Sport

Ryan Day Reshapes Ohio State Football's Legacy: Will He Make the NFL Jump?

2025-01-21

Author: Ming

ATLANTA -- The excitement surrounding Ryan Day’s impressive coaching at Ohio State has reached new heights as fans plead for him to remain and lead the Buckeyes towards consecutive national championships. After a triumphant victory over Notre Dame, securing Ohio State's ninth title and first in a decade with a score of 34-23, Day has solidified his status as a legendary figure in the world of college football.

Critics of Day may have been vocal after the Buckeyes' disappointing loss to Michigan dead in the middle of the season, but now, his achievements speak louder than any detractor's voice. With a win percentage of .875, Day ranks just behind the legendary Knute Rockne, marking him as one of the most successful coaches in NCAA history.

Amid the celebrations, there are whispers about the NFL calling his name again. Day, who honed his skills in the NFL circuits before taking up his role at Ohio State, has the perfect opportunity to return—if he desires. As he contemplates his future, options abound, with several NFL teams—like the Jaguars, Cowboys, Jets, Saints, and Raiders—looking for fresh leadership. However, Day’s personal connection to the New England Patriots, a team he admires, complicates matters, especially with the hiring of Mike Vrabel.

Family commitments might keep him anchored at Ohio State for a while longer, particularly with his son, RJ, still completing high school. But make no mistake, the football world is buzzing with the knowledge of Day’s exceptional coaching prowess. His innovative offensive strategies and proven track record have not gone unnoticed, suggesting that an NFL opportunity may be on the horizon.

While Day has faced challenges within the Michigan rivalry—having lost four consecutive matchups—this recent national championship alters the narrative. In this era of college playoffs, traditional rivalries seem secondary to immediate success, and Day now holds the keys to Ohio State’s promising future.

The moment was underscored during the championship game when NBA star LeBron James was spotted supporting his alma mater, creating a scenario reminiscent of a royal coronation—a symbolic affirmation of Day's ascent and the team's potential.

As Ohio State’s winningest coach in the current season with an impressive 70-10 record, Day stands alongside figures like Woody Hayes and Urban Meyer. With a solid foundation established, it’s critical for both the university and Day himself to negotiate the terms of his future, especially with the next season's game against Michigan looming only ten and a half months away.

Ohio State Athletic Director Ross Bjork previously stated that Day would "absolutely" return in 2025. Yet, as Day’s legacy continues to build, fans are left hoping he will make a promise of his own to stay and lead the Buckeyes further into football history.

Ohio State fans can now gear up to celebrate in style, as Championship merchandise is available for those wanting to commemorate this momentous victory! Will Ryan Day stay and continue to build an empire at Ohio State, or will the NFL lure him away? The football world waits with bated breath!