COLUMBUS, Ohio-New Ohio State head coach Ryan Day led the Buckeyes into battle for the first time today against Florida Atlantic, marking the beginning of a new era at OSU.

Every head coach has to send a message to its players, and for Day it's all about toughness.

"I know after doing all the homework and studying and learning about what Ohio State has been built on," Day said. "It's been built on toughness.

Before the start of today's game, Day did not appear nervous, anxious or worried one bit. After all, he's been here before.

He covered for Urban Meyer last year on an interim basis while Meyer was under suspension. That experience allowed Day to be fully prepared for his debut vs. FAU.

And what a debut it was. Four first-quarter touchdowns in rapid succession, partially thanks to the heroic play of new starting quarterback Justin Fields.

Day was thankful to the fans for packing the stadium, and giving the Buckeyes the spark they needed to get the season started off on the right foot.

"It was really humbling to run out of that tunnel with a packed house," he said. "That means so much to our players. With an early kickoff, having a packed house coming out, then fueling them early on, I think that helped to our great start."

Fields accounted for five touchdowns in his debut, an Ohio State record. Day was impressed with his new signal caller.

"(Justin played) with great energy, making good decisions, but more importantly, managing the game," Day said. "Taking care of the ball, that's the biggest thing."

Fields said despite the great debut, there are things he can improve upon before next week's contest.

"All aspects of the game, of my game can get better and improve," Fields said. "I'm just going to get in the film room and see what mistakes we had, fix those and get ready for Cincinnati."

Day also knows there's still work to be done, despite putting up 45 points in the victory. But as the sun sets on the Horseshoe in Columbus, Buckeyes fans can rest easy that Ryan Day has a firm grasp on the Ohio State Football empire.