Ohio State coach Ryan Day has hit the jackpot after leading his team to a stunning victory in the Rose Bowl. The Buckeyes triumphed over the Oregon Ducks with a score of 41-21, securing their place in the College Football Playoff semi-finals. This impressive win not only showcased the team’s talent but also brought Day a significant financial reward.
Day’s coaching prowess was on full display as he watched his team dominate the first half, jumping out to a staggering 34-0 lead in Pasadena, California. The Buckeyes’ performance was nothing short of spectacular, and it set the tone for the rest of the game. Although Oregon attempted to mount a comeback with two quick touchdowns in the second half, Ohio State held firm, ensuring their advancement in the playoffs and a memorable New Year bonus for their head coach.
The financial incentives in Day’s contract are substantial. Earning an annual salary of $9.96 million, he has several performance-related bonuses that can significantly boost his earnings. For instance, if he guides the Buckeyes to their first national championship since 2014, he stands to gain an additional $1 million. Even if the team reaches the national championship game but does not win, Day will pocket $500,000. With the Buckeyes now in the semifinals, he has already secured $350,000.
The Buckeyes’ success in the Rose Bowl was fueled by a record-breaking performance from wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. The 19-year-old star was unstoppable, hauling in seven passes for 187 yards and two touchdowns during the game. His outstanding performance earned him the title of game MVP, and it’s clear why he was the No. 1 recruit in the 2024 class. Smith has not only lived up to the hype but has also become a key player for Ohio State this season.
With 1,224 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns, Smith ranks sixth in the nation, drawing attention from national media and NFL scouts alike. His combination of speed, agility, and size has made him a standout player, and former NFL star and ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky had high praise for him. Orlovsky stated, "He would easily be the No. 1 pick in this year’s draft. Teams will be tanking for him in two years." Such accolades highlight the immense potential Smith has as he continues to develop his skills at Ohio State.
As the College Football Playoff unfolds, the excitement is palpable. The Buckeyes are not just competing for glory but are also in a position to make history. With Day at the helm and Smith leading the charge, Ohio State fans have every reason to be optimistic about their chances.
Looking Ahead: The College Football Playoff Schedule
The journey to the national championship is just beginning, and the stakes are higher than ever. Here’s a look at the upcoming playoff schedule:
First-round games:
- No. 10 Indiana at No. 7 Notre Dame – Friday, Dec. 20, 8 pm ET, ABC/ESPN
- No. 11 SMU at No. 6 Penn State – Saturday, Dec. 21, 12 pm ET, TNT/Max
- No. 12 Clemson at No. 5 Texas – Saturday, Dec. 21, 4 pm ET, TNT/Max
- No. 9 Tennessee at No. 8 Ohio State – Saturday, Dec. 21, 8 pm ET, ABC/ESPN
Second-round games:
- No. 3 Boise State vs. Penn State/SMU – Tuesday, Dec. 31, 7:30 pm ET, ESPN
- No. 4 Arizona State vs. Texas/Clemson – Wednesday, Jan. 1, 1 pm ET, ESPN
- No. 1 Oregon vs. Ohio State/Tennessee – Wednesday, Jan. 1, 5 pm ET, ESPN
- No. 2 Georgia vs. Notre Dame/Indiana – *POSTPONED* Thursday, Jan. 2, 4 pm ET, ESPN
Semifinals:
- No. 6 Penn State vs. Georgia/Notre Dame – Thursday, Jan. 9, 7:30 pm ET, ESPN
- No. 5 Texas vs. No. 8 Ohio State – Friday, Jan. 10, 7:30 pm ET, ESPN
National Championship Game:
- TBD vs. TBD, Monday, Jan. 20, 7:30 pm ET, ESPN
As the playoffs progress, all eyes will be on Day and his team. Can they capitalize on their momentum and bring home the championship? With a talented roster and a coach who knows how to win, the Buckeyes are poised for greatness. The excitement surrounding Ohio State is not just about the potential for a championship; it’s about the journey, the passion, and the heart that this team brings to the field. Fans are ready to rally behind their team as they chase glory in the College Football Playoff.
