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Ohio State players talk Michigan game, respond to ‘guarantee’ statements
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Michigan players have had their first opportunity to talk with the media about Saturday’s matchup with Ohio State on Saturday.
On Tuesday, the Buckeyes had a chance to respond.
Several Ohio State players met with the media on Tuesday to talk about Saturday’s matchup and the significance of “The Game.” And, of course, they were given the opportunity to respond to Michigan players “guaranteeing” a win this weekend.
While there’s plenty of hate for Michigan, the Buckeyes certainly respect the talent level and the accomplishments of the team that will be across the field this weekend. Here’s what Ohio State players had to say about the B1G clash:
Demetrius Knox said when Michigan offensive line coach Ed Warinner, who was his first offensive line coach at Ohio State, left the Buckeyes, “it was like losing a family member.” Knox said he hasn’t talked to Warinner much since he left.
— Dan Hope (@Dan_Hope) November 20, 2018
Tuf Borland says he doesn’t care about what Michigan players are saying: “We’re going to focus on what we can control within these four walls, and we’ll see what it brings on Saturday.”
— Dan Hope (@Dan_Hope) November 20, 2018
LB Tuf Borland on Michigan’s offense: “(Quarterback Shea) Patterson, obviously a great player. He just has a knack for making plays. Big, physical offensive line and talented running backs.”
— Derrick Webb (@dw1509) November 20, 2018
Question to Dre’Mont Jones about Michigan RB Karan Higdon guaranteeing a win: “Did you hear about it?”
Jones: “No.”
Reporter tells him what Higdon said.
Jones, with a smile: “That’s cool.”
Reporter: “Do you have any guarantees?”
“I guarantee I’m going to play on Saturday.”
— Derrick Webb (@dw1509) November 20, 2018
Because Ohio State players aren’t supposed to say the word Michigan this week, Buckeyes right guard Demetrius Knox referenced Michigan State as “TUN State” during his media interview today.
— Dan Hope (@Dan_Hope) November 20, 2018
Tuf Borland: “I think if you need an extra gear this week, there’s a problem. You’re going to get our best this week. The rivalry itself just should fuel you.” pic.twitter.com/usSqANt4yV
— Colin Hass-Hill (@chasshill) November 20, 2018
Demetrius Knox on Michigan defensive end Rashan Gary: “He’s a fantastic player. He’s really, really good.”
— Dan Hope (@Dan_Hope) November 20, 2018
Davon Hamilton on Michigan: “We understand the importance of this game but we can’t overreact to it. We have to keep our emotions in check.”
— Derrick Webb (@dw1509) November 20, 2018
Q: “How do you balance respect and the rivalry … the animosity between the two teams?”
Dre’Mont Jones: “I think the rivalry comes with the respect. We just have to come out there and play with composure. This is a big game. But we have to play big.”
— Derrick Webb (@dw1509) November 20, 2018
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB