Top Ohio State OC Candidates to Succeed Brian Hartline
The Ohio State football program faces a significant transition as Brian Hartline prepares to leave his role as offensive coordinator. Hartline has accepted the head coaching position at South Florida but will remain with the Buckeyes during the College Football Playoff. The team now looks to secure a successor who can maintain their performance, particularly in recruiting for the wide receiver position as they finalize their 2026 class.
Top Ohio State OC Candidates to Succeed Brian Hartline
With the urgent need to fill the offensive coordinator position, Ohio State has identified three potential candidates to lead the team’s offense forward.
Keenan Bailey
- Current Role: Tight Ends Coach at Ohio State.
- Experience: Joined the program in 2019, the same year Ryan Day became head coach.
- Strengths: Strong rapport with players and leadership development.
- Limitation: Lacks play-calling experience.
Bailey would be a popular internal choice, particularly among players. His familiarity with the program could facilitate a smooth transition.
Chip Kelly
- Previous Role: Head Coach at UCLA, recently dismissed after a brief stint with the NFL’s Raiders.
- Accomplishments: Oversaw the 2024 national championship offense at UCLA and previously led Ohio State’s offense effectively.
- Advantages: High trust from Ryan Day and experience in creating explosive offensive strategies.
Kelly’s potential return to college football may position him as the ideal candidate to revitalize the Buckeyes’ offensive unit.
Joey Halze
- Current Role: Offensive Coordinator at Tennessee.
- Performance: Leads the sixth-best offense in the country since taking the role in 2023.
- Prospect: Unlikely connection with Day, but a lucrative offer could influence his decision.
Halze’s proven track record at Tennessee makes him an attractive candidate. His addition could sustain Ohio State’s offensive momentum at a national level.
As the Buckeyes prepare for a significant coaching change, these candidates present a range of options that could shape the future of the team’s offensive strategy. Ohio State aims to ensure continued success on the field amid this critical transition.
