Ohio State football coach Ryan Day received an “exceeds expectations” annual review from athletic director Ross Bjork, according to a document ABC 6 confirmed Monday.
Bjork signed the review on June 18, and Day signed it on Sept. 15. It was made available Monday.
In the two-page evaluation, Bjork praised Day’s leadership, writing that it “continues to transcend Ohio State and the game of college football on all levels.” Bjork also said Day “has developed and evolved into one of the leading voices of the sport” while keeping Ohio State football “at the forefront” through the fast changes hitting college sports.
He pointed to the program’s culture as a major strength, saying it “is as strong as it has ever been” and crediting Day’s leadership and attention to detail. Bjork also described the coaching staff and structure around the program as part of why Day can act as the “CEO of Ohio State University Football.”
Bjork highlighted the team’s academic and off-field performance, noting the record-setting team GPA, a third straight year of a 1,000 APR score, and the social behavior of the players. He also wrote that the Buckeyes “continue to set the tone on the field” after going 12-0 in the 2025 regular season and winning the rivalry game.
Even with that run, Bjork acknowledged the season ended short of the ultimate goal. He wrote that Ohio State “fell short of a championship in 2025,” but said the team “had the best team all season long” and “did not finish the way we expected.”
Bjork closed by saying he and Day both understand the expectations that come with Ohio State football and will keep working together to meet the standard of excellence in every part of the program. He added, “I truly enjoy working with Coach Day and will support him in all aspects moving forward.”
The review’s bullet points said Day’s behavior “embody Ohio State’s mission and Shared Values,” that his contribution “notably surpasses the expectations and core duties for this role,” and that he “far exceeds annual goals and delivers exceptional results in quality, volume, and timeliness.” Day’s overall rating was listed as “exceeds expectations.”
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