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Some interesting points between these two videos, plus some of my own thoughts.
1. Expect the offense under Smith to look a lot like the 2019 offense - heavy zone/stretch run scheme with play action deep shots and boot legs (obviously Sayin is a bit different physically/athletically than Fields, which impacts how much you can or want to do with him running around).
2. Possibly the biggest problem with the Stealers offense this past season was that Rodgers was ineffective throwing the deep ball (plus a lack of threats outside of Metcalf who was just double teamed), which eliminated a major component of how Smith likes to attack a defense.
3.The zone/stretch run scheme puts more stress on a defense deciding between extra defenders covering Smith on one side and covering the stretch run on the other side because there are more possible running lanes that need filled (compared to gap run schemes).
4. It is easier to audible between run plays in a zone/stretch run offense with less pulling from the OL and (theoretically) less things for them to screw up, combined with Sayin in year two, expect him to have more on his plate when it comes to audibles this year.
5. It is without question that Smith has significantly more experience and established effectiveness incorporating TEs and a FB into the offense compared to Hartline, which, based on the portal moves, will continue to be the plan.
6. Day is looking to duplicate the situation he had with Kelly - an OC who can implement effective run game schemes on top of Day’s passing schemes, as well as an experienced guy who can be trusted with game preparation through the week and calling plays on game day. This is basically the opposite of what he had with Hartline last year, and Day made a strong move to correct that.
7. It seems like success on offense will depend on a veteran OL being able to establish an identity and consistent effectiveness zone blocking, with Sayin helping out with effective audibles and stressing the defense down the field (with an emphasis on play action passes).
Seems like a solid plan building on Ohio State’s strengths combined with the expertise of the new OC.
It feels really well thought out with a clear idea of what Day wants that duplicates past successes in 2019 and 2024.
