Buckeyes Still Planning To Redshirt RB Dallan Hayden?

Day initially said Hayden would be used out of necessity to save a season of eligibility where his rep count could double. Trayanum's departure made Hayden's play count a priority for the No. 3 Buckeyes (6-0. 3-0 Big Ten) if they wanted to remain a multi-purpose offense. 

Day hopes to get the trio of tailbacks ahead of Hayden on the depth chart back on Saturday against No. 6 Penn State. Day didn't detail the specific injuries, but he seemed optimistic Henderson and Williams would return along with junior receiver Emeka Egbuka. 

The Nittany Lions (6-0, 3-0 Big Ten) feature one of the nation's top defenses, so burning a game of eligibility for Hayden to have little success could make little sense. Then again, perhaps Hayden is the missing link to get the Buckeyes' anemic run game back on pace.

"We're still going to do what we think is best to win every game," Day said. "It was great to see Dallan run out there and play the game. When that [redshirt] decision has to be made, we'll make that decision. That decision doesn't have to be made right now because we still have a little bit more wiggle room."

Day mentioned that Hayden is eager to play. Perhaps the Buckeyes are delighted to see a runner with upside to help them contend for the present and long-term future. 

As of now, plans haven't changed in redshirting Hayden. But plans change every day, and Day has to remain open-minded on what's best for the roster in hopes of making it back to the College Football Playoff. 

“If it comes down to winning games we’ll definitely sit down with Dallan and make sure we’re all on the same page,” Day said.

"Dallan wants to do what’s best for himself but also what’s best for Ohio State.”

Kickoff at Ohio Stadium against the Nittany Lions is scheduled for noon.