In an unexpected and peculiar debate, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day found himself the center of an unusual conversation regarding the authenticity of his facial hair. The controversy sprouted from sports media personality Clay Travis, who took to social media to claim Day dyes his beard, implying this as a reason for the initial hesitation of Ohio State fans to embrace their team's coach.
I have known Ryan my entire life and he has never once died his beard. Move on to the next narrative. https://t.co/Sc0hUmxMlm
— Christina Day (@ninadaytime) April 14, 2025
Travis, known for his outspoken and candid takes, opined that men who dye their beards might be undermining their perceived authenticity, even jokingly suggesting that Ryan Day could increase his popularity by embracing his natural look. He drew an amusing comparison by painting a picture of a hypothetical Santa Claus with a dyed beard, pondering if such an image would hold the same trusted, timeless appeal.
In response to these assertions, Day’s wife, Nina, decided to clear the air. She took to X to refute the claim, declaring confidently that Ryan Day, whom she's known her entire life, has never altered the color of his beard. Essentially, Nina set the record straight, urging people to move past this narrative.
Amid this lighter offbeat moment, it's worth noting the much more significant accomplishment at hand: Coach Ryan Day, his wife Christina, and their family were in Washington D.C. celebrating the Buckeyes’ outstanding triumph in the national championship over Notre Dame. This marks an unforgettable season for Ohio State, and underscored Day's standout leadership since taking the helm. Meanwhile, Travis's own beloved Tennessee Volunteers are still chasing such glory, a feat they last achieved back in 1998.
Despite the comedic digressions about beards and masculinity, the real narrative here is the celebration of achievement and the steadfast defending of character in the world of college football. It's these kinds of stories – the blend of personal quips and sporting triumphs – that make the sports world as colorful as it is competitive.
