The Master Plan Unfolds: How Chip Kelly’s Departure from Ohio State was Always Part of the Script
When news broke that Chip Kelly was leaving Ohio State to become the Las Vegas Raiders’ new offensive coordinator, many were caught off guard. However, for Kelly and Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day, this move was always part of the plan. In fact, it was a year-long strategy that culminated in the ultimate goal: winning a national championship.
Day revealed on the Joel Klatt Show that he and Kelly had discussed the possibility of Kelly’s departure after one season, citing the dream of winning a national title and then exploring NFL opportunities. That dream became a reality on January 20, when Ohio State defeated Notre Dame in the College Football National Championship, securing the program’s ninth title and Day’s first in his six-year tenure.
The partnership between Kelly and Day was a long time in the making. The two coaches share a deep connection, having grown up in the same hometown of Manchester, New Hampshire. Their bond strengthened during Day’s playing days at the University of New Hampshire, where Kelly was his coach. They later reunited in the NFL, with Day serving as Kelly’s assistant with the Eagles and 49ers.
The 2024 season presented a unique opportunity for Kelly to work under Day, and the results were nothing short of spectacular. As Day reflected on their journey together, he expressed his gratitude for the experience and looked forward to sharing stories of their championship season over a beer in the years to come. “What a great story,” Day said, encapsulating the essence of their partnership.
