After five seasons of striving for greatness, Ryan Day finally led the Ohio State Buckeyes to their first national title during his tenure this past season. This monumental achievement has not only solidified his position as a top-tier coach but also provided him with valuable lessons that he shared during a recent appearance on The Joel Klatt Show.
Trusting the Process
Reflecting on his journey, Day emphasized the importance of trusting one’s instincts. “The first thing I would tell him is trust your instinct. Trust your instinct and trust the process,” Day said. This advice is particularly relevant in the high-pressure world of college football, where external factors can often cloud judgment. He continued, “The results give you some feedback, but trust the process. Coach the team. Like, just coach the team. Don’t get caught up in everything else that’s going on.”
This mantra of focusing on the fundamentals and the players is crucial. Day stressed, “Just coach the team to make the best decisions you possibly can. Focus on the players, and make sure that you have the right people in the right seats at the end of the day because you’re only as good as the guys around you.” This perspective is what helped him navigate the tumultuous waters of the college football season.
Overcoming Adversity
Day didn’t just stumble upon these insights; he earned them through experience. The Buckeyes faced significant challenges this season, including an early loss to Oregon and a heartbreaking defeat to Michigan in their regular-season finale. Most college football fans might have counted out Day and his team after these setbacks, but the Buckeyes refused to let the outside noise dictate their season.
Instead of succumbing to doubt, they rallied together, demonstrating resilience and determination. Ohio State silenced its critics by winning all four of their College Football Playoff games with an impressive average margin of 17.5 points. This performance showcased not only their skill but also their ability to come together as a unit when it mattered most.
A New Challenge Ahead
With the national title secured, Day now faces a different kind of challenge this offseason. Both of Ohio State’s coordinators for the 2024 season have departed the program. Chip Kelly, the offensive coordinator, is heading back to the NFL to take on the same role with the Las Vegas Raiders, while defensive coordinator Jim Knowles has accepted an offer from Penn State.
These departures leave significant gaps in the coaching staff, and Day knows that his next moves will be pivotal. “Make sure that you have the right people in the right seats at the end of the day because you’re only as good as the guys around you,” he reiterated. This advice is not just a mantra; it’s a necessity as he looks to build a team capable of defending their national title.
The Road Ahead
As of now, Ohio State has yet to replace either Kelly or Knowles. The decisions Day makes in the coming weeks will be crucial for the Buckeyes’ chances of repeating their success. How do you fill the shoes of two standout coordinators? It’s no small task, but Day is up for the challenge.
In the 2024 campaign, Ohio State finished with the 28th offense and the No. 1 defense in the country. This balance is vital for any championship-caliber team. With the right hires, Day can maintain this level of excellence and continue to build on the foundation laid during the recent national championship run.
Looking Forward
As Day embarks on this new chapter, he must trust his instincts more than ever. The pressure is on, but that’s where the magic happens. College football is a rollercoaster of emotions, and every decision counts. With the right coaching staff in place, the Buckeyes could very well find themselves in the same position next season, vying for another national title.
In a sport where every detail matters, Day’s journey serves as a reminder of the importance of resilience, focus, and trust in one’s own abilities. The upcoming offseason will be a test of his leadership, but if this past season is any indication, he has the potential to rise to the occasion once again.
Ohio State fans are undoubtedly eager to see how this all unfolds. Will Day’s next moves solidify the Buckeyes as a powerhouse in college football? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the passion and dedication of this program will continue to shine brightly on the national stage.
