Ryan Day is entering his 5th season as head coach at Ohio State with a largely successful 45-6 overall record leading the Buckeyes. While Ohio State did make it back to the College Football Playoff a season ago, Day is looking to right the ship in the B1G after back-to-back losses to Michigan.

In the latest “Tradition Talk” segment alongside Archie Griffin, Day was asked about the draw of Ohio State and what attracted him to the Buckeyes. The head coach explained it’s the high-stakes environment and competing at the highest level that initially drew him to Urban Meyer’s staff.

“Competing at the highest level, it doesn’t get any bigger than Ohio State. Having an opportunity to try and chase the top 1% of 1%. The stakes are high, and you’re relevant and it means everything and everything is on the line,” Day explained. “If you’re the ultimate competitor, that’s what attracts you, that adrenaline rush of playing in these types of environments.”

While the environment suits ultimate competitors, Day also explained individuals do not need to compromise at Ohio State while pushing to be the best version of themselves.

“The other part of it is at Ohio State, you don’t have to compromise at Ohio State to go be the best in the world at what you do… I’ve learned even more the type of recruits we attract but also just the people here,” said Day. “There’s a great feel of support here, they love the Buckeyes, there’s a sense of community here. I really felt the community in terms of philanthropy.”

Ryan Day career performance

In 4 seasons at Ohio State, Day has produced at least 11 wins in every full season with 2 B1G titles and 3 trips to the Playoff. The Buckeyes have played in a New Year’s Six Bowl every season of Day’s leadership but are coming off of back-to-back seasons without a B1G title after a run of dominance in the league.

While any number of coaches would kill for the type of record Day has compiled, the legacy of any coach in Columbus revolves around beating Michigan and winning a national title. We’ll see if Day can regain the edge in The Game and bring home a championship for the Buckeyes.