Ryan Day gave his first formal comments of the 2026 season at the Big Ten Conference Media Days in Chicago on Wednesday. In summary, he is optimistic about the new season, his eighth. Why should he not be optimistic? He has a returning Heisman Trophy finalist Quarterback in Julian Sayin, the best football player in the country in Jeremiah Smith at wide receiver, and a ferocious and talented defense.
He was joined in Chicago by those two players, Smith and Sayin, as well as safety Jaylen McClain. As he enters his eigth season, he is honored to be a member of the Ohio State University Football team. Ohio State has a very difficult schedule in 2026. That could lead to several losses, but it will prepare the team for the College Football Playoff. As he prepares for the 2026 season, what did Ryan Day have to say?
Ryan Day Press Conference at the 2026 Big Ten Conference Media Days
Here are the major points Ryan Day had to say at his press conference:
He believes the conference has “great momentum” and is “very well-positioned” for the future. He says commissioner Tony Petitti is a big part of that. It does seem they are thriving and driving the discussion of the College Football Playoff.
Ohio State has a new President. Ryan Day says he “learns quickly” and “knows more than he lets on” about athletics. He also thinks Ohio State is “in great hands” with Ravi Bellamkonda.
He has been replacing coaches, as they move on, with superstars. On Ohio State’s coaching staff: “I’m obviously biased, but I think it’s the best coaching staff in America.” Ohio State now has former Head Coaches in the National Football League as his coordinators.
He also thanked Ohio State athletic director Ross Bjork, his family and his assistant coaches’ families during his opening statement at Big Ten Media Days. Bjork has proven to be a great Athletic Director.
His son, RJ, is a big-time quarterback recruit who is committed to conference foe Northwestern. On his son, who committed to Northwestern this summer: “I couldn’t be prouder of what he’s done.” It will be odd to see him have to play against his son and his former offensive coordinator.
He commented on the trying schedule, which should yield some interesting games this fall. Day said Ohio State is “fired up” about playing a “monster” schedule this season. Many, including Day, think the schedule will give the Buckeyes early feedback and will be forgiving; if they lose some games, they should make the playoff.
On his important players, Ryan Day is very optimistic. Jeremiah Smith has taken a step into a leadership role this offseason, he said. “It’s great to watch him find his voice.” Julian Sayin has “a different look in his eye” this offseason, Ryan Day said. “You see a different person. You see a different body. He’s worked hard. He’s gotten stronger. He’s found his voice even more.”
Conclusion
Ryan Day made some other points in the press conference. For instance, he said that, as much as things have changed this offseason, we’re now getting back into football season, and “that’s what matters.” There are certainly more changes coming to college football. One of the important in-conference changes is the emergence of the Indiana Hoosiers as a football power, unlikely as it may be. Day says the atmosphere has “really changed” at Indiana, and that will be a tough road game for Ohio State this season. Ryan Day leads a very talented team that faces a difficult schedule and should be in the College Football Playoff conversation.
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