‘We Believe We Can Compete With Anyone’: Ryan Day Talks Bold Mindset and Sky-High Confidence as Ohio State Buckeyes Prepare for 2025 Season
As the 2025 college football season approaches, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day is making it clear that the Buckeyes are entering the year with one goal in mind: national dominance. Coming off a season of near-misses and hard-fought battles, Day is embracing a bold, confident tone as his team gears up to reclaim its position at the top of the college football landscape.
In a recent press conference, Day didn’t mince words: “We believe we can compete with anyone, anywhere, anytime.” That message resonates throughout the program, from veterans to incoming freshmen. It’s more than just talk—it’s a reflection of a team reloaded with talent, sharpened by adversity, and fueled by unfinished business.
The 2024 season ended with disappointment for the Buckeyes, who fell just short of their championship aspirations. But rather than dwell on that, Day and his staff have used the offseason to refocus and reload. The 2025 squad returns a potent mix of veteran leadership and explosive young talent. Key returners on both sides of the ball, combined with one of the nation’s top recruiting classes, give Ohio State a roster that looks ready to contend.
“Our preparation has been relentless,” Day said. “We’ve looked at every part of our program—from strength training to scheme—and we’ve made adjustments to get better. There’s a fire in this group that I really believe in.”
That fire is being fueled by a new wave of leadership. Quarterback battles, defensive intensity, and wide receiver depth have all drawn attention this summer. But what stands out most is the mindset: aggressive, focused, and unapologetically confident.
Day emphasized that confidence isn’t arrogance—it’s belief built on preparation. “When you put in the work day in and day out, you earn the right to be confident,” he noted. “We’re not backing down from anyone.”
Ohio State’s schedule is stacked with challenges, including key matchups against Michigan, Penn State, and a marquee non-conference showdown in September. But Day welcomes those tests. “Iron sharpens iron,” he said. “We want to play the best because we expect to be the best.”
With fall camp underway and anticipation building, the Buckeyes are making a statement before the first whistle blows: they’re not just contenders—they’re coming for the crown.
