Ryan Day has built one of the most consistent programs in college football, yet his job security continues to be a topic of debate among Ohio State fans. Since taking over in 2019, Day has led the Buckeyes to four College Football Playoff appearances in six years, including two national championship game appearances. Despite this sustained success, some within the fanbase believe anything short of a national title is a failure.
The criticism has only intensified following Ohio State’s fourth consecutive loss to Michigan, which also cost the Buckeyes a shot at the Big Ten title. For many, that defeat overshadowed another strong season, reigniting discussions about whether Day is the right person to lead the program. However, when measured against his predecessors, Day’s record speaks for itself. His winning percentage is higher than Jim Tressel’s over the same period, and his SP+ rating even surpasses that of Urban Meyer.
Yet, in Columbus, the standard remains sky-high. Ohio State fans expect championships, and anything less is met with disappointment. The pressure to dethrone Michigan and secure a national title continues to fuel skepticism about Day’s leadership, despite his ability to consistently keep the Buckeyes in contention.
While frustration is understandable, Day’s accomplishments should not be overlooked. He has maintained Ohio State’s position among college football’s elite, proving his ability to recruit and develop top-tier talent. Regardless of the outcome of Monday’s game, he has demonstrated that he is one of the top coaches in the nation. Instead of questioning his future, Ohio State fans should recognize the stability and success he has brought to the program—something few schools in the country can match.