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Ryan Day has been named Ohio State’s interim coach following the news that Urban Meyer is being placed on administrative leave. Meyer is being placed on paid administrative leave while Ohio State continues its investigation into the allegations that Meyer was aware of former assistant Zach Smith’s alleged domestic abuse incidents. So, who is Ryan Day and what can Ohio State fans expect from him in Urban Meyer’s absence?
1. Ryan Day reportedly turned down the head coach position at Mississippi State.
This was reported by Bruce Feldman. This assumes that Day was possibly considered to take the Bulldogs head coaching gig before Mississippi State zeroed in on Joe Moorhead from Penn State.
2. Ryan Day had just been promoted earlier this year from co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach to the position of offensive coordinator.
Perhaps this was mostly due to Urban Meyer attempting to keep Day. Regardless, Day was on his way up on Meyer’s staff.
3. Ryan Day played for and was mentored by Chip Kelly.
Day played at the University of New Hampshire under Kelly. What position? You guessed it. Quarterback.
4. Ryan Day later reunited with Chip Kelly with Philadelphia Eagles and the San Francisco 49ers.
Urban Meyer was thrilled to have Day join his staff, and his knowledge of Chip Kelly’s system was part of the reason why Meyer was attracted to Day.
5. Ryan Day was a receivers coach at Boston College, and helped BC’s quarterback Matt Ryan throw for over 4,500 yards in 2007.
Day later also coached Tyler Murphy at Boston College, a transfer from Florida.
While Urban Meyer is quite difficult to replace in college football, Ryan Day brings a wealth of innovative offensive experience to the Buckeyes. With a staff filled with elite skill and experience, and a number of former head coaches, fans can expect the Ohio State program to not skip a beat into fall camp.
Should Meyer be permanently relieved of his duties at Ohio State, the long-term picture is much less clear. While we await the next pieces of news regarding Meyer’s job status at Ohio State, Ryan Day is currently in command.