Ryan Day, head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes, delivered a confident, mic-drop response when Pat McAfee praised Indiana as “the real deal” during a recent interview. Known for his calm yet focused demeanor,

Day’s quick retort – “So are we” – encapsulated his unwavering belief in the strength and dominance of his team. This exchange highlighted not only Day’s confidence but also the high expectations

he holds for Ohio State as they continue their pursuit of excellence in college football. Pat McAfee, a former NFL punter turned sports analyst, was discussing the surprising competitiveness

of the Indiana Hoosiers under head coach Tom Allen. Indiana had been showing signs of growth, garnering attention for their improved play and hard-fought games against top teams.

McAfee, who has built a reputation for his bold takes and entertaining commentary, was quick to acknowledge the progress the Hoosiers had made, even calling them “the real deal”

in reference to their performance that season. McAfee’s praise, however, came with an implied challenge – could Indiana continue to challenge the top teams in the Big Ten, including the mighty Ohio State?

Day, never one to back down from a challenge or question the strength of his own team, was quick to shift the focus back to the Buckeyes. His response, “So are we,” was delivered with the confidence of a coach who knows the capabilities of his team inside and out. Ohio State, with its storied football program and a roster stacked with talent, is a perennial powerhouse in college football, and Day made it clear that while Indiana might be on the rise, his team’s pedigree and ability to win on the big stage are unmatched. His comment reinforced the idea that Ohio State is a team that expects to be at the top, and they would not be overshadowed by anyone, including the up-and-coming Hoosiers.

The exchange also underscores the intensity of competition within the Big Ten Conference. Indiana’s resurgence has made the conference even more exciting, with teams like Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State being pushed by unexpected contenders. Day’s response reflected the competitive fire that has driven Ohio State to its success over the years. The Buckeyes have long been a dominant force in college football, and while respect for their competitors is important, Day’s confidence in his program shows that Ohio State is always prepared for a fight, regardless of the opponent.

The brief but powerful exchange between Ryan Day and Pat McAfee also speaks to the broader narrative of college football in 2024. As programs like Indiana continue to close the gap with the traditional powerhouses, coaches like Day are faced with the challenge of maintaining their team’s elite status while simultaneously fostering a sense of urgency and hunger within the locker room. For Day, making sure his players stay grounded and focused on the ultimate goal is just as important as winning the individual games along the way. His response to McAfee wasn’t just about Indiana – it was a statement about Ohio State’s mindset and the relentless drive to remain at the top of the college football world.

As the season unfolds, Ohio State’s ability to meet the expectations placed on them will be tested by both the rising programs in the Big Ten and the relentless pursuit of excellence from their own coaching staff and players. Day’s “So are we” comment is a reminder of the championship aspirations that always accompany Ohio State football. As the Buckeyes continue to navigate their schedule and face stiff competition, it’s clear that Ryan Day’s leadership and unwavering belief in his team will be key in keeping Ohio State in the hunt for another national championship.

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