Paul Finebaum remains cautious about placing Ryan Day at the pinnacle of college football coaching, even after the Buckeyes’ triumphant national championship victory on Monday night. While acknowledging Day’s achievements, Finebaum believes there’s still a formidable coach in the SEC who holds the top spot: Kirby Smart.
Day’s Accomplishments and Current Standing
Despite the championship win, Finebaum argues that Day still has some ground to cover before he can be crowned the best coach in college football. “He is one of the best coaches in the country,” Finebaum stated. “He has overcome amazing things. Let’s give him the credit that he deserves.” However, he emphasizes that Day’s journey isn’t complete. The coach must first conquer the challenge posed by Michigan at the end of November to truly stake his claim at the top.
Why Kirby Smart Reigns Supreme
So, what makes Finebaum lean towards Smart over Day? It boils down to a track record of success. “Well, I know he lost, but I would still say Kirby Smart is better,” Finebaum explained. Smart has consistently led his team to championship games, boasting two wins and a few losses. This experience, combined with his ability to build a strong program, positions him as the current leader in Finebaum’s eyes.
Finebaum also noted the impact of Smart’s previous seasons, stating, “He has been in the championship game a number of times.” This consistency in performance is what sets Smart apart. For Day to reach that level, he may need to solidify his dominance over rivals like Michigan first.
The Path to Vindication
To be fair, Finebaum acknowledges that Day has been “fully vindicated” following the national championship. “Yes, Michigan is important. Losing four in a row, but winning the national championship trumps everything in the poker game of college football,” Finebaum said. This victory has undoubtedly elevated Day’s status, allowing him to stand tall in the coaching ranks.
The journey to this point was not without its challenges. Finebaum pointed out the remarkable run Day and his team experienced. “The fact that he did not have to play in a conference championship may have been the key,” he noted. This extra time allowed Day to regroup, refocus, and lead his team on an incredible journey through the playoffs.
The Importance of Rivalries
Finebaum’s analysis also highlights the significance of rivalries in college football. The Michigan-Ohio State rivalry is one of the fiercest in the sport, and losing four consecutive matchups to the Wolverines could weigh heavily on any coach. “He could be one day, if he can figure out that Michigan bugaboo,” Finebaum remarked. This rivalry not only affects rankings but can also define a coach’s legacy.
With the stakes so high, Day’s ability to overcome this hurdle will be crucial. After all, in college football, perception is everything. A coach can win national titles, but if they can’t consistently beat their biggest rival, questions will linger.
Emerging Contenders
Interestingly, Finebaum also mentioned the potential of Marcus Freeman, the head coach at Notre Dame. He believes that with a victory in a significant game, Freeman could have entered the conversation for the top coaching spot. “He’s still one of the best and maybe one of the faces of college football as well,” Finebaum stated. This acknowledgment of Freeman emphasizes the competitive landscape of college football coaching, where several talented individuals are vying for recognition.
Looking Ahead
As the college football landscape continues to evolve, the debate over who deserves the title of the best coach will undoubtedly persist. With each season, new narratives emerge, and coaches like Day and Smart will be under constant scrutiny. The question remains: can Day solidify his legacy by defeating Michigan and continuing to build on his success?
Finebaum’s insights provide a thoughtful perspective on the current state of coaching in college football. While Day has shown he can lead a championship-caliber team, the road ahead is filled with challenges. The rivalry with Michigan looms large, and overcoming it could be the key to unlocking Day’s full potential as a coach.
In the end, college football is a sport rich with tradition, rivalries, and passionate fans. Coaches like Day and Smart are at the forefront of this excitement, and the ongoing debate about their standings will only add to the drama of the coming seasons. As fans, we can only sit back, enjoy the games, and watch as these talented coaches continue to shape the future of college football.
