Ohio State coach Ryan Day sticking with QB, focusing on final 3 games amid losing streak

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Ohio State head coach Ryan Day faced the first losing streak of his eight-year tenure as the team dropped 10 spots in the AP Top 25 following a 41-28 loss to Oregon. The Buckeyes, who previously ranked No. 2, suffered a 30-18 defeat at Southern California in the previous game. Despite not being mathematically eliminated, Ohio State (6-3, 4-2 Big Ten) now sits third in the standings, sharing the spot with five other teams and facing the possibility of missing the Big Ten Championship Game.

Day acknowledged feelings of anger and frustration, but stated he is not ready to focus on postseason opportunities or prepare for 2027, as they have three games remaining. The coach emphasized the importance of how Ohio State wants to be remembered, stressing the need to walk off the field with a win in the final three games, including a rivalry game against Michigan.

Day did not rule out lineup changes if younger players earn opportunities in practice, but declared that freshman Luke Fahey will be the starting quarterback for the remaining games. Fahey, who came in as a backup to injured freshman Julian Sayin, threw for 360 yards in the last game but faced most of his scoring against Oregon.

Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith acknowledged Fahey's experience, stating that he made good decisions, despite the challenges of learning on the fly.