As speculation about potential replacements for Ryan Day as head coach of Ohio State football grows, several candidates stand out due to their strong coaching resumes, ties to the program, or success at the college level. While Day has had a highly successful tenure with the Buckeyes, coaching is a high-pressure job, and discussions about succession plans are always part of the landscape. Below are some viable head coaching candidates for Ohio State if the position were to open.

 

### 1. **Luke Fickell (Head Coach, Wisconsin)**

Luke Fickell is an Ohio State alum and former defensive coordinator for the Buckeyes. His ties to the program make him a natural candidate. Fickell has proven himself as a top-tier head coach, most recently turning around Cincinnati’s football program, leading them to a College Football Playoff appearance in 2021. His experience at both Ohio State and with other programs would make him an ideal candidate to continue the program’s tradition of success.

 

### 2. **James Franklin (Head Coach, Penn State)**

Although Franklin is currently leading one of Ohio State’s biggest rivals in the Big Ten, his success at Penn State and his ties to the Midwest make him a name to watch. Franklin has consistently fielded competitive teams in a tough Big Ten East division. His recruiting prowess and ability to win big games against top-tier opponents would make him an attractive choice for Ohio State.

 

### 3. **Matt Campbell (Head Coach, Iowa State)**

Matt Campbell has built Iowa State into a formidable program in the Big 12 and has consistently competed against top-tier teams, including a near upset of Oklahoma in recent years. Known for his ability to develop players and create a disciplined, tough football team, Campbell’s stock is rising, and Ohio State could look to bring in a coach who has a proven track record of success at the Power Five level.

 

### 4. **Dan Lanning (Head Coach, Oregon)**

Dan Lanning, currently at Oregon, has quickly established himself as one of the brightest young coaches in college football. His defense-first mentality, paired with an ability to recruit top talent, has made Oregon a perennial contender in the Pac-12. Lanning’s style of play and recruiting acumen could translate well to the high expectations at Ohio State.

 

### 5. **Shane Beamer (Head Coach, South Carolina)**

Shane Beamer has made significant strides at South Carolina, elevating the Gamecocks to a higher competitive level within the SEC. His ability to develop players, particularly in the trenches, and his passion for the game could make him a compelling candidate. While a less conventional choice, Beamer’s growing reputation as a leader could make him a solid fit for a program like Ohio State.

 

### Conclusion

Ultimately, Ohio State’s search for a head coach would focus on candidates who can maintain the program’s national championship aspirations, recruit elite talent, and manage the high expectations in Columbus. Fickell, Franklin, and Campbell are among the leading candidates due to their experience, success, and ties to the Midwest.