Eric Boggs
In an engaging interview on 97.1 The Fan, Ohio State Athletic Director Ross Bjork touched on a range of pressing topics, including the recent legislative controversies, sportsmanship in college athletics, and the future of head football coach Ryan Day. As Bjork settles into the colder Ohio weather, he demonstrated a proactive and optimistic approach to navigating challenges both on and off the field.
Bjork began by addressing the recent controversy surrounding an Ohio bill that proposed making post-game flag planting a felony. This legislation sparked considerable debate in the college sports community, but Bjork emphasized it caught Ohio State off guard.
“We had no heads-up. There was no conversation,” Bjork stated. “This thing came out of nowhere. We were just as surprised as everyone else.”
Bjork noted that the bill is unlikely to move forward during the current legislative session. Still, he acknowledged the importance of fostering discussions about sportsmanship. “Adults should lead,” he remarked, urging collaboration between universities, conferences, and lawmakers to establish more effective approaches.
The Athletic Director also addressed broader concerns about sportsmanship in college athletics, emphasizing the need for leadership from coaches and administrators.
“To me, sportsmanship has to lead,” Bjork said. “Adults and professionals need to step up. Put down the swords, put down the armor, and let’s have real conversations.”
Bjork revealed that discussions with the Big Ten and even rival Michigan have already taken place, underscoring a collective effort to improve sportsmanship and avoid incidents that could tarnish the reputation of college sports.
When asked about head coach Ryan Day’s future, Bjork unequivocally supported him.
“Absolutely,” Bjork said when asked if Day would be leading the Buckeyes next season. “Coach Day and I have hit it off so well. He’s innovative, he recruits at the highest level, and he’s got a great staff.”
Bjork acknowledged the intense pressure surrounding Ohio State football, especially after a tough loss to Michigan. However, he stressed the importance of focusing on the process rather than solely fixating on results.
“If the process is right, the end result will take care of itself,” he said. “Ohio State should be confident every single day. We’re Ohio State.”
A significant portion of the conversation revolved around Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights. Bjork shared Ohio State’s efforts to push for more flexible state laws during the transition to NCAA rules that allow direct athlete compensation.
“We want more flexibility,” Bjork explained. “We want to be more in the driver’s seat.”
Ohio State is working closely with state lawmakers and Governor Mike DeWine’s office to expand NIL opportunities. Bjork highlighted the urgency of these discussions, citing examples from other states like Missouri and Virginia that have already implemented progressive NIL frameworks.
“Hopefully something gets passed here maybe in the next couple weeks before Christmas,” Bjork said.
Despite the challenges, Bjork expressed confidence in Ohio State’s ability to thrive on all fronts. From fostering better sportsmanship to supporting athletes through NIL initiatives, Bjork’s message was clear: Ohio State is committed to excellence, both on and off the field.
“The season’s not over. The book’s not written yet,” Bjork concluded. “We’ve got to have confidence. We’re Ohio State.”
