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Ryan Day praises Dallan Hayden for emergency performance vs. Purdue
By Paul Harvey
Published:
Ryan Day mentioned earlier this week that Ohio State had serious plans to redshirt Dallan Hayden this season in a crowded backfield. By the end of Week 7, the Buckeyes called on Hayden to step up in a major way against Purdue.
Entering the Week 7 game, TreVeyon Henderson was held out after being a game-time decision. Miyan Williams — the No. 2 RB — did not make the trip with an injury. Chip Trayanum would ultimately get the start in the backfield, but he left in the first half and did not return after sustaining a heavy hit.
Day did not have an update on the injuries after the game, but he did have plenty to say about Hayden. He led Ohio State with 11 carries for 76 yards and a touchdown as the Buckeyes rolled to a 41-7 win.
“I think he’s got really good feet. I think when the ball’s in his hands, that’s when he’s at his best. I think he’s got good vision and quickness,” said Day. “But I think to your point, it shows his mental preparation because he hasn’t played much this year. So to be able to go do that says a lot about his preparation.”
Day went on to praise Hayden’s ball security and noted the player’s ability to step up when his moment came vs. Purdue:
“The things we did today are Day 1 installation kind of plays… but he put it on the field, he took care of the ball, that’s the No. 1 thing,” Day explained. “Certainly some things in protection that we can get better at, but ran the ball hard and it was good to see him step up in this moment on the road.”
If any of Ohio State’s backs are able to be healthy for Week 8, it’s possible the plans to redshirt Hayden will resume. If not, it’s possible his role for the program increases as Ohio State hits the late October stretch of the schedule.
Paul is a lifelong fan and student of all things college football. He has been covering college football since 2017 and the B1G since 2018.