Eric Boggs
The Ohio State Buckeyes have built a winning culture under head coach Ryan Day, one that has led to sustained success on the field. However, culture is never static—it requires constant reinforcement, and there are always potential threats that can undermine it. In a recent discussion on The OHIO Podcast, the hosts broke down what defines Ohio State’s culture, what could kill it, and how Day has managed to solidify it in his tenure.
The Influence of New Coaches
One of the biggest concerns raised was the influx of new coaches into the program. Change is inevitable in college football, and staff turnover can introduce fresh perspectives. However, if not managed properly, it can also lead to conflict and division. Defensive coordinator Matt Patricia’s arrival has sparked debate due to his past coaching history and treatment of players. If coaches bring disagreements into the locker room or attempt to pit players against other staff members, the chemistry of the team could be at risk.
The key is ensuring that these new coaches assimilate into Ohio State’s culture rather than disrupt it. Day has shown a strong ability to vet his hires, which suggests he won’t allow culture-killing behavior to take root.
For instance, look at the departure of long time running backs coach Tony Alford, who left the program for rival Michigan. For a coach to spend years preaching the importance of beating Michigan only to defect to the Wolverines raises questions. Some view this as a betrayal, while others speculate that his departure may have actually removed a hidden strain on the program’s culture.
Ohio State’s immediate success post-Alford, culminating in a national championship, has led some to wonder if his coaching methods and recruiting approach were holding the team back. His replacement, Carlos Locklyn, has already made a significant impact, particularly in reinforcing the culture of hard work and toughness that Day values. This suggests that Alford’s departure may have been more of a cultural shift than just a coaching change.
Ryan Day’s Growth as a Head Coach & The Importance of Player Leadership
Day’s evolution as a coach has played a critical role in strengthening Ohio State’s culture. Early in his tenure, he relied heavily on coaches retained from the Urban Meyer era. However, as he has grown into his role, Day has become more decisive in building a staff that aligns with his vision. The hiring of Locklyn, along with other key additions, suggests that Day now has a clearer understanding of what his program needs in order to thrive.
His focus on fostering a family-oriented atmosphere has been criticized as being too lenient, particularly when compared to Meyer’s intense, all-business approach. However, Day’s approach has proven to be sustainable, and his emphasis on communication and player relationships has built strong loyalty within the team.
A critical component of maintaining a strong culture is player leadership. With several veteran leaders from the national championship team departing, the responsibility now falls on younger players like Bennett Christian, Carson Hinzman, and Julian Sayin to uphold the program’s values. Transfer players must also assimilate into Ohio State’s expectations rather than impose their previous experiences.
Day has made it clear that cultural fit is a priority in recruiting, both for incoming freshmen and transfer players. The coaching staff is not simply chasing talent—they are bringing in individuals who embody the values of the program. This meticulous approach ensures that Ohio State remains a cohesive unit even in the face of roster changes.
Recruiting in the NIL Era: A New Challenge
Recruiting has always been the lifeblood of any successful college football program, but with the advent of NIL, it has become more complicated than ever. Ohio State can no longer rely solely on its brand to attract elite talent.
“If all of a sudden the foundations dry up, the donations dry up, or people don’t like a coach, NIL could become a major issue,” Cory Thompson explained during a recent episode of The OHIO Podcast. The reality is that financial backing from donors now plays a significant role in roster construction. However, Day has remained steadfast in his belief that culture trumps talent. The Buckeyes aren’t just looking for the most gifted athletes; they’re prioritizing players who fit the program’s ethos. This is a stark difference than the Urban Meyer philosophy.
Meyer’s tenure at Ohio State was defined by an unrelenting demand for intensity and work ethic. This approach led to great success but proved difficult to sustain over time. Ryan Day’s culture, in contrast, emphasizes relationships, adaptability, and psychological support for players. This modernized approach may not have the same hard-edged reputation as Meyer’s, but it appears to be better suited for long-term success in the current college football landscape.
Despite criticisms that Day’s culture lacks toughness, the recent championship run suggests otherwise. Players rallied around their coach during difficult times, and the culture of mutual trust and accountability played a significant role in their success.
Lessons from Georgia: Is Culture Sustainable?
The podcast also drew an interesting comparison between Ohio State and Georgia, suggesting that while the Bulldogs have been dominant, their culture may not be built to last.
“Is Georgia one bad season away from falling apart?” one host asked, pointing to off-the-field issues and player discipline concerns. The Buckeyes, by contrast, have emphasized personal character alongside football ability. Players like Jack Sawyer, JT Tuimoloau, and TreVeyon Henderson were cited not just for their skills, but for their leadership and locker room presence.
The biggest challenge moving forward will be ensuring that complacency does not set in. The Buckeyes must continue reinforcing their core values and preventing internal conflicts from disrupting team chemistry. Additionally, maintaining transparency within the program and ensuring that no assistant coaches undermine the head coach’s authority will be crucial.
One thing remains certain: Ryan Day is not interested in quick fixes. He is committed to fostering an environment where players are accountable, coaches are aligned with the program’s mission, and the team remains resilient no matter the obstacles.
As the college football landscape continues to shift, Ohio State’s culture will be the foundation that sustains its success. If the past few seasons have proven anything, it’s that Day’s approach is working—and the Buckeyes are built for the long haul.
