Ohio State is 6-0 and sitting at No. 1, while Wisconsin is 2-4, 0-3 in the Big Ten, and riding a four-game skid that includes a 37-0 faceplant against Iowa. That context makes Ryan Day’s public praise feel generous at best and diplomatic at worst.
“Again, Luke Fickell is a very good coach,” Day told the media. “He knows winning football and his team plays hard. They play sound football. I know the season hasn’t gone the way they expected it to go, but at the same time, put the film on. They’re one of the better defenses in the country and all it takes is a few big plays and getting the offense in rhythm and they’re gonna be in these games.”
Respect makes sense given Fickell’s deep Buckeye roots. He played at OSU from 1993 through 1996, coordinated the defense in Columbus, and even served as interim head coach before taking Cincinnati to national relevance. Sentiment does not change the math, though.
Wisconsin ranks ninth in the Big Ten in total defense at 317 yards allowed per game and sits 13th in points allowed at 22.7. The Badgers just surrendered 37 to Iowa’s anemic offense. Ohio State is averaging 36.8 points and 421.5 yards per game. That is a mismatch in scarlet and gray.
Day’s other comment lands closer to the truth of Saturday’s vibe.
“I think the other thing is that I’m sure they feel like their backs are against the wall a little bit,” Day explained. “Fighting for the season, which I can understand. When you get that, you’re gonna get a team that comes out with their hair on fire.”
Wisconsin may swing early. The Buckeyes should swing harder. With Jeremiah Smith and company rolling, there is almost no scenario where Ohio State walks out of Madison without a win.
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