COLUMBUS, Ohio — During a recent interview, Ohio State’s athletic director, Ross Bjork, expressed his unwavering support for football coach Ryan Day, confirming that he is “absolutely” confident Day will remain with the Buckeyes through 2025.
Following Ohio State’s fourth consecutive loss to rival Michigan, calls for Day’s dismissal have intensified among the fanbase. However, Bjork emphasized that the coach is still the right fit for the program, regardless of the team’s performance in the upcoming College Football Playoff, where they will face Tennessee on December 21.
“Coach Day is fantastic,” Bjork shared, having taken over the role last summer after Gene Smith’s retirement from Texas A&M. “He understands the culture and is deeply passionate about the Buckeyes. Our support for him is unwavering.”
The Buckeyes experienced disappointment after their 13-10 defeat to Michigan, which was further complicated by a brawl between the teams. Following the loss, the coach was booed off the field, prompting Bjork to issue a supportive statement regarding Day’s future.
“We felt it was important to communicate our stance after the Michigan game because there’s still a lot of life left in this season,” Bjork remarked. “We’re still in the playoff mix, and there’s more to achieve.”
The playoff provides Day an opportunity to restore faith among Ohio State’s passionate fan base, especially with a winning performance against the Volunteers and potentially advancing further in the 12-team tournament.
Despite the external pressures, Bjork reassured supporters that Day will return next season.
“Coach Day and I have developed a strong rapport. He consistently impresses me in our discussions,” Bjork commented. “He is innovative and excels in recruiting while leading a great staff.”
Day himself chose not to comment specifically on his job security in the wake of the Michigan game loss. “When you come off such emotional events, it’s important to regroup and focus forward,” he said. “What has happened in the past doesn’t dictate our future potential. We’re looking ahead.”
One area where Day has faced criticism is his inability to secure victories against Michigan consistently. He joined the Buckeyes coaching staff in 2017 under Urban Meyer and was appointed as Meyer’s successor when he retired after the 2018 season. Day boasts a commendable overall record of 66-10, earning considerable respect in the coaching field.
“Ryan has my utmost admiration for what he’s accomplished at Ohio State and the consistent success Year in and year out,” remarked Tennessee coach Josh Heupel.
Nonetheless, the focus remains sharp on the Michigan losses, which have become a sore point for Buckeyes fans.
“What we need to foster is a culture where aspiration is high, but we must focus on the journey, not just the end goal of winning championships,” Bjork stated. “Perhaps a shift in our conversations and perspectives is necessary.”
