After winning the national championship, Ryan Day showed up to the postgame press conference taking a thinly veiled swipe at his Big 10 rivals, Michigan. He showed up wearing an Ohio state themed shirt that said “No Asterisk”, with the implication that Michigan’s CFB trophy last year was tainted.

The Context: Michigan’s 2024 Championship and Subsequent Controversy

In 2024, the University of Michigan clinched the College Football Playoff National Championship, marking a significant achievement for the program. However, their victory was soon overshadowed by allegations of a sign-stealing scandal. The NCAA launched an investigation into claims that Michigan staff members had engaged in an elaborate scheme to record and decipher opposing teams’ signals, potentially providing the Wolverines with an unfair competitive advantage.

The investigation revealed that former staffer Connor Stalions was accused of orchestrating this sign-stealing operation. Further complicating matters, former head coach Jim Harbaugh faced allegations of recruiting violations during the COVID-19 dead period, as well as charges of failing to cooperate with the NCAA’s investigation. Despite these controversies, Michigan’s 2024 championship title remained intact, as the NCAA determined that the infractions did not warrant vacating their accomplishments.

Ryan Day’s Statement: “No Asterisk”

Fast forward to January 2025, as Ryan Day led the Ohio State Buckeyes to their first national championship since 2014. During the postgame press conference, Day’s choice of attire—a shirt reading “No Asterisk”—was a deliberate nod to the controversies that had marred Michigan’s previous title. The implication was clear: Ohio State’s championship was earned without any taint of scandal or impropriety.

This sartorial choice was not merely a fashion statement but a calculated move to highlight the integrity of Ohio State’s victory in contrast to their rivals. It also served to bolster Day’s standing among Ohio State supporters, reaffirming the program’s commitment to fair play and excellence.

The Impact on the Ohio State-Michigan Rivalry

The rivalry between Ohio State and Michigan is one of the most storied in college football, characterized by decades of intense competition and mutual disdain. Day’s “No Asterisk” shirt added a new chapter to this rivalry, serving as both a celebration of Ohio State’s success and a critique of Michigan’s recent controversies.

For Ohio State fans, Day’s gesture was a source of pride, reinforcing the program’s reputation for integrity and success. Conversely, Michigan supporters viewed it as a provocation, a reminder of the scandals that had cast a shadow over their recent achievements.

Reactions from the College Football Community

The broader college football community had varied reactions to Day’s statement. Some analysts praised his boldness, viewing it as a reaffirmation of the importance of integrity in the sport. Others criticized it as unsportsmanlike, arguing that it unnecessarily fanned the flames of an already heated rivalry.

ESPN broadcaster Kirk Herbstreit, a former Ohio State quarterback, became emotional during a live broadcast after watching his son Zak win the national championship with the Buckeyes. While some fans criticized his display of emotion, many supported him, recognizing the significance of the moment.

The Broader Implications for College Football

Day’s “No Asterisk” statement also sparked discussions about the broader state of college football. The Michigan sign-stealing scandal had already raised questions about the prevalence of unethical practices in the sport and the adequacy of NCAA enforcement mechanisms.

By highlighting his program’s clean championship, Day indirectly called attention to these issues, prompting debates about the need for reforms to ensure a level playing field. His actions underscored the importance of maintaining integrity in college athletics and the role of coaches in setting ethical standards.

Ryan Day’s Journey to Redemption

Ryan Day’s championship victory and subsequent statement also marked a personal triumph. Prior to this season, Day faced significant criticism following Ohio State’s fourth consecutive loss to Michigan and the team’s absence from the Big Ten Championship. The pressure was immense, with some fans calling for his dismissal.

In the face of adversity, Day remained steadfast, leading the Buckeyes to a national championship and silencing his detractors. His “No Asterisk” shirt was not only a jab at Michigan but also a declaration of his and his team’s resilience and integrity.

The Road Ahead for Ohio State and Michigan

As both programs look to the future, the events of this season will undoubtedly influence their trajectories. For Ohio State, the championship and Day’s leadership have reinvigorated the program, setting high expectations for continued success.

Michigan, on the other hand, faces the challenge of rebuilding its reputation in the wake of the sign-stealing scandal. The program will need to demonstrate a renewed commitment to ethical conduct to restore trust among fans and the broader college football community.

Conclusion

Ryan Day’s “No Asterisk” statement was a defining moment in the Ohio State-Michigan rivalry, encapsulating the tensions, triumphs, and controversies that make college football so compelling. It served as a reminder of the importance of integrity in sports and the enduring impact of leadership decisions.

As the dust settles, both programs will reflect on the lessons learned from this chapter in their history, with an eye toward future battles on the gridiron. For fans and players alike, the rivalry continues, fueled by passion, pride, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.