Ryan Day’s Emotional Postgame Interview After Ohio State’s CFP National Championship Victory

"I've got a bunch of guys who have just overcome some really tough situations," Day said. "There's a point where a lot of people just counted us out, and we just kept swinging. It's the reason why you get into coaching. To see guys overcome things, learn life lessons, and reach their dreams. That's what happened tonight."

Ohio State looked to the transfer portal after missing the four-team College Football Playoff in 2023. The Buckeye's three major additions were quarterback Will Howard (Kansas State), running back Quinshon Judkins (Ole Miss), and safety Caleb Downs (Alabama). 

All three players played pivotal roles in their first season at Ohio State. Howard won the starting quarterback job and threw for 4,010 passing yards, a Big Ten-leading 35 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. 

Judkins combined with fellow running back TreVeyon Henderson for 2,076 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns. Downs had an instant impact at safety, accounting for 82 total tackles, a team-leading two interceptions and six passes defended. 

Downs immediately impacted the safety position, securing Ohio State's secondary. 

The Buckeyes also found a gem in the 2024 class through five-star receiver Jeremiah Smith. Smith led Ohio State with 1,315 receiving yards and the Big Ten with 15 touchdowns. 

Ohio State now has nine national titles to its name.