For Sayin, the explanation began with Ohio State\u2019s inability to maintain its offensive rhythm after halftime.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think we were just executing the plays that we know how to run,\u201d Sayin told WBNS-TV<\/a> when asked about the first half. \u201cAnd then, you know, the second half we just didn\u2019t execute. It starts with me, and then our offense as a whole, we gotta play better from a player standpoint.\u201d<\/p>\n Sayin and star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith appeared to be in sync early as Ohio State built its lead. However, the Buckeyes struggled to sustain drives and capitalize on opportunities as Texas seized control late in the game.<\/p>\n The Heisman Trophy finalist said he and Smith are still developing their chemistry despite the second-half struggles.<\/p>\n \u201cI think we\u2019re just continuing to grow<\/a> and continuing to improve our connection,\u201d Sayin said.<\/p>\n As Ohio State\u2019s lead began to disappear, Sayin attempted to keep his teammates composed on the sideline. The Buckeyes ultimately could not produce the late response they needed to stop Texas\u2019 comeback.<\/p>\n \u201cJust continuing to uplift and encourage our guys,\u201d Sayin said of the conversations on the sideline. \u201cThat didn\u2019t get done today, and I feel like, from an offense, we have to be better in that situation.\u201d<\/p>\n The loss represents unfamiliar territory for an Ohio State program that went through the previous regular season without a defeat. It also provides an early test of Sayin\u2019s leadership as the Buckeyes attempt to prevent one devastating quarter from defining their season.<\/p>\n Sayin remains confident that Ohio State has the players and leadership necessary to respond.<\/p>\n \u201cI have a ton of confidence in this team and belief in this team,\u201d Sayin said. \u201cWe have to learn from our mistakes and see what went wrong. But, you know, we\u2019ve got a ton of confidence in those guys.\u201d<\/p>\n The Buckeyes will have an opportunity to regroup when they face Kent State next week<\/a>. Sayin said Ohio State cannot simply erase what happened against Texas, but it also cannot allow the loss to linger once preparation for the Golden Flashes begins.<\/p>\n \u201cI think you have to learn from your mistakes,\u201d Sayin said. \u201cBut then, you know, we\u2019re on to the next week once we get to Monday and start working.\u201d<\/p>\n
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