Title Win Raises Pressure to End Skid
Title Win Raises Pressure to End Skid: It has been 2,087 days since Ohio State last defeated Michigan—a fact that haunts Ryan Day every single day. Inside the Woody Hayes Athletic Center, a countdown clock serves as a constant reminder of the Buckeyes’ recent struggles against their archrival. What was once a rivalry defined by dominance has turned into a stretch of frustration for Ohio State fans.
Despite Michigan being hit with sweeping NCAA sanctions—including penalties tied to their sign-stealing scandal—the Wolverines’ recent victories still stand. For Day, the pressure to snap this losing streak has never been higher, especially after Ohio State’s national championship win last season.
At Big Ten Media Days in July, Day faced a straightforward yet loaded question: “How do you beat Michigan?” After a brief pause, his response was blunt, revealing the weight of expectations. The numbers don’t lie—Day’s 1-4 record against Michigan places him alongside John Cooper as the only Buckeyes coaches since Woody Hayes to struggle this badly in the rivalry.
Ohio State Coaches’ Records vs. Michigan
| Coach | Tenure | Record vs. Michigan |
|---|---|---|
| Ryan Day | 2019-Present | 1-4 |
| Urban Meyer | 2012-2018 | 7-0 |
| Jim Tressel | 2001-2010 | 9-1 |
| John Cooper | 1988-2000 | 2-10-1 |
| Earle Bruce | 1979-1987 | 5-4 |
| Woody Hayes | 1951-1978 | 16-11-1 |
The losing streak has taken a personal toll on Day. Following last season’s loss, his family endured harassment and death threats, forcing them to hire private security at their home. His wife, Nina Day, revealed the disturbing details in an interview with The Columbus Dispatch, including threats directed at their 16-year-old son.
Now, with a national title under his belt, the pressure to finally beat Michigan has reached a boiling point. Can Ryan Day turn the tide in 2025, or will the Wolverines extend their streak?
FAQs
1. How long has it been since Ohio State last beat Michigan?
As of August 2025, it has been 2,087 days since Ohio State’s last victory over Michigan.
2. What is Ryan Day’s record against Michigan?
Ryan Day is 1-4 against Michigan since taking over as Ohio State’s head coach in 2019.
3. How have the NCAA sanctions against Michigan impacted the rivalry?
While Michigan has faced penalties for its sign-stealing scandal, their on-field victories remain intact. The sanctions validate Ohio State’s suspicions but don’t erase the Buckeyes’ recent losses.
