If Ohio State football head coach Ryan Day were to leave for an NFL position with the Detroit Lions after a record-breaking contract offer, it would send shockwaves through college football. While Ohio State has consistently been among the top programs in the nation under Day, the NFL has a magnetic pull that can be difficult to resist, particularly when it comes with a life-changing contract. Should this hypothetical scenario unfold, the Buckeyes would need a replacement capable of maintaining the program’s elite status while navigating the pressure and scrutiny that comes with such a transition. Here are five coaches who could be at the top of Ohio State’s list to fill the void left by Ryan Day’s departure.
1. Luke Fickell – Current Head Coach, Wisconsin (formerly Cincinnati)
Luke Fickell, a former Ohio State defensive coordinator, is arguably the most obvious choice. Fickell has deep ties to the program, having coached at Ohio State for over a decade before taking the Cincinnati head coaching job. His success at Cincinnati—turning the Bearcats into a perennial powerhouse and taking them to the College Football Playoff in 2021—has made him one of the most sought-after coaches in college football. With Fickell now leading Wisconsin, there’s speculation that a return to Ohio State could be on the horizon, especially given his ability to recruit and his knack for developing talent. His familiarity with the Buckeyes’ culture would make for a seamless transition, and Ohio State’s loyal fanbase would likely welcome him back with open arms.
2. Matt Campbell – Head Coach, Iowa State
Matt Campbell has long been on the radar of top-tier programs due to his success at Iowa State. The Cyclones have experienced sustained success under Campbell’s leadership, including a trip to the Big 12 Championship Game and consistent top-25 rankings. Campbell is known for his ability to develop players and his innovative offensive schemes, which could translate well to the Big Ten. His track record of developing under-recruited talent into NFL-caliber players would appeal to Ohio State’s high standards, and his Midwest roots and ability to recruit regionally make him a natural fit. While Campbell has turned down previous offers, Ohio State might be a job he cannot pass up.
3. Dan Mullen – Former Head Coach, Florida
Dan Mullen has faced criticism for his departure from Florida after struggling in his final seasons, but his overall resume in the SEC is strong. Mullen previously served as the offensive coordinator for Urban Meyer at Florida and later head coached Mississippi State and Florida, where he developed strong offensive teams. Mullen’s ability to recruit at a high level, especially in the state of Florida, would be beneficial for Ohio State in keeping pace with recruiting juggernauts like Alabama and Georgia. Additionally, Mullen’s familiarity with the high-pressure, high-expectation environment of a national power would help him hit the ground running in Columbus.
4. Kirk Ferentz – Head Coach, Iowa (Veteran Influence)
Kirk Ferentz, the longest-tenured coach in the Big Ten, would be a controversial but intriguing candidate. While Ferentz may not have the flashy national championships that other candidates have, he has been remarkably consistent at Iowa, developing tough, well-disciplined teams that can compete with anyone. His conservative approach to football might be a departure from the high-octane offenses of Ryan Day, but his focus on fundamentals and defense could help Ohio State maintain its physical edge in the Big Ten. Though he may not have the same recruiting pedigree as other candidates, his experience and stability could be the calming influence Ohio State needs during such a turbulent transition.
5. Deion Sanders – Head Coach, Colorado
Now, this is the wild card. Deion Sanders has taken college football by storm with his transformative work at Jackson State and now at Colorado. Known for his charisma, media savvy, and recruiting prowess, Sanders would bring a completely new energy to Ohio State. While his tenure at Colorado is still in its early stages, Sanders’ ability to reshape a program, bring in top talent, and create a buzz around his team has been unparalleled. His high-profile personality could give Ohio State an entirely new direction and create a buzz that could elevate the program to new heights. Though some may question whether Sanders is ready for the Big Ten after just one season at Colorado, his trajectory and passion for the game make him an intriguing option.
In conclusion, if Ryan Day were to leave for the NFL, Ohio State would need to make a bold move. Fickell, Campbell, Mullen, Ferentz, or even Sanders represent a variety of coaching styles, but each would bring something valuable to the table. The question isn’t whether the program would survive, but rather whether they could continue to thrive at the highest level.
