Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has announced the promotion of Brian Hartline to offensive coordinator, following Chip Kelly’s departure to the NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders. Hartline, who has been with the Buckeyes since 2017 and served as wide receivers coach since 2018, previously held the offensive coordinator role in 2023, though Day managed play-calling duties that season.
In addition to Hartline’s promotion, analyst Billy Fessler is expected to be elevated to quarterbacks coach. Tyler Bowen, formerly Virginia Tech’s offensive coordinator, is anticipated to join Ohio State as the new offensive line coach and run game coordinator, succeeding Justin Frye, who moved to the Arizona Cardinals.
Coach Day expressed optimism about finalizing the coaching staff by early next week, stating, “We’re still putting the finishing touches on it. I’m hoping by this weekend or the beginning of next week, we’ll have everything out there.”
The Buckeyes’ recent national championship victory has bolstered confidence in the program’s direction. Freshman standout Jeremiah Smith’s exceptional performances in the playoffs have further energized fans and the coaching staff.
While Hartline’s promotion is well-received, some questions remain about play-calling responsibilities for the upcoming season. The coaching staff’s final composition and roles are expected to be clarified in the coming days.
Ohio State’s Coaching Changes and National Championship Victory
