Ohio State’s players are focused, confident and hungry heading into Saturday’s matchup with Wisconsin.
In another round of Wednesday interviews at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center, wide receiver Carnell Tate, tight end Will Kacmarek, center Carson Hinzman, defensive end Kenyatta Jackson Jr. and safety Jaylen McClain previewed the Buckeyes’ battle with the Badgers this weekend.
Among the other topics discussed, Tate praised young wideouts Quincy Porter and Mylan Graham for continuing to earn trust in practice. Kacmarek said the offense is “one block away” from breaking big runs and Hinzman called Wisconsin a “desperate” and “dangerous” team.
On defense, Jackson brushed off Illinois coach Bret Bielema’s criticism and said Ohio State “shut down” the Illini’s tempo. McClain praised Patricia for his impact and the Buckeyes’ cornerbacks for their infectious energy. McClain also stressed the defense’s goal of putting together a “complete game” after letting up late last week.
With players on both sides of the ball calling for sharper execution and more consistency, the Buckeyes seem intent on proving themselves again this weekend in Camp Randall Stadium.
“At the end of the day, the room’s a reflection of us. No matter who’s out there in the room, whatever they go out there and put on film, go out there and say, it’s a reflection of the room.” – Carnell Tate
“It’s better than scoring a touchdown, I’m telling ya. It’s awesome. Again, no one will ever see that, but in our room, it’s the coolest thing.”- Will Kacmarek on what it’s like for the tight ends to perfectly block up a run out of 13 or 14 personnel
“They’re a desperate team, and desperate teams are dangerous.” – Carson Hinzman on Wisconsin
“They did go tempo for a little bit, but I mean, it quickly got shut down. So whatever he said, tempo was working, I don’t know.”- Kenyatta Jackson Jr. on Bret Bielema saying Ohio State’s defense “couldn’t do shit” against Illinois’ tempo
“The first day he was here, I had a conversation with him. The relationship has been growing ever since. I love him. He loves me back, you know what I mean? I like playing for him.” – Jaylen McClain on his relationship with Matt Patricia
