Former Notre Dame coach Lou Holtz, 88, has reignited his ongoing feud with Ohio State head coach Ryan Day ahead of the College Football Playoff National Championship. Holtz, who attended the championship game between Ohio State and Notre Dame at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, publicly backed Notre Dame to win, despite the team being an 8.5-point underdog.
The tension between Holtz and Day dates back to 2023, when Holtz criticized Ohio State’s physicality under Day’s leadership, citing losses to top teams like Alabama, Georgia, Clemson, and Michigan. Holtz asserted that these defeats were due to the Buckeyes being outmuscled by their opponents. In response, after a narrow 17-14 victory over Notre Dame, Day defended his team’s toughness and openly questioned Holtz’s comments, stating, “I’d like to know where Lou Holtz is right now… What he said about our team, I cannot believe.”
Leading up to the recent championship game, Holtz took another jab at Day, stating on social media, “If Notre Dame doesn’t win, it’s because we want to preserve Ryan Day’s job.” He further expressed confidence in Notre Dame’s chances, emphasizing the team’s heart, culture, and defense, and predicted a close victory for the Fighting Irish.
Despite Holtz’s predictions, Ohio State secured a 34-23 victory over Notre Dame, clinching their first national title since 2014. The Buckeyes’ performance showcased their offensive and defensive strengths, effectively countering previous criticisms about their physicality.
This ongoing exchange highlights the unique and personal nature of college football rivalries, where past and present figures passionately defend their teams and legacies.
