Ohio State Shakes Up Coaching Staff in a Bid to Defend National Title

The reigning national champions, Ohio State, are making major moves ahead of the 2025 season. Head coach Ryan Day has wasted no time reshaping his coaching staff, bringing in former NFL coach Matt Patricia as the new defensive coordinator. Meanwhile, the offensive side of the ball will be in the hands of Brian Hartline, who steps up as the offensive coordinator after the departure of Chip Kelly to the Las Vegas Raiders. These high-profile staff changes indicate that the Buckeyes are gearing up for another dominant season, determined to defend their national championship in style.

Coaching Overhaul: Patricia and Hartline Take Key Roles

Ohio State’s defensive coordinator position was left vacant after Jim Knowles accepted the same role at Penn State. To fill this void, Day turned to Matt Patricia, a coach with extensive NFL experience, including his tenure as head coach of the Detroit Lions and defensive coordinator of the New England Patriots. Patricia’s arrival signals a shift in Ohio State’s defensive strategy, likely leaning toward NFL-style complexity and aggressive play-calling.

On the offensive side, Brian Hartline, a Buckeye legend, is set to lead the attack. Hartline, who had already established himself as one of the top recruiters and wide receivers coaches in the country, will now oversee the entire offense. He replaces Chip Kelly, who left to join the Las Vegas Raiders in the NFL. Hartline’s promotion suggests continuity within Ohio State’s offensive scheme, but also a potential evolution to an even more explosive system.

Quarterback Battle Looms Large

With the coaching staff set, attention now shifts to Ohio State’s quarterback competition. The Buckeyes must replace their previous starter, and the battle for the QB1 spot is expected to be one of the most intense in recent years. With talented options on the roster, including highly touted recruits and transfers, Ryan Day and Hartline will have a major decision to make before the season kicks off.

Recruiting Buzz: Buckeyes Eye Top Talent

In addition to coaching changes and player battles, Ohio State’s recruiting efforts remain strong. One of the biggest names in high school football, Cooper Witten, son of NFL legend Jason Witten, is among the top defensive backs considering Ohio State. If the Buckeyes can land Witten, it would further bolster an already strong class and continue Ohio State’s tradition of developing elite defensive talent.

Spring Preparations and No Traditional Spring Game

One of the most surprising updates from Ohio State’s offseason is the decision to forego the traditional spring game. Instead, the Buckeyes are focusing on closed scrimmages and intense training sessions to fine-tune their squad. This decision reflects the coaching staff’s urgency to prepare for the season without distractions, ensuring the team is physically and mentally ready for another title run.

With a revamped coaching staff, a heated quarterback battle, and top-tier recruits in the mix, Ohio State is positioning itself as a favorite to repeat as national champions. The Buckeyes are not just defending their title—they are reloading for another historic season. Ryan Day’s aggressive approach to staffing changes and recruitment proves that Ohio State is not settling for just one championship—they want a dynasty.