Ryan Day and the Ohio State Buckeyes have been in the spotlight throughout the season, but questions are now being raised about whether their success was overhyped. According to the AP Top 25 College Football Poll after Week 9, Ohio State was considered one of the most overrated teams this year. However, Day is unwilling to accept this narrative, instead presenting a different perspective to challenge these claims. Despite his efforts to project confidence, it’s clear that Josh Heupel’s Tennessee Volunteers hold several advantages over the Buckeyes.
Ohio State has yet to secure a win against any team ranked higher than No. 25 this season, making them the only undefeated team with such a distinction. Yet, Day continues to defend his squad. In an interview with WBNS 10TV’s Dom Tiberi, Day claimed the team has grown over the season, stating, “We’re not the same team as we were in September, October, and November for different reasons.” He emphasized resilience and identified challenges that have shaped the Buckeyes, though critics argue these statements don’t address the underlying issues.
Day attributed some of the team’s struggles to injuries but maintained that the players’ commitment and determination to win remain strong. He pointed out the love and passion the team has for the university, adding, “They love this program and want to win this whole thing in the worst way.” Despite this optimism, the Buckeyes’ recent performances tell a different story. They narrowly escaped defeat against Nebraska, a team that had been crushed by Indiana just a week prior. Additionally, Ohio State lost to Michigan, which has faced its own struggles this season. These outcomes have cast doubt on Day’s narrative of progress and resilience.
Meanwhile, the Tennessee Volunteers, led by Josh Heupel, appear to be in a stronger position. Analysts have highlighted key factors that could give Tennessee an edge, including the performance of running back Dylan Sampson. Known for his ability to control the game’s tempo, Sampson has become a vital asset for the Volunteers. One analyst emphasized that success in high-stakes games often comes down to controlling the clock and dominating the trenches—areas where Tennessee excels.
Another potential challenge for Ohio State is the weather. While the Buckeyes are preparing for the game, Heupel’s squad already has experience playing in freezing temperatures, giving them an advantage. Heupel dismissed concerns about the climate, saying, “We played in 30-degree weather a week ago. That’s weather, it’s outside distractions. It’s about us getting ready to go be our best 11 on 11 between the white lines.”
As the Buckeyes prepare for this critical matchup, Day’s position as head coach could be under scrutiny. If his team falters, critics will undoubtedly question whether he can maintain control over a program that seems to be slipping. In contrast, Tennessee’s confidence and preparedness make them a formidable opponent, and the Buckeyes will face a tough challenge if they hope to silence their doubters.