Ohio State University has made a bold move to enhance its football program by promoting Brian Hartline to Offensive Coordinator. The decision comes as a response to Chip Kelly’s departure to the NFL to take on the same role with the Las Vegas Raiders. Hartline’s elevation to this prominent position highlights his growing importance within Ohio State’s football landscape and reflects the university’s confidence in his ability to continue the program’s offensive success.
Brian Hartline has been an integral part of Ohio State’s coaching staff for several years. Starting in 2017, he joined the Buckeyes as a graduate assistant, quickly making a name for himself with his work with the wide receivers. In 2018, he became the wide receivers coach, and since then, his influence on the team has been undeniable. Under his guidance, several wide receivers have flourished, including future NFL stars like Chris Olave, Garrett Wilson, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Hartline’s ability to develop high-caliber talent at the receiver position has been one of Ohio State’s offensive strengths over the years.
In 2023, Hartline was promoted to Co-Offensive Coordinator alongside Kelly, while Head Coach Ryan Day continued to handle play-calling duties. This setup proved to be a successful one, with the team’s offensive production remaining at an elite level. However, with Kelly’s recent move to the NFL, Hartline’s promotion to sole Offensive Coordinator is a logical next step. This change puts Hartline in the driver’s seat to lead Ohio State’s offense into the future, taking over the reins of one of the most potent offenses in college football.
The promotion of Hartline is part of a broader restructuring of Ohio State’s coaching staff. In addition to elevating Hartline, the Buckeyes have also made other key changes. Billy Fessler, who had been an offensive analyst, will now take over as the team’s quarterbacks coach. This move fills the vacancy left by Kelly’s departure, ensuring continuity at the quarterback position. Furthermore, Tyler Bowen, the former offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Virginia Tech, is expected to join Ohio State as the new offensive line coach and run game coordinator. Bowen’s arrival will be a critical addition to a coaching staff that aims to maintain a balanced and high-scoring offense.
Hartline’s promotion reflects Ohio State’s commitment to fostering internal talent and maintaining a cohesive coaching structure. His deep understanding of the program, combined with his proven success in developing wide receivers, makes him a natural choice for this role. With Bowen’s expertise in the running game and offensive line, the Buckeyes are poised to continue their tradition of offensive excellence. The 2025 season will be a pivotal one for Ohio State as they look to build on their recent success, and the changes to the coaching staff are designed to ensure they remain one of the most dangerous teams in college football.
As Ohio State’s new Offensive Coordinator, Hartline will have the opportunity to shape the team’s offensive identity. His leadership, combined with the talent already on the roster, makes the Buckeyes a team to watch in the coming years. The decision to elevate Hartline is well-deserved, and Ohio State’s faith in his abilities signals a bright future for the program.
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