Ohio State and football coach Ryan Day are in agreement on a seven-year contract through the 2031 season. The deal is valued at $12.5 million per year.
The new pact, which adds three years to his current contract, is pending approval by the university’s trustees.
The Buckeyes won the College Football Playoff national championship in January, making Day one of just three active coaches — Dabo Swinney of Clemson and Kirby Smart of Georgia are the others — to hoist the trophy.
“Ohio State Football has long been defined by excellence and, under Ryan Day’s leadership, that tradition has not only continued, but thrived,” athletic director Ross Bjork said in a school statement.
“Stability at the head coaching position is crucial in today’s evolving college football landscape, and this new contract guarantees continued momentum in recruiting, player development, and overall program success,” Bjork continued. “It is a great pleasure to work side by side with Ryan and we know that his vision and leadership will continue to bring championship success and pride to our program for years to come.”
The Buckeyes finished the regular season with a 10-2, but a 13-10 home loss to bitter rival Michigan in November had fans calling for the dismissal of the 45-year-old Day.
Ohio State entered the CFP as the No. 7 seed, then won four games in dominating fashion, defeating Tennessee, Oregon and Texas to earn a meeting with Notre Dame in the title game in Atlanta. The Buckeyes won 34-23.
It was Ohio State’s ninth national championship and first since 2014 and moved Day’s career record to 70-10.
“My family and I are incredibly grateful to be a part of the Ohio State community, this football program and Buckeye Nation,” Day said.
“I want to thank my assistant coaches and the entire staff for the tireless efforts they all put in to keep Ohio State positioned as one of the elite programs in the country … on and off the field.
“And I especially want to thank and commend all the young men, and their families, who are a part of this football program. This is a team of tough and determined individuals who drive our culture of respect, commitment and love.”
–Field Level Media
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