Ohio State Buckeyes Head Coach Announces Retirement After CFP National Championship Victory
In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, Ohio State Buckeyes head coach, Ryan Day, officially announced his retirement from the team after leading the program to its eighth College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship victory. The announcement, made after a career-defining win that solidified his legacy, came as a surprise to many, as Day had been at the helm of one of the most successful and dominant programs in recent college football history.
Ryan Day, who has spent a considerable portion of his career as a coach at Ohio State, made history with the Buckeyes over the years. Under his leadership, the team not only captured a CFP National Championship but also became an unstoppable force in the Big Ten Conference, securing multiple conference championships and maintaining national relevance year after year. With a resume filled with accolades, Day’s decision to retire immediately after such a monumental achievement has raised questions and sparked conversations about his next steps, but it also marks the end of an era for Ohio State.
A Glorious Career at Ohio State
Ryan Day’s tenure as head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes began in 2019, taking over for Urban Meyer, one of the most successful coaches in college football history. Many believed that filling the shoes of Meyer, who had led Ohio State to a national championship and countless victories, would be a daunting task. However, Day immediately proved that he was more than capable of handling the pressure and leading the program to even greater heights.
Under Day’s guidance, the Buckeyes evolved into a high-powered, balanced football team, with a ferocious offense led by dynamic quarterbacks, talented wide receivers, and a punishing offensive line. Day’s offensive schemes, which balanced up-tempo play with power running, became a nightmare for opposing defenses. The team’s success was evident as Ohio State consistently ranked among the top teams in the nation, finishing in the top four of the College Football Playoff rankings year after year.
Though the Buckeyes fell short in some pivotal games along the way, including a heartbreaking loss in the 2021 CFP semifinals, Day’s leadership never wavered. The program rebounded stronger after every defeat, and his emphasis on player development, discipline, and mental toughness played a significant role in creating a culture of success.
The Championship Run
Day’s ultimate crowning achievement came in the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship game. Facing off against a fierce and talented opponent, the Buckeyes were once again the underdogs in a matchup that had the football world buzzing. But as the game unfolded, Day’s offensive brilliance shone through. Quarterback Kyle McCord, who had been Day’s trusted leader under center, delivered a masterful performance. The offensive line opened holes for running back TreVeyon Henderson, and the defense, led by linebackers Steele Chambers and Tommy Eichenberg, stepped up when it mattered most.
It was a hard-fought, back-and-forth contest, with both teams exchanging blows. But when the final whistle blew, Ohio State had claimed a 38-30 victory, securing their eighth national title. The win was a culmination of Day’s strategic vision, tireless work ethic, and unyielding commitment to excellence. The Buckeyes celebrated their victory, and Day was hoisted onto the shoulders of his players, smiling with pride.
“I’ve been blessed to coach some of the most talented young men in the country,” Day said during the postgame celebration. “This team has been a family, and they have given everything they have to this program. It’s been an honor to be a part of it.”
The Announcement
Just hours after the National Championship celebration, Day made an official announcement that left fans, media, and the football community at large stunned. During a press conference, he revealed that he would be stepping down as head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes, effective immediately.
“After much thought and reflection, I have made the decision to retire from coaching,” Day said in a prepared statement. “This has been an incredible journey, and I feel that this is the right time for me to step away from the game. Winning the National Championship was the ultimate achievement, and I’m incredibly proud of everything this team has accomplished. But it’s time for me to focus on other parts of my life and allow the next generation of leaders to take this program to even greater heights.”
The announcement was met with mixed emotions. While fans expressed their gratitude for the success Day had brought to Ohio State, there was a deep sense of loss. Day had built a powerhouse, and his legacy was cemented with the National Championship. His decision to retire was viewed by some as the perfect conclusion to an illustrious career, while others wondered whether he might have continued to lead the team to even more titles in the years to come.
Legacy and Impact
Ryan Day’s legacy at Ohio State is undeniable. In just a few short years, he managed to continue the success of Urban Meyer’s era and elevate the program to even greater heights. His innovative offensive strategies and ability to recruit and develop top-tier talent reshaped the landscape of college football, and the Ohio State Buckeyes became synonymous with excellence.
Under Day’s leadership, Ohio State won four Big Ten titles, made multiple appearances in the CFP, and consistently finished among the top teams in the country. His work with quarterbacks, including developing Heisman Trophy finalist Justin Fields and guiding McCord to a national championship, will be remembered as one of his greatest accomplishments.
Moreover, Day’s character and integrity off the field also contributed to his enduring success. His approach to leadership, centered on discipline, mutual respect, and accountability, set a standard for all coaches in the college football world. He prioritized the academic and personal growth of his players, helping to develop not only elite athletes but well-rounded individuals who would go on to excel in all areas of life.
Looking Ahead
As Ryan Day steps away from the sidelines, the future of the Ohio State football program enters a new chapter. The Buckeyes will now look for a successor who can build upon the foundation Day has laid and continue to lead the team toward future success. While no official decision has been made regarding Day’s successor, one thing is clear: the legacy of Ryan Day will forever be etched in the history of Ohio State football.
As for Day, the next phase of his life will undoubtedly involve new challenges and opportunities. Whether he pursues a career in broadcasting, mentorship, or takes on another leadership role within football, there is no doubt that his impact on the sport will continue to be felt for years to come. The Ohio State football program will always be grateful for the time, energy, and dedication Day poured into making the Buckeyes a national powerhouse once again.
For now, fans and players alike will continue to savor the National Championship victory that marked the pinnacle of Ryan Day’s remarkable coaching career, and his place in the pantheon of Ohio State’s greatest coaches is now secure.
