Ryan Day Explains Why Ohio State Must Change Its Gameplan for Oregon Rematch
As Ohio State gears up for a highly anticipated rematch against Oregon, head coach Ryan Day has made it clear that the Buckeyes won’t simply be relying on the same strategies from their last encounter. The stakes are higher now, with the winner potentially advancing to the College Football Playoff National Championship. Reflecting on their previous matchup, Day emphasized the need for adjustments, innovation, and a sharper focus to ensure a different outcome.
### **Revisiting the First Meeting**
The last time Ohio State faced Oregon, it was a humbling experience. Despite entering the game as favorites, the Buckeyes fell to the Ducks in a 35-28 upset. Oregon’s offense, led by a dynamic rushing attack and efficient quarterback play, exposed vulnerabilities in Ohio State’s defense. Meanwhile, the Buckeyes’ offense struggled to capitalize on key opportunities, leading to a disappointing result for the powerhouse program.
“We were outplayed in critical moments,” Day admitted during a press conference this week. “Oregon came in with a great game plan, and we didn’t execute at the level we needed to. That’s on all of us—coaches and players alike.”
### **The Need for Adjustments**
Day stressed that while Ohio State has evolved since that game, Oregon’s strengths demand a tailored approach in the rematch. One of the biggest challenges the Ducks presented in their initial meeting was their ability to dominate in the trenches. Oregon’s offensive line consistently opened lanes for their running backs, while their defensive front pressured Ohio State’s quarterback into hurried decisions.
“They controlled the line of scrimmage, and that’s something we can’t allow to happen again,” Day said. “We have to be more physical, more disciplined, and more prepared to adjust in real-time.”
Ohio State’s defense, which faced significant scrutiny earlier in the season, has shown improvement over the course of the year. However, Day acknowledged that stopping Oregon’s offense will require a focused effort on containing their run game and limiting explosive plays.
“Defensively, we need to be more aggressive and smarter with our alignments,” Day said. “Oregon’s offense thrives on creating mismatches and exploiting space. We’ve got to win those one-on-one battles and make sure we’re sound in our assignments.”
The Buckeyes will likely lean on a combination of improved linebacker play and a more disciplined secondary to counter Oregon’s balanced attack. Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles has also hinted at incorporating more blitz packages to disrupt Oregon’s rhythm.
On the offensive side, Day highlighted the importance of finishing drives and capitalizing on red zone opportunities. While Ohio State boasts one of the most explosive offenses in college football, they left points on the board in their last meeting with Oregon—a mistake they can’t afford to repeat.
“We know we’re going to get chances to score, but it’s about converting those chances into touchdowns, not field goals,” Day said. “We’ve got to execute better in the red zone and be more creative with our play-calling.”
A key part of the game plan will likely involve getting the ball into the hands of Ohio State’s star wide receivers, including Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka. Day also drmentioned the importance of establishing a strong run game to keep Oregon’s defense honest.
Beyond the Xs and Os, Day emphasized the mental aspect of preparing for a rematch. With the pressure of a playoff elimination game, he noted the importance of staying composed and focused under the spotlight.
“It’s about having the right mindset,” Day said. “We can’t dwell on what happened in the past. This is a new game, a new opportunity, and we need to approach it with confidence and urgency.”
For Ohio State, this rematch is about more than advancing to the national championship. It’s a chance to rewrite the narrative, prove their growth, and solidify their standing as one of college football’s elite programs.
“We’ve been waiting for this moment,” Day said. “We know what’s at stake, and we’re ready to give it everything we’ve got.”
With adjustments on both sides of the ball and a renewed sense of purpose, the Buckeyes hope to flip the script against Oregon and keep their championship dreams alive. Fans won’t have to wait long to see if Ryan Day’s revised game plan will deliver the redemption Ohio State has been seeking.