Ryan Day had been the center of criticism for some time before the 2024 season resulted in Ohio State’s national championship victory over Notre Dame.
The situation was tough for the entire Ohio State team, particularly Day after they lost a crucial game against the archrival Michigan Wolverines. But his toughness, outlined by one of his former players, played a major part in the Buckeyes’ turnaround.
Jack Sawyer Reveals What Makes Ryan Day Special
Ohio State lost its fourth straight against archrival Michigan, which led to a flurry of angry criticism for the coach. Death threats were sent to him, and he even had to get security for his own home.
Despite all these setbacks, former Ohio State EDGE Jack Sawyer, who is taking part in the NFL Scouting Combine this week, claims Day is the toughest and most resilient guy he has ever seen or met.
Ohio State’s 2024 season was filled with many ups and downs. After being under fire for some time, Day and QB Will Howard fought through the regular season and managed to secure a playoff berth.
They looked like a completely different team and dominated in almost all postseason games until they lifted the College Football Playoff National Championship trophy. Speaking about Day, Sawyer mentioned that the OSU coach is a true leader and stands for his team regardless of how bad the situation is.
“Coach Day is one of the toughest, most resilient guys I’ve ever been around,” Sawyer said at the NFL Combine.
“That’s the reason why we all love him. It’s the reason I love him so much. No matter what’s going on, no matter all the unfair s*** that’s being said about him—excuse me for cussing—but he’s going to stand in there, stand strong, and take it all on the brunt. Take it head-on for us, and take all the blame even if it’s wrongfully deserved,” Sawyer continued.
“So, playing for him and seeing the way he’s responded the last few years, especially this year, it just shows everyone across the country what he’s capable of. He’s the best head coach in the country by far, I think in college football, unbiasedly. So, being able to see us have that happen, hear all the things that we heard in Columbus,” the EDGE concluded.
KEEP READING: Ohio State HC Ryan Day Discusses Buckeyes QB Battle
Expectations are on another level heading into 2025. Now, it’s time to defend that title they worked so hard at earning.
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