As expected Ohio State’s win over Notre Dame rattled nerves, and why wouldn’t it? Winning a national title not only brings glory but also puts you under scrutiny. Well,

Ryan Day’s Bucks had an exceptional season, earning recognition as one of the nation’s top teams. However, there is a catch. Their two losses to Oregon and rival Michigan are flies in the ointment, haunting them like ghosts and keeping their golden season from shining without blemish.

So, four straight losses against Michigan might forever stay like dirt in the Bucks’ successful season. But this time, it all started with Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti’s controversial statement that brought them into the spotlight once again. Now, praising Ryan Day and Ohio State’s program, Tony said, “That’s the greatest run in college football history.” How do Michigan fans with their sky-high egos swallow this?

The problem is even though their team went undefeated in 2023, nobody called them the GOATs. Yet here we are, with Ohio State rocking two losses, and they’re still getting crowned. But it looks like their ego might see another hit after reading Adam Breneman’s praise for the Bucks, as he says, “This four-game stretch may be in college football history, against four of the biggest brands ever in the sport: double-digit wins against Tennessee and Oregon, beating Texas to Notre Dame, and double-digit wins as well. Unbelievable. Coming off of the Michigan planting a flag on their home field logo. What a run this was in the playoffs, one of the most talented teams of all time. I think one of the greatest football teams we’ve seen recently.”  That’s exactly what Tony Petitti said.

 

Now let’s talk about facts people. When Ohio State suffered a 13-10 defeat to Michigan for the fourth consecutive time this season, it was the breaking point for Buckeyes fans. This rivalry holds immense significance for them–it’s almost like a championship game. Ryan Day’s record in the series now stands at 1-4, with his only victory coming in 2019. On the other hand, Jim Harbaugh also experienced struggles in Ann Arbor, failing to secure a win against Ohio State in his first five seasons despite an impressive overall record of 47-18. Fans couldn’t contain their frustrations.

However, both Day and Harbaugh eventually silenced their critics. The very same people who doubted their ability to win big games were forced to eat their words when both coaches brought home the National Championships. Ryan Day’s story is one of resilience, as he managed to push through the negativity and continue racking up wins. With an impressive record of 11 wins every year (excluding 2020) and a 14-2 finish this season, Day’s accomplishments speak volumes, even though those two losses remain difficult to accept. But looks like that’s not the end of Ryan Day’s misery.

Uncertainties knock Ryan Day’s door

Well, Day might’ve saved his job, but can he stop the ship from sinking? That’s where things get murky. Several key players have already decided to leave, including backup QB Devin Brown, wide receiver Kojo Antwi, and offensive tackle George Fitzpatrick. This exodus has left fans anxious, and the concerns don’t end there. Ohio State’s star running back, Quinshon Judkins, has announced his decision to enter the NFL Draft after an outstanding 2024 season. It’s not surprising, considering his eligibility, but it’s still a blow to the Buckeyes.

But on the brighter side, there is one player who gives hope to the fanbase: Jeremiah Smith. This 6’3″, 215-pound phenom has been the driving force behind the Buckeyes’ offense. Smith not only broke the Ohio State freshman receiving record with 187 yards, surpassing Cris Carter’s Rose Bowl mark, but he also made Big Ten history with 13 touchdown receptions in his first season. His combination of speed, athleticism, and elite hands makes him the total package—a cornerstone for Ryan Day’s future plans.

However, there’s a catch: Smith’s incredible talent has attracted mind-boggling offers from NIL, reportedly ranging from $4.5M to $5M, tempting him to enter the transfer portal. Losing him would be a devastating blow for Day and the program. While Judkins’ departure is already creating a mess, losing Smith would be heart-wrenching. But for now, all eyes are on Day, hoping he can work a miracle and convince his star receiver to stay in Columbus.