The Ohio State Buckeyes are entering a new era on offense, and head coach Ryan Day made it clear he couldn’t be more confident in the direction they’re heading.
During a recent appearance on WBNS-TV for the “2026 Buckeye Cruise for Cancer” segment, Day opened up about the hiring of new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith and what he believes the veteran play-caller will bring to Columbus.
NFL Pedigree Poised To Make Instant Impact for Ohio State
One of the first things Day emphasized was how natural the connection felt between the two from the start.
“We hit it off right from the beginning,” Day shared, pointing to Smith’s extensive background calling plays and running offenses at the highest level of football.
Day didn’t hesitate to double down on his belief in the hire.
“I just think he’s going to bring so much to the table for our team and I think Buckeye Nation is gonna really like what he brings to the table.”
Those aren’t empty words. Day’s confidence speaks volumes, especially considering the expectations that come with leading the Buckeyes. He’s seen what elite offensive minds look like, and he believes Smith fits squarely into that category.
Smith arrives in Columbus with years of NFL experience, including time as a head coach and offensive coordinator. His ability to build systems around personnel and adjust schemes week to week could prove invaluable for a roster loaded with talent.
Most notably, his impact on young quarterback Julian Sayin will be under the microscope.
Julian Sayin and Buckeyes Offense Aiming for Next Step
Sayin is coming off a remarkable season. He posted the highest completion percentage in the country at 78.4%, threw 31 touchdowns (second nationally), and totaled 3,323 passing yards (11th nationally). His poise, accuracy, and command of the offense helped power one of the most efficient units in college football.
Ohio State finished last season with a PFSN CFB offensive impact grade of 90.9, third best in the country, under first-time play caller Brian Hartline. Now, imagine what a seasoned veteran like Smith could accomplish with that same firepower.
And the weapons are still there. Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith returns as one of the premier playmakers in the nation, giving Sayin a dynamic target on the outside. With that combination alone, the Buckeyes have the foundation of an explosive attack.
Despite Sayin’s impressive numbers, there’s still room for growth, and Smith’s presence could be the catalyst.
In Ohio State’s final two games against elite competition, including matchups with the Indiana Hoosiers and Miami Hurricanes, Sayin’s production dipped slightly. He wasn’t bad by any means, but he didn’t quite look like the same dominant force seen earlier in the season.
That’s where Smith’s experience becomes critical. One of his top priorities will be helping Sayin elevate his play when the pressure rises, developing that instinct to speed up as the game speeds up. Growth in processing, anticipation, and situational awareness against top-tier defenses could be the difference between a great offense and a championship-caliber one.
This marks the third offensive system in as many years for Ohio State, underscoring the importance of continuity and development. But Day clearly believes he’s found the right leader to stabilize and elevate the unit.
Smith’s NFL background, adaptability, and proven play-calling experience bring a different dimension to the Buckeyes’ attack. Pair that with elite returning talent and a quarterback already playing at a high level, and the ceiling remains incredibly high.
If Day’s early impressions are any indication, Buckeye Nation has plenty of reason to be excited. This hire could do wonders for the offense and for Julian Sayin’s continued rise.
