What a difference a month and a half makes for the relationship between Ohio State football head coach Ryan Day and the fans and brass. Shortly after losing to Michigan for the fourth-straight year, many were calling for Day’s job in earnest. Now, after going on a memorable and exhiliating four-game run through the College Football Playoff that culminated in the program’s ninth-national championship, that sentiment has done a 180 degree turn.
So much so that Ohio State and Day agreed to a seven-year contract on Thursday, one that will take him through the year 2031 and pay him a base total of $12.5 million. The deal adds three years to his current contract and sill has to be approved by the OSU Board of Trustees.
“Ohio State Football has long been defined by excellence and, under Ryan Day’s leadership, that tradition has not only continued, but thrived,” Ohio State athletic director Ross Bjork said in a statement. “As a leader, mentor and coach, Ryan has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the success and well-being of our players, both on and off the field. His leadership has maintained our position of national prominence each year and winning the 2024 national championship validated his program’s culture of excellence, integrity, and perseverance.
“Ryan has not only kept Buckeye football as the preeminent program, but he also guides young men into leaders, instilling values that extend far beyond the game. Stability at the head coaching position is crucial in today’s evolving college football landscape, and this new contract guarantees continued momentum in recruiting, player development, and overall program success.
“It is a great pleasure to work side by side with Ryan and we know that his vision and leadership will continue to bring championship success and pride to our program for years to come.”
🏈 The Ohio State University Department of Athletics and head football coach Ryan Day have agreed on a new 7️⃣-year contract that will keep Day as coach of the Buckeyes through the 2031 football season 🖊️
For more information ➡️ https://t.co/N0QSMIASPg
— Ohio State Buckeyes 🌰 (@OhioStAthletics) February 6, 2025
Once approved, the deal will make Day the second-highest-paid coach in college football behind only Kirby Smart of Georgia, who makes 13.28 million per year. Now, just get some wins over Michigan and all of Buckeye Nation will get on board with all this newfangled money.
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This article originally appeared on Buckeyes Wire: Ohio State football and Ryan Day have agreed to a contract extension
