Ohio State’s Ryan Day recently shared his thoughts on former assistant Chip Kelly’s new role as the Las Vegas Raiders’ offensive coordinator, calling it a “great story.” Kelly, who previously served as Ohio State’s offensive coordinator, has agreed to a deal that makes him the highest-paid coordinator in the NFL, earning $6 million per year.
The news of Kelly’s move broke during Day’s interview on the “Joel Klatt Show,” marking another departure from his coaching staff. Despite the loss, Day expressed gratitude for Kelly’s mentorship and the opportunity to win a national championship together. Kelly joined Ohio State’s staff in 2024, opting to step down as UCLA’s head coach to become the Buckeyes’ offensive coordinator in a rare move.
Under Kelly’s guidance, Ohio State’s offense flourished, ranking 14th in scoring and fourth in yards per play in the country. His strategic game plans during the College Football Playoff were particularly effective, leading to commanding victories over top-ranked teams like Oregon and Notre Dame. Players like Jeremiah Smith, Emeka Egbuka, TreVeyon Henderson, and Quinshon Judkins played crucial roles in the team’s success.
The culmination of their efforts resulted in Ohio State securing a national championship, fulfilling a dream that Day and Kelly had shared for decades. Day, who had once been a quarterback for Kelly’s offense at New Hampshire, expressed pride in their shared success and the journey they had undertaken together.
Reflecting on their achievement, Day mentioned the special bond they had forged over the years and the anticipation of sharing stories over a beer in the future. He highlighted the significance of their shared roots in New Hampshire and the excitement among their hometown community for the success they had achieved.
The camaraderie and mutual respect between Day and Kelly underscored the impact of their partnership on Ohio State’s championship season. As they celebrate their victory, their story serves as an inspiration to many, resonating with fans and aspiring coaches alike.
