Ohio State head coach Ryan Day finds himself under intense scrutiny following a devastating loss to Michigan in the 120th edition of “The Game.” Despite leading the Buckeyes to a respectable 10-1 season, their sole defeat came at the hands of the top-ranked Oregon Ducks. However, the season took a sour turn as Ohio State suffered yet another loss to Michigan, marking Day’s fourth consecutive defeat to their biggest rival. The loss, which occurred on Ohio State’s home turf, has left many fans questioning Day’s ability to lead the team effectively.
The criticism reached a boiling point when Ohio State athletic director Ross Bjork publicly supported Day in the aftermath of the game. Bjork’s endorsement sparked backlash, with fans and insiders alike questioning not only Day’s tenure but also Bjork’s leadership. On the Menace 2 Sports podcast, host Torg criticized Bjork for his comments, stating that Ohio State’s focus should be on winning championships. Torg expressed concern that Bjork’s priorities might be more financially driven than aligned with fans’ expectations of maintaining the Buckeyes’ winning tradition. He remarked, “If you don’t understand that [championships are the priority], you are the wrong guy for the job.”
Bjork, however, defended his support for Day, emphasizing their strong working relationship and mutual learning experiences. When asked if he envisions Day remaining as head coach for the 2025 season opener, Bjork responded affirmatively, dismissing the idea of a “championship or bust” mentality. This stance did not sit well with critics, who compared Day’s record to that of past Ohio State coaches like Jim Tressel and Urban Meyer. These legendary figures not only won national titles but also dominated Michigan during their tenures, setting a high bar for the program.
In addition to the loss, Day’s post-game behavior drew further criticism. After a close 13-10 defeat, Day supported his players when they clashed with Michigan over a flag-planting celebration on Ohio State’s field. The post-game altercation raised eyebrows, as many questioned why Day failed to prevent his team from engaging in unnecessary conflicts, especially after falling to an underdog opponent. Critics argued that his actions reflected a lack of maturity and leadership under pressure.
Day has acknowledged his mistakes and urged his team to move forward, but the backlash persists. Many believe that the only way for Day to redeem himself is by winning a national championship and breaking the cycle of losses to Michigan. Until then, doubts about his leadership and the program’s direction will continue to grow.
The conversation surrounding Day’s future has sparked significant debate among fans and analysts. Some believe he deserves more time, while others insist a change is necessary unless he delivers immediate results. The situation has left Ohio State at a crossroads, with fans divided over whether Day is the right person to lead the Buckeyes back to national prominence.