Day: Losing Harrison to concussion 'absolutely' influenced CFP loss
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day said losing star receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. to a concussion "absolutely" influenced the result of his team's 42-41 loss to Georgia in the College Football Playoff semifinals, according to ESPN's Alex Scarborough.
Harrison exited the game in the third quarter after taking a hard hit from Georgia defensive back Javon Bullard. The play was initially flagged for targeting before being overturned after review.
Javon Bullard was not called for targeting after this hit on Marvin Harrison Jr. pic.twitter.com/COkUtGi6X1
— ESPN College Football (@ESPNCFB) January 1, 2023
The Buckeyes were forced to settle for a field goal on the drive, giving them a 14-point lead entering the final quarter.
Harrison was on the sidelines for the remainder of the game but was put in concussion protocol and didn't return.
"I was told that it was not targeting, that (Harrison) didn't take a shot to the head," Day said. "I didn't see it, so I don't know. But to get a concussion and not get hit in the head - I have to see the replay."
The Ohio State receiver said postgame that he felt "good enough" to return to the game but understood why he was held out.
"At the end of the day, they are looking out for my health and safety," Harrison said. "I respect their decision."
Harrison played an important role in helping Ohio State jump out to an initial 38-24 lead, grabbing five catches for 106 yards with two touchdowns. Georgia went on to score the final 18 of 21 points in the fourth quarter, pulling off a dramatic victory after the Buckeyes missed a field goal in the final seconds.