Big Ten Coaching Salaries: Who's Making the Most?

Ohio State's Ryan Day Leads the Pack

Ohio State's Ryan Day is the highest-paid coach in the Big Ten, earning an impressive $10,196,250 per season. With a 49-6 record during his time at Ohio State, Day has led the Buckeyes to two Big Ten championships. He is one of just four active head coaches in the country to earn over $10 million per season, joining Nick Saban, Jimbo Fisher, and Kirby Smart.

Other Big Ten Coaching Salaries

Other top earners in the Big Ten include Michigan State's Mel Tucker ($9.5 million per year), Nebraska's Matt Rhule ($8.5 million per year), and Penn State's James Franklin ($8.5 million per year). Rhule's salary is particularly notable as it puts him in the top tier of Big Ten coaching salaries despite having just one season of experience at Nebraska. Franklin, meanwhile, has led Penn State to two Big Ten championships and a Rose Bowl victory during his tenure.

Nebraska's Unique Contract Structure

Nebraska's contract with Rhule includes an interesting wrinkle: the university will offset the majority of his buyout if he is fired before the end of his contract. This provision is designed to protect Nebraska from having to pay Rhule a large sum of money if he is fired for cause, such as a major NCAA violation.

Big Ten Coaching Salaries Continue to Rise

The Big Ten coaching salaries have been on the rise in recent years, as the conference has become increasingly competitive. With some of the top programs in the country, such as Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State, the Big Ten is a lucrative destination for top coaches. As a result, the salaries of Big Ten coaches are likely to continue to rise in the future.