Ohio State announced much-anticipated news on Thursday: Ryan Day has received a well-deserved contract extension. The extension will keep the accomplished coach in Columbus for several years, accompanied by a significant pay raise.
Following the Buckeyes’ National Championship victory last month, it was expected that a contract extension would soon be in the works. On Thursday, it was confirmed that the extension was finalized, which includes a seven-year deal through 2031. According to Letterman Row, Day’s new contract is worth $12.5 million annually—an impressive increase for the head coach who has recorded a 70-10 record at OSU, never winning fewer than 11 games in a season including a 14-win season this past year.
The decision to extend Day was a hot topic among disgruntled Buckeye fans, especially since Ohio State has not defeated rival Michigan since the 2019 season. Many fans had labeled the season “title or bust,” and with their wishes now fulfilled, Day’s achievements have been duly recognized.
The announcement was met with enthusiasm from the college football community, as Buckeye fans celebrated this turnaround. Social media reactions highlighted the mixed sentiments regarding Day’s compensation, with some believing he should have received more given his accomplishments.
A postscript for this piece about the 12-team College Football Playoff doing what it was designed to do: Ryan Day won it all and will now make $12.5 million each year as the head coach at a public institution of higher learning.
— Ben Krimmel (@benkrimmel.bsky.social) February 6, 2025 at 11:59 AM
Not enough honesty…. Should be around 14 mill a year and for longer.. at least 5 years #OhioState https://t.co/HzKUue3YQL
— ZAE⚡️ (@ZaeMcGuire) February 6, 2025
thats how it should go https://t.co/ukkgo5f19s
— Tingis Pingis (@Yo_UncleLRoY) February 6, 2025
Congratulations Coach! Go Bucks https://t.co/ahlT6WqI7B
— Drew (@Buckeyedrew33) February 6, 2025
In recent days, Day and Ohio State have been finalizing their coaching staff, with the Buckeyes promoting Brian Hartline to offensive coordinator following Chip Kelly’s departure to the NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders.