Ohio State head coach Ryan Day said Monday he will assume primary offensive play-calling responsibilities for the College Football Playoff as the Ohio State Buckeyes prepare for their Cotton Bowl semifinal matchup.
Day’s announcement represents a change in offensive leadership for the Buckeyes, who suffered a 13-10 loss to the Indiana Hoosiers in the Big Ten Championship Game on Dec. 6. The defeat snapped Ohio State’s undefeated regular season and raised questions about the offense’s effectiveness late in the season.
Offensive coordinator Brian Hartline, who has overseen play calling this season, recently accepted a head coaching job at the University of South Florida but will remain with Ohio State through the playoff run. Day said he intends to “take that off of Brian’s plate” during the postseason, with the final game-day decisions resting with the head coach.
“It’ll be a group effort, but ultimately I’ll make the calls and decisions,” Day said, according to reports. Players and staff will continue to collaborate on game plans and situational strategy in practice leading up to New Year’s Eve’s Cotton Bowl.
Day’s decision underscores a shift in emphasis as Ohio State seeks to strengthen its offense behind quarterback Julian Sayin and a talented skill group against one of the nation’s top defenses. The Buckeyes, who finished No. 2 in the CFP rankings, are aiming to extend a successful season that already features a berth in the national playoff field.
Analysts noted that Day’s increased involvement could inject a new rhythm and aggressiveness into Ohio State’s offense, which struggled at times this fall to sustain drives and capitalize in key situations. While Hartline will continue coaching the wide receivers, Day said the added responsibility will allow the staff to streamline preparation in the weeks before the semifinal.
Ohio State’s Cotton Bowl semifinal appearance is set for Dec. 31, where the Buckeyes will face the winner of the Rose Bowl quarterfinals, seeking to reach the CFP National Championship Game.
