Coach Ryan Day set to speak ahead of Ohio State opener vs. Akron

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Game week has arrived for Ohio State.

After weeks of preparation in fall camp and an offseason like no other in Columbus, the Buckeyes are set to face players other than themselves as they play Akron at 3:30 p.m. Saturday at Ohio Stadium.

Coach Ryan Day is scheduled to address the media. In addition, defensive coordinator Jim Knowles and quarterback Will Howard are scheduled to speak after Day. You can watch the entire media availability here when it begins about noon.

Expectations are high for this Buckeyes after another loss to Michigan and a disappointing end to the 2023 season with a loss in the Cotton Bowl. But Ohio State has reloaded with top tier talent, including Alabama transfer Caleb Downs and Howard, who earned the starting QB nod in fall camp after transferring from Kansas State.

The Zips come to Columbus after a 2-10 season under Joe Moorhead, who enters his third as coach. Ohio State has not lost to an in-state opponent since 1921.