ATLANTA – Just hours after leading the Buckeyes to a monumental national championship victory, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day is already focused on the future. The 2025 season looms, and with it, an electrifying home opener against the Texas Longhorns. “Try losing the first game at Ohio State and see how that feels,” Day joked with a mix of excitement and anticipation, his first day as a national champion.
But this victory wasn’t just about glory—it was a testament to perseverance. After a crushing 13-10 loss to Michigan seven weeks earlier, Ohio State’s season seemed at a crossroads. Critics were loud, some even calling for Urban Meyer’s return. But Day, unwavering, rallied his squad, reminding them that the season wasn’t over. From there, the Buckeyes (14-2) stormed through the College Football Playoff, culminating in a dominant 34-23 win over Notre Dame in Georgia on January 20.
Linebacker Cody Simon reflected on the team’s journey: “The resilience, the humility, the guys who chose to stay for the love of the game, the brotherhood, and the culture—this season was about everything good that a team can be.” A season that could have easily unraveled became one of grit, unity, and undeniable determination.
For Day, the championship wasn’t just about the victory but about the life lessons learned along the way. “The hard work was worth it,” he said. “These guys will go down in history as champions, and they’ve earned every moment of celebration.”
This wasn’t just a title; it was a story of redemption, dedication, and the unwavering spirit of a team that never gave up. The Buckeyes’ journey to the mountaintop is a reminder that with resilience, anything is possible.
