Ryan Day Reflects on How Expanded College Football Playoff Allowed Ohio State to ‘Hit Their Stride

The college football landscape has undergone significant changes with the expansion of the College Football Playoff (CFP), and Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has been vocal about how this shift has benefited his team. In a recent discussion, Day highlighted how the new format has given the Buckeyes an opportunity to “peak” at the right time, emphasizing the advantages of the extended postseason structure.

The expansion, which increased the number of teams from four to twelve, has been a game-changer for programs like Ohio State. For teams that might stumble early in the season or face challenges mid-year, the extended playoff offers a second chance to regroup, refocus, and make a run for the championship. This shift not only rewards consistency but also acknowledges the unpredictable nature of college football, where injuries, schedule strength, and other variables can impact a team’s trajectory.

The Challenges of the Previous CFP Format

Before the expansion, the four-team CFP format placed immense pressure on teams to achieve near-perfection during the regular season. A single loss, especially late in the year, could derail a program’s playoff hopes entirely. For teams like Ohio State, which often faces a grueling Big Ten schedule and highly competitive non-conference matchups, this format left little room for error.

Day acknowledged that under the old system, teams often felt the weight of having to peak too early. “When you know that one loss can end your chances, the margin for error is razor-thin,” he explained. “Sometimes, you’re forced to play at your absolute best from the very start of the season, and maintaining that level over months is incredibly challenging.”

For the Buckeyes, the expanded playoff means they can navigate the season with a bit more flexibility. Instead of needing to be flawless week after week, they can focus on improving steadily, ensuring they are playing their best football when it matters most—during the postseason.

How the Expanded CFP Benefits Teams Like Ohio State

The expanded CFP format offers numerous benefits, particularly for elite programs like Ohio State.

1. Room for Growth: Teams now have the chance to overcome early-season losses or setbacks without being eliminated from contention. This is especially valuable for squads integrating new players or adjusting to key injuries.

2. Encourages Tougher Scheduling: With more playoff spots available, programs may feel more inclined to schedule challenging non-conference games without the fear that a single loss will end their championship aspirations. For Ohio State, which frequently takes on top-tier opponents, this provides a safety net.

3. Rewarding Momentum: Football is often about timing. Teams that get hot late in the season can carry that momentum into the playoffs, as opposed to being penalized for early missteps. Day emphasized that the ability to peak in November and December is crucial under this new structure.

4. More Opportunities for Big Ten Teams: The Big Ten Conference is known for its depth and competitiveness. With the expanded playoff, multiple teams from the conference now have a realistic shot at making the field, reducing the pressure on a single program to carry the banner for the league.

Ohio State’s Journey to Peaking

Day shared insights into how Ohio State has adapted its approach to capitalize on the expanded playoff format. Instead of viewing the season as a sprint, the team has embraced a marathon mentality, focusing on steady improvement and strategic planning.

One of the key adjustments has been in managing player workloads. The coaching staff has taken a more measured approach to ensure athletes remain fresh and healthy throughout the season. “In the past, you might push players hard from the first game to ensure a strong start,” Day explained. “Now, we can afford to think about the long game, making sure we’re at our best when the playoffs arrive.”

Additionally, the expanded playoff has allowed the Buckeyes to experiment with different strategies and lineups. This flexibility has been invaluable in identifying what works best against high-level competition, a luxury they didn’t always have under the four-team format.

The Psychological Impact

Beyond the tactical and physical adjustments, the expanded CFP has also had a significant psychological impact on the team. Players and coaches alike feel less of the do-or-die pressure that once defined the regular season.

Day noted that this shift has created a more positive and resilient atmosphere within the program. “Knowing that one loss doesn’t end your season changes everything,” he said. “It allows the players to play more freely, without the fear of making a mistake. That freedom often leads to better performances.”

The expanded playoff also fosters a greater sense of hope and determination. Even if the team encounters setbacks, they know there’s still a path to achieving their ultimate goal. This mindset has been especially valuable in building team cohesion and resilience.

Broader Implications for College Football

The expanded CFP has not only changed the game for Ohio State but also for college football as a whole. More teams now have a legitimate shot at competing for a championship, increasing the excitement and unpredictability of the postseason.

For fans, the new format means more high-stakes games featuring the sport’s biggest stars. For players, it offers a platform to showcase their talents on a national stage, even if their team isn’t among the traditional powerhouses.

Day believes this inclusivity will ultimately elevate the sport. “College football is at its best when more teams and fanbases are engaged,” he said. “The expanded playoff ensures that excitement and anticipation last well into December and beyond.”

The Road Ahead for Ohio State

With the expanded

CFP now a reality, Ohio State is well-positioned to thrive