Ohio State head coach Ryan Day opened Big Ten Media Days by reflecting on the honor of representing the Buckeyes program.
Day enters his eighth season as head coach and 10th year overall in Columbus. He told reporters that “it’s more of an honor today than it ever has been for me to stand up here after 10 years at Ohio State, eight years now as the head coach, to represent our program, to represent Ohio State University, represent the great state of Ohio and all of our fans.”
The veteran coach praised Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti for his work ethic. Day said the conference is well-positioned under Petitti’s leadership.
Day also highlighted Ohio State’s new university president, Ravi Bellamkonda. He praised Bellamkonda’s intelligence and problem-solving abilities.
“That stability is critical.”
Day pointed to the coaching staff’s consistency as a key factor in the program’s success. Long-time staff members Mick Marotti, Nick Pantoni, and Larry Johnson have each spent 15 years with the program.
Athletic director Ross Bjork earned recognition from Day for pushing the program to adapt. Day specifically mentioned a new jersey patch partnership with JPMorgan Chase.
On a personal note, Day thanked his wife Nina for her support. He called her the rock of the family and an essential partner in handling the demands of coaching.
Day also celebrated his son R.J.’s commitment to Northwestern.
Player Representatives
Three players joined Day in Chicago: wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, quarterback Julian Sayin, and safety Jaylen McClain.
Day discussed Sayin’s development heading into his second year as starter. The coach highlighted Sayin’s accuracy, football intelligence, and physical growth.
Day addressed last season’s disappointing finish. He said the coaching staff has analyzed every detail to fix small margins.
The focus is on executing in tight fourth-quarter situations moving forward.
