Ryan Day shares how Ohio State pushes back on age concerns in recruiting with Larry Johnson

Ohio State associate head coach and defensive line coach Larry Johnson is one of the best in the business, but at 72 years old, there are yearly questions about how much longer he will continue to coach.

Other schools use Johnson’s age to recruit against the Buckeyes from time to time, warning prospects that Johnson might not be around for their entire college career.

Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day was asked at a press conference recently how Ohio State deals with questions about Johnson’s age.

“Well, I think the other part of it, the flip side, is that this is a guy who has developed unbelievable players,” Ryan Day said. “Some people can talk about how they develop and everything like that. Larry’s actually done it. So there’s a body of work there.

“And also, he’s got a lot of wisdom to him. When you’re going into a room every day with somebody, you’re counting on them to mentor your young man. I think that’s where families feel comfortable with that. When they hand their son over to Larry Johnson, they know what they’re getting. They’re going to get someone that’s going to pour into them in all areas. And he’s done that with so many different people.”

Larry Johnson’s bio on the Ohio State football official website defines him as “the best defensive line coach in college football.” It’s hard to argue that with the resume Johnson has put together.

He has helped develop Heisman finalist Chase Young, NFL stars Joey Bosa and Nick Bosa and plenty of other all-conference and All-American players.

In total, Ohio State has had eight defensive linemen earn All-American honors under Johnson. Day added that he isn’t worried about Johnson slowing down at 72.

“He’s going to continue to work. He’s got a ton of energy, and he’s working hard recruiting, just like everybody else,” Day said. “There’s certainly challenges these days, but he is adapting, and we’re going to have a really good d-line next year.”

Ohio State has the No. 3 ranked recruiting class for 2024, according to the On3 Industry rankings, but the Buckeyes signed only three defensive linemen. Day was also asked if that is a concern. He insists it’s not.

“We have some guys who are really talented who are playing as sophomores and juniors. … For a young player who wants to come in and develop and work through and work into the lineup, it’s a great opportunity,” Day said. “But ultimately, it’s going to come down to what’s on the field. If we have to look to the portal if there’s a hole, we’ll do that as well, but no, I feel like right now, that room is a good room.”