Ohio State Officially Brings in Matt Patricia: Former Patriots Coach Joins Buckeyes’ Staff in Major Defensive Move

In a blockbuster addition to one of college football’s most high-profile programs, Ohio State has officially hired Matt Patricia—longtime NFL coach and former New England Patriots defensive coordinator—as the newest member of Ryan Day’s coaching staff. The move signals a significant shift in the Buckeyes’ defensive ambitions and reinforces the program’s commitment to reclaiming national dominance heading into the 2025 season.

Patricia arrives in Columbus with a résumé few can match. Known for his work with Bill Belichick and the Patriots dynasty, Patricia helped engineer some of the most disciplined and successful defenses in modern NFL history. He served as New England’s defensive coordinator from 2012 to 2017, a stretch that included three Super Bowl appearances and two titles. While his later stints—such as a rocky head coaching tenure in Detroit—didn’t yield the same results, Patricia’s knowledge of defensive schematics, player development, and game planning remains widely respected at the professional level.

Ryan Day’s decision to bring Patricia aboard isn’t just a headline grabber—it’s a strategic pivot. In recent seasons, Ohio State’s defense has faced scrutiny in marquee matchups. Despite consistent top recruiting classes and high expectations, lapses in execution—particularly against elite offenses—have cost the Buckeyes dearly in their pursuit of national titles.

By tapping into Patricia’s vast defensive knowledge, Ohio State hopes to bolster its ability to prepare for high-octane offenses like Michigan, Penn State, and likely SEC foes in future College Football Playoff scenarios.

Though official titles and responsibilities have not yet been publicly detailed, sources close to the program suggest Patricia will play a senior advisory role, likely aiding defensive coordinator Jim Knowles in strategic planning, situational defense, and perhaps even direct game-day input.

This isn’t the first time Ohio State has turned to the professional ranks for coaching talent, but Patricia’s addition is arguably the most high-profile NFL-to-college transition the program has made in recent memory. His presence could provide a new edge in game planning and preparation, while also serving as a significant draw for defensive recruits with NFL dreams.

In a recruiting arms race that increasingly favors programs offering a direct pathway to the league, having a former NFL head coach on staff is a powerful selling point. Patricia’s track record with Pro Bowl-caliber talents like Dont’a Hightower, Devin McCourty, and Chandler Jones could sway high school and transfer portal stars to view Columbus as a launchpad for pro careers.

For Ryan Day, this move represents not only a tactical upgrade but a moment of evolution as a head coach. Day, once seen as an offensive mastermind and quarterback guru, has gradually shifted toward a more holistic view of team building. In past seasons, he delegated offensive play-calling to focus on team management. Now, with Patricia on board, he appears to be strengthening the program’s defensive infrastructure in a meaningful way.

It’s a sign that Day understands where the Buckeyes must improve—and that he’s willing to bring in a strong, experienced voice to help make it happen. Surrounding himself with proven minds like Patricia sends a message to fans and rivals alike: Ohio State is not content with being a playoff contender. The aim is to win championships.

Fan reaction to Patricia’s hiring has been overwhelmingly positive. Social media buzzed with excitement after the announcement, with many Ohio State supporters praising the move as a necessary step to tighten up a defense that at times lagged behind the program’s championship-caliber offense.

There is, of course, some curiosity about how Patricia will adjust to the college game. Recruiting, NCAA rules, and working with younger athletes present unique challenges compared to the NFL. However, many observers believe his knowledge and leadership will outweigh any initial learning curve.

As Ohio State prepares for what will be a critical 2025 campaign—one likely to include an expanded College Football Playoff and renewed battles for Big Ten supremacy—the addition of Matt Patricia could be a game-changer. The Buckeyes have talent, tradition, and ambition. Now, they add an NFL-caliber tactician with championship credentials to their sideline arsenal.

With spring preparations already in motion and fall camp looming, all eyes will be on how Patricia integrates into the Buckeyes’ staff and culture. If the defense takes a significant leap, Patricia may well be remembered as one of the most important coaching hires of the Ryan Day era.