"It has an unbelievable tradition": Ohio State HC Ryan Day discusses his feelings around the Rose Bowl as he makes his third appearance

Following a dominant win in the first round of the College Football Playoff, Ryan Day and his Ohio State team will be out against Oregon in the Rose Bowl on New Year's Day. It will mark the second time the two teams will be meeting this season following their clash in Week 6.

In his press conference session on Sunday, Ryan Day describes what it means to play the Rose Bowl. The bowl game, nicknamed the “Granddaddy of them all,” is the oldest in college football, and the coach is elated to feel this experience once again after making two previous appearances.

“First off, it has an unbelievable tradition, not just in general but for Ohio State,” Day said. “The fact that we're playing a traditional Ohio State/Oregon, Big Ten/Pac-12 match-up, I think, is significant.

“Anybody who's ever been to the Rose Bowl knows it's one of the best environments there is in college football. And for me, being my third opportunity to coach in the Rose Bowl, I know how special it is, and I know these guys do as well. We've talked about it before.”

Ohio State will be making its 17th appearance in the Rose Bowl against Oregon on New Year’s Day. This is the third-most by any program in college football, behind USC, who has made 36 appearances and Michigan, which has been to Pasadena 21 times.

---

Ryan Day believes his team has grown since the last meeting with Oregon

Ohio State suffered a narrow 32-31 loss to Oregon at Autzen Stadium during the regular season.

The Buckeyes now have another chance against the Ducks where the stakes are higher. Ryan Day believes his team has shown some growth since the last meet despite challenges.

“We certainly have taken a couple of injuries, so that's affected things, but we've adjusted in a lot of areas,” Day said. “We've grown. Every game you play in, you learn from. Whether you win the game or lose the game, you learn from each week.

“The team that learns and continues to adapt, make adjustments, address their issues, and enhance their strengths is the team that's going to be the strongest in the end. Our focus has been on our execution and preparation.”

Without a doubt, it will be a huge win for Ryan Day and his team if they edge out the undefeated Ducks in Pasadena on Wednesday. A win is bound to shift the momentum for the Buckeyes, offering them the confidence to go on and win the national championship.