Ohio State is still stuck in the Saturday blues of Autzen Stadium triggered by their close-knitted 32-31 loss against No. 3 Oregon. The Ducks doubled down every punch that the Buckeyes threw their way and returned the favor, but the ultimate smack came up when Oregon’s defense managed to restrict the game-tying field goal attempt of the visiting Buckeyes as the clock hit zero. Plenty of analyses and counter-analyses have been swirling over the lore since the unforeseen fall of Ohio State and quite rightfully so. Still, Ryan Day, the coach under the spotlight, didn’t let the men with the helmets crack up. Star Running Back Quinshon Judkins and others found their much-needed dose of motivation in Day’s optimistic words.

Despite being on the hot seat and dealing with all the pressure, the 45-year-old veteran served as a confidence booster to his boys. Quinshon Judkins, 21, during a recent appearance on the Rich Eisen Show, spilled the first reaction of the Ohio State HC after the heartbreaking loss. ”Just trying to keep the team and keep those guys in it mentally to where they know you know like we’re still in this and we can still go win out and still achieve that we set to achieve and still accomplish the things that we said we want to do as a team so just making sure everyone knows that and really just continuing the fight. ” Judkins relayed Day’s magical words that helped the team to keep the chin up when it was needed the most.

Ohio State coach Ryan Day can’t escape the narrative that he’s not enough to seal a win against the big opponents no matter what. White Day night has some arguments in his favour flaunting an impressive 42-0 record against unranked opponents, his average 8-8 against the top 10, 1-7 against CFP Top 5 teams, and 1-3 all-time against Michigan, speak louder of his shortcomings. With this, the ever-existing fire demand once again emerged on the surface

While the Buckeyes still have the chance to get an edge in the remainder of the games and restore their pride, Day’s knack of failing at the crucial games has essentially started to wear thin with the fans who care. Now, the new 12-team bracket can be the savior (to some extent) for the coach and his semi-seasoned team.

What the future holds for Ryan Day?

With the College Football Playoff (CFP) expanding to a 12-team system this year, the pressure on rankings has eased slightly compared to the era of the top four. This new format gives teams like the Buckeyes a bit more breathing room, allowing Ohio State to stay in the playoff hunt despite potential setbacks. Still, the road is far from easy. They don’t necessarily need to take down their biggest nemesis, the Michigan Wolverines, to keep their playoff hopes alive, but Ryan Day’s challenges run deeper.

Even with the playoff safety net, Day is facing mounting pressure. If he can’t beat Michigan or deliver a championship to Columbus with a roster full of talent, his job security may come into question faster than anyone anticipated. The flames are already being fanned, and if the Buckeyes stumble down the stretch, Day could find himself out of a job sooner than expected.

Right now, however, Day’s sole focus is getting his team ready to face a tough Nebraska squad on Saturday, Oct. 19, before an even bigger test against No. 3 Penn State the following week. Both games are critical, and Day will need to micromanage every loophole in his game plan if the Buckeyes hope to stay in the playoff race. The pressure is palpable, but so is the resolve.

What’s your take on Ryan Day’s recent comments following the tough Oregon loss? Do you think he can rally the Buckeyes to finish strong? Let us know in the comments!