Ohio State fans demand firing of head coach Ryan Day after fourth straight loss to Michigan

In the United States, Ohio State University has faced intense scrutiny following a disappointing performance by its football team. Despite successfully qualifying for the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff, the Buckeyes' head coach, Ryan Day, is under pressure after a fourth consecutive loss to rival Michigan. This latest defeat, which extended a worrying trend in a historic rivalry, has left some fans calling for Day's termination, even as he boasts a strong overall record of 66 wins and 10 losses during his tenure that began in 2017. While Day has led the team to one Big Ten championship and a national title game appearance, the consistent failures against Michigan have overshadowed these accomplishments. Athletic director Ross Bjork, who took on his role in 2024 after a stint at Texas A&M, expressed confidence in Day, stating his commitment to support him amid the heightened expectations from a passionate fan base. Bjork acknowledged the weight of tradition and rivalry in college football, emphasizing the need to focus on future goals rather than past setbacks. Although a national championship is within reach with playoff matchups on the horizon, the emotional toll of recent losses lingers among fans. The desire for immediate success amid fierce competition highlights the complexities of leading such a prominent program as Ohio State, where aspirations often clash with reality, creating a challenging environment for coaches like Day. As the postseason approaches, it remains to be seen if the Buckeyes can overcome their history and make a significant impact in the playoffs, or if they will succumb to the pressure of their storied racing history with Michigan.