Eric Boggs
Ohio State offensive coordinator Brian Hartline is only three games into his first season as the Buckeyes’ play caller, but he’s already showing his philosophy centers on balance, versatility, and constant growth. Speaking with the media this week, Hartline explained that the offense’s early success has been fueled by using every piece of the roster to keep defenses guessing.
“I think anytime you can be multiple in personnel, you’ll probably ask or demand different reactions by a defense,” Hartline said. “So, I think us having so many different guys available offensively, we want to try to use as many guys as possible. I think the tight end room has done a really good job.”
For Hartline, tight ends are a crucial part of that versatility. Their ability to block like linemen, run routes like wideouts, and serve as mismatches against linebackers makes them indispensable. “Their job description is really vast and they spend a lot of time trying to do everything correct and everything at a high level,” Hartline noted. “Putting those guys in the right position can be a bonus for the offense, but you’ve got to use them properly.”
The Buckeyes are also learning from growing pains, especially in the red zone where they settled for field goals against Ohio. “Execution is part of it, but putting guys in right positions to make plays is another part of it,” Hartline explained. “Obviously, every time we’re in the red zone, the expectation is to score touchdowns, both from the outside world and in this building. Anytime we’re not doing that, we’re always looking for ways to enhance and do it at a more consistent level.”
A major storyline of the season has been quarterback Julian Sayin’s development. Hartline stressed that the coaching staff is being careful not to overload their first-year starter but has been impressed with his growth. “I’d say that he’s done a great job. I think that you don’t ever make assumptions,” Hartline said. “His ability to take that information and apply it will ultimately continue that growth. I would say that I’m really proud of him.”
While many expected Hartline, a former wide receivers coach, to air it out, he made it clear that running the ball is just as important. “Julian’s a first-year starter, right? So his best friend should be a good run game,” Hartline said. “A great pass game is complemented by a great run game and vice versa. Being very balanced makes it a little more difficult for defenses to maybe pin you down a certain way. I’ve always believed, you know, I’m a big fan of play-action pass. I love the art of selling something you’re not doing.”
Hartline acknowledged that he’s still learning in his role, but the partnership with head coach Ryan Day has helped him settle in. “Coach has been great. I mean, I think that, yeah, he lets me kind of do my thing. And then, you know, if there’s something he wants to get done, he echoes it and keeps pushing,” Hartline said. “It’s been a great feeling that the training wheels are off… but I’m never going to be satisfied.”
As the Buckeyes head into their bye week, Hartline believes the offense has hit its initial goals while still leaving plenty of room for improvement. “If you were to go back a month, what’s your initial goal for the first three weeks? One is going to find a way to win week one. The next couple of goals would be like we’re seeing growth. We’re seeing development both as players and as coaches to that first bye,” Hartline said. “I think looking back, we’ve done a lot of those things, but still trying to press to be better, more consistent, and continue to put the guys in the right spots.”
For Hartline, the message is clear: balance, growth, and versatility are the foundation for Ohio State’s offense as the season pushes forward.
