Ohio State Fans Stunned by Coaching Overhaul: What It Means for the Buckeyes’ Future

The Ohio State Buckeyes have finalized their 2025 coaching staff, and the changes have sent shockwaves through the fanbase. With new hires, unexpected departures, and significant promotions, head coach Ryan Day has made bold decisions that could shape the program’s future. While some fans are optimistic, others are questioning whether these moves will help or hurt Ohio State’s chances of reclaiming a national championship.

Major Coaching Changes Shake Up the Staff

Ohio State has officially named Matt Patricia as the team’s new defensive coordinator, replacing Jim Knowles, who left to take the same position at Penn State shortly after the national championship game​

Patricia, a longtime NFL coach, is best known for his time as the New England Patriots’ defensive coordinator and as the former head coach of the Detroit Lions. While his NFL experience is impressive, his lack of recent college coaching experience has raised concerns among some fans.

On the offensive side, Brian Hartline has been promoted to offensive coordinator, filling the void left by Chip Kelly, who accepted the offensive coordinator position with the Las Vegas Raiders​

Hartline has been instrumental in developing elite wide receivers at Ohio State, but this will be his first time fully running the offense. Fans are eager to see whether he can maintain the Buckeyes’ high-powered attack.

Another major move is Billy Fessler stepping in as quarterbacks coach, a critical role given Ohio State’s reputation for developing top-tier quarterbacks​

Fessler has previous experience working with Justin Fields and C.J. Stroud during his first stint with the Buckeyes, and his success in coaching current quarterback Will Howard will be closely watched.

Other notable staff changes include:

Tyler Bowen joining as the new offensive line coach, coming from Virginia Tech.

Carlos Locklyn returning as running backs coach for his second season.

Tim Walton and Matt Guerrieri receiving promotions on the defensive side of the ball.

Larry Johnson continuing as defensive line coach, a role he has held since 2014.

Fan Reaction: Mixed Emotions and Heated Debates

The coaching changes have sparked intense discussions among Buckeye fans. Some are excited about Patricia’s NFL background, believing his experience will bring a new edge to Ohio State’s defense. Others, however, worry that his lack of recent college coaching experience could lead to struggles in adapting to the fast-paced world of college football recruiting and game planning.

Hartline’s promotion has also led to debates. While his ability to develop wide receivers is undeniable, running an entire offense is a different challenge. Some fans fear that his inexperience as a full-time play-caller might be exposed in big games, while others believe his deep understanding of Ohio State’s offensive philosophy will allow for a smooth transition.

The departure of Chip Kelly is another sore spot for some, as his NFL experience and quarterback expertise were expected to be major assets for the Buckeyes​

Fans will be watching closely to see whether Fessler can step up and effectively mentor Ohio State’s quarterbacks in Kelly’s absence.

Former Buckeyes Making Headlines in the NFL

As Ohio State undergoes significant coaching changes, former Buckeyes are making waves in the NFL.

Joey Bosa has signed a deal with the Buffalo Bills, giving their defense a major boost​

Chase Young landed a massive contract, showing that his talent as an elite pass rusher is still highly valued in the league​

Seeing former players succeed at the next level is always a point of pride for Buckeye Nation, but it also serves as a reminder of the high expectations surrounding the current team.

With these changes in place, all eyes will be on spring practices as the Buckeyes prepare for the 2025 season. The team’s defense under Patricia and offensive adjustments under Hartline will be key storylines heading into the fall.

While Ohio State is still considered one of the top programs in the country, these coaching moves add an element of uncertainty. Will Patricia’s NFL expertise translate to college football? Can Hartline prove himself as an elite offensive coordinator? Will Ryan Day’s latest hires be enough to bring a national championship back to Columbus?