Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has secured his future in Columbus for the foreseeable future, agreeing to a new contract extension that will keep him at the helm of the Buckeyes through the 2031 season. The deal, which has been approved by the university’s Board of Trustees, will see Day earn $12.5 million annually, making him one of the highest-paid coaches in college football.
The contract extension reaffirms Ohio State’s commitment to Day, who has led the Buckeyes to consistent success since taking over as head coach in 2019. With this new agreement, the university ensures stability in a program that remains one of the most dominant forces in college football.
Ryan Day’s Success at Ohio State
Since being named head coach after Urban Meyer’s retirement, Day has been one of the most successful coaches in the country. His tenure at Ohio State has been marked by:
- An impressive 56-8 record (as of the end of the 2024 season)
- Three College Football Playoff appearances (2019, 2020, and 2022)
- A Big Ten Championship in 2020
- A 3-2 record in the College Football Playoff
- Three wins over Michigan in five seasons
Despite criticism for losing three straight games to Michigan from 2021-2023, Day responded with a monumental victory over the Wolverines in 2024, leading Ohio State back to the College Football Playoff. His ability to recruit elite talent and develop NFL-caliber players has made him one of the most respected coaches in the country.
How Day’s Salary Compares to Other College Football Coaches
With this contract, Day’s $12.5 million annual salary places him among the highest-paid coaches in college football. Here’s how his new deal stacks up against other top coaches:
- Nick Saban (Alabama) – $11.7 million
- Kirby Smart (Georgia) – $11.25 million
- Dabo Swinney (Clemson) – $11.5 million
- Lincoln Riley (USC) – Estimated $10 million
- Brian Kelly (LSU) – $10 million
Day’s new salary reflects Ohio State’s belief that he is the coach to lead them to their ultimate goal: a national championship. While the Buckeyes have come close under his leadership, they have not won a title since 2014.
What This Means for Ohio State
This extension sends a clear message that Ohio State is committed to winning at the highest level. With the expansion of the College Football Playoff to 12 teams in 2024, the Buckeyes are positioned to be perennial contenders, and Day’s leadership will be crucial in navigating the new landscape of college football.
Additionally, the contract stability could help Ohio State on the recruiting trail, as top high school prospects and their families value consistency in coaching staff. Day has already established himself as an elite recruiter, and this long-term deal could further solidify Ohio State’s standing as one of the top programs in the country.
What’s Next for Ryan Day and Ohio State?
With his future in Columbus secured, Day’s next challenge is clear: win a national championship. Ohio State fans have high expectations, and while Big Ten titles and playoff appearances are great, the ultimate goal is to bring home a national title.
With a strong roster, elite recruiting classes, and a clear commitment from the university, Day now has all the tools to cement his legacy as one of Ohio State’s greatest coaches.
The pressure is on, but with a $12.5 million annual salary, expectations have never been higher.
Final Thoughts
This extension is a win-win for both Ohio State and Ryan Day. The Buckeyes secure one of the nation’s best coaches for the long term, while Day gets the financial security and backing needed to take the program to even greater heights.
With the 2031 season now serving as the new target for his tenure, the next eight years will define Day’s legacy in Columbus. Can he deliver Ohio State its first national championship in over a decade? Buckeye Nation is hoping this extension is the final piece of the puzzle.