COLUMBUS, Ohio — Following a disappointing four-year streak of losses against cross-state rival Michigan, Ohio State fans called for the dismissal of their head coach, Ryan Day. However, the narrative took a dramatic turn over the past five weeks as Day’s leadership has propelled the Buckeyes to the brink of the national championship game, rejuvenating support from the fanbase and showcasing impressive victories against Tennessee and Oregon in the College Football Playoff.
After the win against Oregon, Day reflected on the team’s journey: “(The) same guys in the room as was there a month ago. Nothing that’s happened in the past or the noise around the building has anything to do with our preparation and our focus and our process, and that’s what we’ve been diving into.” Day’s approach is forward-focused, emphasizing that previous losses should not affect their current mindset: “Nothing that’s happened previously is going to have any effect on what’s going on other than learning from our experiences.”
Just a month prior, Day expressed his disbelief after a home defeat to Michigan. A week later, however, he received crucial backing from athletic director Ross Bjork. Day has accumulated an impressive 66-10 record in six seasons, consistently placing Ohio State in contention for both Big Ten and national titles. Nevertheless, his 12-8 record against top 10 teams and a troublesome 1-3 record in the College Football Playoff have clouded his otherwise stellar coaching career.
The recent playoff victories, including a 42-17 win over Tennessee and a strong 41-21 showing against Oregon, have managed to silence many critics. These performances have positioned the Buckeyes as the favorites to win their national championship on January 20, a title they last held in 2014. Before that potential showdown against either Notre Dame or Penn State, they must first conquer Texas in the Cotton Bowl semifinal on Friday night. Day’s players affirm that their faith in him has never wavered amidst the ups and downs.
“Coach Day is the best coach in the nation,” asserted wide receiver Brandon Innis. “We come in here and see the work he puts in. He’s here all day every day. To have a guy like that, you want to play for him.” Day’s role has evolved in this season compared to his earlier tenure; he shifted play-calling responsibilities to offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, allowing him to concentrate on devising the weekly game strategy.
Defensive coach Jim Knowles has steered the defensive unit since his arrival in 2022. This season, however, Day has taken a more hands-on approach with the defense. Tyleik Williams, a defensive tackle, noted, “He teaches a lot of technique,” highlighting Day’s impact on the team’s overall defensive prowess. Their performance against Oregon, which included eight sacks, is indicative of this enhanced focus.
Day’s fiery pregame speech prior to the Rose Bowl went viral, revealing his passion as he motivated his squad: “We’ve been working our whole lives for this moment, right here! Bring it! From the first snap all the way to the end!” Williams shared how Day’s intensity encourages players to strive for excellence: “When he’s like that, he makes me want to go out there and do great for him, for the guys around us.”
With a combined score of 83-38 against Tennessee and Oregon, Innis recognized that the team’s trust in Day extends beyond the gridiron. He expressed hope that this unity will carry them to national championship glory: “We’re a brotherhood, we’re a family and we are going to stand by him no matter what.”
