In Arlington, Texas, Marvin Harrison Jr., a two-time AP All-America receiver, is present with Ohio State as they gear up for the Cotton Bowl. However, there’s no indication that he will participate in Friday night’s game against Missouri.
Harrison, once again, wasn’t fully involved in practice and didn’t have his helmet during the part of the session accessible to reporters on Wednesday. He also didn’t take part in the subsequent interview sessions alongside other key offensive players. A day before, Harrison was seen on a stationary bicycle on the sidelines while the rest of the team commenced practice.
Brian Hartline, the offensive coordinator, didn’t directly comment on Harrison’s potential participation. Instead, he discussed the potential role changes for a couple of other players. Harrison, in his third year with the Buckeyes, is anticipated to be among the top picks if he decides to enter the NFL draft.
“I’m eager to see some of these players explore different opportunities that perhaps they haven’t had throughout the year,” Hartline mentioned. “We’re on the brink of witnessing different possibilities, and I’m looking forward to seeing some individuals seize those opportunities.”
While Coach Ryan Day wasn’t available for media interaction on Wednesday, he is scheduled to address the press on Thursday alongside Missouri coach Eliah Drinkwitz.
Amid uncertainty surrounding Harrison’s status and the departure of starting quarterback Kyle McCord to Syracuse, leading rusher TreVeyon Henderson affirmed his commitment to playing in the game for the Buckeyes (11-1) against Missouri (10-2).
“Sure, there are concerns that arise—what if I get injured, what if this happens. But I entrusted all of those worries to God, and it led me to decide to play in this game, to glorify Him and be there for my teammates,” Henderson affirmed. “Everyone needs to do what’s best for them.”
With McCord absent, sophomore Devin Brown is set to make his debut start in the Cotton Bowl, becoming the first Ohio State quarterback to do so in a bowl game.
Reflecting on the post-regular season chaos with players transferring and uncertain futures, Brown noted a shift in the team’s focus since their arrival in North Texas before Christmas.
“I sense that everyone is focused on the team’s well-being and winning this game,” Brown remarked.
Linebacker Tommy Eichenberg, the team’s top tackler, is uncertain for the game due to an arm injury that sidelined him for two games. Although he returned for the regular-season finale against Michigan, his status remains questionable.
Despite these uncertainties, Ohio State anticipates having most of their key defenders available against Missouri.
Cornerback Denzel Burke, in his third year, has already made a decision about declaring for the NFL draft. However, he intends to delay the announcement until January 10, almost two weeks after playing in the Cotton Bowl.
When asked why he chose to play in the game, Burke stated, “To conclude the season with my teammates. It’s another opportunity for scouts to see me play, and to finish the season strongly, building momentum for next year’s team.”
