I have been a Buckeye fan (and American Football in general) only since 2006. First forum post. But here is my thought on how Ohio State has evolved over the short span I have been following.

Tressel's Era (2001-2010):

Tressel was a brilliant program builder. He brought discipline, a focus on fundamentals, and a winning culture that ended the "team up north's" dominance and delivered a national championship. However, the game was changing, and the rise of the SEC's speed and athleticism required a new approach.

Urban's Evolution (2012-2018):

Urban was the perfect coach to take the Buckeyes to the next level. He implemented a high-tempo, spread offense and transformed the recruiting strategy, focusing on national talent. This cultural shift was necessary to compete at the highest level, and it resulted in a national championship and consistent Big Ten dominance.

Day's Modern Approach (2019-Present):

College football is now more like the NFL than ever before, with NIL, the transfer portal, and a greater emphasis on player development. Ryan Day, with his NFL background, is the ideal coach for this new landscape. He understands the business side of the game and has assembled a coaching staff with unparalleled NFL experience, including: himself, Hartline, Laurinaitis, Matty P, etc.

The Ohio State Advantage:

This deep well of NFL knowledge gives the Buckeyes a significant edge. They can better prepare players for the next level, which is a major draw for recruits. It also allows them to adapt to the ever-changing nature of the game, a skill that other programs, like a now-struggling Clemson, have failed to master. While other contenders like Georgia, Oregon, or Texas have talented coaches, none can boast the same level of NFL experience on their staff.

Whether it's luck or brilliant foresight from Gene Smith, Ohio State has consistently hired the right coach at the right time. The Buckeyes are uniquely positioned for long-term success in this new era of college football, and the results are already showing on the field and in recruiting. We are not just competing; we are evolving.