Michigan’s Desmond Howard makes shocking statement toward notre dame fans, Ryan Day coaching criticism

Howard, who has never shied away from making provocative comments, took aim at Notre Dame’s program, questioning its place among the true elite of college football. “Notre Dame fans love to talk about tradition and history,” Howard said, “but when it comes to competing at the highest level in recent years, they’ve been falling short. There’s no reason they should still be viewed as one of the top programs with the results they’ve had.”

While Howard’s words were clearly directed at Notre Dame, it didn’t take long for his comments to spill over into Ohio State territory, especially as he went on to criticize Ryan Day’s performance against the Fighting Irish. Specifically, Howard called into question Day’s ability to consistently win in high-pressure moments, pointing to Ohio State’s close calls and struggles in big games, including their matchup with Notre Dame.

“Ryan Day has been good, but let’s be real. He hasn’t been able to get over the hump in some of the most important games, and that includes his struggles against teams like Notre Dame,” Howard added, alluding to the tight contest between the Buckeyes and Fighting Irish in 2023, which ultimately saw Ohio State barely edge out Notre Dame in the final moments.

The remarks have sparked an intense response from fans of both programs. Notre Dame supporters took offense at Howard’s criticism, pointing to the Fighting Irish’s consistent presence in the College Football Playoff conversation in recent years. Many argue that despite the lack of national titles, Notre Dame remains a respected program, and Howard’s dismissal of their efforts is shortsighted.

Meanwhile, Ohio State fans, already accustomed to Howard’s jabs at their team, defended Ryan Day’s record and questioned why Howard would try to discredit Ohio State’s success, especially considering Day’s consistent dominance in the Big Ten and his ability to lead the Buckeyes to major bowl games and playoff appearances.

The rivalry between Michigan, Ohio State, and Notre Dame continues to be one of the most heated in college football, and Howard’s comments only add fuel to the fire. Whether or not they’re fully justified, his remarks have undoubtedly reignited the conversation about who truly belongs at the top of college football’s elite.