Ryan Day is closing the gap on Kirby Smart in the debate over college football’s top coach, according to CBS Sports.
The Ohio State coach could overtake Smart if the Buckeyes win back-to-back national championships.
CBS Sports’ Chip Patterson ranked Smart ahead of Day in his latest coach rankings. But he noted Day’s position could change quickly.
“Like Kirby Smart, Day has a nearly impeccable résumé (82-11 overall) and is making his fifth College Football Playoff appearance. He’s just missing that second title ring to match Smart in the debate for the sport’s top coach, but the next six weeks could change that if the Buckeyes use the Indiana loss as fuel for a deep playoff run.”
Day has built an 82-11 record since taking over the program.
The Big Ten has won the last two national titles. A third straight championship would signal a potential shift in college football’s power structure.
Patterson highlighted Day’s recent success despite last month’s loss to Indiana in the Big Ten Championship.
“The last 12 months have been pretty great for Ryan Day. While there’s obvious disappointment in falling short with a 13-10 loss to Indiana in the Big Ten Championship, Day has come a long way since entering last season’s CFP fresh off the sting of a fourth straight loss to Michigan. Since then, he is 16-1 with wins over Tennessee, Oregon, Texas, Notre Dame, Texas (again), Penn State, and — most importantly — Michigan.”
Day’s program development has impressed despite significant roster turnover.
The Buckeyes lost multiple NFL Draft picks and both coordinators from last season’s championship team. Their quarterback nearly won the Heisman Trophy in his first season as a starter.
“Day lost a bevy of NFL Draft picks from last year’s team plus both coordinators, yet the 2025 Buckeyes have been one of the country’s best from start to finish. This season has showcased the strength of Ohio State’s development, and his hire of Matt Patricia as defensive coordinator mirrors the earlier addition of Chip Kelly — another example of Day’s ability to integrate high-level coaching talent into his program.”
Day’s coordinator hires have drawn attention across the sport.
The addition of Chip Kelly as offensive coordinator preceded this season’s successful campaign.
A second national championship would strengthen Day’s case significantly.
The Buckeyes enter the playoff with championship expectations after last season’s title run.
