Matt Patricia emphasized the importance of Ohio State’s bye week advantage as the Buckeyes prepare for their College Football Playoff semifinal matchup.
The defensive coordinator told reporters Monday that this year’s extended rest period gives Ohio State a significant edge compared to last season’s national championship run.
“We’d have bye-week kind of moments in the NFL, but this is a really long layover and break,” Patricia told reporters Monday. “Right now, I’m trying to trust the expertise in the building. Some of the things we did transfer, you know, because we have some different kind of scheduling and when everybody is in school and that stuff.”
Patricia’s transition from the NFL to college football has required adjustments to scheduling and preparation routines.
The bye week comes at a crucial time as Ohio State chases back-to-back national titles. Patricia said the extended break allows the team to address specific areas while maintaining momentum from their playoff victory.
“The players have done an unbelievable job,” Patricia said. “Again, give them all the credit. I think they’ve played so hard and aggressive and flying around on the field. And it is a lot of fun. I tell them all the time, it’s such a privilege to be up there in front of the group and talk to the group.”
Miami Presents Defensive Challenge
The Buckeyes face Miami in the Cotton Bowl on New Year’s Eve, returning to the same venue where they defeated Texas in January’s national championship game.
Miami’s defense held Texas A&M to just three points in their 10-3 College Football Playoff victory Saturday. The Hurricanes’ defensive unit will test Ohio State’s offensive adjustments during the bye week.
Patricia highlighted the importance of positioning key players like linebacker Arvell Reese for success against Miami’s scheme.
“You don’t ever want to not make sure your good players are doing things that they do well,” Patricia said of Reese.
Patricia replaced Jim Knowles as defensive coordinator after Ohio State’s championship victory. The former NFL coordinator has adapted his professional experience to college football’s unique demands.
“And just for me, personally, it has been so much fun to come back to college and have that little bit of a youthful energy with the players that we have here and their excitement to go out and play.”
Kickoff between Ohio State and Miami is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN.
