Ryan Day on Ohio State’s Title, Chip Kelly’s departure to the NFL & Klatt makes his Super Bowl Pick
Feb 3, 2025
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Ryan Day, head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes football team and national championship victor, shares insights on navigating the challenges that come with title-winning success. He reacts to Chip Kelly's surprise NFL departure and discusses how to manage player retention amidst roster tampering. Day recalls the suspenseful moment of the championship game when Will Howard connected with Jeremiah Smith. The conversation wraps up with Klatt's Super Bowl prediction, highlighting the upcoming clash between the Chiefs and Eagles.
Ryan Day discusses the emotional significance of Ohio State's national championship, emphasizing unity and growth despite upcoming coaching challenges.
The podcast highlights the evolving college football landscape, focusing on player retention and NIL deals as keys to maintaining team success.
Deep dives
Reflections on Team Success and Personal Milestones
The journey of the Ohio State Buckeyes culminated in a national championship, marking a special milestone for the team and its coach, Ryan Day. Reflecting on their collective experiences, it highlights the emotional bond formed through shared challenges and accomplishments, emphasizing the significance of camaraderie and dedication. Day's journey from an offensive coordinator to a national champion embodies not only personal growth but also a commitment to nurturing the team’s development. This unity and shared history are seen as vital to future success and strong community support, particularly from fans back in New Hampshire.
The Golden Age of College Football
Interest in college football has reached unprecedented heights, marking what is described as a 'golden age' for the sport. The excitement surrounding the recent college football season reflected in stories and games renewed fans' love for the game. Factors contributing to this surge in interest include the evolving dynamics of the game, the ability to transfer players, and the increasing visibility of the sport. These developments have created a more competitive landscape that captivates fans, ensuring sustained engagement and excitement.
The Impact of Player Retention and Leadership
Player retention is regarded as the cornerstone of team success, with Day emphasizing the importance of keeping veteran players and skilled recruits in college football. These seasoned players, developed through years of training and competition, provide leadership that can steer the team through the complexities of a long season. The effective use of NIL deals has allowed players to remain longer in college, fostering a stable and competitive environment for both athletes and coaches. This veteran presence not only enhances performance but also enriches the team's culture, underscoring the value of loyalty and commitment.
Navigating Challenges and Future Aspirations
The Ohio State Buckeyes' journey has involved overcoming numerous challenges, from injuries to tough losses, with their resilience attributed to strong leadership and foundational team dynamics. Day recognized the need for preparation and adaptability throughout the season, ensuring they remained focused on the long-term goals while still navigating immediate adversities. Moving forward, the team anticipates adjustments within the coaching staff as well as new opportunities for growth and recruitment. This transition period is seen not only as a challenge but also as an opportunity to build on the success of the national championship and continue fostering a winning culture.
FOX Sports’ lead College Football analyst Joel Klatt is joined by Ohio State Head Coach Ryan Day to discuss the Buckeyes’ National Championship run as well as what is next for the program. Coach Day gives his real-time reaction as news of Chip Kelly’s departure for the NFL broke during the recording. The two discuss the challenges that now come with being a National Champion like losing both coordinators and, in this current landscape in college football, tampering with rosters. Day also recounts what was going through his head as Will Howard released the deep ball to Jeremiah Smith late in the National Championship Game vs Notre Dame. Klatt wraps up the pod with his Super Bowl pick as Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs go for a historic 3-peat when they take on the Philadelphia Eagles.