Eric Boggs
In a move aimed at securing stability and leadership for the future, Ohio State extended the contract of head football coach Ryan Day following a historic national championship run. Athletic Director Ross Bjork spoke with WBNS 10TV’s Dom Tiberi about the decision, highlighting the importance of consistency in today’s evolving college football landscape.
“In today’s world, stability of coaching and leadership is critical,” Bjork said. “When you have the right person at the helm, you want to secure that. Given what we just went through—one of the greatest runs in the history of college football—and the way Coach Day runs the program daily, we wanted to reward success and ensure long-term stability.”
The Buckeyes’ path to the national championship was nothing short of historic, navigating four tough matchups in a feat never before accomplished in college football. However, Bjork emphasized that Day’s impact extends far beyond the field.
“People may just see game day, but this is a 365-day, 24/7 job,” Bjork continued. “Coach Day leads this program the right way, and that was a big part of our decision to lock in his leadership for the future.”
Another key factor in the decision was the deep connection Day has with his players. Bjork recounted how the team’s “brotherhood” was evident from the moment he arrived on campus.
“When adversity struck, the team didn’t just come together for the moment; this is a long-term bond,” Bjork said. “One of the most telling moments was during the infamous players-only meeting—when the players asked for Coach Day to be in the room. That speaks volumes about their trust in him.”
The culture of trust and camaraderie is reinforced through Ohio State’s family committee and parents association, further strengthening the program’s foundation. Bjork noted that this dynamic makes Day the right leader to guide the Buckeyes moving forward.
Despite the Buckeyes’ regular-season loss to Michigan, Bjork remained steadfast in his support of Day.
“We get judged by the scoreboard, but it’s really about what leads to game day—the process, recruiting, chemistry, and culture,” Bjork explained. “No one wants to lose that game, but after that, I said, ‘We’re alive. We have the right coach. Let’s turn everything loose in the playoffs.’ And we did.”
Ohio State’s perseverance and resilience in the postseason further solidified Bjork’s belief that Day was the best man for the job. The coach’s leadership was tested, and he passed with flying colors.
Since Bjork’s arrival, he and Day have built a strong professional and personal relationship. Both have sons who play football, leading to conversations that go beyond the X’s and O’s.
“We start meetings asking, ‘How did RJ do last week?’ ‘How’s Peyton doing in college?’” Bjork shared. “That connection is meaningful, and then we shift gears into building this program for sustained success.”
While Day’s contract extension provides much-needed stability, the program is still navigating coaching changes, including filling three assistant coaching positions.
“These are dynamic times,” Bjork admitted. “We want to make sure we get it right and bring in the right people who fit our culture.”
Though speculation has been rampant, Bjork confirmed that no formal staff announcements had been made as of Thursday afternoon.
To Ohio State fans, Bjork expressed gratitude for their unwavering support and hinted at future engagement opportunities.
“Our fans are the best,” Bjork said. “We have the biggest fan base, the highest product sales—every metric you can measure. There’s more to come, and we appreciate everyone leaning into their Buckeye pride.”
With Ryan Day’s contract now secured, Ohio State aims to build upon its championship success and continue its dominance in college football for years to come.
