Carnell Tate Injury Update: Ryan Day Reveals Why Ohio State WR Missed Purdue Game

Ohio State head coach Ryan Day provided an important Carnell Tate injury update during halftime of the Buckeyes’ matchup against Purdue on Saturday. Day confirmed that the talented wide receiver would not play in the second half after experiencing tightness during pregame warmups.

The sophomore wideout, who has been a rising playmaker in Ohio State’s offense, was held out as a precaution. Day explained to Big Ten Network that the team’s medical staff did not feel comfortable clearing Tate to play, leading to his absence throughout the contest.

Ohio State Holds Carnell Tate Out as Precaution

Tate was seen going through pregame drills but appeared tight, according to the game broadcast. While he did not record a snap in the first half, the Buckeyes still managed to dominate Purdue early, taking a 24-3 lead into halftime. The coaching staff decided it was best to rest the receiver completely rather than risk further issues.

“He’s not gonna play,” Day told sideline reporter Brooke Fletcher. “We’re gonna hold him. It was a thing before the game; we just didn’t feel comfortable putting him out there. You won’t see him in the second half.”

The decision was purely precautionary, Day emphasized. Tate’s condition was not described as a serious injury, but the Buckeyes are prioritizing long-term health as they enter the back half of the season. With key Big Ten matchups ahead, maintaining depth at wide receiver is critical.

Impact on Ohio State’s Offense

Tate’s absence gave other Ohio State receivers more opportunities to step up. The Buckeyes have one of the deepest receiving rooms in college football, featuring stars like Emeka Egbuka and freshman standout Jeremiah Smith. Still, losing Tate — a reliable target and big-play threat — could slightly alter offensive rhythm if his tightness persists.

The Buckeyes’ offensive strategy under Ryan Day has leaned heavily on tempo and spacing. Tate’s speed and route-running have been key in stretching opposing defenses. His status for next week’s game will likely depend on how he responds to treatment in the coming days.

What This Means for Ohio State Moving Forward

The update from Ryan Day suggests that Tate’s issue is minor and that the team acted out of caution rather than necessity. With the College Football Playoff race heating up, Ohio State’s depth and player management could prove vital in maintaining an undefeated run.

As of now, there is no indication that Carnell Tate’s injury will keep him sidelined long-term. Fans can expect further clarification early next week as the Buckeyes prepare for their next opponent.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest on Carnell Tate’s injury?

Carnell Tate was held out due to tightness during warmups. Ryan Day confirmed the team opted to rest him for precautionary reasons.

Q2: Will Carnell Tate play in Ohio State’s next game?

His status for next week is uncertain. The team will monitor his recovery over the coming days before making a decision.

Q3: Who replaced Carnell Tate against Purdue?

Ohio State rotated several receivers, with Emeka Egbuka and Jeremiah Smith taking on more snaps in his absence.

Q4: Did Ohio State struggle without Carnell Tate?

No. The Buckeyes led 24-3 at halftime, showing strong offensive balance despite his absence.

Q5: What did Ryan Day say about Carnell Tate?

Day said Tate “was tight” before the game and that the team “didn’t feel comfortable” playing him, emphasizing it was a precautionary move.