Starting to see some separation in the QB battle this week per two different sources. Again, this is week two so let’s not get too far ahead of ourselves, but hearing Julian Sayin is starting to lead the pack here
-Echoing Spencer and Austin in another thread, can’t be enough positive things said about CJ Donaldson right now. Think Ohio State was feeling “OK” about running backs before camp but now feel “ good” about what they have in Donaldson and James Peoples as the two lead dogs.
-Hearing there has been lots of shuffling on the offensive line. Austin Siereveld has played LT. Phillip Daniels has played LT. Ethan Onianwa has obviously played LT as well. Seems like the staff is still trying to find its best five. They are very confident and comfortable with the interior play, it seems to be figuring out the tackles which could have a domino effect. Daniels, I’m told, is having a really strong week which is throwing a wrench in some things in the way they’re thinking. Siereveld has continued to look really good and they feel comfortable with him on either side. Onianwa, I get the feeling he hasn’t fully peaked yet despite progression from spring. Let’s see how the rest of camp plays out.
-Lots of praise for the linebackers. Super high expectations on this group. Not just Arvell Reese—Payton Pierce should have a carved out role (like Reese did last year). Riley Pettijohn was also mentioned which goes along with losing the stripe this week.
-Hearing Bryce West’s name more and more. Seems he’s having a strong camp. Don’t see him beating out Lo Styles for the slot position but also see him getting some meaningful run.
-As reported previously you will see both Malik Hartford and Jaylen McClain plenty. Asked one source, gun to their head, who wins the “regular job” if game was tomorrow—they said McClain. Lots of camp left on that one.