Ryan Day reveals his reaction to Tony Alford leaving for Michigan, how Ohio State is adjusting

Tony Alford‘s decision to leave his job of nine years as Ohio State‘s running backs coach to serve in the same role for rival Michigan sent shockwaves across the college football landscape last week. But the Buckeyes are continuing to move forward in the midst of spring practice in Columbus.

Head coach Ryan Day spoke with the media on Tuesday, talking about Alford’s departure and the search for a new running backs coach in the near future.

“Was made aware last week and so now we’re into the process of identifying replacements,” Day said. “Excited about the group that we’ve already identified and gonna be thorough in the process. I think the good news is we’re not in a situation where we have to make a quick decision based on recruiting, or the portal, or anything like that.”

Alford was regarded as one of the best running back coaches and recruiters in the country during his time with Ohio State, bringing in and developing players like Ezekiel Elliott, J.K. Dobbins, and Mike Weber throughout his career with the Buckeyes.

But Day wants to give the players some power as well in their coaching search, revealing that his running backs will be involved in the hiring process.

“I talked to the running backs, they’re great, they’re actually gonna be a part of the process. I’d like for a part of the interview process for the running backs to meet the candidates. Obviously, ultimately I’ll make the decision and Chip [Kelly] will be a huge part of it, but the input of the running backs will be important as well,” Day said.

Day insists that the running back room is in a good place despite Alford’s exit, even assuming the role as interim running backs coach at the Buckeyes’ latest spring practice.

“But they’ve been great and it was actually fun. Today I took the running backs and coached them out there today, so that was fun and we had a really good practice,” Day said.

He was also asked if Alford’s move to Ohio State’s bitter rival came as an unexpected surprise, keeping the focus on the future of the Buckeyes’ running back room versus the past.

“I didn’t know for sure until I was told, but now the focus is about trying to find the right person,” Day said. “I think it’s the best running back room in the country right now, and I think it’s an exciting job, and the candidate pool’s been excellent.”

There’s no question that Ohio State is strong in the backfield this season, boasting names like TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins. And it will surely be interesting to see who Day decides to hire to give those star rushers direction in what could potentially be a breakout season for the Buckeyes.