“Times Are Changing”: Ryan Day Responds to Nick Saban with Smart Advice
The world of college football is evolving, and so are the expectations placed on coaches. Players, fans, and even the game itself are not what they were a decade ago. In a recent conversation that highlighted the shifting landscape, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day offered a pointed observation: “With all due respect, Nick,” he began, addressing Alabama’s legendary coach Nick Saban, “times are changing. Players today want to know you care about them as people, not just as athletes. If you don’t adapt, you’re going to get left behind. We’ve proven that at Georgia.”
Though the words may sound bold, Day’s statement reflects a growing sentiment among college football coaches. It underscores the importance of connecting with players on a deeper level—beyond the X’s and O’s—and adapting to a new era where holistic development is just as important as athletic performance.
Traditionally, the role of a college football coach was clear: win games, develop players, and secure championships. The focus was on discipline, strategy, and performance. Coaches like Nick Saban epitomized this old-school approach, building dynasties through structure, precision, and relentless focus on success.
However, as Ryan Day noted, the priorities of today’s athletes are different. Modern players want to feel valued not just for their skills on the field but for who they are as individuals. They seek mentorship, understanding, and a sense of belonging.
This shift is partly driven by cultural changes and the rise of player empowerment. With the advent of the transfer portal and name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities, players have more freedom and leverage than ever before. Coaches who fail to recognize these changes risk losing top talent to programs that do.
Day’s reference to Georgia is particularly telling. Under head coach Kirby Smart, the Bulldogs have become a prime example of how adapting to modern players’ needs can lead to success. Smart has emphasized the importance of building relationships with his players, fostering a family-like atmosphere, and ensuring that they feel supported both on and off the field.
This approach has paid dividends. Georgia has not only become a recruiting powerhouse but has also secured back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022. Players frequently cite the program’s culture as a key factor in their decision to commit.
“We make it a point to know our players as people first,” Smart has said in interviews. “Football is important, but so is preparing them for life after the game. When players feel valued, they give you everything they’ve got.”
At Ohio State, Ryan Day has embraced a similar philosophy. He understands that building trust and showing genuine care for his players are crucial to maintaining a competitive edge. His approach involves regular one-on-one meetings, mental health support, and an emphasis on personal development.
“We’re coaching a new generation,” Day explained. “They want to know you care about their well-being, their future, and their dreams outside of football. If we ignore that, we’re failing them.”
This commitment has not only helped Ohio State remain a top-tier program but has also resonated with recruits and their families. The Buckeyes’ ability to consistently attract elite talent speaks to the success of Day’s player-first approach.
Nick Saban, a seven-time national champion, is undeniably one of the greatest coaches in college football history. His “Process” has been a gold standard for decades, producing disciplined teams and countless NFL stars.
However, even Saban has acknowledged the need to evolve. In recent years, he has adapted to changes like the transfer portal and NIL opportunities. Yet, critics argue that his approach still leans heavily on tradition, focusing more on results than relationships.
Day’s advice serves as both a challenge and a reminder to Saban and other coaches of his era: adapting to the times isn’t optional—it’s essential for sustained success.
As college football continues to evolve, the best programs will be those that strike a balance between tradition and innovation. Coaches must maintain the discipline and competitiveness that define the sport while embracing the personal and emotional needs of their players.
Ryan Day’s comments highlight a fundamental truth: football is about more than wins and losses. It’s about building relationships, developing leaders, and preparing young men for life beyond the game. Programs like Georgia and Ohio State are proving that this approach not only resonates with players but also translates into success on the field.
For Nick Saban and others in the old guard, the message is clear: the future of college football belongs to those who are willing to adapt. As Day aptly put it, “Players today want to know you care about them as people, not just as athletes. If you don’t adapt, you’re going to get left behind.”