Eric Boggs
In a monumental move that solidifies the future of Ohio State football, head coach Ryan Day has agreed to a new seven-year contract, ensuring his leadership in Columbus through the 2031 season. The deal, valued at $12.5 million in total annual compensation, makes Day the second-highest-paid coach in college football, trailing only Georgia’s Kirby Smart. The contract still requires approval from Ohio State’s Board of Trustees but is expected to be finalized soon.
This extension comes just weeks after the Buckeyes claimed their ninth national championship, capping off a historic season with victories over Tennessee, Oregon, Texas, and Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff. Ohio State’s triumph was a testament to Day’s ability to keep the Buckeyes at the pinnacle of college football, further reinforcing the program’s status as a national powerhouse.
Ohio State athletic director Ross Bjork praised Day’s impact, both on and off the field. “Ohio State Football has long been defined by excellence, and under Ryan Day’s leadership, that tradition has not only continued but thrived,” Bjork said. “As a leader, mentor, and coach, Ryan has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the success and well-being of our players. His leadership has maintained our position of national prominence each year, and winning the 2024 national championship validated his program’s culture of excellence, integrity, and perseverance.”
Beyond his base salary, Day remains eligible for a variety of performance-based bonuses, including:
- Up to $150,000 for team academic achievements
- $250,000 for winning the Big Ten Championship
- Up to $1 million for winning the College Football Playoff National Championship
- $50,000 for earning Big Ten Coach of the Year honors
- $100,000 for being named national coach of the year
Day’s contract also includes structured buyout clauses, ensuring financial stability for both the university and the coach in the event of a departure. If Ohio State were to fire Day without cause, the university would owe him $11.5 million per remaining year on the contract. Conversely, if Day were to leave Ohio State before January 31, 2026, he would owe the university $6 million, with the buyout gradually decreasing in subsequent years.
With a remarkable 70-10 record over six seasons, Day boasts an .875 winning percentage—the highest in the FBS and one of the best in college football history. He has guided Ohio State to four College Football Playoff appearances and secured his place among Buckeye coaching legends, joining Paul Brown, Woody Hayes, Jim Tressel, and Urban Meyer as national championship-winning head coaches.
Expressing his gratitude, Day reaffirmed his commitment to Ohio State in a statement: “My family and I are incredibly grateful to be a part of the Ohio State community, this football program, and Buckeye Nation. I want to thank my assistant coaches and the entire staff for the tireless effort they put in to keep Ohio State positioned as one of the elite programs in the country, on and off the field. And I especially want to commend all the young men and their families who are part of this program. This is a team of tough and determined individuals who drive our culture of respect, commitment, and love.”
This contract extension represents the first major decision under Bjork’s tenure as athletic director, reinforcing his commitment to continuity and excellence within the Buckeye program. As college football continues to evolve, securing Day’s leadership ensures Ohio State remains at the forefront of championship contention and player development for years to come.
