Ohio State Coach Ryan Day Cannot Participate In Upcoming Game

COLUMBUS, OH — If the Ohio State Buckeyes can play Michigan State on Saturday, head coach Ryan Day won't be patrolling the sideline.

Day, who tested positive for COVID-19 last week, would still be in isolation this weekend. The earliest the coach could return is Dec. 7, ESPN reported.

Before last weekend's game against Illinois was canceled due to COVID-19, Ohio State assistant head football coach Larry Johnson was tapped to be Day's replacement.

The Department of Athletics paused all team-related football activities last week amid a rash of positive COVID-19 tests associated with the program. Director of Athletics Gene Smith said the school decided the safest thing was to cancel the game against Illinois.

“We have continued to experience an increase in positive tests over the course of this week,” Smith said. “The health, safety and well-being of our student-athletes is our main concern, and our decisions on their welfare will continue to be guided by our medical staff.”

Athletes who were not in isolation were able to return to practice on Monday. Day can participate in virtual team meetings.