Ryan Day Sparks Buzz With No-Nonsense Take on Recruiting and Transfers
Fresh off a national title and eyeing another deep postseason run in 2025, Ryan Day and the Ohio State Buckeyes are heading into the season with rare roster stability — not a single scholarship player has exited via the transfer portal this offseason.
While many college football teams have experienced significant portal losses, Ohio State has stood firm. Asked about this uncommon feat during a press conference, Day didn’t mince words:
“We want guys who want to be at Ohio State,” he said. “If we have to talk you into coming here, or if money is your top priority — this isn’t the place for you.”
Day emphasized that players who genuinely want to be Buckeyes are more likely to stay:
“That’s been our philosophy for a long time, and now more than ever. If guys feel valued, they stay. And they enjoy being here.”
The blunt remark stirred mixed reactions across college football. Some fans applauded Day’s emphasis on culture over cash:
- “It’s one thing to say that — it’s another to actually build a winning culture that sticks. GOAT in the making.”
- “He’s built a great program the right way and deserves more credit outside of Columbus.”
Others were more skeptical, noting reports that Ohio State spent around $20 million on last year’s title-winning roster:
- “Didn’t they have a $20M roster last year? 😂”
- “Translation: We pay, but act like we don’t.”
Still, there’s no denying Day’s success — Ohio State currently boasts the nation’s No. 4 recruiting class, trailing only Texas, Georgia, and Alabama, all heavy hitters in the NIL era.
The Buckeyes open the 2025 season with a blockbuster clash against Texas on August 30.
