After the Big Ten announced that it was postponing its fall sports seasons, many began to wonder what a spring college football season might look like and if one was even viable.
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has an idea.
Speaking to reporters on a Zoom conference call on Wednesday, Day was adamant about the need for his conference to resume some sort of season. Asked what a spring season might look like, the second-year Buckeyes head coach had specifics in mind, pitching an eight-week schedule that would begin in early-January.
"We've got to start it as soon as we can," Day said. "I think starting the first week of January would be the way to go."
In speaking with reporters, Day outlined a number of reasons why the Big Ten needs to resume its season, including recruiting and scholarship number ramifications. He also pointed to the possibility of the NFL delaying its annual draft, which could provide an opportunity for a number of prospects to return to the field and improve their draft stock.
"I think it's our job and we owe it to these guys to make sure that we put the schedule and put the plan [together] quickly here," Day said. "I think we need to get on this right now and get some answers."
While former Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer said he didn't think playing two seasons in one calendar year was viable, Day said he thought it could happen as long as the first season started early enough. He also advocated for other changes, including the ability for incoming recruits who enroll early to participate in such a season without losing any eligibility before the start of a fall season in 2021.
When asked about the possibility of playing against other Big Ten teams who are also willing to play this fall, Ohio State's head coach wasn't willing to rule it out, referring to the entire situation as "fluid." What isn't in question, however, is Day's commitment to making sure the Buckeyes don't have to wait until next fall to once again take the field.
"I'm going to fight like heck for these guys. To push forward on what is right. I'm sure there will be a lot of back and forth," Day said. "I feel strongly about what I've said and we're going to fight like heck to get it done."