Ryan Day analyzes Matt Patricia's fit so far with Ohio State

Ohio State went through some staff changes following the national championship. None more high profile than defensive coordinator, seeing Jim Knowles leave Columbus for Penn State. Matt Patricia is set to take over the Buckeyes, walking into a unit with lofty expectations.

Spring practice is underway and early on, Ryan Day does have an impression as to how Patricia is fitting into the program. So far, everything has been positive on his end. Between current players and Patricia connecting with recruits, Day had a glowing review.

“A lot of energy,” Day said. “Building relationships right now, just getting started. But I think the feedback from our players has been good. I think they really enjoy the conversation, the extra time that they get the chance to spend some one on one time with Matt. His experience and credibility speak for itself.

“I think they know that but now they’re getting a chance to meet him. I think it’s been great. Gotten some great feedback from the recruits as well, had a chance to meet with them. We’re just starting to dive into some of the different things we can do on defense.”

Three years at Syracuse as a graduate assistant is the only experience Patricia has at the FBS level. His first full-time job was with the New England Patriots in 2004, eventually working his way up to defensive coordinator. Detroit hired Patricia to be the head coach but once fired, he returned to New England.

Bill Belichick leaving the Patriots meant Patricia took off the 2024 season. Ohio State came calling, and he is now experiencing the vast difference between college football and the NFL.

Thankfully for him, Patricia will have some NFL-caliber players on the roster. None more so than safety Caleb Downs, arguably the best player in college football heading into the 2025 season. Downs has been highly touted since his freshman season at Alabama, and heading into Year Two with Ohio State, he will be a big-time leader for the Buckeyes.

For now, the relationship process is still ongoing. Patricia is still getting familiar with the players while they adapt to having a new defensive coordinator. These things take time, longer than just a few meetings and spring practices.

But Day is already hearing positive results on the process. A positive sign for Ohio State as they look to defend their national title in the fall.