An Arizona writer names Kenny Dillingham as a potential replacement for Ryan Day as head football coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Jason Shear of WildcatAuthority claimed to have heard in the ASU-UA press box that Sun Devils head football coach Kenny Dillingham could be an option to replace Ryan Day at Ohio State. if the Buckeyes fire him.

“Listening to rumors of Dillingham moving to Ohio State in the press box right now,” Scheer wrote.

Scheer hinted that this was between him and another Wildcats beat writer, so it’s unclear if there is any basis to this or if it was a joke because ASU believes the Sun Devils have become a threat under Dillingham. In the end, ASU beat UA 49-7.

However, Dillingham’s revitalization of the Arizona State football program could make him a candidate for a higher position in the SEC or Big Ten this offseason. Potential openings could arise at Kentucky, Purdue, Wisconsin or even Auburn, where Dillingham was the offensive coordinator under Gus Malzahn in 2019.

However, one thing is for sure: Day appears to be in a tough spot if he fails to secure the Buckeyes their first College Football Playoff championship in the NIL era. Some analysts are predicting his departure this offseason if he can’t or even can.

Day’s success at Ohio State isn’t enough given his 1-4 record against Michigan. Dillingham or any of Day’s replacements will have a hard time competing with Sherron Moore’s Wolverines next year, and Bryce Underwood and the ninth grade will add to a team that should be loaded with transfers as Michigan looks to quickly reload.

However, Dillingham has a proven track record of successful offense at Auburn, Oregon and now ASU, and is undoubtedly a capable leader in the locker room given the Sun Devils’ spot in the Big 12 Championship Game.