Ohio State football’s 2025 coaching staff has undergone significant changes, with head coach Ryan Day making strategic hires and promotions to enhance the team’s performance. The new staff includes:
Matt Patricia as Defensive Coordinator: Patricia brings a wealth of experience from the NFL, including three Super Bowl championships with the New England Patriots and a tenure as head coach of the Detroit Lions. His appointment aims to strengthen Ohio State’s defensive strategies.
Brian Hartline as Offensive Coordinator: A former Ohio State and NFL wide receiver, Hartline has been promoted from wide receivers coach. He has a track record of developing first-round NFL draft picks and will continue to coach wide receivers alongside his new role.
Tyler Bowen as Offensive Line Coach and Run-Game Coordinator: Bowen, previously at Virginia Tech, is tasked with enhancing the offensive line and run game, addressing areas that have been points of contention in recent seasons.
Tim Walton as Co-Defensive Coordinator: Walton’s promotion reflects a commitment to a collaborative defensive approach, aiming to leverage his expertise in secondary coaching.
Keenan Bailey as Co-Offensive Coordinator and Tight Ends Coach: Bailey’s new role underscores the importance of the tight end position in the team’s offensive scheme.
Billy Fessler as Quarterbacks Coach: Fessler’s promotion is expected to provide continuity and development for the team’s quarterbacks.
Charlie Dickey, Marcus Johnson, and Wendy Laurent have been added as analysts, bringing additional expertise to the coaching staff.
These changes reflect a strategic overhaul aimed at addressing previous shortcomings and enhancing the team’s competitiveness. The inclusion of experienced NFL coaches like Patricia and Walton is particularly noteworthy, signaling a shift towards a more professional approach in both offensive and defensive strategies.
The promotion of Brian Hartline to Offensive Coordinator is a bold move, considering his relatively short tenure as a coach. His success in developing wide receivers suggests a potential for innovation in the offensive playbook.
However, the departure of Chip Kelly to the NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders raises questions about the stability of the coaching staff and the potential impact on the team’s offensive strategies.
The hiring of Matt Patricia as Defensive Coordinator is particularly intriguing. His NFL background and previous head coaching experience bring a wealth of knowledge to the program. However, his tenure with the Detroit Lions was marked by challenges, including a 13–29–1 record, which raises questions about his ability to adapt to the college game.
Additionally, the promotion of Tim Walton to Co-Defensive Coordinator suggests a potential shift towards a more collaborative defensive strategy. Walton’s experience in the NFL and his previous role as the team’s cornerbacks coach could provide a fresh perspective on defensive schemes.
The addition of Tyler Bowen as Offensive Line Coach and Run-Game Coordinator addresses a critical area of concern for the Buckeyes. Improving the offensive line is essential for establishing a more balanced and effective offense.
Overall, these coaching changes reflect a strategic effort by Ryan Day to enhance the Ohio State football program’s performance. The integration of experienced NFL coaches and the promotion of successful position coaches indicate a commitment to excellence and a willingness to adapt to the evolving landscape of college football.
