing the questions surrounding Ohio State's freshman rotation.

"What happened to Legend Bey? Ohio State fans have been asking these questions this season. They want to know why two freshmen, despite limited playing time, have shown they can help the Buckeyes yet aren't getting on the field." wrote 247Sports in describing fan reactions.

Day previously praised Bey's athletic ability, including a comparison made during the offseason. He said the freshman still needed to demonstrate the consistency required for a larger role.

"a poor man's Tyreek Hill" described Day's February comparison of Bey, as reported by 247Sports.

"build trust" described the standard Day has repeatedly cited when discussing players seeking more opportunities, according to 247Sports.

"When you're coming into the program, whether you're a freshman or you're a transfer, we all say you have an opportunity to compete for jobs," said Ryan Day, Ohio State head coach.

Day said talent alone does not guarantee playing time and that coaches and players share responsibility for meeting the requirements needed to contribute. He added that young players must handle their opportunities once they receive them.

"Once they earn the opportunities, then they have to do their job on the field and grade out," said Ryan Day, Ohio State head coach.

Ohio State has continued using young players who have earned larger roles, including Jay Timmons, Chris Henry Jr., Brock Boyd and Simeon Caldwell. Their increased snaps came after meeting expectations in practices and games.

"Nobody wants to get these guys on the field more than we do, but we all have a responsibility," said Ryan Day, Ohio State head coach.

Day said the coaching staff believes the freshmen can develop into important players if they continue improving. He emphasized that the program's standards apply to both recruits and transfers.

"We have a lot of faith in a lot of the young guys. We think they're going to be really good players and the faster that we can get these guys to earn these opportunities and then learn what comes with it, the faster their career and their development is going to take off." said Ryan Day, Ohio State head coach.

Other young players with limited roles include linebacker Cincere Johnson, who has played in two games with 21 snaps, wide receiver Jerquaden Guilford and safety Blaine Bradford, who has recorded 14 snaps against Kent State, according to 247Sports.