What coaching changes did Ohio State make for the Cotton Bowl?

Head Coach Ryan Day moved Brian Hartline to the field and Keenan Bailey to the box for play calls.

What did Nick Saban say about the Miami Hurricanes before the Cotton Bowl?

Saban advised Miami to enhance their offense and create explosive plays to have a chance against Ohio State.

When is the Ohio State vs. Miami Cotton Bowl game?

The Cotton Bowl game between Ohio State and Miami is scheduled for Wednesday, December 31st.

Home / Sports / Buckeyes Coaching Shake-Up for Cotton Bowl

Buckeyes Coaching Shake-Up for Cotton Bowl

1 Jan

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Summary

Ohio State's head coach Ryan Day announced a coaching change for the game.
Brian Hartline will be on the field, Keenan Bailey in the box for play calls.
Nick Saban advised Miami to improve offense to beat Ohio State.

Buckeyes Coaching Shake-Up for Cotton Bowl

The No. 2 seed Ohio State Buckeyes are set to face the No. 10 seed Miami Hurricanes in the 2026 College Football Playoffs quarterfinal game on Wednesday, December 31st. As the Cotton Bowl approaches, Ohio State's head coach Ryan Day has revealed a significant last-minute coaching alteration.

Brian Hartline will be present on the field, while Keenan Bailey will manage play calls from the box. Day indicated this move, with Bailey upstairs, might signal a potential promotion to offensive coordinator at season's end. He clarified his own final say in play-calling.

Adding to the pre-game anticipation, former Alabama coach Nick Saban offered his perspective, cautioning the Miami Hurricanes to elevate their offensive performance. Saban suggested Miami must develop more explosive plays and utilize play-action passes to challenge Ohio State effectively.