COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio State head football coach Ryan Day, who guided the Buckeyes to a national championship just a few weeks ago, has come to an agreement on a new seven-year contract worth $12.5 million annually, the university announced on Thursday.

Pending approval from the university’s Board of Trustees, this deal will extend through the conclusion of the 2031 season, positioning Day as the second highest-paid coach in college football, just behind Georgia’s Kirby Smart, who earns $13.3 million each year.

After earning just over $10 million in 2024, Day faced criticism from fans and media following Ohio State’s fourth consecutive defeat to rival Michigan. Despite this setback, the Buckeyes secured an at-large berth in the newly expanded 12-team College Football Playoff. They achieved significant victories against teams like Tennessee, Oregon, Texas, and Notre Dame, culminating in the program’s first national title since 2014.

“Ohio State Football has long been synonymous with excellence, and under Ryan Day’s guidance, that legacy not only continues but flourishes,” stated athletic director Ross Bjork. “As a coach, mentor, and leader, Ryan has shown a steadfast dedication to the success of our players both on and off the field. His ability to maintain our national prominence each year, highlighted by winning the 2024 national championship, affirms the culture of excellence, integrity, and perseverance within his program.”

The Buckeyes completed the season with an impressive record of 14 wins and 2 losses, with their only setback during the regular season coming from a narrow one-point defeat to Oregon, which they later avenged in the playoffs.

Over six seasons, Day has amassed a remarkable record of 70 wins and 10 losses, resulting in an .875 winning percentage, the highest among active head coaches. He expressed gratitude to university president Ted Carter, Bjork, and the trustees for their trust in his leadership. In addition, he acknowledged his coaching staff and players for their contributions to the team’s success.

“This team is composed of resilient and dedicated individuals who uphold our culture of respect, commitment, and love,” said Day with pride.