How Ohio State worked around Lathan Ransom’s absence

Heading into the game against Nebraska, there was uncertainty regarding options at safety with Ransom sidelined.

“The depth back there was a little bit of a concern,” Day said.

However, he was pleased with how Ohio State worked around Ransom’s absence.

Corner/nickelback Jordan Hancock moved into Ransom’s spot at times while also splitting snaps with backup safety Jaylen McClain.

When Hancock shifted, Jermaine Mathews and Lorenzo Styles stepped into his usual role.

Ransom ranks fourth on the team with 29 tackles. He has also forced a pair of fumbles and recovered one, which he returned for a touchdown against Akron.

Ryan Day’s update on Zen Michalski

On offense, Ohio State will likely be without left tackle Zen Michalski.

“It‘s trending that he’s not going to play,” Day said. “We‘ll keep evaluating it, but I think we’ve got a pretty good plan going forward.”

Michalski got his first career start vs. Nebraska as he filled in for Josh Simmons who suffered a season-ending knee injury vs. Oregon.

However, Michalski was hurt in the second half against the Huskers. Donovan Jackson moved to left tackle while Luke Montgomery stepped in at left guard without Michalski.

Day was asked how OSU would work around Michalski’s injury vs. Penn State.

“We’ll save that for Saturday,” Day responded.