Less than two months after suffering a devastating defeat to Michigan, Ohio State’s Ryan Day has turned the tide, leading the Buckeyes to a triumphant victory in the College Football Playoff national title. This remarkable turnaround not only solidified Day’s position among the elite coaches in college football but also likely paved the way for a lucrative contract extension that would keep him in Columbus for the foreseeable future.
Ohio State’s Commitment to Ryan Day
It was reported recently that Ohio State is keen on rewarding Ryan Day with a new deal, potentially making him the highest-paid coach in college football. Ohio State president Ted Carter expressed optimism about the negotiations, stating, “We’re working on a contract extension. We don’t have any announcements yet, but we have intent. I know Ryan wants to stay here, so we’re working the details.” This commitment from the university reflects the confidence they have in Day’s ability to lead the program into a bright future.
A Season to Remember
Following the disappointing loss to Michigan, the Buckeyes faced a critical juncture in their season. Many believed that the defeat might signal the end of their championship aspirations. However, Day and his team rallied, showcasing resilience and determination. They stormed through the College Football Playoff, starting with a commanding 42-17 victory over the Tennessee Volunteers in front of a home crowd that included more fans from the opposing team than expected.
Building on that momentum, Ohio State delivered a stunning performance in the Rose Bowl against Big Ten champion Oregon. The Buckeyes jumped out to an astonishing 34-0 lead, demonstrating their offensive prowess and defensive strength. This victory secured their place in the Cotton Bowl semifinal against Texas, where they continued their winning streak with a 41-21 triumph.
Key Moments in the Playoff Run
The semifinal matchup against Texas was no walk in the park. The Longhorns put up a valiant effort, keeping the game close until a pivotal moment late in the contest. Jack Sawyer’s strip-sack of Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers and subsequent return for a touchdown was a backbreaker, sealing a 28-14 victory for Ohio State.
In the national title game against Notre Dame, the Buckeyes faced early adversity, allowing an opening score. However, they quickly turned the tide, scoring 31 unanswered points to secure a 34-23 victory and the championship. This performance not only showcased Day’s coaching acumen but also highlighted the players’ ability to rise to the occasion under pressure.
Day’s Current Contract and Future Prospects
As it stands, Ryan Day’s current contract runs through the 2028 season, with a salary of $10.02 million in 2024, according to reports. His recent national title win also earned him a $1 million bonus, further solidifying his status among the highest-paid coaches in college football. Only a handful of coaches, including Clemson’s Dabo Swinney and Georgia’s Kirby Smart, earn more than Day, underscoring his elite standing in the sport.
Despite interest from NFL teams, Day has shown no inclination to leave Ohio State. “They don’t really reach out to me. They would reach out, I guess, to my agent, and that happens sometimes,” he explained on “The Dan Patrick Show.” “But, you know, we have not really engaged because I love Ohio State, and I wanna be here as long as I can. … It’s not a goal.” This commitment to the Buckeyes is a testament to his passion for the program and its storied history.
The Road Ahead for Ohio State
Looking forward, the role Ryan Day will play for Ohio State is more critical than ever. With the departure of defensive coordinator Jim Knowles to Penn State, Day will need to ensure that the Buckeyes maintain their competitive edge. The upcoming recruiting classes and coaching decisions will be pivotal in shaping the future of the program.
Day has already compiled an impressive 70-10 record with the Buckeyes, a statistic that speaks volumes about his coaching ability. As he prepares for the next season, the expectations will be high, but with the support of the university and the fanbase, Day is poised to continue leading Ohio State to success.
In summary, Ryan Day’s journey from a heartbreaking loss to a national championship victory exemplifies the highs and lows of college football. His potential contract extension serves as a recognition of his achievements and a commitment to the future of the program. With a solid foundation and an unwavering passion for Ohio State, the Buckeyes are primed for continued success under Day’s leadership.
