From quarterback to championship coach: the rise of Ryan Day

Countries & Cities · Published 12 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: After a collegiate career as a standout quarterback and linebacker, Ryan Day transitioned from the field to the sidelines. Now the head coach at Ohio State, he has navigated pandemic-shortened seasons and intense rivalries to secure his first national championship.

Ryan Patrick Day began his coaching journey in 2002, following a successful playing career at the University of New Hampshire. As a Wildcat from 1998 to 2001, he set four career records, including completion percentage and touchdowns. His path to the highest levels of college football included roles as offensive coordinator for Temple and Boston College, and as the Philadelphia Eagles' quarterbacks coach starting in early 2015. Before his coaching career began, he was recognised as the state's Gatorade Player of the Year during his senior year of high school. He also served as a team captain during his final year at the University of New Hampshire.

Day assumed the role of acting head coach at Ohio State in August 2018 during a period of administrative leave for Urban Meyer. He led the Buckeyes to three victories during that interim period, eventually being named the full-time head coach in December 2018. His tenure has been marked by significant highs and notable challenges, including a perfect 12–0 regular season in 2019 and a season heavily disrupted by COVID-19 policies in 2020. During his first full season at the helm, he guided the team to a Big Ten Championship victory against Wisconsin. He also earned the Dave McClain Coach of the Year award in 2019.

Despite facing recurring struggles against rivals like Michigan, Day has demonstrated remarkable resilience. After navigating a period where he was 2–6 against Top 5 opponents, he led the Buckeyes through a dominant stretch, including a 42–3 victory over Minnesota in 2025 that brought his head coaching record to 75–10. This momentum culminated in a 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship victory over Notre Dame, marking his first title as a head coach. His success in the 2025 season followed a period of intense pressure, including receiving death threats that required him to hire personal security. He also managed to secure a victory in the Cotton Bowl Classic against Texas.

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