After enduring threats and calls for his firing, Ohio State's Day can go from ultimate low to high

ATLANTA (AP) — Emotionally, this has been a season unlike any other for Ryan Day.

Less than two months ago, loud and influential media voices were calling for the firing of the nation’s winningest active coach in the wake of Ohio State’s fourth straight loss to Michigan.

He received harassment and threats of physical harm from unhinged fans — also some death threats, his players said — and his wife and children endured weeks of verbal abuse. Even Lou Holtz, the 88-year-old former Notre Dame coach, has continued to be a proverbial thorn in his side.

All is better, for now. Three straight wins in the College Football Playoff landed the Buckeyes in the championship game against Notre Dame on Monday night at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. A win over the Fighting Irish will keep his critics at bay. A loss? Day doesn’t want to think about that.

“I say to my wife all ...
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