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Patricia & Smith: Buckeyes' Pro Hires Under Intense Scrutiny
13 Nov
Summary
- Ryan Day defends defensive coordinator Matt Patricia's coaching ability.
- Patricia's defense has allowed 15 plays of 15+ yards in two weeks.
- Arthur Smith's offense is criticized for being too one-dimensional.
Ohio State's head coach, Ryan Day, is facing questions about his coaching staff, particularly defensive coordinator Matt Patricia and offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. Day expressed confidence in Patricia, who has 20 years of NFL experience, despite recent defensive lapses. The defense has allowed 15 plays of 15 or more yards in the last two weeks. Patricia attributed some struggles to a young roster replacing departed talent.
Arthur Smith, also hired for his NFL background, faces scrutiny for an offense that has become too reliant on star receiver Jeremiah Smith. The unit has been described as one-dimensional, especially with true freshman quarterback Luke Fahey at the helm. Smith's play-calling has been questioned, and he noted the challenges of developing a young quarterback.
Both coordinators were hired to leverage their NFL expertise to elevate the Buckeyes' program. However, the team has accumulated three losses for the first time in 15 years, and the defense has allowed 30 points in consecutive losses for the first time since 1988. Day stated he is reviewing all aspects of the program.
