What many Ohio State fans may not realize is that before winning his first national championship in 1954, Woody Hayes faced similar criticism. After a 4-3-2 record in 1951 and back-to-back 6-3 seasons in 1952 and 1953, he endured significant pressure from OSU fans who doubted him.

Day succeeded Urban Meyer as coach in 2019 and has a 70-10 record. His .875 winning percentage is the highest among active coaches. He is one of only three active coaches – Smart and Clemson’s Dabo Swinney are the others – to have won national championships.

After leading Ohio State to the national title, Buckeyes coach Ryan Day has agreed to a new contract that is set to make him the country's second-highest-paid head coach.