Despite the recent triumph of Ohio State coach Ryan Day, who led his team to a national championship last month, the coaching landscape remains complex and contentious. The fact that Day lost both his offensive and defensive coordinators—Chip Kelly to the NFL and Jim Knowles to Penn State—only adds to the intrigue surrounding his ranking in On3’s latest top-25 coaches list. Surprisingly, even after such a monumental achievement, Day found himself in the No. 2 spot.
Understanding the Rankings
Let’s pause for a moment and consider the implications of this ranking. How can a coach who has just secured a national title be ranked below someone else? The debate raises an essential question: do wins truly matter in the grand scheme of college football? If they don’t, then what criteria are being used to justify these rankings? It seems counterintuitive to place a team that won the national championship—Ohio State—below a team that didn’t, like Kirby Smart’s Georgia Bulldogs.
The tweet announcing the rankings has sparked heated discussions, garnering over two million views as of Wednesday afternoon. Fans and analysts alike are questioning the criteria used for this list. What can’t be overlooked, however, are the hard facts. Ohio State emerged victorious in the most critical game of the season, while Georgia faced disappointment in their bowl game.
The Impact of “The Game”
To understand the context better, let’s reflect on the iconic matchup between Ohio State and Michigan. The Buckeyes were defeated by the Wolverines on Thanksgiving weekend, leaving them mentally shattered as they walked off the field. The aftermath of this game was palpable, with over 12 million viewers tuning in to witness “The Game.” Although this number was lower than in previous years, the match delivered a cinematic experience. The tension of a 13-10 final score, combined with the dramatic post-game flag-planting incident, captured the imagination of college football fans across the nation.
Despite this setback, Ohio State managed to clinch a College Football Playoff berth and cruised to the championship game with relative ease. In contrast, Georgia, which lost quarterback Carson Beck to injury and later to the transfer portal, faced a disappointing defeat against the Fighting Irish in the Orange Bowl.
Recruiting vs. Winning
Now, let’s talk about recruiting. Georgia may boast the No. 2 recruiting class for 2025, while Ohio State ranks slightly lower at No. 5. However, the reality is that teams are ultimately measured by their performance on the field, not merely by recruiting rankings. Ohio State won the national title, while Georgia did not. This year alone, the facts are clear: Kirby Smart does not deserve to be ranked No. 1. Instead, Day’s accomplishments warrant that distinction.
But what does this mean for the future? As college football continues to evolve, the importance of winning cannot be overstated. It’s not just about attracting top talent; it’s about turning that talent into victories. Day has proven he can do just that, leading his team to the pinnacle of college football.
The Bigger Picture
So, what does all this mean for the landscape of college football? Rankings are often subjective, influenced by various factors, including past performances, recruiting success, and even the narratives that surround each program. However, when it comes down to it, the ultimate measure of a coach’s success is the number of wins and championships they can bring to their program.
In this case, Day’s achievements speak volumes. He has taken Ohio State to the top, overcoming challenges and setbacks along the way. His ability to adapt and lead his team through adversity is a testament to his coaching prowess. As fans and analysts debate the merits of these rankings, one thing remains clear: Day’s legacy is cemented by his ability to win when it matters most.
Final Thoughts
As we look ahead to the next season, the focus will undoubtedly shift to how these rankings will impact recruiting and team dynamics. Will Day continue to build on his success, or will the loss of key coordinators hinder Ohio State’s momentum? And how will Kirby Smart respond to the challenges ahead, particularly after a disappointing bowl game?
In the world of college football, every season brings new opportunities and challenges. The landscape is ever-changing, and while rankings may spark debates, the essence of the game remains the same: it’s about winning. As the dust settles on this year’s rankings, one thing is certain—Ohio State, under Ryan Day, is a force to be reckoned with.
