After the departure of Chip Kelly to the NFL, the Ohio State Buckeyes are making a significant move by promoting Brian Hartline to offensive coordinator. Ryan Day, the head coach, has confirmed that Hartline will not only take on the role but will also be calling the plays for the Buckeyes. This is a pivotal moment for the program, as they look to build on their recent successes.
Brian Hartline: A Rising Star in Coaching
Brian Hartline, a former star receiver at Ohio State, has made a name for himself as a dynamic wide receivers coach. He has been instrumental in recruiting top talent to Columbus, bringing in elite players like Chris Olave, Garrett Wilson, Jameson Williams, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Marvin Harrison Jr., all of whom have gone on to become first-round picks in the NFL Draft. This impressive track record showcases his ability to develop talent and his keen eye for potential.
Looking ahead, Hartline is also nurturing future stars. Emeka Egbuka is projected to be a first-round pick in this year’s draft, while Jeremiah Smith has emerged as a standout under Hartline’s guidance. The addition of five-star wide receiver Quincy Porter to Ohio State’s 2025 recruiting class further solidifies Hartline’s reputation as a top-tier recruiter.
The Transition to Play-Caller
Now, Hartline is set to take the reins of the offense, adding play-calling duties to his responsibilities as wide receivers coach. This transition is significant, especially as he steps into this role for the first time. Day emphasized the importance of experience in shaping the offensive staff to support Hartline’s new responsibilities.
To aid in this transition, Keenan Bailey will serve as co-offensive coordinator, while Billy Fessler takes on the role of quarterbacks coach. However, the key addition to the staff is offensive line coach and run game coordinator Tyler Bowen. With three years of play-calling experience at Virginia Tech, Bowen will be a valuable asset as Hartline adjusts to his new role.
Support from the Coaching Staff
“Tyler brings a wealth of experience to the table,” Day said. “He’s been very well-respected everywhere he’s gone.” This experience will be crucial for Hartline as he navigates the complexities of being a play-caller. Day highlighted that Bowen’s background in offensive line play and run game strategy will mesh well with Hartline’s vision for the offense.
As Hartline prepares to lead the Buckeyes’ offensive unit, the support from his colleagues will be vital. Day noted that Bowen’s insights will provide Hartline with a different perspective, enhancing his understanding of the game. “He knows the offensive line really, really well. He knows the run game really, really well,” Day stated. This collaboration is expected to foster a strong offensive identity for Ohio State.
Hartline’s Growth and Loyalty
Hartline’s journey to this point has been marked by patience and loyalty. Day reflected on Hartline’s dedication, saying, “You talk about sacrifice. Here’s a guy who was named coordinator, but I ended up calling the plays that year.” Despite the challenges, Hartline chose to remain at Ohio State, where he continued to learn and grow under the guidance of Kelly.
“Some guys would say, wait a minute, ‘I’m going somewhere else,’” Day remarked. “But he stayed loyal, and that patience is going to pay off.” With Hartline now officially in charge, Day believes he has the potential to become the best coordinator in the country. His ability to adapt and learn from past experiences will serve him well as he takes on this new challenge.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Ohio State Football
As Ohio State embarks on this new chapter with Hartline at the helm, the excitement is palpable. The Buckeyes have consistently been a powerhouse in college football, and with Hartline’s promotion, they are poised to maintain that status. The combination of his recruiting prowess and newfound play-calling responsibilities could lead to an explosive offensive strategy.
The upcoming season will be a test of Hartline’s abilities, but the support from Day, Bowen, and the rest of the coaching staff will be crucial. Fans are eager to see how Hartline will implement his vision and whether he can elevate the Buckeyes to new heights. The anticipation is building, and the college football world will be watching closely as Ohio State prepares for the challenges ahead.
In summary, Brian Hartline’s promotion to offensive coordinator marks a significant milestone for Ohio State football. With a strong foundation in recruiting and the support of an experienced coaching staff, Hartline is ready to take on the challenge of leading the Buckeyes’ offense. The future looks bright for Ohio State, and fans are excited to see what lies ahead.
