While Ohio State’s head coach Ryan Day is comfortable commanding a sideline in front of 100,000 screaming fans, stepping onto the set of The Tonight Show proved an entirely different challenge. Fresh off his national championship victory, Day found himself navigating the unfamiliar territory of late-night television while his wife Nina embraced the celebrity experience.
The renowned football coach, accustomed to high-pressure situations on the gridiron admitted that sitting across from Jimmy Fallon brought a surprising case of nerves. Meanwhile, Nina seized the opportunity to enjoy the perks of showbiz, happily accepting the makeup and hair treatment typically reserved for Hollywood stars rather than college football royalty.
Ryan Day Says Fallon Was Intense for Him but a Perfect Night Out for His Wife
“Intimidating for sure. Completely completely out of my element,” Day confessed during a recent College Game Day podcast appearance. “You think about being in a press conference postgame or playing in front of 20 million people on TV and you wouldn’t think that you’d be that worked up, but in that environment, that’s a whole different world.”
The Ohio State coach was struck by the proximity of other famous shows within 30 Rockefeller Plaza. “What I didn’t realize was how Kelly Clarkson’s right here. Right across the hallway is Jimmy Fallon and then SNL is right down the hallway. Like, they’re all right there,” Day explained of the bustling media hub.
When it came to pre-show preparations, Day’s wife was ready to embrace the star treatment. “I was like, well, I’m good, but I’m sure my wife may want some. And so, Nina went in there. Like, we made an experience out of it,” Day recalled with a laugh, revealing how they transformed the appearance into a memorable occasion.
The Buckeyes coach appreciated Fallon’s hosting abilities during the high-profile appearance. “He really was great. Great personal and I think the thing that I appreciated was that he allowed me to kind of feel comfortable in that setting you know it wasn’t intimidating and that’s a sign of a great host.”
What surprised Day most wasn’t just the celebrity atmosphere but finding fellow Buckeyes throughout the building. “The other thing that was amazing was how many Buckeyes were in that building,” he shared. “So many Ohio State Buckeyes, so just to see them all come and get around the trophy and take pictures was great.”
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When asked about the greatest late-night host, Day diplomatically answered: “I probably watched Letterman the most when I was younger. I guess I got to say Jimmy Fallon because I’ve been on his show and he couldn’t have been more gracious.” The Tonight Show appearance represents just one of many new experiences for the championship-winning coach who continues building his program’s culture of excellence.
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