Eric Boggs
During an interview with Dom Tiberi aboard the annual Buckeye Cruise for Cancer, Ryan Day reflected on Ohio State’s culture, offseason progress, and expectations for the coming season, emphasizing that the program’s identity extends well beyond football.
Day praised the long-running fundraiser and the community behind it, saying, “No other school could pull off something like this… where people come together to raise money for cancer and to make a difference.” He pointed to the event’s longevity and impact as proof of what makes the program unique. “When you think about being a Buckeye, a part of that is giving back. And that’s what this is all about,” he said, noting that the cruise has raised $44 million over 19 years and is aiming for another record year.
The head coach also stressed the value of having players attend, explaining that their presence helps instill values beyond the field. “It’s teaching the younger generation about philanthropy and what that means about giving back,” Day said. “Ohio State football goes together with the university, goes together with the community.”
Turning to football, Day spoke enthusiastically about new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, whose résumé includes stops with the Tennessee Titans, a head-coaching stint with the Atlanta Falcons, and most recently work with the Pittsburgh Steelers. “He’s a great guy. Great experience. And we hit it off right away,” Day said. “I just think he’s going to bring so much to the table for our team.”
Day noted that having multiple coordinators with NFL head-coaching experience adds credibility and perspective as the Buckeyes shape their offensive identity. He also highlighted Smith’s physical approach. “He likes a nasty O-line… and he likes running the football. He’s going to bring a mentality for sure,” Day said, emphasizing that success will “start and stop with the offensive line.”
Roster construction was another offseason priority. Day reiterated that recruiting in-state remains foundational, pointing out that 55 players on the roster are from Ohio and that the latest class included the most in-state signees in more than a decade. Still, he acknowledged the importance of experience, especially after a playoff push. “We want to recruit guys. We want to develop guys. We want to retain guys, but we also need to be veteran when it comes to the end,” he said.
With 51 newcomers joining the program, Day knows cohesion must come quickly. Winter conditioning, he explained, is essential to building leadership and chemistry. “It’s the backbone of the program. It’s our foundation… This is where you get your leadership. This is where you get camaraderie. This is where the units come together.”
He added that the staff is delaying the formation of the leadership committee until the roster settles, allowing new players time to adjust before formal roles are assigned.
Despite the long offseason grind ahead, Day closed with a message of anticipation for fans of the Ohio State Buckeyes. “We’ll see you at the spring game, April 18th, in the Shoe,” he said.
