Ryan Day’s tenure as Ohio State’s head coach has been nothing short of remarkable by most standards. With multiple College Football Playoff appearances, Big Ten titles, and a consistently elite program, Day has kept the Buckeyes among the sport’s top-tier programs. But for Ohio State fans, administrators, and boosters, remarkable isn’t enough—it’s national championships or bust.
As the 2025 season approaches, whispers around Columbus suggest that Day’s job security hinges on delivering a national title. Is it fair? Maybe not. But at Ohio State, the expectations are as lofty as the traditions, and the stakes couldn’t be higher for Day this year.
The Burden of Greatness at Ohio State
Ohio State isn’t just a football powerhouse; it’s a program that measures success in crystal trophies. The Buckeyes have won eight national championships, and the expectation is to add more to that total—sooner rather than later.
Ryan Day inherited a well-oiled machine from Urban Meyer and kept it humming, but his inability to secure a national championship has left some fans restless. His record against Michigan has also been a sore spot, with two consecutive losses tarnishing his reputation among a fanbase that lives for “The Game.” For many, beating Michigan and winning a national title aren’t just goals—they’re non-negotiables.
Why the Pressure Is Mounting
- Playoff Performances: While Day has taken Ohio State to the College Football Playoff multiple times, the Buckeyes have fallen short when it matters most. Last year’s narrow loss to Georgia in the semifinals was a bitter pill to swallow, especially with a championship appearance within reach.
- Recruiting Powerhouse: Ohio State consistently brings in top-five recruiting classes, giving Day no shortage of talent. Critics argue that with the rosters he’s assembled, failing to win a national championship feels like underachievement.
- Michigan’s Resurgence: The past two seasons have seen Michigan rise to dominate the Big Ten, flipping the script on a rivalry that Ohio State once controlled. Another loss to Michigan this year could be the tipping point for frustrated fans and boosters.
- The Alabama and Georgia Standard: Programs like Alabama and Georgia have set the bar with multiple titles in recent years. Ohio State fans expect their team to be on the same level, and anything less feels like falling behind.
What Ryan Day Must Deliver
For Day to silence the critics and secure his future in Columbus, the path is clear:
- Win the Big Ten: Ohio State must reclaim the conference title and put an end to Michigan’s recent dominance. Losing to Michigan for a third straight year would be catastrophic for Day’s reputation.
- Win the National Championship: Anything short of a title could be seen as a disappointment, especially with a roster loaded with talent on both sides of the ball.
- Develop Stars: Day must continue to develop top-tier talent, particularly at quarterback, where Ohio State has built a reputation as QBU. A Heisman-level performance from his starting QB would go a long way in silencing doubters.
The Challenges Ahead
The road to a national championship is never easy, and Ohio State’s 2025 schedule is filled with hurdles. The Buckeyes face tough matchups in conference play, a potential showdown with Michigan, and the gauntlet that is the College Football Playoff.
Day must also navigate the weight of expectations. Coaching at Ohio State is one of the most high-pressure jobs in sports, and even a small misstep can lead to calls for change.
The Harsh Reality of College Football
In today’s world of college football, patience is a rare commodity—especially at programs like Ohio State. Coaches are judged not by how good they are but by how great they can be. And while Ryan Day’s track record is impressive, greatness at Ohio State is measured in national championships.
Final Thoughts
Ryan Day is undoubtedly one of the best coaches in college football, but the demands of Ohio State’s program are unforgiving. The 2025 season feels like a crossroads for Day: win it all and solidify his legacy, or risk becoming another coach who couldn’t quite meet the Buckeyes’ sky-high standards.
For Day, the message is clear: the time for “almost” is over. Anything less than a national championship might not be enough to keep him in Columbus. Buckeye Nation is watching—and waiting—for their next moment of glory.
