Ohio State football is officially back. Players, coaches and media members gathered at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center for the start of spring camp.
One of the notable highlights from the first practice reportedly was quarterback Braxton Miller doing some light passing and warm-ups with his shoulder. After being out the entire 2014 season and the emergence of powerhouse "backups" J.T. Barrett and Cardale Jones, Miller's participation in spring camp will certainly give some clarity to the starting position competition.
The Buckeyes also need to quickly establish a plan for at least four new starters on defense. With previously key playmakers now eyeing their chances at the next level, several first team spots are up for grabs. Still too early to call it, but the team had Gareon Conley, Tommy Schutt and Tyquan Lewis all taking first team reps, per Tim May.
Following the first practice back, Urban Meyer spoke with the media about injuries, new first team additions and more.
- On a topic that will be discussed until the first depth chart is revealed, Coach Meyer said "Cardale is getting more reps than he's ever gotten. It's day to day. How does it play out? I don't know." He also mentioned that Cardale "became a very functional player with repetition...", but acknowledges his experience is still that of a rookie with his limited number of reps.
- Meyer noted it was good to see Miller back on the practice field and that Barrett moved better than anticipated, but admits the quarterback situation is very unique and new to him as well. Inadvertently putting another rumor to rest, Meyer also reiterated that although Miller has the skills to play several positions, he will likely stay under Center in 2015.
- Meyer admits that though the quarterback decision stressful as of yet, "None for me. At some point there will be some..."
- One of the keys to the 2015 will be playing with motivation and a chip on their shoulder despite having just won the National Championship.
- Meyer touched on both perceptions of Ohio State's program and the entire Big Ten conference, "We're the Ohio State Buckeyes and we play pretty good ball. That's all I know." And on the conference, noted that thinking the Big Ten isn't as fast as others should essentially be thrown out the window.
- On injuries, Coach Meyer said Ezekiel Elliott (wrist) is being treated gently and Dontre Wilson (foot) is out still.