Ohio State Adopts Slow Tempo Strategy in College Football
Ohio State University’s football team has adopted a slower tempo strategy under coach Ryan Day, changing its approach significantly from previous seasons. This shift has become evident as the Buckeyes have focused on efficiency rather than volume.
Ohio State’s Offensive Strategy Shift
The Buckeyes recently ran 76 plays in a game, achieving 34 points and 473 yards. This marks the highest play count since their 2022 season, when they averaged 67.4 plays per game. In contrast, the current average sits at 63.1 plays.
Defensive Impact on Play Count
Ohio State’s defense overwhelmed Purdue, limiting them to just 44 plays. Under the guidance of defensive coordinator Matt Patricia, the Buckeyes have established a dominant defensive presence. This significantly influences their overall play count, as a strong defense minimizes the opponent’s opportunities.
Intended Efficiency Over Volume
- Ohio State ranks No. 120 nationally in total plays, with 568 this season.
- The average possession time per drive is three minutes and 19 seconds, the slowest recorded during the Day era.
Ryan Day has strategically lowered the team’s play count to enhance efficiency. This approach allows for sustained success, especially as the College Football Playoff landscape evolves. Day believes that efficiency becomes vital when working with fewer plays.
Embracing Change in Offense
In a crucial decision, Day surrendered play-calling responsibilities last year to focus on broader program management. Adapting to the realities of college football today, particularly with the influence of the transfer portal and NIL policies, he views huddling as an effective way to maintain offensive stability.
Statistical Breakdown of Ohio State’s Play Patterns
| Year | Plays/Game | Seconds/Play | Points/Drive |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 76.4 | 25.1 | 3.46 |
| 2020 | 71.3 | 27.2 | 3.01 |
| 2021 | 70.5 | 25.0 | 3.57 |
| 2022 | 67.4 | 27.4 | 3.36 |
| 2023 | 63.1 | 27.6 | 2.56 |
Day acknowledges that while lower play counts have led to fewer explosive plays—claiming the lowest rates during his tenure—his focus on efficiency is paying dividends. This season, the offense averages 3.56 points per drive, showing marked improvement in their new strategy.
Outlook for the Future
As the season progresses, Ohio State’s ability to adapt will be crucial, particularly with a crucial matchup against Michigan approaching. Coach Day remains committed to refining their slower pace while ensuring his team is prepared for any scenario.
“When it’s time to turn up the game, we will,” Day stated, encapsulating his vision for the Buckeyes as they navigate the challenges of the evolving college football landscape.
