- NCAA. Will Howard's girlfriend, Lauren Leiker goes viral in Ohio State win: Another media couple for the NFL's future?
- NCAA. Ryan Day's happiness at Ohio State's victory dampened when he realizes that Jim Harbaugh got more prize money than he did
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day may have led the Buckeyes to their first national championship title since 2014, but the journey to glory came with unimaginable challenges for him and his family.
According to his wife, Nina Day, the aftermath of Ohio State's 13-10 loss to Michigan on November 30 was marked by threats that required around-the-clock security for their family.
"You can't take anything lightly these days," Nina shared in an interview with The Athletic, revealing that the threats came from a small but fanatical group of Ohio State fans.
Related:
- CFP National Championship 2025: Date, start time, location and everything you need to know
- CFP National Championship Halftime Show 2025: Who is performing this year and all the details
- College Football Playoff winners list: check out every National Championship winner updated until today
- CFP National Championship Prize Money: How much money does the college football winner get?
- CFP National Championship Gatorade shower 2025: Color, how did the tradition start and more
The family's three children-R.J., Nia, and Grace-also bore the emotional brunt of the vitriol. R.J. recalled being targeted by "grown men" and witnessing his sisters in tears.
"Everything we've had to go through as a family, it was not easy," R.J. said. "It was some of the hardest stuff I've ever dealt with in my life. But to see the joy on my dad's face when he hoisted that trophy is something I'll never forget."
Nina emphasized the importance of remaining resilient. "It's hard to block out the noise, but we have to stay positive and strong in our house and believe in what we know to be true," she said. "Ryan's always been a fighter."
A Triumphant Yet Emotional Victory
Ohio State's 34-23 win over Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff national championship game was a historic moment, but it also carried deep personal significance for the Day family.
The victory coincided with the anniversary of Ryan Day's father's death-a tragedy that occurred when Day was just nine years old.
"The kids look at their dad and know what he's been through," Nina said. "He lost his dad at such a young age but showed resilience. My kids are incredibly proud of their dad and the example he sets."
Ryan Day's journey has been marked by immense personal and professional hurdles, but his determination and class have left an indelible mark.
"The biggest thing my kids have learned is that everyone fails, but you've got to get back up and keep swinging," Nina added.
A Coach's Burden
ESPN's lead college football analyst and former Ohio State quarterback Kirk Herbstreit praised Day's resilience.
"It's tough to be a coach at a premier school where you're expected to win every game," Herbstreit said. "He handled it with such class and now stands on top of the mountain."
Nina's father, Stan Spirou-a longtime Division II basketball coach-also expressed iration for his son-in-law's leadership.
"He took all the blame for the Michigan loss and never put it on the players or coaching staff. That's what leadership is about," Spirou said.
Through the trials of public scrutiny and private pain, Ryan Day's commitment to his family and team has proven unwavering. His story is a testament to perseverance in the face of adversity and a reminder that success often comes at a price.