Two members of the Ohio State defense and a pair from the offensive side met with media Tuesday following practice. Kurt Coleman and Malcolm Jenkins, both defensive backs, spoke with reporters three days after limiting Akron to just three first downs in a 20-2 win Saturday in Ohio Stadium. Jake Ballard and Ben Person represented the offense and previewed their trip to Husky Stadium to face Washington Saturday.
Ben Person, junior offensive guard
On playing Washington
“We’ve been excited all year to go out to Washington because just like it’s hard for a team to come in and play at the ‘Shoe,’ it’s going to be hard for us to play there.”
On his mindset
“I need to work on the little things because that’s what makes a good football player. After the Akron game, I felt like we played terrible but when we watched film it didn’t look as bad as it felt.”
Malcolm Jenkins, junior cornerback
On playing Washington
“We want to get on top early because we are prepared for Washington to test us. Coach Earle Bruce told us at the end of the day it comes down to who wants it more. When I go into a place like Washington, I use the energy as fuel and match the environment.”
On Big Ten football
“It’s a long season and it’s only Week 2, so we have a long way to go. We want to see a good Michigan team during the year, so that when we play it’s a fun game.”
Jake Ballard, sophomore tight end
On the tight end position
“I did what I was supposed to do against Akron, so Beanie (Chris Wells) could to what he does. As a tight end, we have to be prepared at all times. It’s not a lot of pressure to make blocks and catches because it’s what a tight end is supposed to do and it makes us a vital part of the offense.”
On the offensive line
“I think the line realized we can play a lot better than we did last week against Akron.”
Kurt Coleman, sophomore defensive back
On earning a starting position
“It’s something I’ve come to love. When you get a starting position, you’re definitely excited because it shows the hard work you’ve put in has been worth something.”
On Ray Small, sophomore flanker
“He’s quick and he definitely brings a different dimension to the offense. When he has the ball we expect Ray to make big plays.”
