Ohio State Prepared for Potential Headset Issues During Michigan Game, coach Day Says
ANN ARBOR, MI - December 3, 2025 – Ohio State head coach Ryan Day revealed the Buckeyes prepared for potential interaction issues during their recent game against Michigan, even before any problems arose. Day indicated he had a feeling a disruption might occur, leading the team to implement contingency plans.
“I was in here (last) Friday, and I think some of the guys and the staff were looking at me sideways.like, ‘Why would you just think that would happen?'” day said. “I don’t no. We’ve just got to be ready and be ready for anything.”
The Buckeyes’ preparation included a wristband communication plan and a visit from a staff member, Sayin, to the sideline to address potential issues. Day explained the team simply aims to be prepared for all possibilities. “We’re just ready for everything,” he said. “ItS funny how your mind works.” He then winked at the assembled media.
The issue stemmed from the coach-to-player communication system, which is managed by a third party selected by the Big Ten Conference. A neutral technician is present at all conference games to assist both teams.
According to Dave Ablauf, Michigan’s associate athletic director for public and media relations, the Wolverines do not manage the opposing team’s communication system. “We do not manage their communication system,” Ablauf stated in an email. “Each athletic department provides electrical power and fiber lines that are equal on both sidelines.”
The Big Ten adheres to NCAA rules requiring equal conditions for both teams. If a technical issue isn’t quickly resolved, both teams must cease using the technology. “We don’t want the opponent to have issues because our team would have to take our communication system down as well,” Ablauf explained. “No one benefits from a system failure.”
Similar issues have occurred elsewhere this season. During the October game between Tennessee and Arkansas, the Arkansas coaching staff lost headset connection at halftime, delaying the second-half kickoff while Tennessee coaches also removed their headsets until the problem was fixed.
The coach-to-player communication system relies on cellular technology, which can be susceptible to disruptions in stadium environments. The Buckeyes’ proactive planning ensured they were prepared should such a disruption occur, independent of any control Michigan had over the system.
