Ryan Day Reclaims Play-Calling Duties as Ohio State Eyes CFP Run
As Ohio State gears up for its College Football Playoff push, head coach Ryan Day is making a significant move: he’s taking back the play-calling duties. It’s a decision that speaks volumes about where this Buckeyes team stands heading into the biggest stretch of the season-and what Day believes they need to get over the hump.
The change comes on the heels of a tough outing in the Big Ten Championship Game, where red zone struggles proved costly in a loss to Indiana. The Buckeyes moved the ball well enough between the 20s, but once they got into scoring territory, the offense stalled. That inefficiency ultimately kept them from claiming the conference title.
Despite the setback, Ohio State still earned a first-round bye in the College Football Playoff, giving them time to reset and reassess. And part of that reassessment includes handing the keys to the offense back to Day.
Hartline’s Role Shifts Amid Coaching Transition
Brian Hartline, who had taken over play-calling duties, has come under fire for the offense’s inability to finish drives-criticism that intensified after the Indiana loss. While Day publicly supported Hartline, he also acknowledged the need for change. With Hartline set to take over as head coach at USF after the Buckeyes’ postseason run concludes, Day is stepping in to ensure the offense stays locked in on the task at hand.
This isn’t just about one game. Ohio State has had red zone issues throughout the season.
Whether it's play design, execution, or decision-making, something hasn’t clicked when the Buckeyes get inside the 20. Day’s move to retake the reins suggests he wants to personally address those problems as they prepare for a CFP semifinal matchup against Miami.
A Familiar Role for Day-With High Stakes
This isn’t unfamiliar territory for Ryan Day. He was the primary play-caller through the 2023 season before handing those responsibilities over last year when Chip Kelly came aboard as offensive coordinator. Now, with the season on the line, Day is stepping back into a role he knows well-even if it comes with its own set of questions.
Day emphasized that the offensive game plan will still be a collaborative effort, but make no mistake: he’ll be the one making the calls on game day.
Whether this move reignites the offense remains to be seen. Day has had his own ups and downs as a play-caller, and with Miami’s defense looming, the margin for error is razor-thin.
But for a team loaded with talent-arguably as much as any roster in the country-the belief inside the building is strong. They know they have the firepower to beat anyone in the CFP field, including a potential rematch with Indiana down the line.
Buckeyes Betting on Talent-and Leadership
At this point in the season, tweaks like this aren’t made lightly. Day’s decision to step back into the play-calling role is a clear signal: Ohio State is going all-in on experience, leadership, and urgency. With Hartline preparing for his next chapter and the Buckeyes still chasing a national title, Day is betting that his voice in the headset can be the difference.
Now, it’s time to see if that bet pays off.