Tate knows he has all the tools to be an NFL superstar. Speaking to Paul Schwartz of the New York Post, the Ohio State product said, “Everything. The catching, the route running, the blocking. I got the mindset that I’m the best wide receiver in the draft class. I got the route running, I’m able to manipulate DB, I got the catching, I can catch over DBs. I’ve got the field awareness on the sidelines, a couple of sideline grabs. I also showed up in the blocking game, blocking D-ends, corners. Whatever you need, I got it.”

And to be fair, it’s hard to argue with Tate. He was a showstopper at Ohio State and he is electric on the field. Tate has all the tools to become an absolute star for whatever team that drafts him.

Ohio State is effectively WR University

The amount of top-notch wideouts that Ohio State has produced in the last few years is just absurd. Tate has all the tools to be the next one on that elite list. He caught 51 passes for 875 yards and nine touchdowns for the Buckeyes in 2025.

Marvin Harrison Jr., Chris Olave, Emeka Egbuka, Terry McLaurin, Garrett Wilson, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba are all thriving in the NFL after delivering the goods for the Buckeyes. At this point, any first-round WR coming from Ohio State deserves the benefit of the doubt.

Carnell Tate wasn’t even the best Ohio State receiver last season

Carnell Tate is a star in the making, but he wasn’t even the most productive receiver on the Ohio State roster. Jeremiah Smith was even better, leading the Big Ten in receptions (87) and receiving yards (1,243). That left Tate as WR2 of the team, which is just insane to think about.

However, Smith is stil not eligible to go to the NFL, he needs to play one more season at the collegiate level. Smith just ended up sixth in the Heisman voting. However, next year, Smith will be undoubtedly one of the best wideouts available.

[Watch Miami vs Ohio State online in the US on Fubo]

The Cotton Bowl headlines Wednesday as No. 10 Miami (Fla.) squares off with No. 2 Ohio State in a College Football Playoff quarterfinal with a trip to the national semifinals at stake. The Hurricanes arrive at 11–2 after a gritty 10–3 road win over Texas A&M in the first round.

Meanwhile, Ohio State enter 12–1 despite a 13–10 loss to Indiana in the Big Ten title game, still carrying the pedigree of a defending national champion. With postseason pressure, star talent, and New Year’s Eve drama in play, this is must-see college football from kickoff to final whistle.

When will the Miami vs Ohio State match be played?

Miami play against Ohio State in the 2025 Cotton Bowl Game this Wednesday, December 31, with kickoff scheduled for 7:30 PM (ET).

Miami vs Ohio State: Time by State in the USA

ET: 7:30 PM
CT: 6:30 PM
MT: 5:30 PM
PT: 4:30 PM

How to watch Miami vs Ohio State in the USA

Don’t miss the 2025 college football showdown between Miami and Ohio State streaming live on Fubo. You can also catch the action on ESPN.

Ohio State has long been a crucible for talent, producing athletes whose names echo far beyond the campus of Columbus. These Buckeyes combined speed, power, and precision, leaving a mark on college football that still resonates.

From legendary quarterbacks to dominant linemen, their roster of greats has consistently rewritten expectations. Their feats on the field cemented the program’s reputation as a breeding ground for excellence.

Yet the legacy isn’t only measured in stats. Leadership, resilience and the ability to rise under pressure defined these players, shaping the culture of Buckeye football and influencing the sport nationwide.

Archie Griffin

Archie Griffin stands alone in college football history as the only player to win the Heisman Trophy twice, in 1974 and 1975. His remarkable consistency and durability were hallmarks of his career. Over four seasons at Ohio State, he rushed for 5,589 yards, leading the Big Ten in rushing for three consecutive years—a feat unmatched until 2019.

He also played in four consecutive Rose Bowl games, a testament to his and the team’s excellence. His legacy is not just in his statistics but in his embodiment of perseverance and sportsmanship, making him a timeless symbol of Buckeye pride.

Eddie George

Eddie George‘s 1995 Heisman Trophy season is etched in Ohio State lore. With 1,927 rushing yards and 24 touchdowns, he led the Buckeyes to a Big Ten title and a Rose Bowl victory. His powerful running style and leadership on and off the field earned him the respect of teammates and opponents alike.

Beyond college, he had a successful NFL career, becoming the franchise’s all-time leading rusher for the Tennessee Titans. Post-retirement, he ventured into acting and coaching, showcasing his versatility and commitment to excellence.

Orlando Pace

Orlando Pace redefined the role of the offensive lineman at Ohio State. Starting as a true freshman, he became a two-time unanimous All-American and won both the Outland and Lombardi Awards in 1996, becoming the only player to win both honors in the same year.

His dominance on the field was so profound that the term “pancake block” gained popularity, a nod to his ability to flatten defenders. His impact extended beyond college, as he became the first overall pick in the 1997 NFL Draft and had a storied career with the St. Louis Rams.

Cris Carter

Cris Carter‘s tenure at Ohio State was marked by exceptional receiving records and acrobatic catches. He set a Rose Bowl record with nine receptions for 172 yards and finished his college career with 168 receptions for 2,725 yards and 27 touchdowns.

Known for his precise route running and remarkable hands, he became the first Ohio State wide receiver to earn consensus All-American honors. His college success paved the way for a Hall of Fame NFL career, where he became one of the league’s most prolific receivers.

Troy Smith

Troy Smith‘s leadership and poise under pressure led Ohio State to an undefeated regular season in 2006 and a national championship appearance. His performance that year earned him the Heisman Trophy, making him the seventh Buckeye to win the prestigious award.

His dual-threat capabilities, combining accurate passing with mobility, made him a dynamic force on the field. His legacy is remembered for his ability to elevate the team’s performance in critical moments.

Chris Spielman

Chris Spielman embodied the spirit of Ohio State football with his relentless pursuit and leadership on defense. A two-time All-American linebacker, he was known for his high motor and ability to read offenses.

His college success translated into a distinguished NFL career, where he earned four Pro Bowl selections and became the Detroit Lions’ all-time leader in tackles. His impact was felt both on the field and in the locker room, where his intensity and work ethic set a standard for future generations.

Ezekiel Elliott

Ezekiel Elliott brought a blend of speed, power, and vision to the Ohio State backfield. In his two seasons with the Buckeyes, he amassed 3,961 rushing yards and 43 touchdowns, ranking among the program’s all-time leaders.

His standout performance in the 2015 postseason, including a 246-yard game against Michigan and a 149-yard, four-touchdown effort in the Fiesta Bowl, solidified his place in Ohio State history. His ability to perform in clutch situations and his consistency made him a cornerstone of the team’s offensive success.

Randy Gradishar

There was nothing flashy about Randy Gradishar; yet his presence spoke louder than any roar. Woody Hayes, who knew linebackers like few could, called him “the best linebacker I ever coached,” a high bar indeed.

From 1971 to 1973, he anchored a defense that posted four shutouts in his senior season and conceded a mere 64 points all year. The Broncos legend—an Academic All-America and Hall of Famer—was the NFL’s tackling king, proving that brains and brawn can coexist at the top.

Jack Tatum

When Jack Tatum stepped onto the field, game plans shifted. Originally recruited as a running back, he soon earned his place in history as one of the fiercest defensive backs of his era.

His hits were as famous as his coverage—bold calls of his name echoing long after games ended. A unanimous All-American in 1970 and Big Ten’s Defensive Player of the Year, he helped Ohio State dominate in an explosive 27–2 stretch, including a 1968 national championship.

J. T. Barrett

J. T. Barrett’s legacy is etched in numbers—tons of ‘em. Over his career, he topped school charts for passing yards, touchdowns, completions, and total offense, surpassing even the great Drew Brees in Big Ten history.

His resilience was unmatched, steering the Buckeyes with poise game after game and turning record books into mirrors of his consistency. A durable workhorse, he made his mark in OSU lore largely through sheer, sustained excellence.

Vic Janowicz

Vic Janowicz played every version of football—running back, passer, kicker, punter, and safety—with equal aplomb. In 1950, he swept college football’s top honors—College Football Player of the Year, Heisman, unanimous All-American—anchoring his place as Ohio State’s first multi-dimensional star. From landing punts to launching touchdowns, his all-around dominance crafted a legacy that transcends positions and eras.

Bill Willis

Bill Willis’ name may not be synonymous with flashy highlights, but his impact reverberates through football history. A middle guard whose pioneering presence helped challenge segregation in pro football, he set an example that would echo well beyond Ohio State or the field. His quiet strength and unwavering excellence earned him a rightful spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, underpinning both game and social change.

A. J. Hawk

A new era of Buckeye play produced A. J. Hawk—a linebacker whose resume sparkled in the mid-2000s. He claimed the Lombardi Award, Jack Lambert Trophy, and national titles, anchoring a BCS championship team with intelligence, swagger, and relentless tackling. He wasn’t just a playmaker—he was a standard; a Bedrock of defense in Scarlet and Gray and a future blueprint for linebackers at OSU.

James Laurinaitis

To speak of James Laurinaitis is to speak of leadership forged in tackles. A three-time consensus All-American and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year twice over, he seemed to anticipate plays before they started.

His 18-tackle performance in the 2008 BCS title game remains a championship-game record. Now coaching in Columbus, he continues shaping defenders with the same relentless precision that defined his career.

Justin Fields

Few quarterbacks in Ohio State history have blended grace and explosiveness quite like Justin Fields. After transferring from Georgia in 2019, he quickly became the centerpiece of Ryan Day’s offense, throwing for 41 touchdowns in his first season while adding 10 more on the ground.

His command of the passing game paired with his mobility redefined what a Buckeye quarterback could be, guiding Ohio State to back-to-back College Football Playoff appearances. His toughness—perhaps best remembered when he played through injury against Clemson in the 2021 Sugar Bowl—cemented his reputation as a modern Buckeye icon.

Mike Vrabel

Before becoming one of the NFL’s top head coaches, Mike Vrabel terrorized opposing quarterbacks in Columbus. The defensive end set Ohio State career records for sacks (36) and tackles for loss (66), marks that stood as proof of his relentless motor.

Named a consensus All-American in 1995 and 1996, his production made him one of the most feared defenders in the Big Ten. Beyond the numbers, his fiery leadership defined John Cooper’s Buckeye defenses of the mid-1990s, giving Ohio State an edge in the trenches. His legacy was strong enough to earn induction into the Ohio State Athletics Hall of Fame.

Joey Bosa

Joey Bosa was a force of nature the moment he stepped onto the field as a freshman in 2013. With uncanny strength and technique, he recorded 27 sacks and 51 tackles for loss across just three seasons, earning unanimous All-American honors in 2014.

His dominance was instrumental in Ohio State’s run to the first-ever College Football Playoff National Championship, where his disruptive presence helped stymie high-powered offenses. Known for his relentless pressure and signature celebrations, he became the prototype for the new generation of Buckeye pass rushers who followed him.

Andy Katzenmoyer

For three seasons in the late 1990s, Andy Katzenmoyer epitomized the ideal Buckeye linebacker: fast, instinctive, and punishing. Nicknamed “The Big Kat,” he exploded onto the scene as a freshman starter, racking up tackles at an unprecedented pace.

In 1997, he became the first sophomore ever to win the Butkus Award, finishing his career with 256 tackles, 18 sacks, and six interceptions. His blend of athleticism and ferocity made him one of the most feared defenders of his era. Though a neck injury cut his NFL career short, his legend at Ohio State remains untouchable.

Chase Young

When Chase Young took the field in 2019, he wasn’t just playing defense—he was redefining it. The explosive edge rusher amassed 16.5 sacks that year alone, breaking Ohio State’s single-season record, and earned a spot as a Heisman Trophy finalist—an honor rarely afforded to defensive players.

His uncanny ability to dominate games, from strip sacks to commanding double teams, forced opponents to reshape their entire offensive schemes. With 30.5 career sacks and a laundry list of national awards, his time in Columbus solidified him as one of the most decorated defenders in school history.

Howard “Hopalong” Cassady

Long before modern spread offenses, Howard “Hopalong” Cassady dazzled Ohio State fans in the 1950s with his all-around brilliance. A two-way star, he excelled at halfback while also shining on defense, helping the Buckeyes capture the 1954 national championship.

In 1955, he stormed to the Heisman Trophy in a landslide, becoming one of the most beloved players in program history. He finished his career with over 2,400 rushing yards, but his true impact was in his versatility and flair, which made him a household name in college football. His No. 40 jersey is retired, and his legacy endures as one of the greats of the sport’s golden age.

Jim Parker

Manicured by Woody Hayes as “the greatest offensive lineman I ever coached,” Jim Parker redefined what it meant to dominate in the trenches. As Ohio State’s first Outland Trophy winner in 1956, he anchored a line that powered a 1954 national championship and consecutive Big Ten titles. A two-time All-American, team MVP, and eventual College and Pro Football Hall of Famer, he set a benchmark for excellence that future Buckeye linemen would chase for generations.

Tom Cousineau

Few defenders towered over ball carriers like Tom Cousineau. A two-time consensus All-American in the late ’70s, he shattered school records with 211 tackles in a single season, including a staggering 29 in one game.

His relentless presence helped propel Ohio State to three Big Ten titles and perennial top rankings. His collegiate legacy endured well beyond his graduation—culminating in his 2016 induction into the College Football Hall of Fame.

Malcolm Jenkins

Before forging NFL glory, Malcolm Jenkins ruled the Buckeye secondary with swagger and intelligence. A three-time First-team All-Big Ten standout, he cemented his status as the nation’s top defensive back in 2008 by capturing the Jim Thorpe Award. His instincts and leadership helped define a defense that was as cerebral as it was physical—preparing him for a decorated NFL career filled with Pro Bowls and Super Bowls.

Braxton Miller

When Braxton Miller roamed Ohio Stadium, defenders were left in his wake. From 2011 to 2013, he racked up nearly 9,000 total offense yards, becoming the Buckeyes’ modern dual-threat prototype.

In 2012 alone, he threw for over 2,000 yards and rushed for 1,271, earning Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year and a Heisman finalist nod. His blend of creativity, speed, and improvisation made him one of the program’s most electrifying playmakers.

Marvin Harrison Jr.

If Ohio State crafted identities, Marvin Harrison Jr. became theirs. A two-time unanimous All-American and 2023 Biletnikoff Award winner, he’s the first Buckeye receiver ever to earn that distinction.

In back-to-back seasons, he notched eight 100-yard games—ending with over 1,200 yards and 14 touchdowns each year—and set the school record with 15 career 100-yard performances. His early impact included three-touchdown Rose Bowl and multi-hat-trick games that etched him among OSU’s most dominant receivers ever.

Everybody expected to see Arch Manning atop the list of possible number one picks in the next NFL Draft. However, after dropping a very underpar performance in the Texas Longhorns vs. Ohio State Buckeyes game, two new names have climbed the ladder and emerged as favorites to get picked first.

Now, Penn State quarterback Drew Allar and LSU signal-caller Garrett Nussmeier are co-favorites according to the Vegas odds. As of now, they both share a +350 line on DraftKings.com.

Nussmeier had an impressive showing against fourth-ranked Clemson. He threw for 230 yards, completing 28 of 38 passes and had a touchdown pass with no turnovers. LSU beat the other Tigers on the road as 4.5-point underdogs.

The Drew Allar experience was in full force for Penn State

Drew Allar is in his fourth season as the Penn State quarterback. He went 22/26 passes completed for 217 yards with a touchdown and no picks. He even sat out the last quarter as the Nittany Lions had a very dominant 46-11 win against Nevada.

Allar has passed for 25 and 24 touchdowns the last two seasons while getting intercepted 10 times in that same span. He has always been touted as a good prospect, but big games and some disconnected moments during the matches are his biggest flaws. When he is good, he is really good. But sometimes, he can struggle.

Is Arch Manning third on the list?

Manning’s performance against the Buckeyes left much to be desired, so much so that his name is now fifth on the list of possible number one picks in the upcoming NFL draft. Now, it needs to be said that this market is as volatile as it comes. Every week, with every performance, this can change massively.

• Drew Allar – QB – Penn State (+350)
• Garrett Nussmeier – QB – LSU (+350)
• LaNorris Sellers – QB – South Carolina (+500)
• Cade Klubnik – QB – Clemson (+550)
• Arch Manning – QB – Texas (+700)

The Arch Manning era as the Texas Longhorns starting quarterback suffered a detour as they lost their first game of the College Football season against Ohio State. Manning, who comes from football royalty and has really high expectations on his shoulders, wasn’t as stellar as some hoped. Hence, the reactions across social media were numerous.

From posts like “Don’t ridicule Arch Manning for struggling in his 1st real start at the defending national champion, ridicule the media that handed him the Heisman & named him the 1st pick of the NFL Draft for clicks,” from College Sports Only to others like “We’ve gone from ‘Texas would’ve won the National Championship with Arch Manning’ to ‘Texas wins this game with Quinn Ewers‘,” from Cutter Whitley, the opinions are very varied.

What it’s true is that Arch Manning was dealt an awful hand by debuting against the reigning champions in the Buckeyes, one of College Football‘s best and storied programs. On the other side, when you’re as good of a prospect like Manning, these are the games that propel you to new heights and he failed to deliver. Manning ended the game with a statline of 17/30 completions, 170 yds, one touchdown and one interception. Ohio State won the game 14-7.

People are calling Arch Manning out for his last name

After an underwhelming first game, people are already jumping to conclusions. Some are even comparing him to Shedeur Sanders or NBA’s Bronny James and cataloguing him as a ‘nepo baby’. Nepo baby refers as a “person whose career is in a similar field to their successful parent, and who has benefited from the connections and advantages that came with their family ties.”

The facts are that, while Arch Manning definitely comes from one of football’s most well-regarded families, a few months ago everyone was on the hype train. Manning was a five-star recruit out of high school. ESPN even had him as a top-2 overall prospect. Some might say that he is heavily scrutinized due to his family name. That would go contrary to being a nepo baby.

It’s still a long season for Arch Manning to recover

Manning was very self-conscious about his performance against the Buckeyes, but his head coach, Steve Sarkisian, endorsed him heavily after the game. The Longhorns have some ‘easy’ games in the next three weeks before two tough tests.

They face SJSU, UTEP and Sam Houston next. This games will serve Manning well, as he should definitely thrive and gain some confidence. After that, there are two tough games away at Florida and hosting Oklahoma. While Texas should still be favored, those are ranked teams with high expectations on their own. Manning needs to have good performances to build some credibility among the fanbase.

TreVeyon Henderson has been making noise in college football since his breakout freshman season. With a rare mix of speed and vision, the Ohio State running back has become one of the most electrifying players in the Big Ten.

Born to compete, his rise didn’t happen overnight. From high school standout to Buckeyes star, his path has been shaped by determination and raw athleticism—qualities that now put him on NFL radars across the country.

But there’s more to the story than just highlight-reel runs. Between the stats, the expectations, and the spotlight, his profile reveals a young athlete balancing hype and hard work in one of college football’s biggest programs.

How old is TreVeyon Henderson?

Born on October 22, 2002, in Hopewell, Virginia, TreVeyon Henderson is 22 years old as of April 2025. His journey from a small-town standout to a national sensation has been marked by determination and talent.

How tall is TreVeyon Henderson?

At 5 feet 10 inches tall, Henderson combines a low center of gravity with explosive power, making him a formidable presence on the field. His stature allows for agility and balance, key attributes for a running back.

What is TreVeyon Henderson’s weight?

Weighing in at 208 pounds, TreVeyon Henderson’s physique is a blend of strength and speed. This build contributes to his ability to break tackles and accelerate through defensive lines.

TreVeyon Henderson’s family

TreVeyon is the son of Lakeesha Hayes and Trenton Henderson. Raised in Hopewell, Virginia, his mother played a pivotal role in his upbringing, guiding him and his siblings through challenging circumstances. Lakeesha’s dedication ensured her children stayed focused on their goals.

Who is TreVeyon Henderson’s coach?

Since arriving at Ohio State, TreVeyon Henderson has thrived under the direction of head coach Ryan Day. Known for his calm demeanor and sharp offensive mind, Day has cultivated a culture of high performance in Columbus.

More than a play-caller, Day has acted as a stabilizing force for Henderson, helping the young running back navigate the spotlight, setbacks, and soaring expectations. His trust in Henderson was clear from the start.

In interviews, he has often praised Henderson’s work ethic and maturity, noting his growth not just as an athlete, but as a leader in the locker room. It’s a partnership rooted in mutual respect and results.

TreVeyon Henderson’s career highlights

• Freshman record breaker (2021): In just his third game as a Buckeye, Henderson rushed for a staggering 270 yards and three touchdowns against Tulsa, breaking Archie Griffin’s long-standing record for most rushing yards by an Ohio State freshman in a single game. That performance instantly elevated him to national attention.

• All-Big Ten honors (2021, 2023): Recognized for his consistent dominance, Henderson earned All-Big Ten honors multiple times, signaling not just production, but respect from coaches and analysts across the conference. He became a cornerstone of the Buckeye offense early in his career.

• Top 5 All-Time in rushing yards: As of the 2024 season, Henderson surpassed 3,700 career rushing yards, placing him fifth all-time in Ohio State’s storied history — a feat that puts him in the same conversation as legends like Ezekiel Elliott and Eddie George.

• 2024 College Football Playoff National Champion: Henderson played a pivotal role in securing Ohio State’s national championship in 2024. He delivered a clutch performance in the title game against Alabama, racking up over 100 rushing yards and a touchdown, solidifying his legacy when it mattered most.

• 42 career touchdowns: A dual-threat weapon, Henderson not only racked up yards — he found the end zone often. With 42 total touchdowns (rushing and receiving), he became one of the most prolific scorers in recent Buckeye memory.

• Doak Walker Award semifinalist (2023): In 2023, Henderson was named a semifinalist for the Doak Walker Award, given annually to the nation’s top running back. While he didn’t take home the trophy, the nomination placed him firmly among the elite backs in college football.

Last season, the Bengals came close to securing a playoff spot. Unfortunately, their late surge wasn’t enough to carry them into the postseason.

With that in mind, Cincinnati is aiming for a roster revamp this offseason to return to contender status. Now, a top-tier running back has been linked to the AFC North team ahead of the 2025 campaign.

Bengals ready to add elite running back to support Joe Burrow

The Bengals are hungry for success. Despite significant investments in key players, the team has struggled to meet the high expectations set in recent years.

While the offense boasts stars like Joe Burrow, Tee Higgins, and Ja’Marr Chase, there’s still room for improvement—especially in the run game. That’s why the front office is eyeing an elite backfield addition.

According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Bengals are set to host running back TreVeyon Henderson for a visit this week. The Ohio State standout helped lead his team to a national championship in January and is widely considered one of the best prospects at his position.

Many mock drafts project Henderson as a second-round pick. With Chase Brown and Zack Moss battling injuries last season, Henderson could offer immediate depth and possibly develop into the team’s lead back in the near future.

After the game, Day and Will Howard were supposed to be transported in a golf cart to celebrate their championship victory. Unfortunately, the woman driving the cart struggled to maneuver it and crashed into a wall, rendering the cart useless.

With no other option, Day had to walk to his destination after leading the Buckeyes to a 34-23 win, securing their place back among the college football elite. Fortunately, no one was hurt, and it appeared that the driver was simply embarrassed by her mishap.

It’s worth noting that Ohio State, along with Day, had been the target of harsh criticism throughout the regular season and postseason. Figures like Nick Saban even stepped in to defend the Buckeyes and their head coach, who had proven that things were working well from day one of the season.

Reactions to Ryan Day and the Buckeyes

Ohio State’s victory was not only dominant against a resilient Notre Dame, but it also helped clarify a lot about Ryan Day’s coaching style with the Buckeyes. Among the praise for Day, RJ Young remarked, “Ohio State vs. the World, and Ohio State won.”

LeBron James was seen watching the game from the stands, celebrating euphorically as Ohio State extended their lead over Notre Dame. Meanwhile, Skip Bayless took to X (formerly Twitter) to congratulate Ohio State, saying, “Congrats Ohio State, for winning the first CFP National Championship.” However, it wasn’t actually their first title win in the CFP.

Herbstreit, who has closely followed Day’s journey, expressed admiration for how the head coach has handled the pressure of leading Ohio State. “I hear the stories behind the curtain, I know what he and his wife and his family go through. It’s really, it’s tough. It’s tough to be a coach at a premium school where you’re expected to win every game,” Herbstreit said.

Day’s ability to lead with grace amidst the constant scrutiny is something to admire. Throughout the season, Day faced harsh criticism, both from media and fans, but his ability to keep his team focused and ready to compete was evident in the CFP win. Herbstreit noted, “He handled it with such class,” referencing the way Day managed the challenges and remained a steady.

Others, like Nick Saban, also voiced their support for Ryan Day before the game, clarifying that the hate he had to endure throughout the season was ridiculous, especially after a loss that almost led to his firing due to the overwhelming amount of negative messages he received.

Ross Bjork Also Supports Ryan Day

Ohio State Buckeyes athletic director Ross Bjork also had to speak out firmly regarding the unfair criticism Day had been receiving throughout the year. “There’s no way he should go through the stuff, especially his family,” he said. He mentioned that it’s more acceptable to criticize the sports side of things, but the personal attacks should be kept out. “It’s one thing to criticize play calling, but the personal stuff is uncalled for.”

The First Major Title for the Buckeyes With Day

Bjork also made sure to remind everyone what kind of head coach Day is, stating, “And what I hope that people really take away from this is we have the best coach in the country.” It’s worth noting that Day won the CFP title without winning the conference title first. The Buckeyes finished 6th in the Big Ten standings, but still managed to secure a spot in the CFP.

The player in question was Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love, who was seen hugging both his mother and father before heading onto the field to play in his first National Championship game of his college football career. In his three most recent postseason games, Love scored two touchdowns and recorded 143 yards.

Love entered the game as one of the top offensive weapons for Notre Dame. With over 1,122 yards this season, he was seen as one of the most dangerous options to strike against the Buckeyes. His best performance leading up to the CFP final was against Virginia, where he recorded 137 yards and two touchdowns.

However, during the final against Ohio State, Love struggled. He had few carries as a running back and, by the start of the third quarter, had only four attempts for three yards, along with one reception for seven yards. It was clear that the Ohio State defense knew how to contain him.

Just Out of High School

This is Love’s first season in college, but it has already been one of the best starts to his career as a running back. His best performances have come from rushing the ball, though he also had a game against Georgia Tech where he recorded 57 yards in receptions.

Incredible Season for Marcus Freeman

Love is part of one of Notre Dame’s best seasons since 1899. Head coach Marcus Freeman set a new record with 14 wins, including three Bowl victories—something never before accomplished in the program’s history.

Saban’s statement in favor of Day was clear, calling the criticism against him “absolutely ridiculous”: “I think it’s absolutely ridiculous that Ryan Day has been criticized the way he was.” The veteran coach added that such criticism and negativity affect many aspects within teams.

In his defense of Ryan Day, the multiple-time National Champion head coach added, “He built the roster over the last three years, and it’s getting better. His coaches are making the players better.” For Saban, the Ohio State head coach deserves credit for what he has accomplished: “He has been able to overcome the naysayers.”

Saban’s final words in defense of Day were: “That guy deserves respect,” referring to the long road Day had to take to get to the CFP, losing only two regular season games, winning in the First Round, Quarterfinal, and the tough semifinal against Texas. The last two games were on the road.

Has Ryan Day Won a National Championship with Ohio State?

No, Ryan Day has never won a National Championship with the Buckeyes. His most significant achievements include two Big Ten titles (2019, 2020) and three Big Ten East Division titles. Day has led Ohio State to several CFP Semifinals, but this is the farthest he has advanced in the postseason.

How Many Titles Does Nick Saban Have as a Head Coach?

Saban has won a total of seven National Championships as a head coach, six with Alabama and one with LSU. He also coached at Ohio State from 1980-1981, marking one of the early steps in his coaching career.