Press Conference (Will Smith Jr.) Elite April 12
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The Buckeye Scoop's April 12, 2026, episode features a comprehensive press conference with Ohio State football's leadership, spotlighting both player development and strategic vision ahead of the 2026 season. Will Smith Jr., a senior defensive lineman, shares his journey of physical transformation—from 236 to 244 lbs—highlighting how increased strength has enhanced his power and ability to dominate in the run game. He emphasizes the role of faith, mental toughness, and leadership in guiding a group of experienced seniors, while also focusing on mentoring younger players to prepare for a potential 16-17 game season. The coaching staff, led by Chip Kelly, discusses the aggressive development of young talent, including freshmen Julian and JJ, who have shown remarkable composure under pressure. Kelly underscores the importance of depth, constant evaluation, and a culture of accountability, while also praising the growth of quarterbacks like Will Howard and Jeremiah Smith. Coach Hayes then shifts focus to the offense, explaining that while quarterback runs are not a staple, they remain a strategic tool to keep defenses honest. He champions a system where starting roles are earned weekly based on effort, focus, and mental discipline—core intangibles that build trust and consistency across the roster. The episode closes with a strong emphasis on brotherhood, competition, and a balanced offensive identity that leverages mobility and physicality to maintain an edge in modern college football.
Starting roles are earned weekly based on mental toughness, effort, and performance—not past achievements.
Young players are being accelerated into high-pressure roles to build confidence and develop quickly in a 16-17 game season.
Physical transformation and athletic versatility are critical for defensive linemen, with size and agility both essential at the highest level.
Quarterback mobility is used strategically to keep defenses honest, not as a primary offensive weapon.
A culture of accountability, continuous feedback, and brotherhood drives excellence across all levels of the team.
…and 1 more takeaway available in PodZeus
The Physical and Mental Transformation of a Senior Leader
“I feel like I'm like a lot more downhill. Stronger, like I'm taking on blocks better. Just bigger.”
Leadership, Legacy, and the Weight of Expectation
“We've got to be leaders. Like I said, we've got to have them play this year. We can't just play all the snaps.”
The Evolution of the Modern Defensive Tackle
“I think if you look at the last couple of national championship winners, like team up north, they got two good D-tackles, two athletic D-tackles.”
The Culture of Competition and the Road to a Championship
Smith reflects on the team’s mindset heading into the season, the frustration of coming close to national titles, and the importance of learning from past losses. He emphasizes the need for continuous improvement, mental toughness, and a culture where every player is expected to contribute at a high level.
Young Players Thriving in High-Pressure Environment
“They're still learning. You know, they were the guys today that were kind of looking around and saying, wow, there's like 80,000 people here along with the offensive coordinator and the quarterback coach because I was kind of looking around because I had actually never been in the stadium until yesterday.”
“We grade everything. They're getting constant feedback in terms of where we are. And then after 15, which we had today. But we can't do it unless you watch the film and can really look at the things because you may see something, but you're on the sideline.”
“We've got to be leaders. Like I said, we've got to have them play this year. We can't just play all the snaps.”
“It also keeps defenses honest. If your defensive end is going to continue to bend, then the quarterback pulls in and he's on the edge and he's gaining first downs. Well, then the defensive end has to stay outside and contain the quarterback.”
Hosts
Guests
Will Smith Jr.
person
Ohio State
organization
Will Howard
person
Coach Day
person
Caden McDonald
person
Chip Kelly
person
Quinshawn
person
Michigan
organization
Jesus Christ
person
Julian
person
OSU Insider- Massive Practice Report!! More Guys Stepping Up!!
The Buckeye Scoop • 1h 0m • 4/9/2026
OSU Insider-Massive Practice Report!! More Guys Stepping Up!!
The Buckeye Scoop • 1h 0m • 4/9/2026
OSU Insider- Massive Practice Report!! More Guys Stepping Up!!
The Buckeye Scoop • 1h 0m • 4/9/2026
OSU Insider- Massive Practice Report!! More Guys Stepping Up!!
The Buckeye Scoop • 1h 0m • 4/9/2026
OSU Insider-Massive Practice Report!! More Guys Stepping Up!!
The Buckeye Scoop • 1h 0m • 4/9/2026
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