Ohio State TE says 'it means a lot' to play one more game for Buckeyes

Jeremy Ruckert is looking forward to the opportunity to take the field with an Ohio State jersey on his chest one more time. The Buckeyes tight end calls the experience “special.”

Speaking with reporters this week as Ohio State prepares to play Utah in the Rose Bowl Game, Ruckert talked about his decision to play in the game rather than opting out. He loves the chance to suit up for the Buckeyes one more time.

“It means a lot,” Ruckert said, according to Eleven Warriors. “Coach (Ryan) Day has talked a lot about the traditions and expectations to play in the Rose Bowl and all the people who came before you. It was a big decision, and playing in this game, it’s the Rose Bowl. And I don’t want to leave off with a bad note, as we (lost to Michigan) in the last game. I’m excited to play in the Rose Bowl and I’m excited to play against Utah.”

The Rose Bowl is one of the most prestigious and iconic bowl games of the postseason. It’ll be Ohio State’s second appearance since 2018 and the first since Ran Day took over as head coach.

But it isn’t just the bowl game experience that stands out to Ruckert. It’s also the chance to spend time with his teammates for a few more weeks.

“Just be with the guys for another month and leave with a strong, good note with the team,” Ruckert said. “For me I wanted to go out on the right note with a bunch of my guys and have one more time putting on the uniform. And the fact that it’s the Rose Bowl is very special. That’s really what went into it for me.”

Ohio State ended the 2021 season with a 10-2 record, falling short of a B1G title. It will take on Utah with a chance to hit the 11-win mark on New Year’s Day.