Josh Pate Explains Why Ryan Day and Ohio State Football Will Play for the Big Ten Championship
When the Ohio State Buckeyes hit the field for the 2025 season, they will have a lot more than just individual goals in mind. Under the leadership of head coach Ryan Day, Ohio State has consistently been a force in college football, and Josh Pate, the CBS Sports analyst, has shared why he believes Ryan Day and the Buckeyes are well-positioned to play for the Big Ten Championship.
In a detailed breakdown, Pate, known for his sharp analysis and insightful commentary on college football, dives into the key factors that make Ohio State a strong contender for the Big Ten title in 2025. His explanation is rooted in the team’s talent, coaching staff, and ability to rise to the occasion in the face of challenges. Let’s explore Josh Pate’s reasoning and what makes Ohio State such a formidable force in the race for the Big Ten Championship.
The Ryan Day Era: A Solid Foundation for Success
Ryan Day, who took over the Ohio State football program in 2019, has established himself as one of the brightest young coaches in college football. His ability to recruit elite talent and develop his players has been a cornerstone of the program’s success. Since Day took the reins, Ohio State has been a perennial powerhouse, consistently ranked among the top teams in the country.
Pate recognizes that one of Day’s strengths is his ability to stay adaptable and evolve with the ever-changing landscape of college football. While Ohio State has been known for its powerful offense, led by dynamic quarterbacks and playmakers, Day has continued to build a well-rounded program. This adaptability will be essential for the Buckeyes as they aim to not only make it to the Big Ten Championship but also win it.
Elite Recruiting: The Lifeblood of Ohio State’s Success
One of the most critical factors in Ohio State’s continued dominance is the team’s recruiting success. Ryan Day, along with his coaching staff, has consistently brought in top-tier talent from across the nation. Pate notes that Ohio State’s recruiting classes are among the best in the country, and this is no accident. The program has become a prime destination for high school football players looking to play at the highest level.
Pate emphasizes that this elite talent pool is a major reason why Ohio State is primed to play for a Big Ten Championship. Whether it’s skill players like quarterbacks and wide receivers or the defensive players who anchor the team, Ohio State’s roster is brimming with talent. This allows the Buckeyes to compete at a high level week in and week out, regardless of the opponent.
In particular, Pate highlights Ohio State’s ability to recruit top-tier quarterbacks, which has been a hallmark of the program. Players like Justin Fields, CJ Stroud, and now Kyle McCord have given Ohio State an edge in the Big Ten and national title races. The quarterback position is often the most critical in determining a team’s success, and with Ryan Day’s offensive prowess, the Buckeyes have been able to consistently develop elite signal-callers who can take over games.
The Offensive Juggernaut: Ryan Day’s Proven Offensive System
When people think of Ohio State football, the offense is often the first thing that comes to mind. Under Ryan Day, Ohio State has become synonymous with explosive, high-scoring offenses. Pate notes that Day’s ability to design innovative and dynamic offenses has been a key reason for the Buckeyes’ success in the Big Ten and beyond.
Day’s offensive system is built around spreading the field and creating mismatches. Whether it’s through the air or on the ground, Ohio State has a versatile and balanced attack that keeps opposing defenses on their heels. The Buckeyes’ passing game, often led by an elite quarterback and surrounded by a deep group of talented receivers, is one of the most potent in the nation. Meanwhile, the running game, powered by a stable of talented running backs, complements the passing attack and keeps the defense honest.
Pate emphasizes that this offensive system is tailor-made for success in the Big Ten. The conference is known for having tough, physical defenses, but Day’s ability to out-scheme and out-execute these defenses gives Ohio State a clear advantage. Moreover, the Big Ten features several high-scoring offenses, and Ohio State’s ability to match that offensive firepower is crucial in their quest for a championship.
The Defense: Making Strides Under Jim Knowles
While Ohio State’s offense has been the team’s calling card, the defense has been an area of focus for Ryan Day in recent years. In 2022, Ohio State hired Jim Knowles as the defensive coordinator, hoping to bring a more aggressive and disruptive style to the defense. Pate notes that Knowles’ defensive schemes have begun to take shape, and the Buckeyes’ defense is becoming one of the more formidable units in the Big Ten.
In 2025, Pate expects the defense to be even stronger, with several key players returning for another season. Ohio State’s defense will be anchored by a powerful defensive line, capable linebackers, and a secondary that has improved significantly under Knowles’ leadership. The defense’s ability to complement the high-octane offense will be critical for Ohio State’s chances to win the Big Ten Championship.
Pate highlights that the Big Ten is known for its physical, smash-mouth style of play, especially when it comes to running the ball. With Ohio State’s defense now better equipped to handle these challenges, the Buckeyes will be able to stifle the ground attacks of their rivals and force teams into passing situations, where they can take advantage of their superior pass rush and secondary play.
Ohio State’s Key Matchups in the Big Ten
One of the biggest challenges for Ohio State on its way to the Big Ten Championship is the competition within the conference. Pate acknowledges that the Big Ten features some tough, well-coached teams that will challenge the Buckeyes for supremacy. However, he also points out that Ohio State is one of the few teams in the conference capable of outlasting these opponents.
In particular, Pate emphasizes the rivalry games, such as the highly anticipated matchup against Michigan. This game has become one of the most intense and high-stakes matchups in college football, with both teams vying for a spot in the Big Ten Championship and the College Football Playoff. While Michigan has emerged as Ohio State’s biggest rival in recent years, Pate believes that the Buckeyes are more than capable of avenging past losses and securing a win in the 2025 edition of “The Game.”
Beyond Michigan, Pate also looks at teams like Penn State and Wisconsin, both of which could pose a challenge for Ohio State. However, he notes that Ohio State’s superior depth, talent, and coaching give them a distinct advantage in these matchups. The Buckeyes have shown an ability to execute in big games, and Pate believes that this will continue to be the case in 2025.
Leadership and Culture: Ryan Day’s Ability to Get the Best Out of His Players
Another key factor that Josh Pate highlights in Ohio State’s favor is the leadership and culture established by Ryan Day. The head coach has fostered an environment where players are encouraged to develop both on and off the field. Pate emphasizes that Day’s ability to relate to his players, inspire them, and keep them focused on the bigger picture is a huge asset for the program.
Ohio State has a strong culture of accountability, discipline, and high expectations, and Pate credits Day for instilling these values. The team’s ability to stay focused and perform at a high level week in and week out will be critical as the Buckeyes make their push for the Big Ten Championship. The combination of a talented roster and strong leadership will allow Ohio State to maintain its edge over rivals in the Big Ten.
The Road to the Big Ten Championship: Ohio State’s Path
As the 2025 season progresses, Ohio State will face various challenges on its path to the Big Ten Championship. However, Josh Pate believes that the Buckeyes have all the tools they need to overcome these obstacles. With a potent offense, a rapidly improving defense, and elite recruiting, Ohio State is well-equipped to compete with the best teams in the Big Ten and secure a spot in the conference title game.
Pate predicts that Ohio State will continue to dominate the conference in 2025, despite the competitive landscape. The Buckeyes have built a program that can handle the pressure of big games, and they have the talent to outlast their rivals. Whether it’s Michigan, Penn State, or any other team, Pate believes that Ryan Day and Ohio State will prove their mettle and secure a spot in the Big Ten Championship.