Ohio State football is searching for an offensive coordinator.
In the ever-evolving landscape of college football, coaching positions are subject to frequent changes, driven by performance, aspirations, and the allure of new opportunities. At Ohio State University, the role of offensive coordinator has been a focal point of such transitions.
In January 2023, head coach Ryan Day promoted Brian Hartline, the team’s wide receivers coach since 2018, to the position of offensive coordinator. Hartline, an Ohio State alumnus and former NFL player, had garnered acclaim for his exceptional ability to recruit and develop top-tier wide receivers. His promotion was seen as a strategic move to harness his offensive acumen and leadership within the program.
However, the coaching carousel continued to spin. In February 2024, Ohio State appointed Chip Kelly, the former head coach of UCLA and a prominent figure in offensive strategy, as the new offensive coordinator. Kelly’s innovative offensive schemes and previous success at both the collegiate and professional levels made him a noteworthy addition to the Buckeyes’ coaching staff.
The arrival of Kelly led to a restructuring within the coaching hierarchy. Hartline transitioned to the role of co-offensive coordinator, sharing responsibilities with Kelly while continuing his duties as the wide receivers coach. This collaboration aimed to blend Kelly’s strategic expertise with Hartline’s recruiting prowess and familiarity with the team’s dynamics.
As the 2024 season progressed, Ohio State’s offense showcased a blend of traditional power football and innovative passing schemes, reflecting the combined influences of Kelly and Hartline. The team achieved significant milestones, culminating in a national championship victory. This success further elevated the profiles of both coordinators within the coaching community.
In the aftermath of the championship, reports emerged that multiple NFL teams, including the Jacksonville Jaguars, Houston Texans, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, expressed interest in Kelly for their offensive coordinator positions. This interest underscored Kelly’s enduring reputation as an offensive innovator and highlighted the challenges college programs face in retaining top coaching talent amid NFL pursuits.
Concurrently, Hartline’s name surfaced in discussions for head coaching vacancies at various institutions. Notably, he was reported to have interviewed for the head coaching position at West Virginia University in December 2024. His rapid ascent through the coaching ranks, combined with his recruiting success and player development track record, made him a compelling candidate for programs seeking dynamic leadership.
These developments placed head coach Ryan Day in a precarious position, facing the potential departure of both his offensive coordinators. The prospect of losing key staff members to external opportunities is a common challenge in collegiate athletics, particularly for successful programs like Ohio State.
In response to these challenges, Ohio State has historically demonstrated resilience and adaptability. The program’s strong reputation, combined with its resources and commitment to excellence, positions it to attract top coaching talent. Whether through internal promotions or external hires, the Buckeyes have consistently managed to assemble coaching staffs capable of sustaining their competitive edge.
As of February 2025, the situation remains dynamic. The outcomes of the NFL’s coaching searches and Hartline’s potential head coaching opportunities will significantly influence the Buckeyes’ coaching structure moving forward. Regardless of these uncertainties, Ohio State’s leadership, spearheaded by Ryan Day, is poised to navigate these transitions, ensuring the program’s continued prominence in college football.
In conclusion, the offensive coordinator position at Ohio State has been a focal point of significant activity in recent years. The promotions of Brian Hartline and the subsequent hiring of Chip Kelly reflect the program’s strategic efforts to maintain and enhance its offensive prowess. The potential departures of these key figures underscore the challenges inherent in sustaining coaching continuity amid external interest. Nevertheless, Ohio State’s established culture of excellence and its proactive approach to coaching development position it well to address these challenges and uphold its storied football tradition.
