COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has a recurring problem: Michigan. Every year, he talks about the keys to victory—running the ball and avoiding turnovers—but it hasn’t translated to success.
Saturday’s 13-10 loss to Michigan marked Day’s fourth straight loss to the Wolverines, leaving fans frustrated. “We have to run the ball, especially in this game,” Day said afterward. “We couldn’t get into a rhythm, and that, along with turnovers and missed field goals, cost us the game.”
For four years, Ohio State has come up short against Michigan’s physical style of play. In 2021, Michigan ran for 252 yards in a 42-27 win. In 2022, they dominated the second half for a 45-23 victory. In 2023, Michigan was better yet again, rushing for 156 yards in a 30-24 loss for the Buckeyes.
The 2024 season was supposed to be different. Ohio State’s defense improved, but the offense—Day’s specialty—stumbled once more. Even with injuries on the offensive line, the team couldn’t adapt, managing just 77 rushing yards and 10 points against Michigan. It was Ohio State’s lowest-scoring game against an unranked opponent since 2011.
This loss wasn’t just a bad game; it was a disaster for Day. It ended Ohio State’s chances for a Big Ten title and a bye in the College Football Playoff. The Buckeyes were outplayed and outcoached, especially by Michigan’s defensive coordinator.
A Team Built to Beat Michigan Falls Short
Ohio State spent the offseason focused on beating Michigan, returning 11 senior players and spending millions in recruiting efforts. They added star transfers, including safety Caleb Downs and quarterback Will Howard, but it wasn’t enough.
Ohio State’s offense looked lost. After a key interception in the third quarter gave them the ball deep in Michigan territory, they played conservatively, running predictable plays. This led to a missed field goal, and the momentum shifted back to Michigan.
Even Ohio State’s running game, featuring standout backs Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson, couldn’t find success, combining for just 67 yards on 22 carries. Howard struggled as well, throwing for 175 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions.
The loss left linebacker Cody Simon emotional. “I’m sorry, Buckeye Nation,” he said. “I let you down.” But many fans feel the blame falls on Day.
Day’s Leadership Under Fire
Day stepped back from play-calling this year, giving the role to trusted offensive coordinator Chip Kelly. The goal was to bring fresh ideas and help Ohio State overcome Michigan. Instead, the same issues surfaced: an offense that shrinks under pressure and struggles against Michigan’s physicality.
Day’s conservative play-calling was a key problem. When faced with challenges, Ohio State seemed hesitant and unprepared. For example, the team abandoned its effective fast-paced strategy from earlier in the game.
Looking Ahead
Ohio State will still make the College Football Playoff, but the loss to Michigan casts a shadow over the season. It’s clear the team is stuck in a mental block against its biggest rival.
Day acknowledged the frustration. “Nobody wants to win this game more than we do,” he said. “It’s our No. 1 goal every year. When we don’t achieve it, it’s disappointing. I understand why fans are upset.”
For now, questions remain about whether Ryan Day is the right coach to lead Ohio State past Michigan and back to national dominance. Until he finds a way to solve this rivalry, the doubts will only grow.
