Ryan Day secured his first national championship in just his sixth season as a head coach, a remarkable feat that solidifies his standing among college football’s elite. Taking over at Ohio State in 2019, Day inherited a program built for success but still had to maintain and elevate its dominance. He led the Buckeyes to multiple College Football Playoff appearances before finally breaking through with a title, proving his ability to recruit, develop talent, and compete at the highest level.
In contrast, Jim Harbaugh took nearly two decades to win his first championship as a head coach, despite coaching at multiple high-profile programs, including Stanford, the San Francisco 49ers, and Michigan. His long-awaited title in 2023 came under the cloud of a sign-stealing scandal that tainted the Wolverines’ achievement. The NCAA investigation into Michigan’s improper scouting practices cast doubt on whether the team’s success was entirely legitimate. While Harbaugh’s supporters argue that his turnaround of Michigan was impressive, critics point to the controversy as a stain on his legacy.
Day’s path to a championship was not without obstacles, particularly his struggles against Michigan in recent years. However, his ability to adapt, reload with elite recruiting classes, and maintain Ohio State’s status as a national contender ultimately paid off. Unlike Harbaugh, who needed 19 years and a massive sign-stealing operation to reach the top, Day proved his worth as a head coach much faster.
Ultimately, Day’s first title in just six seasons underscores his efficiency and coaching prowess. In contrast, Harbaugh’s lengthy wait—and the scandal that accompanied his success—raises questions about how much of Michigan’s championship run was truly earned. While both coaches can now call themselves champions, the circumstances surrounding their titles could not be more different.
