Ryan Day Reveals True Feelings on \$7.5M OSU Asset Who Busted Major Steve Sarkisian Claim
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day had high praise for his high-priced defensive coordinator, Matt Patricia, following the Buckeyes’ stunning 14-7 upset over No. 1 Texas on August 30 at Ohio Stadium. Patricia, a \$7.5 million offseason hire and former Patriots Super Bowl architect, made a bold statement in his Ohio State debut — neutralizing Steve Sarkisian’s much-hyped offense and dealing a blow to the narrative that Sark is college football’s top play-caller.
“Matt’s done a really good job building trust with the players,” Day said postgame, visibly energized by the result. “He’s brought a real edge and discipline to this group.”
Patricia’s defense delivered a suffocating performance, forcing Texas into four failed fourth-down conversions and holding quarterback Arch Manning to just **26 passing yards in the first half**. The Buckeyes’ defensive front and secondary played with physicality and precision, completely disrupting Sarkisian’s rhythm.
Linebacker **Arvell Reese** led the charge with nine tackles and a sack, while cornerback **Jermaine Mathews Jr.** grabbed a crucial interception late in the game. Freshman safety **Jaylen McClain** also turned heads, helping Ohio State limit Texas to its lowest point total since 2015.
Fans on social media erupted, with one viral post declaring Patricia “**Sark’s kryptonite**.” Another fan joked, “Bill Belichick would be proud.”
This performance didn’t just validate Day’s faith in Patricia — it sent a message to the rest of college football: Ohio State isn’t just reloading; they’re redefining dominance. With the defense showing championship-caliber grit and composure, the Buckeyes look poised for a serious Big Ten run — and perhaps more.
As Day summed it up: “This is just the beginning.”
