As Ohio State University continues to build its football legacy, Ryan Day’s tenure as head coach has been marked by impressive successes, including Big Ten titles and playoff appearances. However, as with any high-profile program, the pressure to win national championships remains constant, and some question whether Day is the right man to bring Ohio State back to the pinnacle of college football. Should Ohio State decide to part ways with Day, the search for his successor will be one of the most scrutinized coaching searches in college football history. Here are two of the top candidates who could take the reins of this storied program:
1. Luke Fickell – Head Coach at Wisconsin (formerly Cincinnati)
Luke Fickell has emerged as one of the top coaching candidates in college football over the past few seasons. With deep Ohio State ties, having been a defensive coordinator under Jim Tressel and Urban Meyer, Fickell understands what it takes to succeed in Columbus. His defensive acumen, work ethic, and ability to recruit on a national level would make him a natural fit at Ohio State.
Fickell’s success at Cincinnati, where he transformed a Group of Five program into a national contender, showcases his coaching abilities. He led the Bearcats to a College Football Playoff appearance in 2021, proving that he can compete at the highest levels of the sport. His ability to develop talent, particularly on defense, and his strong leadership make him an attractive candidate for Ohio State, a program that has long prided itself on defensive toughness. His familiarity with the Big Ten and Ohio State’s culture would provide him with a smooth transition into the role of head coach.
Moreover, Fickell’s ability to recruit top-tier talent would keep Ohio State competitive on the national stage. His Ohio roots provide him with a unique advantage in recruiting in-state talent, which is crucial for Ohio State’s success. Fickell is a coach who can build a program that is not only competitive but can sustain success over the long haul. Given his previous success and connections to the Buckeyes, Fickell would be a perfect candidate to take Ohio State to the next level.
2. Urban Meyer – Former Head Coach of Ohio State
While bringing back Urban Meyer may seem unlikely due to his controversial departure in 2018, the undeniable success Meyer had at Ohio State cannot be overlooked. Meyer built Ohio State into a dominant program, winning national championships in 2014 and maintaining a remarkable win percentage throughout his tenure. Meyer has proven time and again that he knows how to win at the highest level, and his ability to recruit, develop talent, and maintain a winning culture is second to none.
Meyer’s legacy at Ohio State is undeniable. He consistently brought in top-tier talent, developed a powerful and innovative offense, and won big games in crucial moments. His return to Ohio State would undoubtedly create a buzz in the college football world, reigniting the program’s championship aspirations. With his championship pedigree, Meyer’s return could provide the program with the experience and winning mentality that many fans feel has been missing under Day.
Additionally, Meyer’s knowledge of the Ohio State culture and his understanding of the Big Ten are significant assets that would ensure his success. While there are concerns about Meyer’s previous controversies, there’s no doubt that his return would lead to an immediate elevation in Ohio State’s program, making him a formidable candidate should the Buckeyes look for a replacement.
Conclusion
Ultimately, both Luke Fickell and Urban Meyer are strong candidates to replace Ryan Day should Ohio State look for a change. Fickell’s ties to Ohio State and his success at Cincinnati make him an ideal choice for a long-term solution. Meanwhile, Urban Meyer’s unmatched success at Ohio State and his ability to win national championships make him an intriguing option if the Buckeyes are looking for immediate results. Regardless of the choice, Ohio State’s next head coach will face immense expectations, and both of these candidates possess the necessary qualities to lead the Buckeyes back to greatness.
