Ohio State Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day recently made a surprising statement that captured the attention of the football world. According to Day, the Buckeyes’ national championship victory might not have been possible without the pivotal contributions of one key individual: Chip Kelly.
Kelly, the former head coach of UCLA, Oregon, the Philadelphia Eagles, and the San Francisco 49ers, took on an unexpected role as Ohio State’s offensive coordinator, and it proved to be a game-changer.
Ryan Day: ‘We Couldn’t Have Done It Without Chip’
Kelly’s decision to join the Buckeyes’ coaching staff was unconventional for someone with his extensive head coaching experience. His choice to work as an offensive coordinator under Ryan Day, one of his former protégés, surprised many.
For Day, Kelly’s presence was nothing short of transformative. “For him to step away from being a head coach to come work with me meant a lot,” Day shared after the championship win. “He’s been a mentor to me, and honestly, I wouldn’t be where I am today without his guidance.”
Kelly’s involvement allowed Day to take on a broader leadership role. While Kelly managed the offense, Day was able to focus more on the defensive side of the team. This strategic shift, Day explained, created a stronger sense of unity across the roster. “It gave me the chance to step back and see the bigger picture,” Day told On3. “I think that change really brought the team together.”
Kelly’s Impact on the Buckeyes’ Offense
With Kelly at the helm of the offense, Ohio State thrived, showcasing incredible talent across the board. Players like quarterback Will Howard, running backs Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson, and wide receivers Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka delivered stellar performances throughout the season.
“Chip brought out the best in everyone,” Day remarked. “The players would agree — we couldn’t have achieved what we did without him.”
What’s Next for Chip Kelly?
Kelly’s success with Ohio State has not gone unnoticed. NFL teams in need of offensive coordinators are reportedly eyeing him as a prime candidate. The Jacksonville Jaguars and Houston Texans are among the franchises rumored to be interested, with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers also considering him for a key role.
As Kelly’s coaching career enters a potential new phase, his time with the Buckeyes stands as a testament to his ability to make a significant impact in any role he takes on.
