There's no question that Ohio State's fourth consecutive loss to Michigan back on Nov. 30 sent shockwaves through Columbus. The Buckeyes, who had entered the matchup as a three-touchdown favorite, looked completely rattled against a Wolverine defense that held them to a season low 10 points.

Ohio State Buckeyes head football coach Ryan Day has amassed an incredible 68-6 record against teams not named the Michigan Wolverines. Since taking charge in Columbus during the 2

The Fighting Irish advanced to the game by beating No. 6 Penn State 27-24 in the Capital One Orange Bowl. Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman had extra motivation before the CFP semifinal, becoming " angry " after Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin poked fun at the now 39-year-old coach's youth.

That’s due, partially, to the fact that the Buckeyes have won three straight playoff games — including two in blowout fashion. It’s been a remarkable turnaround for an Ohio State team that appeared to be on the brink of a total failure of a season.

As Ohio State prepares for the national championship against Notre Dame, he highlighted the importance of faith, family and friends in guiding the team.

Weeks after facing immense pressure following another Ohio State loss to Michigan, Day is a win away from the college football mountaintop.

Even as Ohio State turned around its season with three playoff wins, coach Ryan Day turned around his reputation by evolving after Michigan loss.

Ohio State fans have complicated feelings toward Day, who has lost four straight to Michigan but is one win away from a national title.

Three straight wins in the College Football Playoff landed the Buckeyes in the championship game against Notre Dame on Monday night at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. A win over the Fighting Irish will keep his critics at bay.

Lou Holtz became the target of Ohio State coach Ryan Day’s post-game rant after the Buckeyes beat the Irish 17-14 on Sept. 23, 2023.

Soon after Notre Dame football coach Marcus Freeman was promoted from defensive coordinator in December 2021, pregame Mass at the Basilica was reinstated.