Former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel’s name is being mentioned as a possible replacement for Ohio State head coach Ryan Day after ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky commented on the situation. On Dec. 17th, Orlovsky sat down in an interview with Pat McAfee on his eponymous show. He hinted that Vrabel, who is an Ohio State alumni, is “spoken for.”
When the host brought up Ohio State, Orlovsky suggested, “I think there’s a vision for where he kind of likely ends up coaching next year.” His obfuscated answer added to the speculation surrounding Day’s seat.
Fans Debate on Mike Vrabel vs. Ryan Day for Ohio State
These whispers come after Ohio State suffered their fourth straight defeat to rival Michigan, falling 13-10 on Nov. 30. While the coach has had a steady record with the program and is 10-2 in 2024, fans are frustrated that his school has been unable to beat Michigan and win a national title. With Orlovsky’s comment, the talks have increased about the future of Ohio State’s head coaching job.
Dan Orlovsky seems to allude to Mike Vrabel having his eyes set on coaching at Ohio State. Would be a shocking change of tune, with Ross Bjork expressing his support for Ryan Day just one week ago. pic.twitter.com/3I7J7rul6Y
— The Silver Bulletin (@tSilverBulletin) December 17, 2024
Vrabel is currently with the Cleveland Browns, working as a coaching and personnel consultant.
“Vrabel wants an NFL job,” one fan said, referring to Vrabel’s chances at a second stint at the sport’s highest level.
“Or the Browns 😂,” another fan wrote.
“Where in his response did he ‘allude?’ He never said where or even hinted at it. I think he takes the Raiders job if I’m to give my two cents,” a dissenter commented.
Meanwhile, a few others referenced the $37 million buyout clause in Day’s contract.
“I think an early exit or maybe even with a natty Day may opt-out [and] go to NFL. He will not be fired with a 37m buyout. Not happening,” someone chimed in.
“Love Vrabel, but not happening unless Day loses the locker room. He recruits with the very best of them. He hired Jim Knowles which has been brilliant. Use that $37M buyout to get some edge rushers. It is now all about the money, not the school,” commented a fan with an eye on NIL.
The Michigan Wolverines are 7-5 this year and did not make it to the College Football Playoffs. Meanwhile, Ohio State is in the 12-team dance and will face the Tennessee Volunteers in the first round.
“We have a playoff game on Saturday. Who cares,” was another common sentiment.
According to Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, Vrabel is one of the top options for the Chicago Bears, who are conducting a coaching search after they let go of Matt Eberflus following Week 13. Vrabel should have no shortage of interviews this offseason.